Pre-anal gland abscess in a male Atlantic bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus)

Anal glands have been identified in a variety of terrestrial and aquatic mammalian species, but there are few accounts describing their presence in cetaceans. To our knowledge, this report describes the first documented case of a pre-anal gland abscess in an Atlantic bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus).

A 9-year-old male bottlenose dolphin (T truncatus) part of the US Navy Marine Mammal Program in San Diego Bay, California.

The patient presented for a 3-day history of lethargy, failure to perform voluntary behaviors, and an elevated respiratory rate. Complete blood count and serum biochemistry results showed an inflammatory hemogram. Physical examination revealed a 4-cm circular swelling at the right pre-anal gland pore. The swelling was warm and erythematous, with multifocal pinpoint ulcerations. An abscess of the pre-anal gland was diagnosed using cytology, culture, and ultrasound.

Treatment included systemic oral antibiotic and antifungal therapy, along with daily lavage and warm compress of the gland. Treatment was successful, and the abscess resolved.

This case provides insight into a previously unreported disease process in bottlenose dolphins and encourages veterinarians to evaluate the pre-anal gland during routine physical examinations and complete further work-up if swelling or clinical signs associated with this region are present.