GASTRIC POLYPOID HYPERPLASIA IN MORAY EELS (MURAENIDAE): EIGHT CASES

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Pathology
• Aquatic Animal Medicine
• Marine Biology

Background:

• Gastric and intestinal mucosal hyperplasia and polyps are significant causes of morbidity and mortality in moray eels.
• Understanding these conditions is crucial for the health management of moray eel populations in captivity and the wild.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the clinical presentations, diagnostic findings, and outcomes of therapeutic interventions in moray eels with gastric polypoid hyperplasia.
• To document the pathological findings associated with gastric adenomatous hyperplasia and polyps in moray eels.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective case series analysis of eight moray eels diagnosed with gastric polypoid hyperplasia.
• Review of clinical records, diagnostic procedures, and necropsy findings.
• Histopathological examination of gastric mucosal tissues.

Main Results:

• All eight moray eels presented with multifocal adenomatous hyperplasia and polyps originating from the gastric mucosal epithelium.
• Clinical signs included anorexia, regurgitation, and occasional buoyancy changes.
• Supportive care measures were unsuccessful in resolving the observed clinical signs or pathological changes.

Conclusions:

• Gastric polypoid (adenomatous) hyperplasia is a significant pathological finding associated with severe clinical signs and mortality in moray eels.
• The condition appears refractory to supportive care, highlighting the need for further research into potential treatments or preventative strategies.
• Accurate diagnosis and understanding of this condition are vital for moray eel health management.