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AN INVESTIGATION OF AN AMYLOID-LIKE DEPOSITION DISORDER IN REPTILES
Sayrah Gilbert1, Rebecca Pacheco2, Anibal G Armien3
1Gulf Coast Veterinary Specialists, Houston, TX 77024, USA, sayrahg94@gmail.com.
Summary
Amyloidosis, the abnormal protein buildup, is rare in reptiles. This study found amyloid-like deposits in snakes, often linked to aging rather than inflammation, particularly in older colubrids.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Herpetology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Amyloidosis involves extracellular protein deposition in organs.
- Amyloid A amyloidosis is common in domestic animals.
- Amyloidosis is considered rare in reptiles.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate a case of amyloid-like deposition in a California kingsnake.
- To review the prevalence and characteristics of amyloid-like disorders in snakes.
- To determine potential associations between amyloidosis and age, inflammation, or other diseases in snakes.
Main Methods:
- Reviewed 9,677 snake necropsy records from 1998-2019.
- Histopathological and ultrastructural analysis of amyloid-like material.
- Conducted Congo red, PAS, and Masson trichrome staining.
Main Results:
- Identified 10 additional cases of amyloid-like deposition in snakes (0.001%).
- Colubrids and older snakes (>15 years) were overrepresented.
- The liver was the most commonly affected organ; amyloid-like material consisted of unbranched fibrils.
Conclusions:
- Amyloidosis in reptiles may be an age-related change.
- Amyloidosis in snakes is not always associated with inflammation or concurrent disease.
- Further research is needed to understand the specific amyloid types and pathogenesis in reptiles.
