First Isolation of Yersinia enterocolitica From a Sea Turtle: A Case Report in Caretta caretta

Yersiniosis is worldwide diffused and, among the different species, infection of Yersinia enterocolitica is responsible of the most cases both in humans and animals. Although it causes, often self-limiting, mild enteritis, severe manifestations could occur and can cause sepsis. The study reports a case of Y. enterocolitica infection in a juvenile female loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta) recovered at the Regional Rescue Sea Turtle Centre in south Italy. The turtle was in poor body condition, dehydrated and emaciated. Complete blood count showed severe anaemia and lymphocytosis. Despite supportive therapies, the sea turtle died a few days after hospitalization. During necropsy, the dilatation of the colon, adhesions and liver lesions were detected as gross pathologic findings. Histologic assay was carried out for the liver showing granulomas with acellular central areas surrounded by fibrous capsules. Unfortunately, the cause of death is still unknown, but it could be hypothesized that the strain of Y. enterocolitica could have caused a colitis and hepatitis. This is the first report of Y. enterocolitica infection in a Caretta caretta, and it updates both the current literature on sea turtle diseases and protocols for their management and rehabilitation.