Congenital Diaphragm Defect in a Neonatal Southern White Rhinocerus (Ceratotherium simum simum)

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Pathology
• Developmental Biology
• Comparative Anatomy

Background:

• Diaphragm morphogenesis involves complex development with potential for malformations.
• Congenital diaphragmatic hernias are infrequently documented in large animals.
• This condition has not been previously described in rhinoceros species.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report the first documented case of congenital diaphragmatic hernia in a rhinoceros.
• To describe the clinical, gross necropsy, and histological findings of this anomaly.
• To contribute to the understanding of diaphragmatic malformations in large exotic mammals.

Main Methods:

• Case report of an 8-day-old southern white rhinoceros calf.
• Gross necropsy examination of the thoracic and abdominal cavities.
• Histopathological analysis of affected organs, including lungs and intestines.

Main Results:

• Diagnosis of bilateral Bochdalek hernia with intestinal translocation into the thoracic cavity.
• Evidence of severe intestinal tract damage and lung congestion.
• Histology revealed lung hypoplasia and severe pneumonia secondary to aspiration.

Conclusions:

• Congenital diaphragmatic hernia is a severe, potentially fatal condition in rhinoceros calves.
• This case underscores the importance of recognizing rare developmental anomalies in exotic species.
• The findings highlight the complex interplay between diaphragm development and gastrointestinal/pulmonary health.