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Intestinal inflammation associated with flagellates in snakes
1Institute for Zoo Biology and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany.
Journal of Comparative Pathology
|May 1, 1995
Summary
Amoebiasis in snakes was investigated using Entamoeba invadens antibodies. Immunohistochemistry confirmed E. invadens in 22 snakes, while 20 cases revealed flagellates, not amoebas, in inflamed intestines.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Parasitology
- Herpetology
Background:
- Amoebiasis is a significant intestinal disease in snakes.
- Accurate diagnosis of intestinal protozoal infections in snakes is crucial for effective treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To re-evaluate snake intestinal samples suspected of amoebiasis using immunohistochemistry.
- To differentiate between Entamoeba invadens and other protozoa in diseased snakes.
Main Methods:
- Histological examination of intestinal tissues from 51 snakes.
- Immunohistochemical staining using an Entamoeba invadens-specific antibody.
- Light and electron microscopy for protozoal identification.
Main Results:
- Entamoeba invadens trophozoites were confirmed in 22 out of 51 snakes.
- 20 snakes with intestinal pathology showed protozoa that were negative for E. invadens.
- These negative protozoa were identified as flagellates via microscopy.
Conclusions:
- Immunohistochemistry is effective in diagnosing Entamoeba invadens in snakes.
- Flagellates can be present in snake intestines with pathological changes, mimicking amoebiasis.
- Differential diagnosis is essential for appropriate snake disease management.