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Megaesophagus in 15 llamas: a retrospective study (1985-1993)
B J Watrous1, E G Pearson, B B Smith
1College of Veterinary Medicine, Oregon State University, Corvallis, USA.
Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine
|March 1, 1995
Summary
Megaesophagus in llamas is diagnosed using radiography. While causes are often unknown, some cases involve nerve or muscle issues, with salivation being a common sign.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Comparative Pathology
Background:
- Megaesophagus, a condition characterized by esophageal dilation, can affect various animal species.
- Understanding the causes and clinical presentation in camelids is crucial for diagnosis and management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the diagnostic findings, clinical signs, and potential etiologies of megaesophagus in a cohort of llamas.
- To identify underlying pathological conditions associated with megaesophagus in affected llamas.
Main Methods:
- Survey and contrast radiography were used for diagnosing megaesophagus in 15 llamas.
- Clinical signs, age of onset, and duration of illness were recorded.
- Histopathological examination was performed on esophageal tissues in a subset of cases.
Main Results:
- Megaesophagus was diagnosed in 15 llamas, with onset ranging from 13 months to 9.5 years.
- Salivation was the most frequent clinical sign; regurgitation or dysphagia occurred in only 33% of cases.
- Organophosphate toxicity was identified in one llama; vagal neuropathy and degenerative myopathy were found in three llamas with histological abnormalities.
Conclusions:
- Radiography is a key diagnostic tool for megaesophagus in llamas.
- The etiology of megaesophagus in llamas is frequently unknown, but neurological and muscular pathologies can be implicated.
- Clinical signs can be variable, emphasizing the need for thorough diagnostic investigation.