Myobacteriosis in turtles: cutaneous and hepatosplenic involvement in a Phrynops hilari

Mycobacteriosis in a Phrynops hilari (side-necked turtle) was characterized by multiple caseating granulomas in the liver and spleen; pulmonary involvement did not occur. Granulomatous inflammation and organisms also were present in the skin, suggesting a cutaneous route of entry with hematogenous spread to visceral organs. Review of the four cases of chelonian mycobacteriosis in the literature indicated that pulmonary tubercules and plastral ulcerations are typical manifestations. The Mycobacterium species usually involved is M. chelonei.