Hallazgos Histopatológicos De Enterocolitis Necrotizante Asociada A Salmonella Spp. En Pitón India Albina (Python Molurus) En Cautiverio Sin Periodo De Brumación. Reporte De Caso.

Abstract

An adult albino Indian python (Python molurus) kept in captivity at the local Zoo São Braz, Santa Maria, Brazil, was referred for veterinary care due to respiratory signs and apathy. The patient initially showed a partial response to antibiotic and anti-inflammatory treatment; however, it later relapsed clinically and was found dead after approximately one month of progression. Necropsy revealed multifocal cutaneous lesions, foamy pulmonary content, and a diffuse pseudomembranous coating in the large intestine. Histopathological examination showed extensive intestinal mucosal necrosis, predominantly heterophilic inflammation, granulomatous formation, and the presence of intralesional bacilli morphologically compatible with Salmonella sp. Bacterial cultures confirmed the growth of Gram-negative coccobacilli, which were subsequently submitted for serotyping. The relationship between the pathogen and immunosuppression associated with the lack of brumation is discussed, and the importance of histopathological diagnosis in zoo reptiles is emphasized.