Abstract

Spinal diseases have been reported in several penguin species under managed care;^1-6 however, no comprehensive studies exist. Medical records of African penguins (Spheniscus demersus) from three facilities over 20 years were reviewed and eleven cases of spinal disease were identified. The overall prevalence of spinal disease in the study population was 6%. Diagnoses included intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) (n=3), spondylosis (n=3), congenital deformity (n=3) and suspected trauma (n=2). Mean age at diagnosis (in years) was 27 for IVDD, 19.6 for spondylosis, 23.3 for suspected trauma, and 3.5 for congenital. All birds presented with abnormal posturing. Other clinical signs included ataxia, proprioceptive deficits, and hind limb paresis or lameness. Seventy-two percent of birds presented with signs that were more severe unilaterally (n=8); 90% of which were left sided. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was the most sensitive diagnostic tool, confirming spinal lesions in 86% of animals (n=7). Computed tomography (CT) was non-diagnostic in all cases (n=2). Radiographs were helpful for diagnosing spondylosis and congenital deformities; however, not sensitive for IVDD or suspected trauma. The most common location for spinal lesions was the caudal thoracic and/or cranial synsacral region (55%; n=6). All birds that were treated showed improvement in clinical signs while on steroids (n=6), non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (n=7), or other analgesics (n=4). Two birds received acupuncture therapy, which led to subjective improvement in clinical signs. This comprehensive overview of non-infectious spinal diseases in African penguins has the potential to aid clinicians in the early diagnosis and intervention of these concerning disorders.

Acknowledgements:

The authors wish to thank Dr. Charlie Innis of New England Aquarium and Dr. Ellen Bronson of The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore for their invaluable contributions to this project.

* Presenting author
+ Student presenter

Literature Cited

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