Abstract

A 5 year old male white tipped reef shark developed anorexia which responded transiently to antibiotic therapy. After several treatments with antibiotics, anti-inflammatories and sucralfate this animal was unable to swallow solid food despite interest in food. This animal was fed 1-2 times weekly with blended mackerel gruel via a stomach tube. Antibiotics and anti-inflammatory pain medications were delivered in tube feeding or by intramuscular injection. Esophageal injury was determined with endoscopy and digital palpation while the animal was under general anesthesia. After several weeks of systemic and topical therapy healing of this area was limited. The animal displayed hunger but continued with an inability to swallow and would spit food out.

A decision was made to further define the problem with Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). MRI was performed with the animal under general anesthesia with tricaine methanesulfonate. The results of the study identified an apparent foreign object in the wall of the esophagus. Based on density and shape it was identified as a plastic disc. The animal recovered and returned to its home tank without incident. Several weeks later, exploration of the throat area was performed under anesthesia but no foreign object was located. Further medical and nutritional therapy is continuing for this animal. Future assessments of the animal's injury are planned to monitor the condition of this area.