Follicular Stasis in a 12 year old Green Iguana
A 12 year old female iguana presented to the Emergency Service at Cornell University Hospital for Animals for a two week history of progressive lethargy and anorexia. On presentation, the patient was quiet, depressed, and dehydrated, had a bloated, painful abdomen, and had diffuse muscle atrophy. Whole body radiographs, a survey ultrasound, and complete blood count and chemistry panel were obtained. The results of the blood tests showed elevated uric acid, consistent with dehydration or renal disease. The imaging exams revealed many large, round, soft tissue structures in the abdomen, as well as severe spondylitis in multiple areas of the vertebral column. The patient was admitted to the hospital and given fluids, pain medications and antibiotics. Additional imaging exams were performed (full ultrasound and CT) and the patient was diagnosed with follicular stasis. The patient was stabilized for five days, and an ovariectomy was performed on the patient's sixth day in the hospital. The patient recovered well from surgery and was discharged the following day. Follow up visits showed that the patient continues to be dehydrated and may have chronic renal disease. Additionally, blood cultures showed growth of multiple organisms, which are likely responsible for the patient's spondylitis.