Pre-anal gland abscess in a male Atlantic bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus)

• DOI: 10.2460/javma.23.09.0546
• Publication Date: 2023-11-27T13:43:05Z
• Authors: Michelle R. Green...; Raymond J. Tarpley; John P. Traversi; Jennifer M. Meegan; Eric D. Jensen
• Keywords: Bottlenose dolphin

Abstract OBJECTIVE Anal glands have been identified in a variety of terrestrial and aquatic mammalian species, but there are few accounts describing their presence cetaceans. To our knowledge, this report describes the first documented case pre-anal gland abscess an Atlantic bottlenose dolphin ( Tursiops truncatus ). ANIMAL A 9-year-old male T ) part US Navy Marine Mammal Program San Diego Bay, California. CLINICAL PRESENTATION, PROGRESSION, AND PROCEDURES The patient presented for 3-day history lethargy, failure to perform voluntary behaviors, elevated respiratory rate. Complete blood count serum biochemistry results showed inflammatory hemogram. Physical examination revealed 4-cm circular swelling at right pore. was warm erythematous, with multifocal pinpoint ulcerations. An diagnosed using cytology, culture, ultrasound. TREATMENT OUTCOME Treatment included systemic oral antibiotic antifungal therapy, along daily lavage compress gland. successful, resolved. RELEVANCE This provides insight into previously unreported disease process dolphins encourages veterinarians evaluate during routine physical examinations complete further work-up if or clinical signs associated region present.