Evaluation of magnetic resonance imaging for detection of internal tumors in green turtles with cutaneous fibropapillomatosis.
OBJECTIVE
To describe the gross cross-sectional anatomy of green turtles (Chelonia mydas) and evaluate magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for detection of internal tumors in green turtles with cutaneous fibropapillomatosis.


METHODS
Prospective study.


METHODS
3 dead green turtles, 1 healthy green turtle, and 8 green turtles with cutaneous fibropapillomatosis.


METHODS
Gross cross-sectional anatomy of a dead turtle was described. Each live turtle underwent a complete physical examination, and dorsoventral whole-body survey radiographic views were obtained. Magnetic resonance imaging was performed in dorsal and transverse planes. Radiographs and magnetic resonance images were examined for evidence of internal nodules. Results were compared with necropsy findings in 5 of 8 turtles.


RESULTS
Nodules in the lungs of 2 turtles were detected via radiography, whereas pulmonary nodules were detected in 5 turtles via MRI. No other visceral nodules were detected via radiography; however, masses in the stomach and adjacent to the bladder and kidneys were detected in 1 turtle via MRI. Other extrapulmonary abnormalities observed at necropsy were not detected on MR images.


CONCLUSIONS
MRI may be valuable for detection of internal tumors in green turtles with cutaneous fibropapillomatosis. Nodules were more apparent in the lungs than in other organs. Results of MRI may serve as prognostic indicators for sea turtles undergoing assessment, treatment, and rehabilitation. Clinical application may be limited by cost and availability of MRI technology.
Croft
Lara A
LA
Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA.
Graham
John P
JP
Schaf
Susan A
SA
Jacobson
Elliott R
ER
D000818:Animals; D000835:Animals, Wild; D005350:Fibroma / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000473:pathology / Q000662:veterinary*; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging / Q000379:methods / Q000662:veterinary*; D010212:Papilloma / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000473:pathology / Q000662:veterinary*; D011859:Radiography; D012878:Skin Neoplasms / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000473:pathology / Q000662:veterinary*; D014426:Turtles / Q000033:anatomy & histology*