Hepatic lipidosis in a black-headed python (Aspidites melanocephalus).
The number of people keeping reptiles in captivity has markedly increased, and widespread inappropriate husbandry will result in an increasing incidence of the diagnosis of hepatic lipidosis(HL). It may become apparent that some species of snake have predisposition to develop HL. In the specific instance of the genus Aspidites, alterations to the usual husbandry that limit feeding and thereby body weight should markedly lessen the chance of the animal's developing HL. It is important for clinicians to develop a more aggressive approach to these cases and to build a bank of data with which to promote understanding of this common malady.
Simpson
Mark
M
Sugarloaf Animal Hospital, 67 Carrington Street, West Wallsend, NSW, Australia 2286. sah@hunterlink.net.au
D000821:Animal Feed; D000822:Animal Husbandry / Q000193:education / Q000379:methods* / Q000592:standards; D000824:Animal Nutritional Physiological Phenomena; D000818:Animals; D017821:Boidae; D005260:Female; D020022:Genetic Predisposition to Disease; D008064:Lipidoses / Q000209:etiology / Q000235:genetics / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000662:veterinary*; D008107:Liver Diseases / Q000209:etiology / Q000235:genetics / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000662:veterinary*; D009765:Obesity / Q000150:complications / Q000662:veterinary*