Cardiovascular and gastrointestinal radiographic contrast studies in the horseshoe crab (Limulus polyphemus).
Survey and contrast radiographic studies of the cardiovascular and gastrointestinal systems of the American horseshoe crab (Limulus polyphemus) were undertaken using conventional and flouroscopic techniques. Normal gastrointestinal and cardiovascular structures were difficult to resolve on survey radiographs, but were well visualized with gastrointestinal follow through studies and angiography, respectively. All three contrast agents (iohexol, Gastrografin, and barium sulfate) used for the gastrointestinal studies varied minimally in their radiographic quality and transit times, and all appeared to be safe for use in the horseshoe crab.
Spotswood
Tim
T
Fourways Veterinary Hospital, PO Box 68159, Bryanston 2021, Johannesburg, South Africa. ozbroken@yahoo.co.uk
Smith
Stephen A
SA
D000792:Angiography / Q000662:veterinary; D000818:Animals; D001466:Barium Sulfate; D002319:Cardiovascular System / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D003287:Contrast Media; D041981:Gastrointestinal Tract / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D006737:Horseshoe Crabs / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D007472:Iohexol
D003287:Contrast Media; D001466:Barium Sulfate; D007472:Iohexol