Diagnosis and treatment of Sarcocystis neurona in a captive harbor seal (Phoca vitulina).
A captive harbor seal (Phoca vitulina) presented with partial anorexia, ataxia, and head bobbing, which progressed to complete anorexia, lethargy, and persistent whole-body intention tremors within several days. Response to treatment with ponazuril, serology, and cerebrospinal fluid analysis supported a diagnosis of Sarcocystis neurona. Analysis of serum levels for ponazuril indicated that therapeutic levels could be achieved at a dosage of 5 mg/kg p.o. s.i.d., whereas clinical response was improved at a dosage of 10 mg/kg. Several months after initiation of antiprotozoal therapy, the neurologic signs resolved, although rare intermittent tremors were seen with significant exertion.
Mylniczenko
Natalie D
ND
Brookfield Zoo, 3300 N. Golf Road, Brookfield, Illinois 60513, USA. natalie.mylniczenko@CZS.org
Kearns
Karen S
KS
Melli
Ann C
AC
D000818:Animals; D000913:Antibodies, Protozoan / Q000097:blood; D002490:Central Nervous System / Q000473:pathology; D003049:Coccidiostats / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D046049:Phoca / Q000469:parasitology; D012522:Sarcocystis / Q000276:immunology / Q000302:isolation & purification*; D012523:Sarcocystosis / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000662:veterinary*; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014227:Triazines / Q000627:therapeutic use*
D000913:Antibodies, Protozoan; D003049:Coccidiostats; D014227:Triazines; C415002:ponazuril