Clinical approach to colic and collapse in an Asian elephant ( Elephas maximus ) with Salmonella saintpaul septicaemia and subsequent ileus

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Abstract
An adult female Asian elephant ( Elephas maximus ) presented with clinical signs of colic unresponsive to analgesia, which progressed to hypothermia and collapse within 48 hours. Repeated sedations using butorphanol and detomidine were performed for initial diagnostic sampling, first aid and subsequent treatment. Initial haematology showed evidence of septicaemia and disseminated intravascular coagulation; urine analysis was consistent with metabolic acidosis. The initial treatment focused on rectal administration of enrofloxacin, metronidazole and fluids. By Day 7, the immune system was recovering as demonstrated by blood parameters but ileus had developed. Sedation interventions were discontinued and treatment consisted of oral ranitidine, fibre provision and rehydration. Salmonella saintpaul was cultured from the faeces and a disease risk analysis identified a possible infection route through food contamination. Serial haematology provided direction in clinical decision making throughout this challenging case.

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