Peritoneal sepsis in a young dromedary camel

Abstract

The present report describes clinical features, laboratory and post-mortem findings in peritoneal sepsis in a dromedary camel (Camelus dromedarius). Weakness, anorexia, scanty faeces and lassitude were early clinical symptoms, while in advanced stage, intermittent pyrexia (up to 104°F), pale mucous membrane, complete loss of defaecation and sternal recumbancy were observed. The haematological changes included neutrophilic leukocytosis with presence of degenerative neutrophils. Treatment with parenteral fluid, antibiotics and antipyretics failed to respond and the animal died after one week. Post-mortem examination revealed presence of excess, thick peritoneal fluid and petechial haemorrhages in stomach, intestine and other visceral organs. Bacteria, few degenerating neutrophils, mesothelial cells and RBCs were present in the peritoneal fluid suggesting a case of peritoneal sepsis.