Diseases of the Endocrine System

Chapter 40 Diseases of the Endocrine System



SNAKES


Snakes have either a single or paired thyroid gland that lies just anterior to the heart. Thyroid function is involved in shedding and growth. Unlike in most mammals, the thymus does not involute in the adult animal. Parathyroid tissue is embedded in the thymus and thyroid tissue and plays a role in calcium metabolism. The adrenal glands are associated with the gonads. The function of the endocrine system in snakes is poorly understood. Diseases that affect the endocrine system are discussed in Chapters 42 and 43.



IGUANAS



Hypothyroidism


The thyroid gland is the only gland in the body to use iodine. It is believed by some authors that iodine-deficient diets can result in hypertrophy of the thyroid gland and lead to disease. Foods commonly included in the diet of the green iguana are thought to contain substances that can bind iodine, preventing the body from using it. Vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and kale are a few of the more common species thought to bind iodine. Lack of iodine may result in hypothyroidism.*



CLINICAL SIGNS



• Sluggish, lethargic

• Overweight

• Slow growing


DIAGNOSIS



• Complete blood cell count (CBC) and serum chemistries

• Thyroid hormone assay


TREATMENT



• Remove or reduce fed amounts of the vegetables listed earlier

• Vitamin supplements that contain iodine


TURTLES


Primary endocrine disease is uncommon in the turtle; however, endocrine changes can be seen as part of a disease complex such as nutritional hyperparathyroidism. Hyperglycemia is a common finding in chelonians.



Hyperglycemia


Diabetes mellitus is an uncommon condition in reptiles. The presence of hyperglycemia can often be related to environmental conditions, stress, or other factors. Seasonal changes can also affect blood glucose levels. Animals with signs of hyperglycemia should be examined carefully to rule out these factors before making the diagnosis of diabetes. This condition will require more research before a complete diagnosis and treatment regimen can be suggested.



CLINICAL SIGNS



• Anorexia

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  4. Diseases of the Musculoskeletal System

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Aug 31, 2016 | Posted by in GENERAL | Comments Off on Diseases of the Endocrine System

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