{"topic_id":"evidence_exotic_iguana_clinical","category":"evidence","context":"---\ntopic_id: evidence_exotic_iguana_clinical\ncategory: evidence\ntitle: \"Evidence cluster — Green iguana (Iguana iguana) clinical cases (peer-reviewed, Europe PMC)\"\nlang: en\nsource: \"Europe PMC (Europe PubMed Central) REST search, first-hand peer-reviewed abstracts, pulled 2026-08-01\"\nsource_file: pdf-raw/evidence/europepmc_iguana_clinical_2026-08-01.txt\ndate_parsed: 2026-08-01\ntokens_estimated: 4708\nverification:\n method: substring_match\n claims: 12\n passed: 12\n date: 2026-08-01\nsource_document: \"Peer-reviewed Green iguana clinical-case literature (Europe PMC, first-hand abstracts)\"\ncitation:\n authority: \"Europe PMC\"\n title: \"Evidence cluster — Green iguana (Iguana iguana) clinical cases (peer-reviewed, Europe PMC)\"\n url: \"https://www.ebi.ac.uk/europepmc/\"\n retrieved: \"2026-08-01\"\n doc_type: \"first-hand abstracts (Europe PMC REST)\"\n needs_review: false\n---\n\n# Evidence: Green iguana (Iguana iguana) clinical cases\n\nSource: Europe PMC (Europe PubMed Central) REST search — first-hand peer-reviewed abstract records, pulled 2026-08-01.\nQueries covered clinical case reports and case series for Iguana iguana.\nThe cluster returns **12** representative clinical cases with abstracts below. Abstract text is verbatim from source; each case is traceable by PMID.\n\n## Studies\n- **PMID 41749246 (2026, BMC veterinary research)** — First report of an iridophoroma in a Tegu (Salvator merianae).. Abstract (opening): Background
This case report describes the clinical and histological findings of a rare periocular iridophoroma in a tegu.Case presentation
Iridophoroma is a rare type of chromatophoroma, a tumor that arises from iridophores, specialized pigment cells responsible for reflecting light. This case report describes a 6-year-old male Argentine black and white tegu (Salvator merianae) presented with a large, irregular, proliferative mass in the periocular region. The mass originated from the upper left eyelid, partially covering the ocular surface, and measured 2.5 cm in diameter. The patient was referred to the department of Surgery and Intensive care for mass removal and underwent two separate surgical resections. Fine needle aspiration from the structure revealed the diagnosis of iridophoroma, which was later confirmed through histology. This case aims to broaden current knowledge in reptile medicine by presenting an iridophoroma in Salvator merianae, highlighting its clinical presentation, cytological features, and histopathological aspects.Conclusions
This case represents the first documented occurrence of an iridophoroma in a tegu, highlighting the need for increased awareness and precision in diagnosing tumors in reptiles. The findings demonsrate the importance of paraclinical investigations, such as histopathology, not only in confirming rare conditions but also in differentiating iridophoromas from other potential diagnoses, such as squamous cell carcinoma, papilloma, or melanophoroma. Accurate identification is crucial for guiding appropriate treatment and improving outcomes in reptile medicine.\n Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41749246/\n- **PMID 41745956 (2026, Veterinary sciences)** — <i>Nannizziopsis pluriseptata</i>-Associated Skin Lesions in a Shingleback Skink (<i>Tiliqua rugosa</i>) and Spiny-Tailed Skinks (<i>Egernia depressa</i>) in Australia.. Abstract (opening): Both captive and free-living reptiles are susceptible to infection by fungi from the Nannizziopsis genus and are prone to developing severe lesions that can affect skin and deeper tissues, becoming multi-systemic. With Australia having close to 1000 reptile species-of which 93% are endemic-the prevalence, distribution and susceptibility of reptiles to this emerging fungal infection remain unknown. In this case series, captive skinks originating from the states of Queensland and Western Australia were presented to wildlife veterinarians with dermatitis. Nannizziopsis pluriseptata was identified via fungal isolation, PCR (polymerase chain reaction) and sequencing, confirming the first record of this pathogen in the country.\n Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41745956/\n- **PMID 42121721 (2026, Animals : an open access journal from MDPI)** — Tiletamine-Zolazepam Use in Exotic Pets and Wildlife Anesthesia: A Narrative Review Towards Practical Guidelines.. Abstract (opening): This narrative review examines the clinical application of tiletamine-zolazepam (TZ) in exotic pet and wildlife anesthesia, addressing the complexities inherent in managing a broad taxonomic spectrum with diverse physiological profiles and temperaments. As a fixed-dose combination, TZ is a cornerstone of multimodal protocols designed to achieve balanced anesthesia. Its lyophilized formulation permits reconstitution with various sedative solutions, facilitating low-volume administration, a critical requirement for the immobilization of wildlife and small exotic patients. Given the significant variability in species-specific responses and environmental influences, selecting and adapting appropriate TZ-based protocols remain a challenge for practitioners. By synthesizing heterogeneous data into expert-validated guidance, this review provides specialized and general veterinarians with practical considerations for the judicious use of TZ. Emphasis is placed on integrating TZ within multimodal protocols to mitigate arousal risks, ensure consistent immobilization, and facilitate rapid recovery. This approach seeks to optimize anesthetic outcomes and promote animal welfare across these physiologically diverse populations.\n Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42121721/\n- **PMID 42313899 (2026, Veterinary medicine and science)** — A Multispecies Systematic and Critical Review of Intranasal Administration in Veterinary Anaesthesia and Emergency Care: Promising Evidence and Overlooked Challenges.. Abstract (opening): Intranasal (IN) drug delivery has increasingly considered as an easy, practical and non-invasive alternative to parenteral administration in veterinary medicine, offering rapid systemic and potential nose-to-brain effects. The first part of this review systematically collected and synthesized published evidence on IN administration across animal species, while the second part critically analysed the anatomical, pharmacological and technical factors that determine its success and limitations. Part I consisted a total of 110 eligible studies published between 1991 and 2025, encompassing dogs, cats, rabbits, pigs, ruminants, birds and reptiles. IN delivery has been investigated for a range of purposes and produced clinically meaningful sedation, analgesia and drug reversal, often comparable to intramuscular administration but generally characterized by slower onset and greater variability among species. Despite encouraging and favourable results, IN delivery was not without limitations. Its effectiveness can be strongly influenced by species-specific nasal anatomy and physiology, formulation characteristics and dosing volume. Defensive reactions, poor tolerability, sneezing, nasopharyngeal irritations, hypersalivation or swallowing of the drug are frequently reported. Future progress requires species-specific case selection guidelines and dosing standards, pharmacokinetic validation and developing safe concentrated formulations. Transparent reporting and balanced assessment of both benefits and drawbacks are essential to ensure the safe, effective and ethically responsible integration of IN administration into veterinary anaesthesia and critical care practice.\n Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42313899/\n- **PMID 42199939 (2026, Frontiers in veterinary science)** — Case Report: Osteosarcoma following traumatic injury in a juvenile Argentine black and white tegu (<i>Salvator merianae</i>).. Abstract (opening): Osteosarcoma (OSA) is a malignant neoplasm of mesenchymal origin characterized by osteoid or immature bone production and is rarely reported in reptiles. A 3-month-old Argentine black and white tegu presented with a subcutaneous mass on the left flank, approximately 2 months after a dog bite. Physical and radiographic examination revealed no initial internal abnormalities, but follow-up examination revealed a rapidly enlarging soft tissue mass. Ultrasonography confirmed a well-encapsulated mass, while contrast-enhanced computed tomography demonstrated mineralization, rib osteolysis, and multiple bilateral nodules, indicating a malignant process. Histopathological examination of the excised mass demonstrated features consistent with giant cell-rich osteosarcoma, including irregular bony trabeculae, numerous multinucleated giant cells, and peripheral osteoid matrix. This case highlights the diagnostic challenges of OSA in reptiles, the value of integrating diagnostic imaging and histopathology, and the need for species-specific imaging protocols in ectothermic species, thereby expanding the literature on reptilian neoplasia.\n Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42199939/\n- **PMID 41317138 (2026, Veterinary medicine and science)** — Detection of Cryptosporidium and Giardia duodenalis in Reptiles in Thailand.. Abstract (opening): Cryptosporidium spp. and Giardia duodenalis are significant intestinal protozoan parasites affecting humans and animals worldwide. These infections are transmitted through the faecal-oral route, by contaminated water, food or close contact with infected hosts. The zoonotic risk of transmission from reptiles is considered low; yet, limited research exists regarding Cryptosporidium and Giardia infections in these animals. This study investigated the presence of Cryptosporidium spp. and G. duodenalis in reptile faecal samples from a breeding farm in the Chonburi Province, Eastern Thailand. The test population included 363 iguanas, 50 tortoises, 79 bearded dragons and nine snakes. DNA extraction from faecal samples was performed, followed by nested PCR for Cryptosporidium and G. duodenalis, and all positive samples were sequenced for molecular characterisation. Cryptosporidium and G. duodenalis were detected in 13 and 25 out of 501 faecal samples, respectively. Specifically, seven of 363 iguana samples and six of 79 bearded dragon samples tested positive for Cryptosporidium. Cryptosporidium avium was found in 11 samples, and one sample revealed Cryptosporidium serpentis; the remaining sample could not be identified at the species level. For G. duodenalis, 15 of 363 iguanas tested positive, along with six of 79 bearded dragons, two of 50 tortoises and two of nine snakes. Only G. duodenalis assemblage B was identified in positive samples. This study provides epidemiological information on the infection rate and distribution of species of Cryptosporidium and Giardia in a breeding reptile farm in Chonburi Province, Eastern Thailand, and the findings are discussed in the context of the scientific literature. SUMMARY: This study represents one of the largest surveys on Cryptosporidium and Giardia duodenalis in reptiles. Cryptosporidium avium, typically associated with avian hosts, was the predominant Cryptosporidium species identified in iguanas and bearded dragons. Giardia duodenalis assemblage B, known for its zoonotic potential, was the primary assemblage found in iguanas.\n Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41317138/\n- **PMID 40470286 (2025, Frontiers in veterinary science)** — Case Report: Oral fecal microbiota transplantation in a Mediterranean spur-thighed tortoise (<i>Testudo graeca</i>) suffering from chronic gastrointestinal disease-procedure, clinical outcome and follow-up.. Abstract (opening): Introduction
Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is the process of transferring fecal microbiota from a healthy donor into the gastrointestinal tract of a recipient. Although many mechanisms of FMT are still not completely understood at present, it has been described that the treatment of various gastrointestinal diseases in different species, including humans, is significantly improved by FMT therapy. Since the first report on FMT therapy in veterinary medicine in small mammals numerous cases have been reported, but little information has been published on the therapeutic effects of FMT treatment in reptiles. The present case report describes the effects of orally administered fecal microbiota transplantation in a Mediterranean spur-thighed tortoise (Testudo graeca) suffering from chronic gastrointestinal disorders.Case presentation
A nine-year-old, 330 g, intact female Mediterranean spur-thighed tortoise (Testudo graeca) from the animal owner's own offspring was presented for consultation due to decreased general condition, anorexia and sialorrhea following oral intake of a lettuce species (Lactuca virosa) known for its poisonous plant ingredients (sesquiterpene lactones) 3 weeks prior to presentation. Pre-existing conditions were not reported. Clinical examination revealed sialorrhea and a reduced general condition. Diagnostic procedures included blood chemistry, radiography and ultrasonography. Despite repeated treatment attempts with various medical regimes over 158 days, the tortoise continued showing variable recurring gastrointestinal symptoms. An orally administered FMT was initiated and continued for a total of 3 weeks. Gastrointestinal signs improved rapidly within 1 week and resolved completely after 3 weeks. Over a follow up period of 9 months, no symptom recurrence or adverse effects were monitored.Conclusion
This case report describes the first successful trial of fecal microbiota transplantation in chelonians. The outcome indicates that this therapeutic approach may be beneficial not only to small animals but also for the therapy of gastrointestinal disorders in reptiles, especially those cases with insufficient conventional therapy results.\n Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40470286/\n- **PMID 41011424 (2025, Microorganisms)** — Fatal Pneumonia Caused by <i>Beauveria bassiana</i> in a Kemp's Ridley Sea Turtle (<i>Lepidochelys kempii</i>, Garman, 1880) on the Portuguese Coast: Case Report and Review of <i>Beauveria</i> spp. Infections in Reptiles.. Abstract (opening): The Kemp's ridley sea turtle (Lepidochelys kempii) is the most critically endangered sea turtle species, with a distribution primarily restricted to the Gulf of Mexico. Its occurrence along the Iberian Peninsula is exceedingly rare. This study describes the postmortem findings of a juvenile L. kempii rescued off the Portuguese coast in 2024, which died after 11 days in rehabilitation despite intensive supportive care. Necropsy revealed severe, diffuse pneumonia. Histopathological examination showed interstitial inflammation and branching septate hyphae, while fungal culture and DNA sequencing confirmed the presence of Beauveria bassiana. Mycotic diseases in reptiles are often underrecognised but can lead to significant morbidity and mortality, particularly in immunocompromised or stressed individuals such as stranded marine turtles. This rare occurrence of a L. kempii on the Portuguese coast provides important insights into the species' dispersal patterns and underlines the potential conservation implications of opportunistic fungal infections in endangered species.\n Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41011424/\n- **PMID 41600686 (2025, Veterinary sciences)** — Biochemical and Hepatic Determinants of Reproductive Failure in Reptiles: A Review of Dystocia Pathophysiology and Management.. Abstract (opening): Dystocia represents a multifactorial and clinically significant reproductive disorder affecting a broad spectrum of reptilian species. Commonly resulting from prolonged vitellogenesis, endocrine disruption, or hepatic lipidosis, dystocia is often exacerbated by suboptimal husbandry or concurrent disease. This review critically evaluates the etiology, diagnostic criteria, and therapeutic interventions associated with this condition. Emphasis is placed on the interplay between metabolic exhaustion and hepatic compromise, which may lower the threshold for surgical intervention. The efficacy and limitations of oxytocin-based protocols are discussed in the context of hormonal receptor variability and response attenuation. Advanced diagnostic modalities, including ultrasonography, radiography/CT, and biochemical profiling, are reviewed for their utility in case stratification. Finally, surgical management options are considered for cases refractory to medical treatment, with attention paid to timing, anesthetic risk, and post-operative care. Collectively, this synthesis aims to inform evidence-based clinical decision-making and promote improved standards of care in reptile reproductive medicine.\n Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41600686/\n- **PMID 40168957 (2025, Cells, tissues, organs)** — Anatomy, Histology, Aetiology, Development and Functions of Cartilago Cordis: A Systematic Review.. Abstract (opening): Introduction
The cartilago cordis is a structure present within the cardiac skeleton of some, but not all, vertebrate species. This systematic review compared the presence, structure, and function of the cartilago cordis from published works covering all vertebrate species.Methods
Literature searches were conducted to obtain information relating to the anatomical location, morphology, prevalence, number of structures, development, and function.Results
The cartilago cordis was most commonly composed of hyaline cartilage but its location within the cardiac skeleton, anatomical, and histological structure varied between species. The cartilago cordis has not been documented in every vertebrate species, or every individual within each species, but it is present in 68 vertebrates including an amphibian, and some mammals, reptiles, and birds. The function of the cartilago cordis is unknown, but theories have ranged from an adaptive mechanism to support cardiac tissue through to roles in conduction and contraction, especially in areas of high mechanical stress. Possible links between the presence of a cartilago cordis and cardiac pathologies were also identified.Conclusion
The cartilago cordis varied in prevalence, structure, and location; further research is required to understand the function and development. In addition, it is possible there are more vertebrate species containing cartilago cordis than presently known about given its varying prevalence and sometimes small size.\n Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40168957/\n- **PMID 39974156 (2025, Frontiers in veterinary science)** — Partial unilateral ovarian torsion in a red-eared slider turtle (Trachemys scripta elegans).. Abstract (opening): Follicular torsion occurs when only a group of ovarian follicles rotates around its own axis resulting in vascular compromise. To our knowledge, no previous reports have documented the occurrence of this condition in chelonians. A 14-year-old female Trachemys scripta was presented with inappetence and lethargy for approximately 2 weeks. Diagnostic tests, including complete blood work, radiography, and ultrasound, were performed. Radiographs showed no pathological changes, while blood tests showed mild heterophilia. Ultrasound revealed multiple, round, heterogeneous hyperechoic follicles and free anechoic fluid in the coelom. The color flow examination through the right pre-femoral fossa revealed the absence of blood flow in a group of follicles. A total body CT scan highlighted several rounded formations, four of which contained disomogeneus areas. Fluid with an air-fluid level and gas-filled areas were also noted in the coelomic cavity. A diagnosis of preovulatory follicular stasis and coelomitis was made, and a bilateral ovariosalpingectomy was performed endoscopically via the right prefemoral fossa after 24 h stabilization. There was a 360° torsion in a group of follicles, which appeared dark and had an increased consistency compared to adjacent follicles. Adhesions between the pathological follicles and surrounding tissue were observed. Bacteriological analysis of the coelomic fluid revealed the presence of Klebsiella spp. Histopathological examination of both ovaries showed coagulative necrosis, hemorrhage, congestion, and vascular thrombosis, along with a mixed inflammatory infiltrate. Post-surgical treatment with marbofloxacin and meloxicam resulted in significant clinical improvement. The animal was discharged 15 days after surgery, with a normal appetite.\n Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39974156/\n- **PMID 40690062 (2025, Veterinary research communications)** — Histological and histochemical characterisation of the salivary glands of the palatine fold and the mandibular venom gland of the Komodo dragon (Varanus komodoensis).. Abstract (opening): The Komodo dragon (Varanus komodoensis) is the largest living lizard whose hunting strategy allows it to attack large animals. It inflicts serious damage to its prey with specially developed teeth, called ziphodonts. Although the mandibular venom gland system was previously detected in the Komodo dragon, there is still a lack of its histochemical analysis. Thus, the objective of the current study was a detailed description of the mandibular venom gland of this species. In addition, a histological examination of the salivary glands of the palatine fold was performed. The research material was collected post-mortem from the captive adult female Komodo dragon. Hematoxylin and eosin and Masson-Goldner trichrome staining methods were used for the histological analysis of the glands, while periodic acid-Schiff, alcian blue pH 1.0, alcian blue pH 2.5, alcian blue pH 2.5 PAS and Hale's dialysed iron methods were included for the histochemical study. The venom gland was composed of distinctly marked and very numerous individual lobes surrounded by dense, irregularly structured, highly developed connective tissue that forms the interlobar septa. The salivary glands of the palatine fold were surrounded by a thick connective tissue capsule made of dense, irregularly structured connective tissue. The single ducts of the mandibular venom gland open into the sheaths surrounding the consecutive teeth. The presence of numerous muscle cells in the stroma of the venom gland between its lobes may indicate their participation in the emptying of the vesicles of their secretion.\n Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40690062/\n\nSource text: `pdf-raw/evidence/europepmc_iguana_clinical_2026-08-01.txt` (Europe PMC first-hand abstracts, pulled 2026-08-01).\n","sources":["Europe PMC — Evidence cluster — Green iguana (Iguana iguana) clinical cases (peer-reviewed, Europe PMC) (retrieved 2026-08-01)"],"source":{"authority":"Europe PMC","title":"Evidence cluster — Green iguana (Iguana iguana) clinical cases (peer-reviewed, Europe PMC)","url":"https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41749246/","retrieved":"2026-08-01","ref":"PMID 41749246","doc_type":"official PDF","source_document":"Peer-reviewed Green iguana clinical-case literature (Europe PMC, first-hand abstracts)","verification_file":"pdf-raw/evidence/europepmc_iguana_clinical_2026-08-01.txt"},"source_document":"Peer-reviewed Green iguana clinical-case literature (Europe PMC, first-hand abstracts)","source_file":"pdf-raw/evidence/europepmc_iguana_clinical_2026-08-01.txt","tokens_estimated":600,"generated_at":null,"tip":"Use /api/v1/topics to discover more topics. /api/v1/nutrient for precise single-point queries. /api/v1/cross_compare for 2-3 standard comparisons."}