Evidence: Bearded dragon (Pogona vitticeps) clinical cases
Source: Europe PMC (Europe PubMed Central) REST search — first-hand peer-reviewed abstract records, pulled 2026-08-01. Queries covered clinical case reports and case series for Pogona vitticeps. The cluster returns 12 representative clinical cases with abstracts below. Abstract text is verbatim from source; each case is traceable by PMID.
Studies
- PMID 42017649 (2026, Australian veterinary journal) — Cholangiocarcinoma in a central bearded dragon (Pogona vitticeps): A case report.. Abstract (opening): Cholangiocarcinoma is an uncommon malignant epithelial tumour of the biliary tract in reptiles and is rarely reported in central bearded dragons (Pogona vitticeps). This case report describes a 7-year-old male central bearded dragon in which a nonspecific coelomic opacity was incidentally detected during a routine clinical examination. Diagnostic imaging, including radiography and ultrasonography, identified a cystic lesion arising from the liver. Blood biochemistry revealed a mild elevation in alanine transaminase and borderline blood urea nitrogen, with no other significant abnormalities. Surgical excision of the mass was performed via a right lateral paracostal coeliotomy. Histopathological examination confirmed a diagnosis of cholangiocarcinoma, supported by immunohistochemical positivity for pankeratin and absence of vimentin and α-smooth muscle actin expression. No evidence of metastatic disease was observed at surgery or during follow-up. The animal recovered uneventfully and remained clinically well with no evidence of recurrence 10 months postoperatively. This case highlights the importance of diagnostic imaging and histopathology in the evaluation of hepatic masses in reptiles and demonstrates that early surgical intervention can result in a favourable long-term outcome.
Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42017649/
- 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.
Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42199939/
- PMID 41788912 (2026, Case reports in veterinary medicine) — Sarcoma at the Site of a Transponder Implant in a Standing's Day Gecko (<i>Phelsuma standingi</i>): A Case Report.. Abstract (opening): A 26-year-old female Standing's day gecko (<i>Phelsuma standingi</i>) was presented for evaluation of a mass on the right caudolateral trunk and was subsequently euthanized. Necropsy revealed a neoplastic mass surrounding a passive integrated transponder at the body wall. Histopathology of the mass was consistent with a sarcoma and was characterized by whorls of fusiform neoplastic cells invading the muscle, adipose, and bone of the coelomic wall. Given its proximity to the transponder and the degree to which it encompassed the device, the sarcoma was inferred to be transponder-associated. However, further conclusions regarding a causal relationship between the transponder implant and the neoplastic mass cannot be drawn based on this single case. This report describes the clinical presentation and pathologic findings for a microchip-associated neoplasia in a reptile.
Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41788912/
- PMID 40958376 (2026, Veterinary ophthalmology) — An Ocular Manifestation of a Systemic Disease With Encephalitozoon Pogonae in a Juvenile Central Bearded Dragon (Pogona vitticeps).. Abstract (opening): <h4>Objective</h4>Encephalitozoon pogonae, a recently identified microsporidian species, has been associated with systemic infections in Central bearded dragons (Pogona vitticeps) manifesting as granulomatous inflammation and vasculitis. Despite the species similarity to Encephalitozoon cuniculi, which causes ocular, neurologic, and renal pathology in rabbits, ocular manifestations of E. pogonae in bearded dragons are underreported. This case report aims to explore the ocular manifestations of E. pogonae in a clinical case and highlight the challenges in diagnosis and treatment of microsporidial infections in reptiles.<h4>Animal studied</h4>A 6-month-old male central bearded dragon with initial presentation of unilateral blepharoconjunctivitis.<h4>Procedures</h4>The patient was treated with topical ofloxacin 0.3% ophthalmic solution, systemic nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories (meloxicam), and antimicrobials (ceftazidime). Diagnostic efforts included physical and ophthalmic examination, ocular high-frequency ultrasound (48 mHz transducer), cytological examination of conjunctiva, and histopathological examination with PCR analysis confirming E. pogonae in both liver and conjunctiva.<h4>Results</h4>Despite treatment, the patient died from hemopericardium. Necropsy demonstrated severe granulomatous inflammation in multiple organs, including the liver, intestines, and ocular structures (conjunctiva and uveal tissue), as well as hypermature cataracts and phacoclastic uveitis, consistent with systemic microsporidiosis.<h4>Conclusions</h4>This case highlights the potential for an ocular manifestation of a systemic disease caused by E. pogonae, underscoring the importance of considering microsporidial infections in the differential diagnosis of refractory ocular disease in reptiles. The findings also emphasize the challenges in diagnosing and treating these infections.
Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40958376/
- 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.
Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41317138/
- PMID 41749246 (2026, BMC veterinary research) — First report of an iridophoroma in a Tegu (Salvator merianae).. Abstract (opening): <h4>Background</h4>This case report describes the clinical and histological findings of a rare periocular iridophoroma in a tegu.<h4>Case presentation</h4>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.<h4>Conclusions</h4>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.
Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41749246/
- PMID 42198584 (2026, Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)) — Pathological, Immunohistochemical, and Bacteriological Characterization of Salmonellosis in Bearded Dragons (<i>Pogona vitticeps</i>).. Abstract (opening): <i>Salmonella</i> spp. is a major zoonotic pathogen. Although reptiles are mostly considered subclinical carriers, clinical disease may develop following immunosuppression. Clinical salmonellosis in reptiles has been extensively reported; however, the condition has been rarely described in bearded dragons (<i>Pogona vitticeps</i>). We retrospectively analyzed six cases of salmonellosis in bearded dragons and characterized the pathological, immunohistochemical, and bacteriological findings. Clinical signs and gross findings were mostly non-specific. Histological findings mainly consisted of fibrinonecrotizing enterocolitis (83.3%); necrotizing or granulomatous hepatitis (66.7%); pneumonia including bronchopneumonia or interstitial pneumonia in one case each (33.3%); tubulointerstitial nephritis with tubular necrosis (16.7%); and coelomitis (16.7%). <i>Salmonella enterica</i> subsp. <i>houtenae</i> was cultured in three cases (33.3%), whereas <i>S. enterica</i> subsp. <i>enterica</i> serovar Rissen, <i>S. enterica</i> subsp. <i>enterica</i> serovar Cotham, and <i>S. enterica</i> subsp. <i>diarizonae</i> were cultured in one case each. Intralesional bacteria were detected via immunohistochemistry in kidneys and colon in two cases (33.3%). The predominance of lesions in the intestines and liver likely reflects initial intestinal colonization followed by hematogenous dissemination to the liver. Hepatic lesions are thought to represent different stages along a continuum, progressing from acute necrosis to discrete granuloma formation. Renal and respiratory involvement was infrequent, as reported in other reptile species. Some of the isolated <i>Salmonella</i> subspecies (<i>S. diarizonae</i> and <i>S. houtenae</i>) are well-recognized causes of clinical disease in other reptile species but not previously identified in bearded dragons. This study provides a comprehensive pathological, immunohistochemical, and bacteriological characterization of salmonellosis in bearded dragons, thus raising awareness and assisting in the identification of this condition.
Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42198584/
- PMID 42314735 (2026, Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association) — Ovariectomy and ovariosalpingectomy have reasonable outcomes in stable and critical client-owned bearded dragons (Pogona vitticeps).. Abstract (opening): <h4>Objective</h4>To describe the clinical presentations, diagnostic findings, anesthetic management, surgical treatment, outcomes, and complications of surgical sterilization in client-owned bearded dragons.<h4>Animals</h4>Medical records were retrospectively collected for all bearded dragons that underwent ovariectomy or ovariosalpingectomy performed by 3 veterinarians board certified in exotics-related specialties between October 2019 and October 2024 at their institutions.<h4>Clinical presentation</h4>25 female dragons underwent surgical sterilization; 1 animal had 2 ovariectomies due to an ovarian remnant for a total of 26 procedures. Median age and body weight were 3.5 years and 498 g, respectively. Common reasons for presentation included hyporexia (n = 15) and coelomic distension (8). Twenty-three procedures were considered urgent, 2 were prophylactic, and 1 was emergent.<h4>Results</h4>The most common clinical pathologic finding was elevated bile acids (n = 9). Follicles were identified in all cases undergoing ultrasound (n = 18). Anesthetic protocols varied but commonly included dexmedetomidine, ketamine, midazolam, propofol, and isoflurane. Seven animals had additional procedures, including cholecystectomy (n = 2), liver biopsy (2), mass removal/biopsy (2), partial lung resection (1), subtotal fat body removal (1), and enterotomy (1). Of 14 cases evaluated histologically, 8 had abnormal ovarian findings, most commonly oophoritis (n = 6). Intraoperative hemorrhage was the most common complication (n = 11). Of 26 surgical events, 22 (85%) resulted in survival to discharge and for at least 10 days postoperatively.<h4>Clinical relevance</h4>Ovariectomy or ovariosalpingectomy in client-owned bearded dragons may be required for multiple indications. Despite common complications, the surgery has a better prognosis than previously reported in the literature. These findings support ovariectomy or ovariosalpingectomy as a viable surgical option in bearded dragons.
Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42314735/
- PMID 41594463 (2026, Animals : an open access journal from MDPI) — Detection of Viable <i>Nannizziopsis guarroi</i> in Housing Environments Prior to Dermatological Lesion Development in Bearded Dragons (<i>Pogona vitticeps</i>).. Abstract (opening): <i>Nannizziopsis guarroi</i> causes dermatomycosis in lizards and snakes. Little is known about the environment's role in transmission of the fungus. The environments of bearded dragons experimentally inoculated with <i>N. guarroi</i> were cultured weekly to assess the presence of viable <i>N. guarroi</i>. Four of six (4/6, 66.67%) enclosures demonstrated an environmental presence of <i>N. guarroi</i> prior to the observation of clinical lesions in the bearded dragon housed there. The environments were positive for <i>N. guarroi</i> growth 7-28 days prior to lesion development. The environment should be considered as a potential site of infection for naïve reptile hosts and environmental seeding may occur prior to the development of clinical nannizziomycosis in exposed lizards.
Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41594463/
- PMID 41007981 (2025, Animals : an open access journal from MDPI) — Systemic CD3+ T-Cell Lymphoblastic Leukemia in a Bearded Dragon (<i>Pogona vitticeps)</i>: Clinical, Therapeutic, and Pathological Findings.. Abstract (opening): A three-year-old male bearded dragon (<i>Pogona vitticeps</i>) exhibited acute anorexia. Biochemistry revealed mild hyperproteinemia (88 g/L) and elevated liver enzymes (ALT 60 U/L, AST 272 U/L), while the hematology report showed marked lymphocytosis. The animal had been clinically normal at a routine examination 10 months earlier. Based on the clinical and laboratory findings, acute lymphoblastic leukemia was suspected. Treatment was initiated with methylprednisolone (1 mg/kg PO q24h), marbofloxacin (10 mg/kg IM q24h), and lomustine (80 mg/m<sup>2</sup> PO q14d), calculated according to reptile-specific body surface area formulas. A transient stabilization was followed by sudden deterioration on day 3, characterized by hematemesis and severe respiratory distress, leading to spontaneous death. A complete necropsy including histopathology and anti-CD3 immunohistochemistry revealed disseminated infiltration of neoplastic T-lymphocytes throughout all major visceral organs and confirmed the diagnosis of T-cell lymphoblastic lymphoma/leukemia (L/L). This case represents a rare report of systemic acute lymphoblastic L/L in a bearded dragon and underlies the importance of comprehensive diagnostics in reptiles with non-specific clinical signs and the challenges in the treatment of neoplastic diseases in exotic species.
Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41007981/
- PMID 41080310 (2025, Cureus) — A Rare Case of Pediatric Pulmonary Sarcoidosis Without Lymph Node Involvement Presenting With Centrilobular Ground-Glass Opacities.. Abstract (opening): A 17-year-old previously healthy male presented with acute hypoxic respiratory failure after one month of progressively worsening dyspnea on exertion, non-productive cough, fevers, and weight loss. He was initially discharged on oral steroids with a working diagnosis of cryptogenic organizing pneumonia, but was readmitted after one month for acute hypoxic respiratory failure. Extensive laboratory workup, including serum angiotensin converting enzyme level, hypersensitivity pneumonitis panel, and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid cultures, was normal. Computed tomography scan of the chest revealed diffuse centrilobular ground-glass opacities and a 4-mm solid right lower lobe pulmonary nodule, and he underwent a video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) procedure with segmental resection of the lingula. Pathology ultimately showed non-necrotizing granulomatous inflammation in the interstitium of the lung parenchyma, airways, and blood vessels, consistent with sarcoidosis. Diagnosis of interstitial lung disease is difficult when histologic diagnosis requires an invasive, costly VATS biopsy, but prompt recognition of sarcoidosis is critical to prevent potentially fatal pulmonary fibrosis or cardiac sarcoidosis. To our knowledge, this is the first case report of pediatric pulmonary sarcoidosis with ground-glass opacities lacking any lymphadenopathy, skin, or neurologic manifestations.
Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41080310/
- 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.
Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41600686/
Source text: pdf-raw/evidence/europepmc_bearded_dragon_clinical_2026-08-01.txt (Europe PMC first-hand abstracts, pulled 2026-08-01).