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Gerbils (Laboratory) - Pathology (view source)
Revision as of 14:27, 12 August 2011
, 14:27, 12 August 2011→Digestive System
==Digestive System==
==Digestive System==
===Aminoglycoside Toxicity===
[[Aminoglycosides|Aminoglycosides]] are toxic to gerbils. Due to this antibiotic ointments that contain aminoglycosides can cause mortality due to ingestion of the drug. Clinical signs may include neuromuscular paralysis due to dysfunction within the [[Neurotransmitters_-_Anatomy_%26_Physiology|acetylcholine]] system.
===Endoparasites===
====Pinworms====
There are two main types of endoparasite that are found within laboratory gerbils. These include the mouse pinworm, ''Syphacia obvelata'' which is found in the cecum and/or the small intestine. The gerbil pinworm '''Dentostomella translucida'' can also be found in the same areas of the digestive tract. Both types of worm can be identified by a fecal flotation test.
====Protozoa====
Flagellated protozoa such as ''Giardia'' and ''Tritrichomonas'' are commonly found colonising the intestines of the gerbil. However, these protozoa are commensals and naturally occurring and therefore are usually not associated with any clinical signs. Overgrowth of these protozoa can lead to disease. Identification of these protozoa can be performed by faecal examination for cysts.
====Tapeworm====
The tapeworms ''Hymenolepis nana'' or ''Hymenolepis diminuta'' can cause dehydration and diarrhoea.
===Enteritis===
The bacteria ''Salmonella enterica'' has been shown to cause enteritis in gerbils along with food deprivation. Clinical signs include moderate to severe diarrhoea, a rough coat, weight loss, depression and dehydration.
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Macroscopic pathological findings will include a congested liver and distension within the gastrointestinal tract. There may also be a fibrinosuppurative peritonitis. Microscopic findings will include a positive culture of ''Salmonella'' species.
==Other==
==Other==