Lethal Adverse Consequence of an Anticoccidial Therapy with Sulfa Drugs in Inland Bearded Dragon (Pogona vitticeps)

Coccidia have been recognized as a salient disease-causing parasite of captive reptile species, and this is linked with high mortality rate in youthful subjects. In this paper authors report the mortal effect of an anticoccidial therapy with sulfamides in a youthful bearded dragon (Pogona vitticeps) prescribed by a reptiles’ non-experienced practitioner. A formulation containing diaveridine 0.5% and sulfadimetoxine 0.5% was given orally at the dosage of 71.4 mg/kg for both drugs, q 24 h for 7 days. No particular advisement was given to the owner about the exigency to integrate fluids assumption during therapy to avoid possible injurious effect of sulfa drugs on urinary system. During therapy, the animal became malnourished and lethargic, so it was referred to authors. Despite the therapy instituted on the histopathological examination of renal samples showed large multifocal areas of coagulative necrosis, and tubular lumina plugged with cell casts, crystals, calcium salts, erythrocytes leukocytes, and amorphous precipitates. Liver samples showed diffuse fatty change and necrosis of hepatocytes, and lungs presented hyperaemic areas. The final recommendation for practitioners interested in exotic and reptile medicine practice is therefore to not device therapeutic protocols, but rather to refer to specially designed literature or more competent colleagues.