Vesicular dermatitis caused by multirresistent Pseudomonas spp. in the carpet python (Morelia spilota Lacepede, 1804) (Squamata: Pythonidae) – case report

Abstract

Among the diseases that can affect snakes in captivity, infectious diseases are one of the main factors responsible for high morbidity and mortality rates. One of the main agents is Pseudomonas spp. that, besides being zoonotic, is generally multiresistant to several antimicrobials, representing a public health risk. This paper aims to report the occurrence of multidrug-resistant Pseudomonas sp. in M. spilota presenting vesicular dermatitis, as well as the microbiological, pathological and therapeutic description. In the care of a 7-year-old male carpet python, we noticed several vesicles containing a translucent viscous liquid, located in the skin of the entire body of the animal, in addition to some depigmented and elevated scales. Thus, material was collected from a freshly opened vesicle for bacterial culture and antibiogram. Blood was also collected for hematological and serum biochemical tests. Due to the suspicion of bacterial infection, treatment was instituted using enrofloxacin, ketoprofen, and potassium permanganate baths. After treatment, it was noticed that the vesicles had ceased, but after about ten days the animal died, suggesting systemic involvement. Hematological exams showed heterophilic leukocytosis, lymphocytosis, and monocytosis, besides an increase in AST. The results of the culture and antibiogram were available after the death of the animal, suggesting Pseudomonas spp. with resistance to several drugs. This paper describes the first report of vesicular dermatitis caused by multidrug-resistant Pseudomonas spp. in M. spilota, thus assisting in the medicine and ex situ conservation of these animals.