Trismus in cold-stunned Kemp’s ridley (Lepidochelys kempii) and loggerhead (Caretta caretta) sea turtles

Abstract

OBJECTIVE To describe the presentation, clinical findings, diagnosis, treatment, and outcome of cases of trismus (lockjaw) in cold-stunned sea turtles. ANIMALS 4 Kemp’s ridley (Lepidochelys kempii) and 1 loggerhead (Caretta caretta) sea turtle. METHODS Cold-stunned sea turtles that presented with difficulty or inability to open their jaw between 2009 and 2023 were included. Information retrieved from medical records included signalment, physical exam findings, diagnostic information, definitive diagnosis via either advanced imaging or histopathology, treatment, and clinical outcome. RESULTS Turtles presented between 4 and 48 days into rehabilitation. Three were diagnosed by advanced imaging (CT or MRI), and 2 were diagnosed based on clinical signs and postmortem histopathology. Treatment was multimodal and consisted of antibiotics (5/5), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories (5/5), vitamin E (3/5), intralesional steroid therapy (3/5), acupuncture (3/5), antifungals (2/5), anti-inflammatory parenteral steroids (2/5), physical therapy (2/5), therapeutic laser (2/5), and supportive feeding via either total parenteral nutrition (1/5), or tube feedings (2/5). Two animals were released, 2 died naturally, and 1 was euthanized. CLINICAL RELEVANCE Trismus (lockjaw) is an uncommon finding in stranded cold-stunned sea turtles that can have a significant impact on animal welfare if not diagnosed and treated. This report describes the condition to aid clinical case management and resource allocation in rehabilitation facilities.