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1 June 2008 Diagnosis and Treatment of Sarcocystis neurona in a Captive Harbor Seal (Phoca vitulina)
Natalie D. Mylniczenko, Karen S. Kearns, Ann C. Melli
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Abstract

A captive harbor seal (Phoca vitulina) presented with partial anorexia, ataxia, and head bobbing, which progressed to complete anorexia, lethargy, and persistent whole-body intention tremors within several days. Response to treatment with ponazuril, serology, and cerebrospinal fluid analysis supported a diagnosis of Sarcocystis neurona. Analysis of serum levels for ponazuril indicated that therapeutic levels could be achieved at a dosage of 5 mg/kg p.o. s.i.d., whereas clinical response was improved at a dosage of 10 mg/kg. Several months after initiation of antiprotozoal therapy, the neurologic signs resolved, although rare intermittent tremors were seen with significant exertion.

Natalie D. Mylniczenko, Karen S. Kearns, and Ann C. Melli "Diagnosis and Treatment of Sarcocystis neurona in a Captive Harbor Seal (Phoca vitulina)," Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine 39(2), 228-235, (1 June 2008). https://doi.org/10.1638/2007-0141R.1
Received: 12 October 2007; Published: 1 June 2008
KEYWORDS
ataxia
cerebellum
Harbor Seal
neurologic disease
Phoca vitulina
ponazuril
Sarcocystis neurona
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