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.
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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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Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine
Vol. 39 • No. 2
June 2008
Vol. 39 • No. 2
June 2008
ataxia
cerebellum
Harbor Seal
neurologic disease
Phoca vitulina
ponazuril
Sarcocystis neurona