June 2018
Gecko
An adult male tokay gecko was presented to the veterinarian for an annual exam. The owner reported that the gecko was apparently normal. A fecal flotation was performed, and the following parasite measuring 144 X 36 µm was observed.
What is your diagnosis? Scroll down to see the answer...
Answer:
This is an egg of Pharyngodon sp., a reptile oxyurid (pinworm). The genus is identifiable by the shape of the egg, as well as the appendages seen on the poles of the egg. Reptile pinworms are not transmissible to humans.
Many thanks to Dr. Kelsey Paras, NCVP Elanco Resident in Veterinary Parasitology at the University of Georgia, for providing the case history and photomicrograph.
This is an egg of Pharyngodon sp., a reptile oxyurid (pinworm). The genus is identifiable by the shape of the egg, as well as the appendages seen on the poles of the egg. Reptile pinworms are not transmissible to humans.
Many thanks to Dr. Kelsey Paras, NCVP Elanco Resident in Veterinary Parasitology at the University of Georgia, for providing the case history and photomicrograph.
July 2018