February 2014

Llama fecal

A 7-yr-old intact female llama presents for being unable to rise for 4 hours. She has a 2-week history of diarrhea and inappetance. She has a body condition score of 2/5, pale mucous membranes, and bloodwork reveals regenerative anemia, hypoalbuninemia, hypoproteinemia, hypokalemia, and hyponatremia. A fecal recovers the organism shown below. What is the llama infected with?

What is your diagnosis?

Case and photo provided by Oklahoma State University veterinary student Cassandra Cullin.

Answer

The llama is infected with Eimeria macusaniensis. The oocysts of this coccidial species are characteristically large, dark, and have a horseshoe shape. Clinical signs associated with E. macusaniensis infection are most often seen in juvenile camelids; however, older camelids without a history of appropriate parasite control may present with severe clinical abnormalites including anemia, diarrhea, and lethargy progressing to inability to rise. Animals with this presentation have a guarded prognosis without appropriate supportive care.