Fatal hepatitis cysticercosa in a red deer fawn

Authors: Heath DD, MacKenzie I, McKenna PB
Publication: New Zealand Veterinary Journal, Volume 28, Issue 6, pp 124, Jun 1980
Publisher: Taylor and Francis

Animal type: Deer, Livestock, Production animal, Ruminant
Subject Terms: Alimentary system/gastroenterology, Cestode, Parasites - internal, Liver/hepatic disease
Article class: Correspondence

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Abstract: A female red deer fawn originally captured in the Murupara area and held on a deer farm for 14 days was, when approximately 19 days of age, purchased by the new owners. Three days after purchase the fawn was found by its owners to be “off colour” and 2 days later was submitted for veterinary examination. The now moribund animal, which had a subnormal temperature, cold extremities and pale mucous membranes, was found on palpation to have severe abdominal pain. The fawn was given supportive therapy involving prednisolone sodium succinate fluids, electrolytes and antibiotics but died several hours later. Post mortem examination revealed a small amount of blood-stained transudate in the abdominal cavity and a friable and grossly enlarged liver covered in haemorrhagic tracts…

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