US EPA

2459308 

Journal Article 

Chronic cryptosporidiosis in Australian elapid snakes: control of an outbreak in a captive colony 

Carmel, BP; Groves, V 

1993 

Yes 

Australian Veterinary Journal
ISSN: 0005-0423
EISSN: 1751-0813 

70 

8 

293-295 

English 

8216094 

10.1111/j.1751-0813.1993.tb07977.x 

WOS:A1993LT76800004 

An outbreak of chronic cryptosporidiosis resulting in hypertrophic gastritis occurred in a captive colony of Australian elapid snakes. Two species of the genus Notechis were involved: Notechis ater (Black Tiger Snake) and Notechis scutatus (Eastern or Mainland Tiger Snake). The infection was eventually fatal in all 9 affected snakes. Typical histopathological findings of the stomach included mucosal thickening with cystic dilatation of gastric glands, moderate oedema and fibrosis of the lamina propria, and a mild to moderate patchy infiltration of inflammatory cells. Procedures implemented to contain the outbreak included the use of a formaldehyde-based disinfectant, prompt removal of faecal matter, uneaten and regurgitated food from enclosures, and examination of faecal specimens for Cryptosporidium oocytes and other pathogens.