Osteomyelitis in a ۳-Year-Old Female Persian Squirrel (Sciurus anomalus): A Case Report

Background: The uncommon but clinically important bone infection osteomyelitis occurs in exotic small mammals. Limited literature exists on Persian squirrels (Sciurus anomalus), making the documentation of clinical features, diagnostic findings, and treatment outcomes all the more important. This case report describes chronic bacterial osteomyelitis with an emphasis on radiographic diagnosis and therapeutic response. Methods: A ۳-year-old female Persian squirrel was presented exhibiting firm swellings over both tarsal joints, with a mild degree of lameness and pain upon manipulation. Hematology showed mild leukocytosis and mild neutrophilia. Radiography revealed marked periosteal reaction, irregularity of the cortex, and focal osteolysis indicative of chronic osteomyelitis. Treatment included trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (۳۰ mg/kg PO q۱۲h for ۲۱ days) and meloxicam (۰.۲ mg/kg PO once daily for ۵ days, then ۰.۱ mg/kg for ۵ days). Supportive nutritional management was also provided. Clinical and radiographic follow-up was performed. Results: By the end of the second week of therapy, the squirrel showed evidence of remarkable improvement, including a reduction of the swelling, normalization of gait, and heightened activity. Thereafter, follow-up radiographs revealed less periosteal proliferation and early bone remodeling-indications of a good therapeutic response. Conclusion: This case illustrates the necessity for early radiographic evaluation followed by a prompt initiation of antimicrobial therapy in osteomyelitis in Persian squirrels. The protocol chosen achieved clinical and radiographic improvement despite the limitations of not performing bacterial culture and antibiotic susceptibility testing.

کلیدواژه ها:

Osteomyelitis ، Radiography ، Persian squirrel ، Rodent medicine ، Case report