MANAGEMENT OF SUSPECTED DILATED CARDIOMYOPATHY WITH PIMOBENDAN IN TWO LEOPARD SHARKS (TRIAKIS SEMIFASCIATA).

Abstract

Two adult male leopard sharks (Triakis semifasciata) under managed care were diagnosed with suspected dilated cardiomyopathy. Clinical signs included lethargy, inappetence, and regurgitation. On cardiac ultrasound, fractional shortening was 14% and 10%, respectively (versus 21%-31% in four healthy conspecifics). Ventricular end-diastolic diameter to body weight ratio was 1.72 cm/kg in Case 1 (versus 0.52-1.24 cm/kg in four conspecifics). These results collectively suggested a dilated cardiomyopathy. Treatment was implemented with oral pimobendan at 0.3 mg/kg q48h for 1 mon. The pimobendan dose was increased to 0.5 mg/kg 3/wk, following plasmatic dosage of pimobendan and its metabolite. After 3 mon, fractional shortening increased to 38% and 20%, respectively, sharks regained a normal appetite, and body weight increased by 50% in one individual. After 2 yr, both individuals remained clinically normal, and no adverse effect was noted with pimobendan administration. Pimobendan plasma concentration suggested that this medication was well absorbed in this species.

• Authors: Annabelle Vigneault, Natalie D Mylniczenko, Robert D Arnold, Shanese L Jasper-Trotter, Noémie Summa, Catherine Rousseau, Claire Vergneau-Grosset
• Journal: Journal of zoo and wildlife medicine : official publication of the American Association of Zoo Veterinarians (J Zoo Wildl Med) Vol. 54 Issue 2 Pg. 401-405 (Jul 2023) ISSN: 1042-7260 [Print] United States
• PMID: 37428706 (Publication Type: Journal Article)

Chemical References

• pimobendan
• Pyridazines
• Cardiotonic Agents

Topics

• Male
• Animals
• Cardiomyopathy, Dilated (drug therapy, veterinary)
• Pyridazines (therapeutic use)
• Sharks
• Body Weight
• Cardiotonic Agents (therapeutic use)