A case of calculus in a male African spurred tortoise (Centrochelys sulcata)

Abstract

Urinary calculus is common but often unnoticed condition in African spurred tortoises (Centrochelys sulcata) until severe, challenging early detection and etiology. This case uniquely features detailed, prolonged home care by the owner-veterinarian. A 13-year-old male presented with obstipation due to a 10-cm urolith. Home management stabilized him for surgical removal via cystotomy. Postoperatively, the patient developed chronic hyperuricemia and gout, leading to progressive emaciation and death two years later. Autopsy revealed systemic articular and visceral gout, severe chronic cystitis, and renal fibrosis. This case underscores calculi grow massive before detection, often with patient deterioration. This detailed report, including comprehensive autopsy findings, provides novel longitudinal data the crucial role of appropriate supportive care in stabilizing the patient for surgical intervention following the detection of massive urolithiasis, while also linking between successful surgical removal and the subsequent development of systemic gout, emphasizing the critical need for long-term therapeutic monitoring of uric acid metabolism in chelonians post-urolith removal for all stakeholders involved in the care of this species.