Blackwell's Five-Minute Veterinary Consult: Reptile and Amphibian. Javier G. Nevarez

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       In all cases, yolk coelomitis is a result of yolk material free within the coelomic cavity overwhelming the body’s activity to resorb the material. This leads to an intense inflammatory response that is often sterile but can also be associated with secondary bacterial infection.

       It can progress to adhesions throughout the coelomic cavity, septicemia, and death.

       Egg yolk coelomitis occurs in female chelonians of reproductive age or size, usually older than 1 year.

       Most animals have a history of inadequate husbandry, being housed alone without access to a male, and lacking an appropriate area for laying eggs or giving birth.

       The majority of cases occur in captive animals, but the author has diagnosed yolk coelomitis in free‐ranging gopher tortoises (Gopherus polyphemus).

       Chelonians with yolk coelomitis often present with non‐specific clinical signs such as anorexia and lethargy.

       Other abnormalities identified in physical exam may include hind‐limb weakness/ paresis, dehydration, poor body condition score, and pliable bones.

       Some animals may present obtunded due to rapid progression of the disease.

       Any factors that may result in follicular stasis or dystocia are also contributing factors to yolk coelomitis.

       These include inadequate husbandry, nutrition, brumation, and nesting environment.

       A less discussed topic is the effect that lack of exposure to males may have on the reproductive cycle of reptiles.

       Many reptiles display courtship and breeding behaviors that likely influence the proper hormonal stimulation of prospective females.

       Many female chelonians in captivity are kept alone without the benefit of behavioral cues from a male counterpart.

       This possibility of a behavioral effect must be considered, especially when animals are maintained in proper husbandry and are otherwise healthy.

       Follicular stasis

       Dystocia

       Neoplasia

       Ovarian cysts

       GI obstruction

       Septicemia

       Evaluation of free fluid in the coelomic cavity will be a confirmatory test of yolk coelomitis. In acute cases, fluid is yellow to white, with a high amount of proteinaceous material and inflammatory cells.

       In chronic cases the fluid may appear cloudier.

       Blood and bacteria may also be observed with either presentation.