Poster

A 4 year old female Percii cichlid (Cichlosoma percii) was presented to the North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine with a three week history of progressive inappetance and anorexia. Anecdotally, a history of prolonged anorexia in this species is irreversible, although no such reports on this species are in the medical literature. On physical exam, no abnormalities were noted. Clinical pathology results indicated a marked anemia when compared to normal values of closely related South American cichlids. Serial contrast radiography of the intestinal tract was performed showing no apparent blockage of the gastro-intestinal tract. Ultrasonography was inconclusive with no evidence of intussusception, foreign-body obstruction, or peristalsis. The fish was treated supportively with tube feedings and injections of B vitamins and iron dextran for 4 weeks. During the fourth week of treatment the fish showed signs of abdominal swelling and died under anesthesia during the fifth week of treatment. On necropsy the liver was grossly abnormal. Tissues were submitted for histopathology and are currently being evaluated.