Pituitary abscess syndrome in a greater kudu ( Tragelaphus strepsiceros )

Abstract

An adult male greater kudu ( Tragelaphus strepsiceros ) presented for a fractured distal left horn. Twelve weeks later, lethargy, pruritus and left periocular swelling were noted. Avulsion of the left horn occurred 1 month later, revealing a necrotic horn base. Multiple anaesthesia events were performed for wound debridement over 4 months, and the animal was treated with antimicrobials and analgesics. Six months after the horn avulsion, the animal became acutely neurological and was mildly steroid responsive. Computed tomography revealed a large pituitary gland mass and associated osteomyelitis. Due to a guarded prognosis, the animal was euthanased. Postmortem examination findings included an encapsulated nodule within the region of the pituitary gland. Histological findings included suppurative hypophysitis and scar tissue at the horn base. Based on diagnostic imaging, postmortem examination and histological findings, pituitary abscess syndrome was prioritised. This is the first documented case of pituitary abscess syndrome in a zoological species.