Septicemic Cutaneous Ulcerative Disease (SCUD)

Question 1

Cause

Answer 1

believed to be by citrobacter freundii but may have help entering the host via Serratia spp.

Question 2

Species susceptible

Answer 2

involve mostly the turtle families of trionychidae and emydidae (soft shell and pond turtles), seen more often in captive turtles, but invertebrate predation and overall poor water quality are inciting causes

Question 3

Is it zoonotic

Answer 3

no

Question 4

Pathogenesis

Answer 4

-diffuse petechiation or ecchymoses
-deep ulcerations on shell
-multifocal hepatic and other visceral organ necrosis
-hemolysis
-limb paralysis
-loss of digits or claws
-cutaneousvasodilation and hemorrhage

Question 5

Diagnosis

Answer 5

blood culture, cytology/histopathology

Question 6

Treatment

Answer 6

-surgical debridement of infected areas
-shell support/reconstruction
-antibiotics

Question 7

Management

Answer 7

No management in wildlife
recommend proper husbandry and humans wash hands