Also known as: 膿瘍
膿瘍是包裹性感染病灶,通常續發於咬傷、抓傷或其他皮膚損傷後遭到伺機性細菌入侵,在爬蟲類中相當常見。由於爬蟲類的膿液呈堅實的乳酪狀而非液態,膿瘍表現為不易輕易排膿的堅實腫塊。可能發生於皮膚、口腔、耳部、頜部或內臟器官,若不治療可能引起局部破壞或全身性疾病。通常需要以手術摘除固體狀的膿瘍核心。
An abscess is a localized, walled-off collection of infection. Abscesses are among the most common surface lesions in reptiles and form a firm mass rather than a soft, drainable swelling, because reptile pus is thick and solid (caseous) rather than liquid as in mammals.
Most abscesses follow trauma such as cage-mate bites, fight wounds, rodent prey bites, or punctures that introduce opportunistic bacteria under the skin. Poor hygiene, husbandry stress, and immune suppression from suboptimal temperatures increase the risk.
Owners notice firm lumps or swellings under the skin, around the jaw, ears, or limbs. Abscesses near the mouth, ears, or joints can impair eating, hearing, or movement, and the animal may have a reduced appetite or appear generally unwell if the infection spreads.
A veterinarian examines the swelling and may aspirate or image it, then submits material for culture and sensitivity testing to identify the bacteria involved and select an effective antibiotic.
Because the pus is solid, treatment usually requires surgically opening the abscess and removing its entire caseous core, followed by flushing, packing, antibiotics chosen by culture, and pain relief. Simply lancing and draining is rarely sufficient.
Prevent abscesses by reducing trauma and aggression, housing incompatible animals separately, supervising or pre-killing rodent prey, maintaining clean enclosures and correct temperatures, and treating any wound promptly before bacteria become established.
This content is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you are worried about your pet, contact your veterinarian.
