Objective: Anal glands have been identified in a variety of terrestrial and aquatic mammalian species, but there are few accounts describing their presence in cetaceans. To our knowledge, this report describes the first documented case of a pre-anal gland abscess in an Atlantic bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus).
Animal: A 9-year-old male bottlenose dolphin (T truncatus) part of the US Navy Marine Mammal Program in San Diego Bay, California.
Clinical presentation, progression, and procedures: The patient presented for a 3-day history of lethargy, failure to perform voluntary behaviors, and an elevated respiratory rate. Complete blood count and serum biochemistry results showed an inflammatory hemogram. Physical examination revealed a 4-cm circular swelling at the right pre-anal gland pore. The swelling was warm and erythematous, with multifocal pinpoint ulcerations. An abscess of the pre-anal gland was diagnosed using cytology, culture, and ultrasound.
Treatment and outcome: Treatment included systemic oral antibiotic and antifungal therapy, along with daily lavage and warm compress of the gland. Treatment was successful, and the abscess resolved.
Clinical relevance: This case provides insight into a previously unreported disease process in bottlenose dolphins and encourages veterinarians to evaluate the pre-anal gland during routine physical examinations and complete further work-up if swelling or clinical signs associated with this region are present.
Keywords: abscess; anal gland; dolphin; tursiops; ultrasound.