ABSTRACT

Two loggerhead sea turtles, Caretta caretta, presented for carapace lesions characterized primarily by multiple small erosions. One individual had two deep lesions on the caudal carapace with complete loss of the keratin layer and exposure of underlying epidermis. Pump malfunction resulting in the development of an oily film on the surface of the turtles' tank was believed to have precipitated the lesions. Both turtles were treated with freshwater baths, topical povidone-iodine scrub, and systemic antibiotics with superficial lesions on both turtles healing.

Deep lesions present on one animal persisted, however. Biopsy revealed an acute exudative epidermitis with fungal hyphae present throughout the exudative material. Topical disinfection and freshwater baths were employed as before. In addition, water-resistant dressings were placed over the lesions. Of the dressings tried, one involving the use of topical anti-infective drugs covered by a semiocclusive membrane and overlaid with PC-7 epoxy paste proved most efficacious. This type of dressing provided effective protection while wound healing occurred in a sea turtle and would be applicable with similar lesions in freshwater aquatic and terrestrial chelonians.