A 30-year-old red-eared slider has swollen neck, armpits and legs. Oedematous swellings
Channel: Dr David Sing
Date: 2017-11-04

An uncommon case of edema in a red-eared slider


For many months, the swellings around the leg, armpits, paws and legs have increased considerably. This is known as edema. 

1.  Edema is excessive fluid trapped in the body tissues. Causes likely to be kidney damage or  disease, liver damage or disease (cirrhosis) and congestive heart failure (blood flow affected), bacterial infections (exotoxins from Corynbacterium sp.), poor diet (low protein, high salt), drug reactions or higher dosages given and septicaemia. 

2.  Lymphoedema is excessive lymph retained in the body tissues. Causes are likely to be lymph node damage or infections  

A needle is used to release the clear tissue fluid so that the slider can feel less painful. The likely cause in this case would be the result of ageing. There would be impairment of the heart, liver or kidney.  Furoseimide and antibitoics are given to effect. Observation. Monitoring. Attention to good quality diet.  X-rays and blood test advised. The owner did not return for follow up.

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