Anatomical Description of Rhinoceros Iguana (Cyclura cornuta cornuta) Head by Computed Tomography, Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Gross-Sections

SIMPLE SUMMARY: The rhinoceros iguana (Cyclura cornuta cornuta), like many other iguana species, has become severely endangered as a result of human activities, earning the highest level of protection under the CITES convention for protected species. Moreover, it has been classified as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The rhinoceros iguana belongs to the family Iguanidae and is native to the island of Hispaniola. Since its population has declined, the Canary Island Government has promoted an initiative for its recovery in a completely natural environment. The limited literature regarding the anatomy of this species motivated us to investigate its cranial structures by using modern imaging techniques such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) combined with anatomical dissection, to obtain helpful information on the structures that form the rhinoceros iguana’s head. ABSTRACT: In this paper, we attempted to elaborate on an atlas of the head of the rhinoceros iguana, applying modern imaging techniques such as CT and MRI. Furthermore, by combining the images acquired through these techniques with macroscopic anatomical sections, we obtained an adequate description of the relevant structures that form the head of this species. This anatomical information could provide a valuable diagnostic tool for the clinical evaluation of different pathological processes in iguanas such as abscesses and osteodystrophy secondary to nutrient imbalances, skull malformations, fractures, and neoplasia.