Diagnosing and treating esophageal obstruction in camels (Camelus dromedarius)

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Esophageal obstruction is a common occurrence and a serious condition in camels. This study aimed to assess the effects of mineral deficiency on esophageal obstruction rates in dromedary camels and describe their clinical presentation and treatment outcomes. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty-eight camels were allocated to two groups. Group 1 (control) was composed of 10 sound camels. Group 2 included 18 camels with esophageal obstruction which were based on clinical and imaging evaluations. Hematobiochemical examinations in control and affected camels were compared and statistically analyzed. RESULTS: In camels with esophageal obstruction when compared with controls, hematological analyses showed significant increases (p < 0.05) in neutrophils, lymphocytes, and monocytes, along with significantly decreased total white blood counts. Aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, creatine phosphokinase, glucose, albumin, creatinine, and blood urea nitrogen concentrations were significantly higher in affected camels when compared with controls. Furthermore, gamma-glutamyl transferase, globulin, sodium, chloride, cobalt, iron, manganese, and selenium concentrations were significantly reduced. Affected camels were treated by stomach tube or surgery and were completely recovered, except for one camel with an esophageal fistula. CONCLUSION: A lack of trace elements could have a significant role in esophageal obstruction in dromedaries. Clinical, ultrasonographic, and hematobiochemical evaluations are useful for the accurate diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of esophageal obstruction in camels.