A case report of biochemistry and serum amyloid A in a moribund free-ranging Baltic herring gull (Larus argentatus) with necrotic wing fracture

Abstract

An adult herring gull (Larus argentatus) found lethargic and moribund showed an open fracture of the right radius and ulna with necrosis of the surrounding tissue. Hematologic testing and plasma biochemical analysis revealed elevated creatinine kinase consistent with traumatic muscle damage in addition to hyperuricemia, hyperkalaemia, and hyperphosphatemia consistent with renal insufficiency. Increase in the acute phase protein Serum Amyloid A indicate a high degree of inflammation supported by leucocytosis, heterophilia, and hypoglycaemia pointing towards septicaemia. This case provides knowledge about Serum Amyloid A in gulls, and how bone fracture and secondary infection may affect gull blood haematology and biochemistry.