First Successful Diagnosis & Treatment of Hyperthyroidism in a Leopard Gecko

Reptile medicine is advancing admirably, but even experienced veterinarians are sometimes baffled by conditions that show generalized symptoms – lack of appetite, loose stool, lethargy, etc. Recently, an interesting case involving a Leopard Gecko (Eublepharis macularius) has opened up a promising new window into reptile health care.

Aging – or not?

The animal in question, a 13 year old Leopard Gecko, began losing weight, shedding frequently and passing loose stool. In older animals, there is sometimes a tendency to write such things off as more or less “normal”, but many herps are surprising us with their longevities (a Red Salamander in my collection is near 30, a Ball Python at a zoo topped 50 years of age, and so on…) and so age may not always be a factor. After many tests, the ailing gecko was referred to Dr. Thomas Boyer in San Diego, CA.

A Bold Diagnosis and Treatment

Suspecting Hyperthyroidism (excessive Thyroid Gland activity) Dr. Boyer had a CT Scan performed at the Veterinary Imaging Center of San Diego, which had on hand 1 of only 5 CT Scanners in the USA that are small enough to handle Leopard Geckos. Hyperthyroidism had never previously been detected in a Leopard Gecko, but the CT Scan confirmed the veterinarian’s suspicions.

The standard therapy – treatment with Radioactive Iodine – was also untried, but Dr. Boyer was able to extrapolate from studies done on mammals (not an easy task, I’m sure!). Now (March, 2010), 3 months after treatment, the lizard’s thyroid values are normal, and the animal is in fine shape.

A Lesson for Herp Owners

It is this type of dedication and ability that keeps our hobby, and the conservation of reptiles and amphibians, moving ever forward. Search for a dedicated veterinarian (please see my articles below) and don’t be so quick to assume that your pet is just “getting old” – captive Leopard Geckos have lived in excess of 30 years!