Still no definite diagnosis, though he mentioned possible Crypto and my heart just sank. We're waiting for the rest of the labs and if I can get a fecal sample I'll take it in for additional tests. I did some more reading on Crypto and it really doesn't sound good. The vet said he felt that if the female was also infected that she wouldn't transmit Crypto on to the eggs. I haven't found anything to confirm this though. Worst case scenario- if the tests are positive for both snakes, due to the fact that they can carry the disease and zoonotic potential, should I consider possible treatments or euthanasia? I hate to even ask but I feel it may be the most responsible option.

Also- any ideas on how the snake might have become infected? I purchased the pair a year ago and prior to this instance they've seemed to be in great health. The female laid twice last spring and summer.
Lora


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Crypto is a funny thing. It can be present in an animal for years and cause no problems, then just bloom to a point of clinical signs. It is thought that when that happens, the trigger is usually stress. Some animals (a very few) even recover from clinical signs and appear to live a relatively normal life after, but they are probably carriers for the rest of their lives and would pose a threat to ather animals in the collection. It usually spreads through a collection like wildfire once one of the animals is symptomatic, but sometimes leaves some of the animals unaffected.

The common course of treatment once Crypto has invaded a collection is euthanasia and incineration of all animals that could be affected, as well as destruction and disposal of all cages and cage furnishings, then a thorough disinfecting of the premises (floors, walls, ceilings) with Quaternary Ammonia. Then it is recommended not to house any more animals in that premises for at least 6 months.

I would not take steps that drastic until I had positive confirmation that Crypto is the culprit.

This is one good example of the value of quarantine in a separate room for at least 6 months, and a year is really better although not necessarily practical.

There is an experimental treatment that is being tried now that shows some small amount of promise. It involves supportive therapy accompanied with treatment with Hyperimmune Bovine Colostrum. None of the standard treatments for coccidians seems to have any effect on Crypto whatsoever.

Good luck and let me know what the final results of the test are.

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