Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I don't know if I shold be concerned or not but one scale on the side of my Emerald Tree Boa is swollen. Does anyone know what I can do for the snake or if it will go away on its own or if I should take her to the vet. I know its just one scale but I'd rather be safe than sorry.
Thanks
Jason

I have had emeralds in the past with a swollen scale like that and it has never affected them in any way. Did it develop or did you purchase the animal like that? I have always bought mine with the scale like that so I don't know how it develops. I wouldn't sweat it...
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Matt Lerer
Ghi Reptiles

I´ve also seen it a few times, with no further consequence.

It is probably a fungal infection from too much humidity or water sitting for too long (trapped on a coil). I have had very good success just using Tinactin spray which is over the counter.
spray it in a small container and with a q-tip coat the scale 3 times a day and it should dry up/turn brown and slough off with the next shed. Prescription Naftin gel also works well.

Run your finger over it and see if it pops. Looks real similiar to a sub-cutaneous parasite.
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South Central Herpetological