While we are awaiting a full pathological test result to come back from the lab to confirm or provide additional info as to the cause of death of our young female couperi, I did want to share the results of the necropsy done by Dr. Gery Herrmann from the Mundelein Animal Hospital (IL). This snake suffered from severe visceral gout. Numerous internal lesions were found around the liver and kidneys due to a major malfunctioning of the metabolism of uric acid. Based on evidence from the necropsy, this snake was ill long before I received her which is a real shame but at the same time a bit of a relief (I was a bit worried it could have been viral). Despite being kept in optimal conditions and a quality, varied diet, this snake never did seem quite right from the get go (as evidenced by the impartially digested food material in the feces). It was very difficult to put weight on her despite a decent appetite. She was treated for internal parasites but obviously, this wasn't the problem. Although this condition is much more prevalent in reptiles such as iguanas (that are put on a high protein diet), it is unknown why it occurs in some snakes. As some of the other posts suggested, it was just not meant to be for this particular animal. Although I am upset as to the amount of money I paid for this animal, that is part of the chances you take when acquiring an adult from an unknown source (even though the bloodlines came from a very well known breeder)....I am much more bummed about the fact that an eastern indigo died under my care and responsibility; tough to stomach. When I get the lab results back, I'll make another post and hopefully, this info will be useful.
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update on necropsy of female couperi that died...
Replies (2)
Were uric acid crystal deposits actually present, or was a supposition made that hyperuricemia was suspect because of the type of lesions seen in the intestines?
Sometimes this type of renal dysfunction is initially caused by damage from the administration of some nephrotoxic drug. Aminoglycoside antibiotics (Gentomycin class drugs) can cause this sort of thing if improperly dosed, as well as things like Metronidazole (which Indigos are known to be sensitive to). It also can be caused by prolonged periods of dehydration.
So sorry
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Carl W Gossett
Garage Door Herps
Monument,Colorado...northern territory of the Great Republic of Texas 
