James E. Bogan
Journal of Herpetological Medicine and Surgery 27 (1-2), 62-77, (1 March 2017) https://doi.org/10.5818/1529-9651-27.1-2.62
KEYWORDS: snake, cardiology, heart, ophidian, cardiovascular, Squamata
The Class Reptilia is divided into four Orders: Chelonia, Crocodylia, Rhynchocephalia, and Squamata. The most diverse of these orders is the Squamata, which is further subdivided into Sauria (lizards), Amphisbaenia (amphisbaenians), and Ophidia (snakes). Snakes are a unique and very diverse group of reptiles that have become popular in zoological collections and in the pet trade. This popularity necessitates the veterinarian who treats reptiles to be familiar with snakes and their related medical conditions. Knowledge of the unique anatomy and physiology of these species is paramount for successful management of the ophidian patient. As with most reptilian patients, husbandry-related problems and infectious conditions are common. But as these conditions become less prevalent through proper husbandry and biosecurity, metabolic and degenerative disorders are beginning to be described more in snakes, including cardiovascular disorders. As reptilian medicine evolves, the responsible clinician will need to stay abreast of the growing knowledge of these disorders. This article is to serve as a literature review of cardiology as it applies to snakes.