Ultrasound‐guided pericardiocentesis and histopathological findings of hepatic mycobacteriosis caused by Mycobacterium intracellulare in a river cooter ( Pseudemys concinna )

Abstract A 15‐year‐old, 1.11‐kg, entire, male river cooter ( Pseudemys concinna ) presented with impaired buoyancy and generalised oedema. Haematological and biochemical analyses revealed nonspecific abnormalities, including hypoalbuminaemia and toxic changes in heterophils. Echocardiography revealed pericardial effusion, and ultrasound‐guided pericardiocentesis was subsequently performed. Treatment was initiated with pimobendan, furosemide, vitamin E and ceftazidime. Despite supportive care and a blood transfusion, the patient showed no clinical improvement and was euthanased 2 weeks after treatment initiation. A postmortem examination was subsequently performed. Multiple hepatic lesions were identified at postmortem examination, and PCR followed by sequencing identified Mycobacterium intracellulare . This case highlights the diagnostic value of echocardiography, ultrasound‐guided pericardiocentesis, and histopathological and molecular investigations in turtles presenting with generalised oedema.