Salmonella in Reptiles

The popularity of reptiles as pets and exhibit animals in zoologic gardens continues to increase. As long as these animals remain popular, veterinarians will be asked to field questions regarding the Salmonella in reptiles. This article will present an overview of the taxonomy of Salmonella and the virulence factors associated with these bacterial organisms, Microbiological culture is the standard method for isolation of Salmonella, and the various culture techniques used to isolate Salmonella will be presented. Salmonella is routinely isolated from apparently healthy reptiles, however, Salmonella can also cause significant pathology in reptiles. This article will present an overview of the current literature. The major concern facing most veterinarians working with reptiles is handling reptile-associated salmonellosis (RAS). A historical review of RAS will be discussed, Copyright 9 2001 by W.B. Saunders Company.