Idiopathic hypereosinophilic syndrome in a cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus)

Abstract

A 10‐year‐old male cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) presented with weight loss, inappetence and weakness. Clinical examination revealed muscle loss, splenomegaly and dehydration. Haematology and biochemistry showed hyperglobulinaemia and marked leukocytosis with eosinophilia and neutrophilia. Urinalysis revealed proteinuria. Following an empirical 7‐day course of clavulanate potentiated amoxicillin, normal appetite and demeanour were observed. One month later, it re‐represented with the same clinical signs. Clinical examination was repeated. Radiographs showed ileocaecocolic junction dilation. Ultrasound examination revealed enlarged mesenteric lymph nodes, splenic nodules and colonic thickening. Fine‐needle aspirates of these organs and bone marrow aspirates showed marked atypical eosinophilic infiltration with haematology showing peripheral eosinophilia. Idiopathic hypereosinophilic syndrome was diagnosed. Treatment with prednisolone was initiated with good compliance, but there was a marked clinical deterioration 2 days later, and euthanasia was elected on welfare grounds.