Clinical and radiographic evaluation of manus and pes lesions, including the carpus and tarsus, and associated risk factors in dromedary camels (Camelus dromedarius)

Abstract

Aim: Injuries of the Manus and Pes, including the carpus and tarsus are a primary cause of lameness and subsequent economic loss in the camel industry. This retrospective study aimed to determine the prevalence of manus and pes lesions, including the carpus, and tarsus and evaluate the diagnostic utility of radiography in confirming clinical diagnoses of these conditions in dromedary camels. Furthermore, it investigated the risk factors associated with these injuries in the Qassim region. Methods: A total of 222 dromedary camels of various ages, sexes, and breeds were presented to the University Veterinary Hospital at Qassim University with manus and pes lesions, including the carpus and tarsus. Results: Clinical and radiographic assessments identified 325 distinct lesions. Hard-tissue lesions (62.5%)-predominantly fractures, joint dislocations, and bony exostoses, were significantly more prevalent than soft-tissue lesions (37.5%), such as fibromas, flexural deformities, wounds, and penetrating solar nails. These conditions were most frequently localized to the fetlock joint and the forelimbs. Key risk factors identified included juvenile age, female sex, body weight between 150 and 500 kg, and the Wadeh breed. Conclusion: Radiography is an essential diagnostic tool for identifying bone involvement, formulating targeted treatment plans, and establishing a reliable prognosis for the affections of the manus and pes, including the carpus and tarsus regions in camels when clinical examination alone is inconclusive. Identifying these risk factors will facilitate the development of preventative strategies to enhance camel welfare and herd productivity.