GASTROESOPHAGEAL INTUSSUSCEPTION WITH MEGAESOPHAGUS IN A HEDGEHOG (ATELERIX ALBIVENTRIS)

Abstract A 220-g, 3-month-old intact male hedgehog ( Atelerix albiventris ) was evaluated for a 3-day history of increased respiratory effort, vocalization, and salivation. Survey and positive-contrast radiographs suggested gastroesophageal intussusception and hiatal hernia as possible differential diagnoses. On endoscopic evaluation, a dilated distal esophagus and everted stomach with fluid regurgitation were observed. The intraesophageal portion of the stomach was returned to the normal anatomic position by the introduced endoscopic tip. The hedgehog died after an episode of severe vomiting 2 days after initial presentation. On necropsy, gross findings included megaesophagus and everted gastric cardia into the distal esophagus; the lower esophageal sphincter was located in the normal anatomic position. Histopathologic examination of the esophagus revealed diffuse ulcers with submucosal hemorrhage and severe inflammation, suggestive of reflux esophagitis. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first case of gastroesophageal intussusception with megaesophagus reported in a hedgehog.