Fatal septicemia caused by Helicobacter infection in a pancake tortoise (Malacochersus tornieri)

Bacteria of the genus Helicobacter are associated with disease in humans and animals. Reports of infection in reptiles are very limited. In the present study, pathological findings and molecular characterization are reported for a Helicobacter species associated with septicemia in a pancake tortoise (Malacochersus tornieri). Disseminated infection resulted in regional cellulitis and edema of the head and neck, and pericarditis. Spiral bacteria were identified in cytological preparations and Warthin Starry-stained sections of pathological lesions. Amplification of partial sequence of the 16S ribosomal gene using polymerase chain reaction identified the organism as Helicobacter and suggest that it is a novel species.