Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Llama with multiple birth defects causing hind limb lameness
By Johnson, L W & Gentz, E J·Published in Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association·1990·Veterinary Teaching Hospital, United States·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Multiple nonlethal congenital anomalies in a llama.
Plain-English summary
A young llama was brought in for limping on both back legs and was found to have several unusual bone and heart problems. The vet discovered that the llama had twisted bones in the legs and a heart defect. These issues are likely inherited, meaning they can be passed on to offspring. Because of this, it's recommended that llamas with these congenital anomalies should not be bred.
People also search for: llama limping · congenital defects in llamas · llama heart problems · breeding llamas with health issues
Abstract
Whereas numerous congenital anomalies in South American camelids have been reported, multiple anomalies are uncommon. A young llama evaluated for bilateral hind limb lameness was found to have cranially rotated tibial tarsal bones as well as bilateral carpus and tarsus valgus and a ventricular septal defect. These anomalies were likely hereditary, and llamas so affected should not be bred.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2303388/