Septic arthritis in neonatal and juvenile New World camelids (5 cases).

Septic arthritis in juvenile camelids has favorable discharge prognosis with combined antimicrobial and surgical treatment.

This case series describes septic arthritis (SA) in five neonatal and juvenile New World camelids (NWCs), including alpacas and llamas. Two neonatal alpaca crias developed SA secondary to failure of passive transfer of immunity and concurrent neonatal sepsis. Three juvenile camelids presented with single joint infections accompanied by lameness. All animals received systemic and intra-articular antimicrobial therapy, with four cases undergoing surgical intervention including joint lavage. Clinical outcomes were favorable, with 80% (4/5) of animals surviving to discharge. Three animals were sound at discharge while one had mild residual lameness. One neonatal cria was euthanized. The study demonstrates that SA in neonatal and juvenile NWCs carries a favorable prognosis for survival to discharge with appropriate multimodal treatment combining antimicrobials and surgical intervention when indicated. However, long-term outcomes remain guarded, suggesting careful monitoring during recovery and rehabilitation phases.

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