A CASE REPORT OF PHIMOSIS AND HYDRONEPHROSIS IN A LION CUB: CLINICAL EVALUATION

Year 2026, Volume: 1, 25 - 29, 29.12.2025

Ebuderda Günay , Hilal Gencer , Emine İrem Deveci , Özge Erdoğan Bamaç , Serhat Özsoy

Abstract

In this case report, we report an unusual combination of phimosis and hydronephrosis in a six-month-old male lion cub. The cub was presented to Istanbul University – Cerrahpaşa Veterinary Faculty Wild and Exotic Animal Clinic with an abnormal swelling in the abdominal region and had a dietary history of being exclusively fed chicken meat. Initial clinical examination identified phimosis, and comprehensive medical assessments were carried out, including hematological and biochemical blood tests, radiography, and ultrasonography. These investigations led to the diagnosis of hydronephrosis in the right kidney.

The complexity of the case required two separate surgical interventions: a ureteronephrectomy for hydronephrosis, followed by a surgical procedure for phimosis. The ureteronephrectomy involved the removal of the obstructed part of the ureter and the affected kidney. The subsequent phimosis operation involved the removal of the constriction at the preputial orifice to facilitate better urine flow.

After the surgical procedures, the lion cub recovered without complications. The animal exhibited normal mobility and had no difficulties in urination. The study highlights the significance of detailed diagnostic assessments before surgical interventions, especially in wildlife animals like lions. Furthermore, it points to the potential need for veterinary practitioners to be aware of such a unique combination of conditions in wildlife.

Keywords

phimosis , hydronephrosis , ureteronephrectomy , lioncub

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