Fat bodies in tegu lizards (Salvator merianae): a report of anatomical findings during necropsy

Abstract

The objective of this study was to report the macroscopic finding of fat bodies in a specimen of Salvator merianae during necropsy examination, emphasizing their anatomical and physiological relevance to wildlife veterinary medicine. An adult male lizard weighing 3.2 kg was rescued from a public road presenting locomotor impairment. Radiographic examination revealed a dorsosacral vertebral fracture, and humane euthanasia was performed due to poor prognosis. Necropsy was conducted following a systematic technique, revealing hemoperitoneum and the presence of anthropogenic food remains in the gastrointestinal tract, as well as intestinal nematode parasitism. During removal of the visceral block, two paired, lobulated, yellowish, and vascularized structures were observed in the caudal portion of the coelomic cavity, adjacent to the kidneys and gonads, measuring approximately 10 cm each. A fragment submitted to water immersion showed immediate flotation, consistent with high lipid content. Based on morphological and topographical characteristics, the structures were identified as fat bodies, which represent the primary energy reserves in reptiles. This finding highlights the importance of recognizing these anatomical structures during necropsy procedures, contributing to accurate anatomical interpretation and improved understanding of adaptive metabolic strategies in ectothermic species. It is concluded that detailed macroscopic description of fat bodies represents a valuable tool in anatomical pathology and advances knowledge in wildlife veterinary medicine.