Renal agenesis in an alpaca cria

Abstract

A 4-day-old alpaca cria presented for inappetence that responded to symptomatic treatment. The cria re-presented with acute signs of inappetence and azotaemia. The azotaemia persisted despite intravenous fluid therapy. There was no right kidney on ultrasound and there appeared to be perirenal oedema around the left kidney. A diagnosis of right renal agenesis and acute renal failure of the left kidney was made. The cria failed to improve and was euthanased. Necropsy examination confirmed right renal agenesis and agenesis of the right ureter and right renal artery. A section of left kidney submitted for histological examination revealed diffuse, acute, marked tubular degeneration and nephrosis. The cause of the renal failure in the left kidney was not determined.