Background:
Ectopia cordis (EC) is a rare congenital condition in which the heart is partially or completely displaced outside of the thoracic cavity. This abnormality is most commonly recognized in humans but has also been observed in various domestic animals, including dogs, cats, cattle, pigs, and goats. However, it has not been documented in camelids.
Case Description:
This case report describes a neonatal camel calf born in rural Wad Ashana, North Kordofan, Sudan, who presented with ectopia cordis. The heart was located in its pericardium outside the thoracic cavity, at the most ventral aspect of the cervical region. Remarkably, the heart exhibited a normal morphology and a normal heartbeat. Despite the absence of any additional malformations, the calf died two days after delivery.
Conclusion:
This case is the first documented instance of ectopia cordis in camels from Sudan and offers important information for veterinary literature on congenital anomalies
Key words: Ectopia cordis; Dromedary camels; Sudan.
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