Parakeratosis: Hypozincemia and its therapeutic management in captive Asian Elephants (Elephas maximus)

Abstract

Three captive Asian elephants presented with chronic skin lesions characterized by thickened, crusty and scaly growth on the
ears and limbs. Clinical examination, blood sampling, mineral profiling and skin biopsy were carried out to investigate the underlying cause. Histologically skin biopsy revealed hyperkeratosis and marked parakeratosis. Serum analysis showed reduced zinc
levels. Based on the clinical signs, histopathology and biochemical findings, zinc deficiency was identified as a contributing factor.