Abstract

This study was conducted in various abattoirs across Egypt to investigate the primary lesions of the esophagus and surrounding lymph nodes in slaughtered dromedary camels. Fourteen samples each of esophageal and lymph node tissues were collected from camels between December 2023 and May 2024. Macroscopic examination of these samples revealed hemorrhage and thickening of the esophagus, as well as red and black spots on the lymph nodes. The samples were preserved in 10% neutral buffered formalin and processed using standard histological techniques. Histological analysis revealed several lesions, including coagulative necrosis of myocytes, Zenker necrosis of muscle, and sloughing of the esophageal epithelial lining, indicating disrupted cellular metabolism. Hyperkeratosis and epithelial hyperplasia were also observed. Furthermore, parasitic infestations, specifically sarcocystosis and worm infestation, were found within the muscularis layer of the esophagus. Hemorrhage, edema, and necrosis were present in the lymph nodes, and anthracosis of the lymph nodes was also noted.

Key words: Esophagus, Lymph node, Camel, Histopathology