Histopathology lesions in red deer (Cervus elaphus) from Idanha-a-Nova and Lousã (Portugal): preliminary results

The red deer (Cervus elaphus) is a wild ungulate and game species with a broad distribution in Portugal. In Idanha-a-Nova (Castelo Branco) there is a particular interest in studying these populations due to the importance of the hunting industry to the regional economy, and the recognised role of ungulates as reservoirs of infectious agents to livestock and humans. This histopathology survey aimed to compare deer lesions from Idanha-a-Nova (n=16) and Lousã (n=4). Samples from the lung, liver and kidney of animals were collected during the hunting season. The results reveal a high prevalence of parasitic bronchitis (13/20; 65%), especially in Idanha-a-Nova (11/16; 68.8%). Moreover, many animals presented non-purulent nephritis (8/20; 40%). No statistically significant differences were found between regions or genders for any lesion. This survey provides an overview of the health status of the red deer populations in these regions. Further studies are crucial to better know the sanitary situation of these populations and under the One Health perspective, to apply protective measures for animal, hunter and consumer health.