Morphological and bacteriological investigations of sinus interdigitalis in European roebuck (Capreolus capreolus L.)

Abstract

The purpose of our study was to describe the morphology and bacteriology of the sinus interdigitalis of the European roebuck (Capreolus capreolus L.). This organ is a deep skin invagination positioned between the digits in many Artiodactyla species. It is located between the proximal phalanges of the hind feet, while absent on the fore feet, having structure which is roughly similar to the sinuses of other Artiodactyla species. The anatomical position of the sinus allows easy discharge of its content during the walk. Material for this research was obtained from the complete carcasses of six European roebucks, four males and two females requiring the necropsy to be performed. The sinuses of all six carcasses were carefully dissected in the sagittal direction, macroscopically examined and described. Later, histological examination was performed showing that the interdigital sinus had three layers: epidermis, dermis (corium) and the fibrous capsule. During the necropsy, the swabs were taken for bacteriological examination from the lumen of the sinuses of three carcasses, two males and one female. All samples tested positive on Escherichia coli (beta-hemolytic and non-hemolytic) and Proteus sp., but there was no symptomatic inflammation of the tissue. Such findings indicate that these bacteria can be present in the interdigital sinus as normal microbiota or as contaminants from the environment. Keywords: roebuck, interdigital gland, morphology, Escherichia coli, Proteus sp.