Work

Antler abnormalities with testicular atrophy in a wild roe deer (Capreolus pygargus): a case report

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Deer antlers are regenerate annually under hormonal control, particularly testosterone. Here, we report a case of antler deformity associated with testicular atrophy in a wild roe deer (Capreolus pygargus) in South Korea. Both antlers were abnormally enlarged and entangled in agricultural netting. Gross and histopathological examination revealed severe testicular atrophy, interstitial fibrosis, and hindlimb muscle necrosis. Serum testosterone was extremely low (0.032 ng/mL). These findings explain the abnormal antler growth and suggest susceptibility to capture myopathy due to hormonal imbalance. This is the first documented case in South Korea linking antler abnormalities to testicular atrophy in wild roe deer, highlighting the impact of endocrine disruption on cervid health.

Source: Korean Journal of Veterinary Research

DOI: 10.14405/kjvr.20250026

Authors: Dayoung Choi, Da-Ye Nam, Jae-Hoon Kim, Jinho Jang, Youngmin Yun, Ji-Youl Jung

Institution: Jeju National University

Language: English

Topic: Sperm and Testicular Function

Subfield: Reproductive Medicine

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

Open Access status: diamond

Funders: Ministry of Environment, Ministry of Education, India

Award: G7884708526