Urgent Care :: shell whitening, what is it?

[alihikaua]

Can't really call this an "urgent" care issue, as it's been going on for almost a year. I've tried treating it with tea tree oil and antibiotics, and I'm pretty sure it's not rot - but not sure. Is it growth? I thought at one point he was getting too much UVB, but after adjusting the amount of time and distance from the bulb, he still has the issue. When I scratch his shell with my fingernails (which he loves) I get little tiny pieces coming off under my nails. Are the white parts disease, molting or something else?

[steve]

Dreaded shell fungus.

viewtopic.php?f=5&t=10839

[alihikaua]

Thanks very much. I'll look into the silver sulphadiazine right away.

[AngelaAndMikey]

My turtle has the same problem. How do you use silver sulphadiazine. After use should I dry dock her and for how long?

[steve]

I suggest to do this overnight so your turtle can rest during this time. Dry dock for about minutes to make sure the shell is dry, then apply a very very thin layer to the affected areas. In the morning, wipe any residue left and put him back into the tank. The cream is a little greasy, so your turtle might be a little slippery. The cream should work quickly, if it does not then look into alternatives.

[AngelaAndMikey]

Thank you very much. I will start her treatment today.