North American Veterinary Licensing Examination (NAVLE) Practice Test

The symptoms presented in the young dromedary, including anorexia, swollen groin, and drooling, suggest a possible complication following castration, which could lead to tetanus caused by Clostridium tetani. This organism is an anaerobic bacterium known to produce a potent neurotoxin that affects the nervous system, leading to characteristic signs such as muscle stiffness, spasms, and excessive salivation, all of which can be seen in tetanus.

In this case, the swollen groin may be indicative of an infection or inflammation following the surgical procedure, potentially allowing the bacteria an entry point. The drooling can signify dysphagia or difficulty swallowing, which is common in cases of tetanus due to muscle rigidity and spasms.

Choosing this agent aligns with the timing and recent surgical history of the animal, as tetanus symptoms typically occur a few days to weeks after injury or infection. Understanding the zoonotic potential and the necessity of vaccination against this preventable disease is crucial in managing and preventing such cases in livestock and domesticated animals.