Shell Game

Patty continues to loose aspects of her top shell, called the carapace, secondary to the damage caused by the exposure to freezing temperatures almost a year ago.  The delayed tissue lost is a consequence of micro-vascular damage and a lost of blood flow to the shell (avascular necrosis) which resulted in bone death.  Patty is on antibiotics to help control bacterial infections while a new growth, termed the pseudoshell, develops.  It is not known if this new covering can restore the shell entirely.  Patty is however active with a good appetite and has recovered completely from the injuries to her eyes and back legs, also a result of exposure to freezing temperatures.  We all wish for Patty continued healing and restoration of her shell.