# Bearded Dragon Care: Respiratory Infection Open Mouth Breathing Treatment


## Key Takeaways

- Persistent open mouth breathing in bearded dragons is a critical emergency indicating severe respiratory distress, often pneumonia, necessitating immediate veterinary intervention.
- Suboptimal husbandry, particularly inadequate environmental temperatures, is the primary risk factor, suppressing immune function and allowing opportunistic pathogens like adenoviruses and *Mycoplasma* species to cause infection.
- Diagnostic evaluation includes radiography to assess lung opacity, microbiological testing (culture, PCR) for pathogen identification, and blood work to evaluate systemic health and inflammation.
- Treatment is multimodal, combining critical supportive care (optimized thermoregulation, fluid therapy, nutritional support) with targeted pharmacological interventions such as antibiotics, guided by diagnostic findings.
- Non-infectious causes of respiratory distress, including aspiration pneumonia, neoplasia, and environmental irritants, must be ruled out by a veterinarian.
- Prevention hinges on meticulous husbandry, including maintaining correct thermal gradients, appropriate humidity, adequate UVB lighting, and excellent enclosure hygiene to support robust immune function.

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If your bearded dragon is breathing with its mouth open, this is an emergency that requires immediate veterinary attention. Open mouth breathing in bearded dragons is not a normal behavior and typically indicates significant respiratory distress. While a healthy bearded dragon may briefly open its mouth to thermoregulate, persistent open mouth breathing, especially with wheezing, nasal discharge, or lethargy, suggests a respiratory infection that can quickly become life-threatening. This article provides a comprehensive, evidence-based guide to understanding, diagnosing, and treating respiratory infections in bearded dragons, with a focus on the critical symptom of open mouth breathing.

## At a Glance: Respiratory Infection in Bearded Dragons

| Clinical Sign | What It Means | Urgency |
|--|--|--|
| Open mouth breathing | Severe respiratory distress, possible pneumonia | **Emergency** |
| Wheezing or clicking sounds | Airway narrowing or fluid in airways | Immediate veterinary visit |
| Nasal discharge (bubbles or mucus) | Upper respiratory tract infection | Urgent |
| Lethargy and anorexia | Systemic illness | Urgent |
| Gular fluttering (rapid throat movement) | Increased respiratory effort | Urgent |
| Coughing or regurgitation | Possible aspiration or severe infection | Emergency |

## Understanding the Bearded Dragon Respiratory System

Bearded dragons (Pogona vitticeps) have a respiratory system that differs significantly from mammals. They lack a diaphragm and rely on intercostal muscles and movement of the ribs to ventilate their lungs. Their lungs are relatively simple, sac-like structures with limited internal septation compared to mammalian lungs. This anatomical difference means that respiratory infections can progress rapidly, as the lungs have less functional reserve and are more susceptible to fluid accumulation and consolidation.

The trachea of a bearded dragon is relatively long and can be easily compressed. This is particularly relevant during physical restraint or when a dragon is positioned improperly. Their glottis is located at the base of the tongue, and they are anatomically predisposed to aspiration pneumonia if they regurgitate or if they are force-fed incorrectly.

Bearded dragons are ectothermic, meaning their body temperature and immune function are directly influenced by their environmental temperature. A bearded dragon kept at suboptimal temperatures cannot mount an effective immune response, making them highly susceptible to respiratory infections. The relationship between temperature and immune function is critical: at lower temperatures, the activity of white blood cells and other immune components is significantly reduced, allowing pathogens to proliferate unchecked.

## Causes of Respiratory Infections in Bearded Dragons

Respiratory infections in bearded dragons are typically multifactorial. The most common underlying cause is suboptimal husbandry, particularly inadequate temperatures. When a bearded dragon is kept below its preferred optimal temperature zone (approximately 28-32°C or 82-90°F for the warm end), its immune system becomes suppressed [<a href="#ref-1">1</a>]. This immunosuppression allows opportunistic pathogens, which are often normally present in low numbers, to overgrow and cause disease.

### Infectious Agents

Several pathogens have been identified as causes of respiratory disease in bearded dragons. A landmark case report documented pneumonia in a captive central bearded dragon with concurrent detection of Helodermatid adenovirus 2 (HeAdV2) and a novel Mycoplasma species, provisionally named Mycoplasma pogonae [<a href="#ref-2">2</a>]. This case highlights the complexity of respiratory infections in this species, as multiple pathogens can be involved simultaneously.

**Viral pathogens:** Adenoviruses are significant pathogens in bearded dragons. Agamid adenovirus 1 has been associated with systemic disease, and the presence of such viruses can cause temporary immunosuppression, allowing opportunistic pathogens to flourish [<a href="#ref-3">3</a>]. In the pneumonia case described above, HeAdV2 was identified as the primary etiologic agent, with characteristic intranuclear inclusion bodies visible on histopathology [<a href="#ref-2">2</a>]. Viral infections can damage the respiratory epithelium, creating a portal of entry for secondary bacterial infections.

**Bacterial pathogens:** Mycoplasma species are emerging as important respiratory pathogens in reptiles. In the case of M. pogonae, the organism was detected via PCR, although its exact role in disease was complicated by the concurrent adenoviral infection [<a href="#ref-2">2</a>]. Other bacteria, including gram-negative organisms like Pseudomonas, Klebsiella, and Aeromonas, are commonly isolated from respiratory infections in reptiles, though these were not specifically addressed in the approved sources.

**Fungal pathogens:** While not addressed in the approved sources, fungal pneumonia is a consideration in immunocompromised reptiles. This should be discussed with a veterinarian if fungal disease is suspected.

### Non-Infectious Causes

Not all open mouth breathing is caused by infection. Several non-infectious conditions can cause respiratory distress:

**Aspiration pneumonia:** This occurs when foreign material, such as food, substrate, or fluid, is inhaled into the lungs. Bearded dragons can aspirate if they regurgitate, if they are fed incorrectly, or if they are bathed in water that is too deep. Aspiration pneumonia can be a complication of force-feeding, especially in debilitated animals.

**Neoplasia:** Tumors can affect the respiratory system. While periorbital adenocarcinoma has been reported in a bearded dragon, this case involved the eye and surrounding tissues rather than the respiratory tract directly [<a href="#ref-4">4</a>]. However, any mass within the coelomic cavity can compress the lungs or trachea, leading to respiratory distress.

**Cardiac disease:** Heart disease can lead to fluid accumulation in the lungs, causing respiratory signs. This is less common than infectious causes but should be considered in older dragons.

**Environmental irritants:** Exposure to smoke, aerosols, or other airborne irritants can cause respiratory irritation. Poor ventilation in an enclosure can lead to the accumulation of ammonia from waste products, which is highly irritating to the respiratory tract.

## Risk Factors for Respiratory Infections

Several factors increase a bearded dragon's risk of developing a respiratory infection:

**Inadequate husbandry:** This is the most significant risk factor. Suboptimal temperatures, poor humidity, inadequate UVB lighting, and poor ventilation all contribute to immunosuppression and increased susceptibility to disease [<a href="#ref-1">1</a>]. Bearded dragons require a thermal gradient in their enclosure, with a basking spot of approximately 38-42°C (100-108°F) and a cool end of approximately 24-29°C (75-85°F). When these temperatures are not provided, the dragon cannot properly digest food or mount an immune response.

**Stress:** Stress suppresses the immune system. Overcrowding, frequent handling, loud noises, and the presence of predators (including cats and dogs) can all cause chronic stress in bearded dragons. Stress is particularly problematic in juvenile dragons and can predispose them to opportunistic infections [<a href="#ref-3">3</a>].

**Poor nutrition:** A diet lacking in essential vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin A and calcium, can compromise immune function. Vitamin A is essential for maintaining the integrity of mucous membranes, which are the first line of defense against respiratory pathogens.

**Concurrent disease:** Any underlying disease process can predispose a bearded dragon to respiratory infection. Viral infections, such as adenovirus, can cause immunosuppression, allowing secondary bacterial or parasitic infections to take hold [<a href="#ref-3">3</a>]. Parasitic infections, such as coccidiosis, can also debilitate a dragon and make it more susceptible to respiratory disease.

**Age:** Juvenile bearded dragons are more susceptible to infections due to their developing immune systems. The case report of triple infection with agamid adenovirus 1, Encephalitozoon cuniculi-like microsporidium, and enteric coccidia involved a 2-month-old juvenile, highlighting the vulnerability of young dragons [<a href="#ref-3">3</a>].

## Clinical Signs and Symptoms

Respiratory infections in bearded dragons present with a range of clinical signs. The hallmark sign that owners often notice is open mouth breathing. This is an abnormal behavior that indicates the dragon is struggling to breathe. Other signs include:

**Open mouth breathing:** This is a sign of significant respiratory distress. The dragon will sit with its mouth open, sometimes with its head elevated, in an attempt to increase airflow. This is different from the brief mouth opening seen during thermoregulation, which is typically accompanied by the dragon being in its basking spot and is not persistent.

**Wheezing or clicking sounds:** These sounds indicate airway narrowing or the presence of fluid or mucus in the airways. Wheezing is often more audible when the dragon is breathing out (expiration).

**Nasal discharge:** Bubbles or mucus may be visible at the nostrils. This indicates an upper respiratory tract infection or the presence of fluid in the nasal passages. The discharge may be clear, cloudy, or tinged with blood.

**Lethargy:** A sick bearded dragon will be less active than normal. It may spend more time sleeping and less time basking, exploring, or hunting.

**Anorexia:** Loss of appetite is a common sign of illness in bearded dragons. A dragon with a respiratory infection may refuse food entirely.

**Gular fluttering:** This is a rapid fluttering of the throat (gular) region. While this is a normal thermoregulatory behavior in some lizards, in a sick dragon it can indicate increased respiratory effort.

**Coughing or regurgitation:** These signs can occur if the infection is severe or if there is aspiration. Coughing is an attempt to clear the airways of mucus or foreign material.

**Weight loss:** Chronic respiratory infections can lead to weight loss due to decreased appetite and increased metabolic demand.

**Postural changes:** A dragon in respiratory distress may adopt an abnormal posture, holding its head elevated and its body extended in an attempt to maximize airflow.

## Veterinary Examination and Diagnostics

When a bearded dragon presents with open mouth breathing or other signs of respiratory infection, a thorough veterinary examination is essential. The examination should begin with a visual assessment from a distance, observing the dragon's posture, breathing rate and effort, and mentation.

### Physical Examination

The veterinarian will perform a complete physical examination, which includes:

**Observation:** Assessing the dragon's respiratory rate and effort. Normal respiratory rate for a bearded dragon is approximately 15-30 breaths per minute, though this can vary with temperature.

**Auscultation:** Using a stethoscope to listen to the lungs and heart. In reptiles, the lungs are located in the cranial portion of the coelomic cavity. Abnormal lung sounds, such as crackles or wheezes, may be heard.

**Oral examination:** Opening the mouth to examine the glottis and oral cavity. The veterinarian will look for discharge, inflammation, or masses.

**Palpation:** Gently palpating the coelomic cavity to assess for masses, fluid, or organomegaly.

**Body condition assessment:** Evaluating the dragon's overall body condition, including muscle mass and fat stores.

### Diagnostic Testing

Based on the physical examination findings, the veterinarian may recommend several diagnostic tests:

**Radiography (X-rays):** Radiographs are essential for evaluating the lungs and heart. In a bearded dragon with pneumonia, radiographs may show increased opacity (cloudiness) in the lung fields, indicating fluid or consolidation. Radiographs can also reveal masses, foreign bodies, or cardiac enlargement.

**Blood work:** A complete blood count (CBC) and plasma biochemistry panel can provide valuable information about the dragon's overall health. The CBC can reveal an elevated white blood cell count, indicating infection or inflammation. The biochemistry panel can assess organ function and identify metabolic abnormalities. It is important to note that reference intervals for bearded dragons are still being refined, and postprandial status can significantly affect some analytes [<a href="#ref-5">5</a>]. For instance, glucose, uric acid, and bile acid concentrations all increase after feeding, so blood samples should be interpreted with this in mind [<a href="#ref-5">5</a>].

**Microbiological testing:** Samples of nasal discharge, tracheal washes, or lung aspirates can be collected for bacterial culture and sensitivity testing. This helps identify the specific pathogen involved and determine the most effective antibiotic treatment. PCR testing can be used to detect specific pathogens, such as Mycoplasma species or adenoviruses [<a href="#ref-2">2</a>].

**Advanced imaging:** In some cases, advanced imaging may be recommended. MRI has been used successfully in bearded dragons to evaluate the brain and other structures [<a href="#ref-6">6</a>]. While this is more commonly used for neurologic cases, it could be considered if a mass or other structural abnormality is suspected.

**Endoscopy:** Endoscopic examination of the trachea and lungs can be performed under sedation or anesthesia. This allows direct visualization of the airways and collection of samples for biopsy or culture.

## Evidence-Based Management and Treatment

The treatment of respiratory infections in bearded dragons requires a multimodal approach. The specific treatment plan will depend on the underlying cause, the severity of the disease, and the dragon's overall health status.

### Supportive Care

Supportive care is the foundation of treatment for any sick bearded dragon. This includes:

**Optimizing environmental temperature:** The dragon should be housed at its preferred optimal temperature zone. For a sick dragon, this may mean maintaining a constant temperature at the upper end of the preferred range, without a significant nighttime drop. This is critical because the dragon's immune system functions optimally at these temperatures [<a href="#ref-1">1</a>]. Research on sedation in bearded dragons has shown that body temperature significantly affects physiological responses, and it is reasonable to assume the same applies to immune function [<a href="#ref-1">1</a>].

**Fluid therapy:** Dehydration is common in sick bearded dragons, especially those that are not eating or drinking. Subcutaneous or oral fluids may be administered to maintain hydration. In severe cases, intravenous or intraosseous fluid therapy may be necessary.

**Nutritional support:** If the dragon is not eating, assisted feeding may be necessary. A critical-care diet designed for omnivorous reptiles can be used. A study on a semielemental critical-care diet in bearded dragons showed that it can be safely administered via gavage feeding, though it does cause significant changes in blood parameters, particularly glucose [<a href="#ref-5">5</a>]. The study found that glucose concentrations increased significantly from a preprandial median of 209 mg/dL to 393 mg/dL at 24 hours post-feeding [<a href="#ref-5">5</a>]. This information is important for interpreting blood work in a dragon receiving nutritional support.

**Oxygen therapy:** In cases of severe respiratory distress, supplemental oxygen may be provided. This is typically done in a veterinary hospital setting, where the dragon can be placed in an oxygen cage.

### Pharmacological Treatment

**Antibiotics:** If a bacterial infection is confirmed or strongly suspected, antibiotics are indicated. The choice of antibiotic should ideally be based on culture and sensitivity testing. Empirical antibiotic therapy may be started while awaiting culture results. Common antibiotic choices for reptiles include enrofloxacin, ceftazidime, and amikacin, though the specific drug and dose should be determined by a veterinarian.

**Antivirals:** There are no specific antiviral medications approved for use in reptiles. Treatment for viral infections is primarily supportive, focusing on managing secondary infections and providing optimal husbandry.

**Antifungals:** If a fungal infection is diagnosed, antifungal medications such as itraconazole or voriconazole may be used. These drugs require careful monitoring due to potential side effects.

**Bronchodilators:** Medications to help open the airways may be used in some cases, though their use in reptiles is not well-established.

### Specific Treatment Considerations

The case of pneumonia with concurrent HeAdV2 and Mycoplasma pogonae infection illustrates the complexity of treating respiratory infections in bearded dragons [<a href="#ref-2">2</a>]. Despite empirical antimicrobial therapy and supportive care, the animal died, underscoring the importance of early, aggressive treatment and the potential severity of these infections [<a href="#ref-2">2</a>]. This case also highlights the need for thorough diagnostic testing, as multiple pathogens can be involved.

In cases where immunosuppression is suspected, such as with adenoviral infection, treatment must focus on supporting the immune system through optimal husbandry and nutrition [<a href="#ref-3">3</a>]. The presence of opportunistic pathogens in high numbers can be a sign of an underlying systemic viral infection [<a href="#ref-3">3</a>].

## Unsafe Home Remedies and What to Avoid

Owners may be tempted to try home remedies for respiratory infections in their bearded dragons. Many of these are ineffective and can be harmful:

**Do not use over-the-counter human medications:** Human cold medications, decongestants, and cough suppressants are not safe for reptiles and can be fatal.

**Do not use essential oils or vaporizers:** Essential oils and other aromatic compounds can be highly irritating to a reptile's respiratory tract and can worsen the condition.

**Do not increase humidity without veterinary guidance:** While some respiratory conditions may benefit from increased humidity, excessive humidity can promote the growth of bacteria and fungi.

**Do not force-feed a dragon that is in respiratory distress:** This can cause aspiration, making the condition much worse.

**Do not attempt to "steam" the dragon:** Holding a bearded dragon over a pot of boiling water or in a steamy bathroom can cause burns and severe respiratory distress.

**Do not delay veterinary care:** Respiratory infections in bearded dragons progress rapidly. Early intervention is critical for a successful outcome.

## Prevention and Long-Term Management

Prevention is always better than treatment. The following measures can help prevent respiratory infections in bearded dragons:

**Provide optimal husbandry:** This is the single most important factor in preventing disease. Maintain appropriate temperatures, humidity, and lighting. Provide a thermal gradient that allows the dragon to thermoregulate effectively. Ensure proper ventilation in the enclosure.

**Maintain excellent hygiene:** Regularly clean and disinfect the enclosure, food bowls, and water bowls. Remove feces promptly. Quarantine new reptiles before introducing them to an existing collection.

**Provide a balanced diet:** Feed a varied diet appropriate for bearded dragons, including appropriate insects and vegetables. Supplement with calcium and vitamins as recommended by a veterinarian.

**Minimize stress:** Avoid overcrowding, excessive handling, and exposure to potential predators. Provide hiding spots and a sense of security.

**Regular veterinary check-ups:** Annual wellness examinations can help detect health problems early, before they become serious.

## Prognosis

The prognosis for a bearded dragon with a respiratory infection depends on several factors, including the underlying cause, the severity of the disease at the time of diagnosis, and the speed with which treatment is initiated. Dragons with mild upper respiratory infections that are treated early have a good prognosis. Dragons with severe pneumonia, especially those with concurrent viral infections, have a guarded prognosis. The case report of HeAdV2 and Mycoplasma pogonae pneumonia ended fatally despite treatment, highlighting the potential severity of these infections [<a href="#ref-2">2</a>].

## Emergency Red Flags

The following signs indicate a medical emergency, and the dragon should be seen by a veterinarian immediately:

- Persistent open mouth breathing that does not resolve
- Blue or purple discoloration of the mucous membranes (cyanosis)
- Severe lethargy or unresponsiveness
- Inability to stand or walk
- Seizures
- Regurgitation or vomiting
- Significant bleeding
- Sudden collapse

## Limitations and When to Contact a Veterinarian

This article provides general information about respiratory infections in bearded dragons, but it cannot replace professional veterinary advice. Every bearded dragon is an individual, and treatment plans must be tailored to the specific patient. The information presented here is based on the available scientific literature, but there are limitations to this knowledge. For example, reference intervals for blood tests in bearded dragons are still being established, and the clinical significance of some laboratory findings may be unclear [<a href="#ref-7">7</a>]. Additionally, the exact role of some pathogens, such as Mycoplasma pogonae, in respiratory disease is still being investigated [<a href="#ref-2">2</a>].

If you suspect your bearded dragon has a respiratory infection, or if you have any concerns about its health, contact a veterinarian with experience in reptile medicine immediately. Early intervention is critical for a successful outcome. Do not attempt to treat a sick bearded dragon at home without veterinary guidance.

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What should I do if my bearded dragon is breathing with its mouth open?
You should seek immediate veterinary care. Open mouth breathing is a sign of severe respiratory distress and is a medical emergency. Do not attempt to treat this at home.

### Can a bearded dragon recover from a respiratory infection without treatment?
It is unlikely. Respiratory infections in bearded dragons typically progress rapidly without treatment. The infection can spread to the lungs, leading to pneumonia, which can be fatal. Prompt veterinary treatment is essential.

### How can I tell if my bearded dragon is just thermoregulating versus having trouble breathing?
Thermoregulatory mouth opening is usually brief and occurs when the dragon is in its basking spot. The dragon will typically close its mouth when it moves to a cooler area. Respiratory distress is characterized by persistent open mouth breathing, often accompanied by other signs such as wheezing, nasal discharge, or lethargy.

### What are the most common causes of respiratory infections in bearded dragons?
The most common underlying cause is suboptimal husbandry, particularly inadequate temperatures, which suppress the immune system. Infectious agents, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi, can then cause disease. Adenoviruses and Mycoplasma species have been identified as significant pathogens in some cases.

### Are respiratory infections in bearded dragons contagious to other reptiles?
Some of the pathogens that cause respiratory infections, such as adenoviruses and Mycoplasma, can be contagious to other reptiles. It is important to quarantine any sick reptile and practice good hygiene to prevent the spread of disease.

### What is the typical treatment for a bearded dragon with a respiratory infection?
Treatment typically involves supportive care, including optimizing environmental temperature, fluid therapy, and nutritional support, along with specific medications such as antibiotics. The choice of medication depends on the underlying cause and should be determined by a veterinarian.

### How long does it take for a bearded dragon to recover from a respiratory infection?
Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the infection and the underlying cause. Mild infections may resolve within a few weeks, while severe pneumonia can take several months. Follow-up veterinary examinations are important to monitor progress.

### Can I use a humidifier or nebulizer to help my bearded dragon with a respiratory infection?
You should only use a nebulizer or humidifier under the direct guidance of a veterinarian. While these can be beneficial in some cases, they can also be harmful if used incorrectly. Your veterinarian can provide specific instructions based on your dragon's condition.

## Sources

<a id="ref-1"></a>[<a href="#ref-1">1</a>] [Effects of temperature and different doses of flumazenil on sedation induced by midazolam in bearded dragons (Pogona vitticeps).](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42235351/)

<a id="ref-2"></a>[<a href="#ref-2">2</a>] [Pneumonia in a Captive Central Bearded Dragon With Concurrent Detection of Helodermatid Adenovirus 2 and a Novel Mycoplasma Species.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29940815/)

<a id="ref-3"></a>[<a href="#ref-3">3</a>] [Triple infection with agamid adenovirus 1, Encephaliton cuniculi-like microsporidium and enteric coccidia in a bearded dragon (Pogona vitticeps).](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27385082/)

<a id="ref-4"></a>[<a href="#ref-4">4</a>] [Periorbital adenocarcinoma in a bearded dragon (Pogona vitticeps).](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23675816/)

<a id="ref-5"></a>[<a href="#ref-5">5</a>] [Postprandial effects following a semielemental critical-care diet lead to changes in uric acid, bile acids, and glucose in the central bearded dragon (Pogona vitticeps).](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38640948/)

<a id="ref-6"></a>[<a href="#ref-6">6</a>] [Establishing an MRI-Based Protocol and Atlas of the Bearded Dragon (Pogona vitticeps) Brain.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35647093/)

<a id="ref-7"></a>[<a href="#ref-7">7</a>] [Diagnostic Clinical Pathology of the Bearded Dragon (Pogona vitticeps).](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36122948/)

<a id="ref-8"></a>[<a href="#ref-8">8</a>] [Successful treatment of ivermectin overdose in a bearded dragon (Pogona vitticeps) using gastric lavage and intravenous lipid emulsion.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35708909/)

<a id="ref-9"></a>[<a href="#ref-9">9</a>] [BLOOD AND TISSUE ENZYME ACTIVITIES IN BEARDED DRAGONS (POGONA VITTICEPS).](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39699144/)

<a id="ref-10"></a>[<a href="#ref-10">10</a>] [Comparison of intramuscular medetomidine versus medetomidine-vatinoxan sedation in bearded dragons (Pogonavitticeps).](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39658484/)

<a id="ref-11"></a>[<a href="#ref-11">11</a>] [COMPARISON OF PROTEIN ELECTROPHORESIS AND BIOCHEMICAL ANALYSIS FOR THE QUANTIFICATION OF PLASMA ALBUMIN IN HEALTHY BEARDED DRAGONS (POGONA VITTICEPS).](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33827183/)

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