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Experimental zygomycosis in rabbits: clinicopathological studies
1Department of Veterinary Pathology, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, India.
Mycopathologia
|July 28, 1999
Summary
Experimental zygomycosis in rabbits induced by Absidia corymbifera nasal spores caused lung lesions and immune responses. The study found no systemic spread or kidney involvement, differing from previous reports on this fungal infection.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Mycology
- Experimental Pathology
- Immunology
Background:
- Zygomycosis, a serious fungal infection, can affect various hosts.
- Previous studies suggested kidney predilection in experimental models.
- Understanding the pathogenesis in rabbits is crucial for disease management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To experimentally induce zygomycosis in New Zealand white rabbits using Absidia corymbifera.
- To characterize the clinico-pathological alterations and immune responses.
- To investigate the potential for systemic dissemination and kidney involvement.
Main Methods:
- Intra-nasal administration of Absidia corymbifera spores to rabbits.
- Clinical observation, hematology, and serum biochemistry analysis.
- Histopathological examination of tissues, special stains, and immunoperoxidase techniques.
Main Results:
- Infection led to dullness, nasal discharge, and leukocytosis with neutrophilia.
- Elevated serum total proteins, creatinine, liver enzymes, immunoglobulins, and circulating immune complexes were observed.
- Pulmonary pyogranulomas and fungal elements were identified in lung tissues up to 15 days post-infection.
Conclusions:
- Intra-nasal Absidia corymbifera instillation in rabbits causes significant clinico-pathological changes primarily in the lungs.
- The study did not observe systemic dissemination or kidney predilection, contrasting with earlier findings.
- This model provides insights into localized zygomycosis pathogenesis and immune responses.