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Clostridium difficile typhlitis associated with cecal mucosal hyperplasia in Syrian hamsters
E B Ryden1, N S Lipman, N S Taylor
1Division of Comparative Medicine, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge 02139.
Laboratory Animal Science
|December 1, 1991
Summary
Sudden deaths in Syrian hamsters were linked to Clostridium difficile-induced typhlitis. This condition, characterized by cecal inflammation and hemorrhage, occurred despite no antibiotic use, highlighting it as a key differential diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Microbiology
- Laboratory Animal Science
Background:
- Sudden mortality events in animal colonies require thorough investigation.
- Syrian hamster colonies can be susceptible to various health issues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify the cause of sudden deaths in a closed Syrian hamster breeding colony.
- To investigate the role of Clostridium difficile in hamster mortality.
Main Methods:
- Necropsy and histopathological examination of affected hamsters.
- Detection of Clostridium difficile cytotoxin B in cecal contents.
- Microbiological and toxicological analyses of feed and water.
Main Results:
- Eight of 40 Syrian hamsters exhibited diarrhea and sudden death or were euthanized.
- High titers of Clostridium difficile cytotoxin B were found in cecal contents.
- Histopathology revealed Clostridium-induced typhlitis, including necrosis and mucosal hyperplasia.
Conclusions:
- Clostridium difficile-induced typhlitis is a significant cause of mortality in Syrian hamsters.
- This diagnosis should be considered even in the absence of antibiotic administration or experimental manipulation.
- Further research into Clostridium difficile pathogenesis in hamsters is warranted.