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Recognition of Epidermal Transglutaminase by IgA and Tissue Transglutaminase 2 Antibodies in a Rare Case of Rhesus Dermatitis
Published on: December 15, 2011
Alopecia areata in a rhesus monkey (Macaca mulatta).
1Department of Infectious Pathology, German Primate Center (GPC), Göttingen, Germany. dr.baerbel.beardi@t-online.de
Journal of Medical Primatology
|May 23, 2007
Summary
Alopecia universalis in a rhesus monkey was investigated. The study ruled out genetic causes and identified a T-cell-mediated autoimmune disease, similar to human alopecia areata.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Dermatology
- Primate Pathology
- Autoimmune Diseases
Background:
- A 14-year-old rhesus monkey presented with lifelong alopecia universalis.
- The monkey was of Chinese origin.
Observation:
- Comprehensive clinical evaluation included hematology, serology, and skin biopsies.
- Histological and immunohistochemical analyses were performed.
- Molecular techniques investigated potential genetic causes.
Findings:
- Polymerase chain reaction and gene sequencing excluded a nonsense mutation in the hairless (hr) gene.
- Histopathology showed chronic lymphocytic perifolliculitis and folliculitis affecting anagen and miniaturized hair follicles.
- Immunohistochemistry (CD3, CD20, CD4) indicated a T-cell-mediated autoimmune process.
Implications:
- This case suggests a T-cell-mediated autoimmune etiology for alopecia universalis in non-human primates.
- The findings provide a comparative model for human alopecia areata universalis.
- Understanding the pathogenesis can inform future treatment strategies in affected animals.
