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Cryptococcosis in Gilbert's and long-nosed potoroo
R J Vaughan1, S D Vitali, P A Eden
1Veterinary Department, Perth Zoo, 20 Labouchere Road, South Perth, Western Australia 6151, Australia. Rebecca.Vaughan@perthzoo.wa.gov.au
Summary
Fatal cryptococcosis occurred in two marsupials. Cryptococcus neoformans and Cryptococcus gattii infections presented as progressive neurologic disease, with one case showing a false-negative latex cryptococcal antigen test (LCAT).
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Mycology
- Wildlife Health
Background:
- Cryptococcosis is a fungal infection that can affect various animal species.
- Potoroo species are susceptible to opportunistic infections, including fungal pathogens.
- Diagnostic challenges in wildlife cryptococcosis can impact timely treatment and outcomes.
Observation:
- One case involved Cryptococcus neoformans in a Gilbert's potoroo (Potorous gilbertii).
- The second case involved Cryptococcus gattii in a long-nosed potoroo (Potorous tridactylus).
- Both presented with progressive neurologic disease and central nervous system infection.
Findings:
- Diagnosis was confirmed by culture and immunohistochemistry.
- The long-nosed potoroo tested positive for Cryptococcus antigen via latex cryptococcal antigen test (LCAT), but the Gilbert's potoroo had a negative LCAT despite advanced disease.
- Pulmonary infection was noted in the long-nosed potoroo.
Implications:
- The findings underscore the potential for false-negative results with the LCAT in cryptococcosis cases.
- This highlights the importance of considering clinical signs and employing complementary diagnostic methods in wildlife.
- Antifungal treatment proved unsuccessful in the affected long-nosed potoroo, suggesting limited therapeutic options for severe cases.
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