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Thoracic mass in a cynomolgus macaque (Macaca fascicularis)
H Yamauchi1, Y Takai, H Yamasaki
1Development Research Center, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Osaka 532-8686, Japan. Yamauchi_Hirofumi@takeda.co.jp
Veterinary Pathology
|October 8, 2010
Summary
A cynomolgus macaque experienced sudden cardiac arrest due to an Aspergillus sp. fungal granuloma at the base of its heart. This necropsy finding highlights a rare but fatal cardiac complication in non-human primates.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Mycology
- Primate Medicine
Background:
- Sudden cardiac arrest in non-human primates can have various underlying causes.
- Aspergillus species are known opportunistic fungal pathogens.
Observation:
- A 3-year-old male cynomolgus macaque presented with sudden cardiac arrest.
- Necropsy revealed a large granuloma at the base of the heart.
- Histopathology identified fungal hyphae consistent with Aspergillus sp. within the granuloma.
Findings:
- The granuloma contained multinucleated giant cells and necrotic foci.
- The lesion infiltrated thoracic lymph nodes and the left atrium, compressing bronchioli.
- Polymerase chain reaction confirmed the presence of Aspergillus sp.
Implications:
- This case highlights Aspergillus sp. as a potential cause of fatal cardiac disease in cynomolgus macaques.
- Early detection and understanding of fungal infections are crucial for primate health management.
- Further research into Aspergillus-related cardiac pathology in non-human primates is warranted.
