Multifocal candidiasis in a capuchin monkey (Cebus apella).

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Pathology
• Parasitology
• Mycology

Background:

• Schistosoma haematobium is a parasitic flatworm known to cause urogenital schistosomiasis in humans.
• Experimental infections in non-human primates are crucial for understanding disease pathogenesis and host-parasite interactions.
• Capuchin monkeys (Cebus apella) serve as valuable models for studying parasitic diseases due to their physiological similarities to humans.

Observation:

• Microscopic examination revealed candidiasis in the nasal, pharyngeal, and intestinal mucosal surfaces of an experimentally infected capuchin monkey.
• A pharyngeal lymph node also showed evidence of candidiasis.
• The monkey exhibited persistent nasal exudation and significant weight loss.

Findings:

• This case demonstrates a co-infection or opportunistic candidiasis secondary to experimental Schistosoma haematobium infection in a capuchin monkey.
• The observed candidiasis affected multiple mucosal sites, suggesting systemic spread or compromised mucosal immunity.
• Clinical signs included persistent nasal discharge and weight loss, indicative of severe disease.

Implications:

• This finding highlights the potential for opportunistic fungal infections, such as candidiasis, in non-human primates experimentally infected with Schistosoma haematobium.
• Understanding these complex host-parasite-pathogen interactions is vital for developing effective treatments and preventative strategies in both veterinary and human medicine.
• Further research is warranted to elucidate the mechanisms underlying candidiasis development in the context of schistosomiasis in primate models.