Mucocutaneous candidiasis in a mandrill (Mandrillus sphinx)

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Mycology
• Primate Dermatology
• Immunology

Background:

• Chronic, therapy-resistant ulcerations affecting facial/gluteal skin and oral/nasal mucosa were observed in an adult male mandrill.
• The animal's general condition deteriorated due to the persistent lesions.

Observation:

• Microscopic examination revealed severe, chronic, multifocal, granulomatous, and eosinophilic dermatitis and panniculitis.
• Stomatitis and rhinitis were present, with numerous intralesional fungal elements identified.

Findings:

• Immunohistochemistry, transmission electron microscopy, PCR, and fungal culture identified the causative agent as Candida albicans.
• MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry confirmed the species identification.
• No specific predisposing immunosuppressive factor was identified, but social stress or cell-mediated immunity defects were considered.

Implications:

• This case highlights Candida albicans as a potential pathogen in deep mucocutaneous infections in non-human primates.
• Understanding predisposing factors like stress or immune dysfunction is crucial for managing such chronic infections.
• Further research into primate immunology and susceptibility to opportunistic fungal infections is warranted.