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Neurologic melioidosis in an imported pigtail macaque (Macaca nemestrina)
J M Ritter1, S Sanchez, T L Jones
1Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Road NE, Mailstop G 32, Atlanta, GA 30333, USA.
Abstract:
Burkholderia pseudomallei is the cause of melioidosis in humans and other animals. Disease occurs predominately in Asia and Australia. It is rare in North America, and affected people and animals typically have a history of travel to (in human cases) or importation from (in animal cases) endemic areas. We describe the gross and histopathologic features and the microbiologic, molecular, and immunohistochemical diagnoses of a case of acute meningoencephalomyelitis and focal pneumonia caused by B. pseudomallei infection in a pigtail macaque that was imported from Indonesia to the United States for research purposes. This bacterium has been classified as a Tier 1 overlap select agent and toxin; therefore, recognition of pathologic features, along with accurate and timely confirmatory diagnostic testing, in naturally infected research animals is imperative to protect animals and personnel in the laboratory animal setting.
Insights
Melioidosis, caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei, is rare in North America. A pigtail macaque imported from Indonesia developed severe meningoencephalomyelitis and pneumonia due to this bacterium.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Melioidosis is caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei, prevalent in Southeast Asia and Australia.
- The disease is uncommon in North America, typically affecting animals or humans with travel/import history from endemic regions.
Observation:
- A pigtail macaque imported from Indonesia to the US developed acute meningoencephalomyelitis and focal pneumonia.
- The case involved infection with Burkholderia pseudomallei.
Findings:
- Gross and histopathologic features of the infection were documented.
- Diagnostic methods included microbiologic, molecular, and immunohistochemical analyses.
- B. pseudomallei was identified as the causative agent.
Implications:
- Burkholderia pseudomallei is a Tier 1 select agent, necessitating careful handling.
- Recognizing pathologic features and rapid diagnostics are crucial for protecting laboratory animal personnel and animals.
- This case highlights the importance of vigilance for melioidosis in imported research animals.
