Air sacculitis in three rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta) and one Japanese macaque (M. fuscata)
Cassandra O Cullin1, Lois M A Colgin1, Anne D Lewis1
1Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, OR, USA.
Abstract:
Bacterial infection of the laryngeal air sacs (air sacculitis) is infrequently reported in nonhuman primates, where it leads to chronic respiratory disease. It is particularly uncommon in macaques; however, we report here suppurative air sacculitis with extension to adjacent cervical tissues in three rhesus macaques and one Japanese macaque. Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus sp., and an anaerobic bacterium were isolated.
Insights
Bacterial air sacculitis, a rare cause of chronic respiratory disease in nonhuman primates, was observed in four macaques. This study details the suppurative infection and identifies the bacteria involved.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Primate Pathology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Air sacculitis, a bacterial infection of the laryngeal air sacs, is an uncommon condition in nonhuman primates.
- It can lead to chronic respiratory disease, significantly impacting animal health and research.
- This condition is particularly rare in macaque species.
Observation:
- This report details a case of suppurative air sacculitis in four macaques, including three rhesus macaques and one Japanese macaque.
- The infection extended beyond the laryngeal air sacs to involve adjacent cervical tissues.
- Clinical signs and pathological findings indicated a severe, progressive infection.
Findings:
- Bacterial cultures isolated Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus sp., and an unidentified anaerobic bacterium from the affected tissues.
- The polymicrobial nature of the infection suggests complex etiological factors.
- Identification of specific pathogens is crucial for targeted treatment and understanding disease pathogenesis.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering air sacculitis in the differential diagnosis of respiratory disease in macaques.
- Understanding the causative agents can inform veterinary care and disease management strategies in captive primate populations.
- Further research into the pathogenesis and treatment of air sacculitis in macaques is warranted.
