Fatal pulmonary acariasis in an aged indoor rhesus macaque (Macaca mulatta)

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Pathology
• Primate Medicine
• Parasitology

Background:

• Pulmonary acariasis, caused by Pneumonyssus mites, is typically an incidental finding in rhesus macaques.
• Routine prophylactic treatment is uncommon in indoor-housed macaques due to low prevalence and potential toxicity.

Observation:

• This case involved an indoor-housed rhesus macaque with an unusually severe infestation of Pneumonyssus simicola.
• The severity of the infestation was notable given the typical presentation of the condition.

Findings:

• The severe pulmonary acariasis led to significant respiratory compromise.
• The affected animal ultimately succumbed to the infestation.

Implications:

• This case underscores that severe pulmonary acariasis can occur in indoor-housed rhesus macaques, even if rare.
• It suggests that the potential for severe clinical disease should be considered in diagnostic evaluations.
• Further investigation into risk factors or specific susceptibility may be warranted.