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Published on: April 21, 2015
Cutaneous and Pulmonary Mucormycosis in Rag1- and Il2rg-deficient Rats
Anna E Sarfaty1, Susan R Compton2, Peter C Smith2
1Comparative Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut;,
Abstract:
Immunodeficient rats are valuable in transplantation studies, but are vulnerable to infection from opportunistic organisms such as fungi. Immunodeficient Rag1- and Il2rg-deficient (RRG) rats housed at our institution presented with dark, proliferative, keratinized dermal growths. Histologic and PCR results indicated that the predominant organism associated with these lesions was fungus from the family Mucoraceae, mostly of the genus Rhizopus. The Mucoraceae family of fungi are environmental saprophytes and are often found in rodent bedding. These fungi can cause invasive opportunistic infections in immunosuppressed humans and animals. We discuss husbandry practices for immunosuppressed rodents with a focus on controlling fungal contaminants.
Insights
Immunodeficient rats developed skin lesions caused by Mucoraceae fungi, primarily Rhizopus. This highlights the risk of opportunistic fungal infections in immunosuppressed rodents and the need for strict husbandry controls.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Mycology
- Immunology
Background:
- Immunodeficient rats are crucial for transplantation research but susceptible to opportunistic infections.
- The institution's Rag1- and Il2rg-deficient (RRG) rats exhibited unusual dermal growths.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify the causative agent of dermal lesions in immunodeficient rats.
- To discuss preventative husbandry practices against fungal contamination in immunosuppressed rodents.
Main Methods:
- Histological examination of dermal lesions.
- Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) for organism identification.
Main Results:
- Histology and PCR confirmed Mucoraceae fungi, predominantly Rhizopus, as the cause of the lesions.
- Mucoraceae are environmental fungi commonly found in rodent bedding.
Conclusions:
- Rhizopus infections can occur in immunodeficient rats.
- Effective husbandry is essential to control environmental fungal contaminants and prevent opportunistic infections in immunosuppressed research animals.
