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Acute gastric dilatation in monkeys: a microbiologic study of gastric contents, blood and feed
Abstract:
Twenty-one of 24 simian primates with acute gastric dilatation had Clostridium perfringens in their gastric contents. Only 2 of 18 normal animals contained this organism in their gastric contents. Clostridium perfringens was isolated from monkey biscuits taken from the cages of five affected animals and from five of 11 incoming lots of feed. After these biscuits were fed to normal animals, this organism could be isolated from the gastric contents. There were no other organisms isolated which could account for the voluminous gas production in this condition.
Insights
Clostridium perfringens was frequently found in simian primates suffering from acute gastric dilatation. This bacterium was also present in contaminated monkey biscuits, suggesting it as a potential cause of the condition.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Microbiology
- Primate Health
Background:
- Acute gastric dilatation is a serious condition in simian primates.
- The etiology of this condition has not been fully elucidated.
- Clostridium perfringens is a known gas-producing bacterium.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential role of Clostridium perfringens in acute gastric dilatation in simian primates.
- To identify potential sources of Clostridium perfringens contamination in the animals' environment.
Main Methods:
- Gastric contents from affected and normal simian primates were analyzed for the presence of Clostridium perfringens.
- Monkey biscuits and feed lots were sampled for bacterial contamination.
- Experimental feeding of contaminated biscuits to normal animals was performed.
Main Results:
- Clostridium perfringens was detected in 21 of 24 affected primates, compared to 2 of 18 normal primates.
- The organism was isolated from monkey biscuits and feed lots.
- Normal animals fed contaminated biscuits subsequently showed Clostridium perfringens in their gastric contents.
Conclusions:
- Clostridium perfringens is strongly associated with acute gastric dilatation in simian primates.
- Contaminated monkey biscuits represent a likely source of infection.
- Further research into preventative measures is warranted.