Blastocystis hominis in a pig-tailed macaque: a potential enteric pathogen for nonhuman primates
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Abstract:
Large numbers of Blastocystis hominis were found in fecal samples from a pig-tailed macaque (Macaca nemestrina) with chronic diarrhea that was refractory to conventional therapy. The animal's condition improved and fecal samples showed minimal numbers of Blastocystis hominis following therapy with an antiprotozoal agent. This organism, recently reclassified as a protozoa, appeared to be causally related to the diarrhea. The cytologic and ultrastructural features of the monkey Blastocystis were comparable to those reported for similar organisms from man.
Insights
Blastocystis hominis, a protozoa, caused chronic diarrhea in a pig-tailed macaque. Antiprotozoal therapy resolved the diarrhea and reduced Blastocystis hominis in fecal samples.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Parasitology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Blastocystis hominis is a protozoan parasite found in the gastrointestinal tract of various hosts.
- Chronic diarrhea in animals can be challenging to diagnose and treat, especially when refractory to conventional therapies.
Observation:
- A pig-tailed macaque (Macaca nemestrina) presented with chronic diarrhea unresponsive to standard treatments.
- Fecal analysis revealed a high prevalence of Blastocystis hominis in the affected macaque.
Findings:
- Treatment with an antiprotozoal agent led to a significant improvement in the macaque's clinical condition.
- Post-treatment fecal samples showed a marked reduction in Blastocystis hominis counts.
- The study suggests a causal relationship between Blastocystis hominis infection and the observed chronic diarrhea in the macaque.
Implications:
- This case highlights the potential role of Blastocystis hominis as a causative agent of diarrhea in non-human primates.
- Findings support the use of antiprotozoal agents for treating Blastocystis hominis-associated enteritis in veterinary medicine.
- Further research into Blastocystis hominis in animal populations may reveal its broader impact on animal health and interspecies transmission.