Besnoitia darlingi infection in a Virginia opossum (Didelphis virginiana)

Authors

Shannon Shaw, Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Skip Bertman Drive, Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70803-8410, USA. shannon.shaw@gmail.com
Britton Grasperge
Javier Nevarez
Scott Reed
Lauren Long
Nathalie Rademacher
David Sánchez-Migallón Guzmán

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

3-1-2009

Abstract

This is a case report of natural infection with Besnoitia darlingi in a Virginia opossum (Didelphis virginiana) in Louisiana. Clinical pathologic data included a severe nonregenerative anemia, inflammatory leukogram, increased hepatocellular leakage enzymes, renal azotemia, hyperkalemia, hypoglycemia, hypoalbuminemia, and proteinuria. Tissue cysts containing bradyzoites were found in the majority of organs, especially the skin, mucous membranes, kidneys, adrenals, lungs, and heart. Images of the bradyzoites obtained by transmission electron microscopy were consistent with the previously described ultrastructure of Besnoitia darlingi. This opossum also suffered from an open phalangeal fracture and concurrent gastrointestinal parasites. Histopathologic findings included a glomerulonephritis and hepatic necrosis.

Publication Source (Journal or Book title)

Journal of zoo and wildlife medicine : official publication of the American Association of Zoo Veterinarians

First Page

220

Last Page

3

Recommended Citation

Shaw, S., Grasperge, B., Nevarez, J., Reed, S., Long, L., Rademacher, N., & Sánchez-Migallón Guzmán, D. (2009). Besnoitia darlingi infection in a Virginia opossum (Didelphis virginiana). Journal of zoo and wildlife medicine : official publication of the American Association of Zoo Veterinarians, 40 (1), 220-3. https://doi.org/10.1638/2008-0165.1