Mycotic infections of the alimentary tract of nonhuman primates: a review

Abstract

Lesions of candidiasis, mucormycosis (phycomycosis), entomophthoramycosis, geotrichosis, cryptococcosis, paracoccidioidomycosis and coccidioidomycosis have been reported in the alimentary tract of nonhuman primates. Candidiasis and mucormycosis were reported most often. Both Old and New World monkeys and great apes are susceptible; infection is rare in prosimians. Ulcers and necrosis of the mucosa of the alimentary tract are the principal gross lesions. A granulomatous inflammatory process occurs in which the fungi are visible histologically on hematoxylin and eosin (HE)-stained sections, but they are seen and characterized better when stained with periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) or Gomori methenamine silver (GMS) techniques. Cultural or immunofluorescence studies, or both, are necessary for specific identification of the fungi. Immunosuppression is suggested as a predisposing factor in certain mycotic diseases.