Mycobacterium avium Infection in Three Rhesus Monkeys

Abstract

Naturally occurring Mycobacterium avium infection in 3 rhesus monkeys was characterized clinically and pathologically by intestinal and lymphoreticular involvement. Blood lymphocyte rosette formation and phytomitogen responses were depressed, whereas serum beta and gamma globulin concentrations were increased. Slow-growing, acid-fast, nonchromogenic bacilli isolated from lymph nodes taken at necropsy were identified as M avium serotypes 4, 18, and double types 1 and 8.