Fatal Toxoplasma gondii infection in golden lion tamarins (Leontopithecus rosalia rosalia).

Abstract

Four of five golden lion tamarins (Leontopithecus rosalia rosalia) died after a brief period of illness 13 to 21 days following the consumption of a feral mouse by the group. Three of the four animals died within hours after being observed as clinically healthy. The fourth animal became weak, failed to respond to treatment, and died several hours after treatment. At necropsy, there were bands of serosal and mucosal hemorrhages of the intestines, and the lungs were mottled. Histologically, necrosis and acute inflammation associated with tachyzoites of Toxoplasma gondii were found in intestines, liver, heart, lung, and eyes. The communally consumed mouse was presumed to be the source of T. gondii infection in this exhibit. The surviving tamarin probably did not share food.