Pathology and One Health implications of fatal Leptospira interrogans
infection in an urbanized, free-ranging, black-tufted marmoset (
Callithrix penicilatta ) in Brazil
Abstract
Leptospirosis is a zoonotic neglected disease of worldwide public health
concern. Leptospira species can infect a wide range of wild and
domestic mammals and can lead to a spectrum of disease, including severe
and fatal forms. Herein, we report for the first time a fatal
Leptospira interrogans infection in a free-ranging nonhuman
primate (NHP), a black-tufted marmoset. Icterus, pulmonary hemorrhage,
interstitial nephritis and hepatocellular dissociation were the main
findings raising the suspicion of leptospirosis. Diagnostic confirmation
was based on specific immunohistochemical and PCR assays for
Leptospira species. Immunolocalization of leptospiral antigens
and identification of pathogenic species ( L. interrogans
species) were important for better understanding the pathogenesis of
disease. One Health related implications of free-ranging NHPs in
anthropized areas and transmission dynamics of human and animal
leptospirosis are discussed.