Overview
Sarcocystidae infections, particularly caused by Sarcocystis species, can lead to significant morbidity and mortality in various wildlife species, including sea otters and ground squirrels, manifesting as hepatitis, phlebitis, and multi-organ involvement. 12Diagnosis
Clinical Signs: Hepatitis, phlebitis, petechial hemorrhages in skeletal muscle, lung, serosal membranes, and brain.
Histopathology: Presence of meronts in endothelial cells, particularly in lung tissue; microscopic evidence of tissue injury in multiple organs.
Laboratory Tests: Necropsy findings and histopathology are crucial for diagnosis; serology or molecular methods may be considered but are not detailed in provided abstracts.
Lesion Distribution: Focus on hepatic and pulmonary involvement, with potential for myocardial and cerebral complications. 2Management
Supportive Care: Focus on supportive measures addressing organ dysfunction, including respiratory and circulatory support.
No Specific Antimicrobial Mentioned: Abstracts do not provide specific drug treatments for Sarcocystis infections.
Monitoring: Close monitoring of affected organs for progression or resolution of lesions.Special Populations
Wildlife Focus: Abstracts primarily discuss impacts on wildlife (sea otters, ground squirrels) without specific details on human special populations like pregnancy, pediatrics, or elderly.Key Recommendations
Necropsy and Histopathology for Diagnosis: Essential for confirming sarcocystosis in affected wildlife populations. (Evidence: Moderate 12)
Monitor Population Health Trends: Regular monitoring of mortality trends in wildlife populations can help identify persistent threats like sarcocystosis. (Evidence: Moderate 1)
Supportive Care for Affected Animals: Implement supportive care strategies targeting organ dysfunction observed in sarcocystosis cases. (Evidence: Expert opinion)References
1 White CL, Lankau EW, Lynch D, Knowles S, Schuler KL, Dubey JP et al.. MORTALITY TRENDS IN NORTHERN SEA OTTERS ( ENHYDRA LUTRIS KENYONI) COLLECTED FROM THE COASTS OF WASHINGTON AND OREGON, USA (2002-15). Journal of wildlife diseases 2018. link
2 Wobeser G, Cawthorn RJ, Gajadhar AA. Pathology of Sarcocystis campestris infection in Richardson's ground squirrels (Spermophilus richardsoni). Canadian journal of comparative medicine : Revue canadienne de medecine comparee 1983. link