The Pathology and Pathogenesis of Fatal Infections Due to an Acanthocephalid Parasite of Marmoset Monkeys

Abstract

Summary Four of ten squirrel-marmosets died as a result of infection by an acanthocephalid parasite, Prosthenorchis elegans. Death followed peritonitis caused by perforation of the bowel. Evidence is presented indicating that the process of perforation was a direct result of secondary bacterial infection rather than of the action of the acanthocephalid parasites. These spiny-headed worms produced chiefly mechanical damage.