Gangrenous dermatitis caused by Corynebacterium ulcerans in Richardson ground squirrels.

Abstract

Gangrenous dermatitis caused by Corynebacterium ulcerans developed in 63 of 350 wild Richardson ground squirrels (Spermophilus richardsonii). Six squirrels died of toxemia and/or septicemia, but 57 responded to topical and parenteral administration of antibiotics. The epizo-otic was believed to be associated with fighting; infected and carrier ground squirrels most likely transmitted the C ulcerans through bite wounds. Individuals handling ground squirrels should be cautioned that C ulcerans may produce a diphtheria-like disease in human beings.

• Authors: M E Olson, I Goemans, D Bolingbroke, S Lundberg
• Journal: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association (J Am Vet Med Assoc) Vol. 193 Issue 3 Pg. 367-8 (Aug 01 1988) ISSN: 0003-1488 [Print] United States
• PMID: 3182392 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't)

Topics

• Animals
• Corynebacterium Infections (pathology, veterinary)
• Dermatitis (pathology, veterinary)
• Female
• Gangrene
• Male
• Necrosis
• Rodent Diseases (pathology)
• Sciuridae