DISSEMINATED B-VIRUS-INFECTION IN A CYNOMOLGUS MONKEY

A cynomolgus monkey (Macaca fascicularis) was euthanatized 1 week foll owing dystocia because of severe peritonitis. Histologic examination r evealed lesions characteristic of herpesvirus infection in lungs, live r, spleen, bone marrow, uterus, and adrenal gland, and on the serosal surface of intestines, pancreas, and reproductive tract. Immunohistoch emical studies on liver and lungs revealed Herpes B-like antigens in t he lesions. B virus was isolated from serum. As systemic B-virus infec tion was not diagnosed before death of the monkey, these findings unde rscore the need for universal precautions when handling blood, fluids, or tissues from macaques.