Canine distemper virus infection in binturongs (Arctictis binturong)

Two binturongs (Arctictis binturong) kept in outdoor exhibits at Everland Z oological Gardens in Korea died within 10 days of the onset of clinical sig ns that included depression, dyspnoea, diarrhoea and convulsions. On necrop sy, the significant gross findings were limited to the lungs and the gastro intestinal tract. Proteus vulgaris was isolated from the lung of one animal . Histopathologically, diffuse severe bronchointerstitial pneumonia with se condary bacterial infection was noted in the lungs. Intracytoplasmic eosino philic inclusion bodies were seen in the lining epithelium of the bronchi, bronchioles, small and large intestines, renal pelvis and urinary bladder. Canine distemper virus (CDV)-specific antigens were demonstrated in frozen sections of the lungs by the direct immunofluorescence technique. This is b elieved to he the first confirmed report of CDV infection in binturongs. (C ) 1999 Harcourt Publishers Ltd.