Diagnosis and treatment of a novel Mycobacterium haemophilum associated pneumonia in an African pygmy hedgehog (Atelerix albiventris)

Abstract

AbstractAn unknown age (at least 1.5‐year old), male, entire African pygmy hedgehog (Atelerix albiventris) was presented for decreased appetite, lethargy and laboured breathing. Pulmonary radiographic lesions consistent with pneumonia were noted in serial computed tomography scans. The hedgehog initially responded well to treatment with azithromycin and orbifloxacin for several months, but its health declined upon discontinuation of treatment. After continued decline despite resumed antibiotic therapy, the patient was humanely euthanised. A postmortem examination was performed, and histologic examination identified severe granulomatous bronchointerstitial pneumonia with intralesional acid‐fast staining bacteria. Samples from the lung and liver were positive for Mycobacterium haemophilum by PCR and further DNA sequencing. This report describes the clinical presentation, diagnosis, treatment and outcome of a pulmonary infection caused by M. haemophilum in a hedgehog.