Epididimite por Brucella sp. em hamster sírio (Mesocricetus auratus) pet : relato de caso

Abstract

Brucellosis is a zoonosis caused by a gram-negative intracellular coccobacillus nominated Brucella sp.. This study describes a Syrian Hamster (Mesocricetus auratus) which presented testicular asymmetry, increased right scrotal size and discrete increase of epididymis. Macroscopically, it was observed multiple abscesses on both sides of testicles and epididymis surface. Samples were collected for further diagnosis: swab of the exudate for aerobic culture, biopsy of surface nodules for Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and the testicles for histopathology. In culture noted a growth of a non identified gram-negative colony, PCR was positive for Brucella sp. and microscopy show necrotic pyogranulomatous epididymitis light to moderate and multifocal associated with random multinucleated giant cells, like alterations found in domestic mammals. Therefore, it is possible to conclude that Brucella sp. might cause reproductive changes in a Syrian hamster (M. auratus). Despite being a zoonosis, the epidemiological impacts between this species, kept as pets, and humans (guardians/owners) still need to be investigated.