Evidence: African pygmy hedgehog (Atelerix albiventris) clinical cases
Source: Europe PMC (Europe PubMed Central) REST search — first-hand peer-reviewed abstract records, pulled 2026-08-01. Queries covered clinical case reports and case series for Atelerix albiventris. The cluster returns 12 representative clinical cases with abstracts below. Abstract text is verbatim from source; each case is traceable by PMID.
Studies
- PMID 41584690 (2026, Veterinary and animal science) — Natural infection with <i>Trypanosoma cruzi</i> in a litter of dogs (<i>Canis lupus familiaris</i>) from Floridablanca, Colombia, suggests congenital transmission and a potential zoonotic risk.. Abstract (opening): Chagas disease (CD) remains a major public health challenge in endemic regions of Colombia, where both domestic and sylvatic host sustain transmission. This study reports the first natural infection with <i>Trypanosoma cruzi</i> in a litter of dogs from Floridablanca, in the Metropolitan Area of Bucaramanga (MAB), Santander, most likely associated with congenital transmission. Eight puppies and their dam were clinically evaluated, and blood samples were analyzed through hematology, quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR), multiplex PCR for discrete typing units (DTUs) identification, and hemoculture. Serological surveillance was also performed in the owners' nuclear family. All puppies and the dam tested positive for <i>T. cruzi</i> DNA by qPCR, with high parasitemia levels (751.8-977.3 parasite equivalents/mL in puppies and 526.2 parasite equivalents/mL in the dam), corresponding to DTU I (TcI). Hematological findings in puppies indicated regenerative anemia, thrombocytopenia, and lymphocytosis. Despite supportive treatment, seven puppies died (mortality rate = 87.5 %), and one was euthanized after three months of disease progression. Postmortem examination revealed multisystemic lesions, including interstitial pneumonia, necrotizing hepatitis, myocardial lymphocytic infiltrates with amastigote cysts, and meningoencephalitis, consistent with acute trypanosomiasis. Hemoculture was positive in this case. None of the family members tested positive for <i>T. cruzi</i> antibodies. To our knowledge, this is the first description of natural infection with <i>T. cruzi</i> DTU I (TcI) in a litter of dogs from Colombia. The marked parasitemia observed, together with hemoculture positivity, highlights the potential of these hosts to infect triatomine vectors and increase the risk of CD transmission in endemic areas.
Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41584690/
- PMID 41180242 (2025, Frontiers in veterinary science) — Case Report: Metastatic renal giant-cell sarcoma in an African pygmy hedgehog (<i>Atelerix albiventris</i>).. Abstract (opening): The scientific literature referring to tumors in African pygmy hedgehog (<i>Atelerix albiventris</i>) is expanding, enhanced by an increased lifespan under human care. This study compiles the clinical records and pathologic findings in a 2-year and 7-month-old male African pygmy hedgehog (<i>Atelerix albiventris</i>) with a metastatic giant-cell renal sarcoma. Metastases to the lungs, retroperitoneum, lymph nodes, pericardium, and mediastinal adipose tissue were observed. Immunohistochemical assessment with a panel of 11 antibodies (cytokeratins [AE1/AE3, CK19, and CK20], vimentin, thyroid transcription factor-1, thyroglobulin, Ki67, Iba-1, S100, synaptophysin, and CD31) was performed, yielding negative immunolabeling in the neoplastic cells. To the author's knowledge, neoplasms arising from the kidney in African pygmy hedgehogs are rarely reported, and a metastatic giant-cell renal sarcoma has not been previously described. This case report aims to contribute to the growing body of knowledge regarding neoplasm development and help veterinary specialists with the characterization of the pathologic conditions affecting this species.
Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41180242/
- PMID 40142467 (2025, Microorganisms) — Global Dermatophyte Infections Linked to Human and Animal Health: A Scoping Review.. Abstract (opening): Dermatophytes are commonly encountered pathogens in clinical practice causing superficial infections of the skin, hair, and nails. These pathogens are often found on animals such as livestock (e.g., cattle, rabbits) and pets (e.g., cats, hedgehogs) that can lead to spillover infections in human populations. Here, we reviewed published reports (2009-2024) of dermatophyte infections in animals and in humans with a history of animal contact. A literature search was completed in October 2024 using PubMed, Embase (Ovid), and Web of Science (Core Collection), which identified 250 articles. Generally, dermatophytes tend to infect younger animals with long hair and exhibit a species-specific host range. <i>Microsporum canis</i> was the most commonly reported species-linked to cats-that can cause tinea capitis, especially concerning the development of kerion in children. <i>Trichophyton verrucosum</i> is strongly associated with cattle. The <i>Trichophyton mentagrophytes</i> complex shows a diverse range of animal hosts, with rabbits being most frequently reported; however, <i>T. mentagrophytes</i> var. <i>erinacei</i> is almost exclusively isolated from hedgehogs, and <i>T. mentagrophytes</i> var. <i>benhamiae</i> is more commonly found on rodents (e.g., guinea pigs). Lastly, the geophilic <i>Nannizia gypsea</i> has been isolated from both dogs and cats. Managing dermatophyte zoonoses is an ongoing challenge, as healthcare providers may empirically treat with corticosteroids or antibacterial agents due to its atypical inflammatory appearance. Evidence of in vitro resistance against griseofulvin and fluconazole has been documented in multiple zoonotic dermatophyte species. Resistance development against terbinafine and itraconazole is also a possibility, although the number of reports is scarce. Under the principles of the One Health approach, research on human fungal diseases should take animal and environmental factors into account. A renewed call for increased testing efforts is warranted.
Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40142467/
- PMID 40427332 (2025, Animals : an open access journal from MDPI) — Hyperglycemia in Pet African Pygmy Hedgehogs (<i>Atelerix albiventris</i>): Prevalence, Clinical Characteristics, and Prognostic Indicators of Severe Hyperglycemia.. Abstract (opening): Hyperglycemia is known to negatively affect various animal species, but data on African pygmy hedgehogs remain limited. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of hyperglycemia and evaluate the clinical characteristics and prognostic factors of severe hyperglycemia (≥180 mg/dL) in hedgehogs. A retrospective review of medical records from 252 hedgehogs and 579 blood test results collected between 2019 and 2021 was performed. Among the 252 hedgehogs, 28 were identified with severe hyperglycemia, indicating a prevalence of 11.1%. The frequency of hyperglycemic samples among all blood tests was 48.1%, and that of severe hyperglycemia was 11.6%. In hedgehogs with severe hyperglycemia, the mean blood glucose level was 269.1 ± 81.6 mg/dL (range, 186-522), and the mortality rate was 53.6% (15/28). The severity of anorexia on the day of diagnosis was significantly associated with mortality (<i>p</i> = 0.013). Hedgehogs that recovered from hyperglycemia by the next test showed favorable outcomes (<i>p</i> < 0.001). These findings suggest that anorexia severity and early glucose normalization may serve as potential prognostic indicators and provide baseline data for improving the clinical management of hyperglycemia in hedgehogs.
Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40427332/
- PMID 39890594 (2025, Medical mycology) — Aspergillus spp., aspergillosis and azole usage in animal species in Europe: Results from a multisectoral survey and review of recent literature.. Abstract (opening): Aspergillosis in humans and animals is caused by certain Aspergillus spp. and can be treated with fungicide azoles. Treatment in animals is often long and complicated by the lack of registered products, species-specific pharmacodynamics, side effects, and withdrawal periods for animal products. The emergence of azole resistance in Aspergillus spp. isolates from human, environmental, and avian samples is alarming, requiring multisectoral attention and a One Health approach. Recent information on the prevalence and impact of aspergillosis in animals, and the use of fungicide azoles in their treatment is however lacking. In this study, we collected and analysed data on the occurrence of aspergillosis and/or presence of Aspergillus spp., and the use of fungicide azoles in animal categories in Europe over the last decade, by means of an international survey and literature review. Thirty-three survey responses were included, from respondents with various professional backgrounds. Fifty-eight articles were included for literature review, of which 90% contained information on the presence of Aspergillus spp. in diseased or healthy animals and 38% on the veterinary use of azoles. Results were consistent: the presence of Aspergillus spp. and related disease, and the use of fungicide azoles were most frequently reported in 'companion animals' and 'zoo animals and wildlife'. Considering the limitations in interpreting the obtained results and the lack of available data, more consistent data collection is necessary to accurately estimate the importance of Aspergillus spp. and related diseases, the use of azoles in veterinary medicine, and its relevance in public health.
Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39890594/
- PMID 40898278 (2025, Acta veterinaria Scandinavica) — An intestinal histiocytic sarcoma in a collared peccary (Pecari tajacu): a case report.. Abstract (opening): <h4>Background</h4>Research on cancer in wild animals provides important insights into the mechanisms of carcinogenesis. Histiocytic sarcomas comprise a rare malignant macrophage-dendritic cell lineage neoplasm in wildlife. This study reports a case of histiocytic sarcoma in the small intestine of a collared peccary (Pecari tajacu), describing its clinical, anatomopathological, and immunohistochemical aspects.<h4>Case presentation</h4>A six-year-old male collared peccary maintained in captivity at a facility in Northeastern Brazil presented progressive weight loss, diarrhea, anorexia, dyspnea, lethargy, abdominal distension, bristled fur, and pale mucous membranes. A complete blood count indicated a mild degree of anemia and moderate leukocytosis. Treatment included anti-inflammatories and antibiotics; however, on the 18th day after initial presentation, the animal was found dead in its enclosure. An anatomopathological examination revealed that the animal exhibited poor body condition, scant body fat with a gelatinous appearance, hydrothorax, pulmonary edema, and ascites. Thickening of the duodenal wall was observed, along with the presence of a yellowish-white tumor. Histopathological examination of the affected intestinal segment revealed a neoplastic proliferation of round cells with large, hyperchromatic nuclei, prominent nucleoli, and a high mitotic index (20 mitoses per high-power field). Numerous multinucleated and binucleated giant cells were present. The neoplastic cells extensively infiltrated all layers of the intestinal wall, from the mucosa to the serosa. Immunohistochemical analysis showed strong positivity for macrophage/mononuclear phagocytic lineage markers (CD18, IBA-1, and lysozyme), while negative for T-cell (CD3), B-cell (CD79), and plasma cell (MUM1) markers. The proliferation index assessed by Ki-67 was approximately 60%.<h4>Conclusions</h4>The histopathological and immunohistochemical findings confirmed the diagnosis of intestinal histiocytic sarcoma in a collared peccary, representing the first documented case of this neoplasm in this species.
Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40898278/
- PMID 40218313 (2025, Animals : an open access journal from MDPI) — Electrochemotherapy Intralesional Treatment in a Captive Peregrine Falcon (<i>Falco peregrinus</i>) with Dermal Squamous Cell Carcinoma.. Abstract (opening): Captive birds of prey often exceed their wild counterparts' lifespan, as seen in bald eagles (<i>Haliaeetus leucocephalus</i>, ~20 years wild vs. ~40 years captive), golden eagles (<i>Aquila chrysaetos</i>, ~32 years wild vs. ~46 years captive), and Andean condors (<i>Vultur gryphus</i>, ~50 years wild vs. ~79 years captive), highlighting the impact of controlled environments on longevity. However, recent evidence suggests a rising incidence of neoplastic processes in these species. While previous studies have indicated a higher-than-expected prevalence of neoplasia in raptors, comprehensive research on this topic remains scarce. Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), a frequently reported neoplasm in pet birds, has been documented in birds of prey, though the literature on its prevalence and management is limited. Retrospective studies have identified SCC cases in peregrine falcons (<i>Falco peregrinus</i>), primarily affecting the flank or thigh, with locally invasive behavior and rare distant metastasis. Complete surgical excision is the preferred treatment for SCCs, yet its feasibility is often constrained by tumor invasiveness and anatomical limitations. Electrochemotherapy (ECT) has emerged as a promising alternative, utilizing electroporation to enhance intracellular drug uptake while minimizing systemic toxicity. Bleomycin and cisplatin have been successfully used in avian intralesional chemotherapy, offering a potentially safer and effective treatment approach. ECT has demonstrated efficacy in various exotic species, yet its application in raptors remains largely unexplored. This case report describes the use of electrochemotherapy with bleomycin in a peregrine falcon diagnosed with SCC, contributing to the growing body of evidence supporting its clinical utility in avian oncology.
Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40218313/
- PMID 40530035 (2025, Frontiers in veterinary science) — Hepatic lipidosis in nine African white-bellied pangolins (<i>Phataginus tricuspis</i>) from a North American zoologic institution.. Abstract (opening): <h4>Introduction</h4>The African white-bellied pangolin (<i>Phataginus tricuspis</i>) is an endangered species with a small population under managed care in the United States. Over the course of 4 years, nine pangolins at a single North American zoological institution died or were euthanized with necropsy findings consistent with hepatic lipidosis, representing 9 of 14 mortalities during this time period.<h4>Methods</h4>This report describes hepatic lipidosis in these pangolins (clinical presentation, diagnostic imaging, clinicopathologic and postmortem findings) and summarizes clinically relevant predictors of disease.<h4>Results</h4>The time from the onset of illness to death ranged from 2 to 75 days (median 23 days). Obesity was noted prior to clinical presentation for illness in 4/9 animals. All pangolins had anorexia and lethargy; other common clinical signs included constipation (6/9), vomiting or regurgitation (6/9), and/or dyspnea (5/9). Increased alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) were observed in 7/9 animals, hyperbilirubinemia in 5/9, and increased bile acids in 5/9. Serum selenium was low in 3/9 animals, but vitamin E concentrations were normal. Hypertriglyceridemia was uncommon during illness (1/9). Evidence of renal dysfunction was also common, and included glucosuria (6/6), proteinuria (7/7), and azotemia (6/9). Ultrasound was the most reliable imaging technique at identifying hepatic lipidosis as evidenced by hepatomegaly and increased echogenicity. Despite variable treatment including assisted feeding, hepatoprotectants, fluid therapy, gastroprotectants, antibiotics, and/or antiemetics, all cases were ultimately fatal. Each of the animals had comorbidities or an inciting reason for anorexia that led to negative energy balance. In 5/9, resultant hepatic lipidosis was severe and deemed the primary cause of death or euthanasia.<h4>Discussion</h4>This case series suggests that white-bellied pangolins are prone to developing hepatic lipidosis following a period of anorexia secondary to other underlying disease processes. Elevated AST, ALT, bilirubin, and bile acids in an anorectic and lethargic pangolin should provide a high index of suspicion for hepatic lipidosis. Further study is needed to evaluate pangolins for potential unique polyunsaturated fatty acid or other species-specific dietary requirements.
Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40530035/
- PMID 38807940 (2024, Frontiers in veterinary science) — Case report: Abdominal mesothelioma in <i>Atelerix albiventris</i>.. Abstract (opening): Hedgehogs, as exotic species, are more susceptible to various neoplastic conditions affecting diverse bodily systems, particularly the tegumentary, hemolymphatic, and digestive systems. Among these conditions, epithelial tumors are the most prevalent, followed by round cell tumors and mesenchymal tumors. A striking characteristic is the malignant nature of over 8% of these tumors, leading to a generally unfavorable prognosis. This study aims to present a unique case involving a 2.5 year-old male African pygmy hedgehog in Concepción, Biobío District, Chile, diagnosed with a mesenchymal neoplasia originating from mesothelial cells. The hedgehog presented to the veterinary clinic with acute abdominal pain, prompting ultrasound imaging, and comprehensive cytological, histopathological, and immunohistochemical analyses. During abdominal ultrasound, a mass was observed, and its cytological examination revealed the presence of malignant cells. The histopathological examination unveiled a diffuse mesothelial cell tissue interwoven with abundant fibrous tissue and small cysts containing serous fluid, all enveloped by flattened or cuboidal cells of mesothelial origin. Immunohistochemistry further confirmed the diagnosis, demonstrating positive immunostaining for calretinin and mesothelin markers, corroborating the diagnosis of fibrous malignant peritoneal mesothelioma. This case highlights the complexity of neoplastic conditions in hedgehogs and emphasizes the importance of multimodal diagnostic approaches for accurate identification and understanding of these rare diseases.
Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38807940/
- PMID 39765582 (2024, Animals : an open access journal from MDPI) — Diagnostic Application of Fluorine-18 Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography in the Treatment of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma in an African Pygmy Hedgehog.. Abstract (opening): Neoplastic diseases are common in African pygmy hedgehogs (<i>Atelerix albiventris</i>), with squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) being the most prevalent oral tumor. Traditional imaging techniques like computed tomography (CT) have limitations in accurately defining tumor extent and detecting metastasis. In this study, a hedgehog with a suspected oral tumor underwent 18F-FDG PET/CT imaging, revealing a hypermetabolic lesion consistent with SCC and indications of metastatic activity. The lesion was too extensive for a lumpectomy, and suspected metastasis led to the decision for euthanasia due to the impracticability of further treatment. A histopathological examination after autopsy confirmed the diagnosis and metastatic spread, as suggested by PET/CT findings. This is the first case report demonstrating the potential use of 18F-FDG PET/CT in hedgehogs, facilitating the accurate staging and management of oral SCC. Further research is needed to establish PET/CT as a standard diagnostic tool for neoplastic diseases in hedgehogs.
Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39765582/
- PMID 38751990 (2024, Veterinarni medicina) — Myxofibrosarcoma of the penis in an African pygmy hedgehog (<i>Atelerix albiventris</i>) - A clinical case.. Abstract (opening): A 3-year-old, 420 g, intact male African pygmy hedgehog (<i>Atelerix albiventris</i>) was presented with a sudden appearance of a mass protruding from its preputium. A detailed physical examination revealed the presence of a polyp-like mass, connected to the mucous membrane of the penis and a second, multilobular mass with a larger base. Both masses were surgically removed. While the histopathological examination of the polyp-like mass revealed only a chronic active inflammatory reaction, the histopathological examination of the multilobular mass revealed a tumorous tissue composed of spindle-shaped cells, irregularly oval or polygonal in some places. Focal tumour cells with a myxoid differentiation were observed in the greater part of this tumour. The stroma was made up of sparse fibrous tissue. The surface epithelium was hyperplastic with ulcerations and necrosis. The tumour was classified as a myxofibrosarcoma. Two weeks post-surgery, the patient did not show any clinical signs of the presented disease. According to our knowledge, this is the first published case of the surgical treatment of penile myxofibrosarcoma in an African pygmy hedgehog.
Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38751990/
- PMID 39239737 (2024, Veterinary medicine and science) — Effective treatment with afoxolaner (NexGard) of Trixacarus caviae in a pet guinea pig.. Abstract (opening): Trixacarus caviae is a sarcoptic mange mite infesting guinea pigs. Infestation in immunosuppressed animals produces severe dermatological problems, including alopecia, intense pruritus, hyperkeratosis and non-dermatological issues (e.g., seizures). Treatment options are limited and include topical application of macrocyclic lactones or amitraz or injectable administration of ivermectin or doramectin. Considering the severity of the disease and the challenging treatment, the present paper aimed to determine the efficacy of oral afoxolaner in a severe case of infestation with T. caviae in a pet guinea pig. One female guinea pig was referred to the New Companion Animal Clinic due to severe dermatological problems. A clinical evaluation was done, and skin scrapings were collected and examined under the microscope. Small mites were detected and morphologically identified as T. caviae. The animal was treated with a single oral dose of 2.50 mg/kg afoxolaner, and the lesions, presence/absence of mites and intensity of pruritus were evaluated periodically until 2 months post-treatment. A week after the medication, the lesions were milder, but pruritus was still present and was attributed to the healing process. Further examinations showed significant improvement with the complete remission of clinical signs and no mites at the microscopic examination after 4 weeks. Afoxolaner was safe and effective in this guinea pig for the treatment of T. caviae mange with no repetition needed.
Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39239737/
Source text: pdf-raw/evidence/europepmc_hedgehog_clinical_2026-08-01.txt (Europe PMC first-hand abstracts, pulled 2026-08-01).