Pyelonephritis and Cystic Endometrial Hyperplasia in a Captive Sunda Pangolin (Manis javanica)

Abstract

The Sunda pangolin (Manis javanica) is one of the most trafficked animal species globally, and is listed as Critically Endangered by the IUCN. There is limited information on reproductive biology or pathology of this species. We now document the clinical and pathological features of pyelonephritis and cystic endometrial hyperplasia in one of these animals. Ultrasonographic examination revealed pathological changes in the kidneys and uterus. On histopathological examination, there was marked interstitial infiltration of macrophages, neutrophils and lymphocytes in kidney tissue, fibrinonecrotic ureteritis and mild endometrial hyperplasia. This first report of these urogenital lesions in this species will be valuable for the conduct of health and reproductive assessments of the Sunda pangolin, which inform conservation and ex-situ management of this species.