Case studies of fluke-induced lesions in mesenteric lymph nodes of Hector's dolphins Cephalorhynchus hectori

Abstract

Hector's dolphins Cephalorhynchus hectori dissected at Christchurch, New Zealand. in 1985 had granulomatous lesions of the rnesenteric lymph node. Histological examination revealed fluke eggs with associated inflammatory responses. In Case 1, a single fluke, probably of the genus Campula (Farmly Campuhdae) was recovered intact from the lesion. A similar fluke was also seen in sections cut of material from Case 2. Bacteriological culture of purulent material from Case 1 yielded Eikenella conodens, a species apparently previously unknown from marine mammals. The observed pathology was presumably an inflammatory response to the flukes and their eggs, with secondary bacterial infection.