Besnoitiosis of the reproductive tract of a Blue Duiker (Cephalophus monticola)

A mature male Blue Duiker that had been born in the United States was submitted for necropsy examination following a brief illness. On histologic examination of the reproductive tract several Besnoitia cysts were found in the epididymis, prostate and bulbourethral gland. The lack of an inflammatory response or any negative effect on fertility, based on histologic evaluation and breeding history, is in contrast with the severe orchitis, epididymitis and infertility of besnoitiosis in cattle. This is the first report of an autochthonous infection of Besnoitia in the United States as well as the first report of besnoitiosis in a Blue Duiker.