Background: Oral focal epithelial hyperplasia (FEH) is an uncommon infection affecting humans, chimpanzees, bonobos, and howler monkeys. This study describes 10 cases of free-ranging brown howler monkeys (Alouatta guariba clamitans) diagnosed with FEH and Alouatta guariba Papillomavirus 1 (AgPV 1).
Methods: We analyzed demographic characteristics, rescue conditions, clinical and pathological findings, and species-specific behavior factors in these cases. The study assessed the frequency of occurrence and potential contributing factors of FEH and AgPV 1 infection.
Results: The frequency of FEH was 8.13%. Most affected howlers were adult or geriatric males with comorbidities or stressful conditions. Clinical and pathological observations were consistent with AgPV 1 infection. Species-specific behaviors and environmental stressors were identified as contributing factors.
Conclusions: FEH associated with AgPV 1 affected mainly adult or geriatric males with ongoing comorbidities or stressful conditions. Further research is needed to understand these factors for effective management.
Keywords: Platyrrhini; conservation medicine; epidemiology; neotropical primate; papillomavirus; pathology; primate diseases.
© 2024 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.