Fatal Disseminated Toxoplasmosis in a Black Bear Cub

Abstract

A black bear (Ursus americanus) cub with signs of neurological disease was captured in West Milford, NJ. The animal died in captivity and was examined because of suspected rabies. At necropsy, the lungs were reddened and noncollapsed and had multiple pale round foci. Foci of necrosis were associated with Toxoplasma gondii cysts and tachyzoites in several organs. Rabies antigen was not detected.