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Updated: Jul 31, 2026
17:15
Catheterization of Intestinal Loops in Ruminants
Published on: June 11, 2009
Disseminated Rhodococcus equi infection in two goats
W P Davis1, B A Steficek, G L Watson
1Department of Animal and Nutrional Sciences, University of New Hampshire, Durham 03824, USA.
Veterinary Pathology
|July 27, 1999
Summary
Rhodococcus equi caused granulomas in two goats. The organism was identified, but key virulence factors were absent, suggesting an avirulent strain may be responsible for this Rhodococcus equi infection.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Rhodococcus equi is an important pathogen in foals.
- Infections in small ruminants are less common.
Observation:
- Two goats presented with disseminated caseating granulomas in multiple organs.
- Histopathology revealed gram-positive coccobacilli within macrophages.
- Bacterial cultures confirmed Rhodococcus equi in liver and lung tissues.
Findings:
- Rhodococcus equi was identified in granulomas via immunohistochemistry.
- Crucially, the 15- to 17-kd virulence antigens were not detected.
- This suggests infection by an avirulent strain of Rhodococcus equi.
Implications:
- This case highlights the potential for Rhodococcus equi to cause disease in goats.
- The absence of virulence factors warrants further investigation into avirulent strains.
- Understanding Rhodococcus equi pathogenesis in diverse hosts is critical for animal health.
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