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Experimental Brucella abortus induced abortion in a llama: pathologic effects.
T Gidlewski1, N F Cheville, J C Rhyan
1USDA, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, National Veterinary Services Laboratories, Ames, IA 50010-0844, USA.
Veterinary Pathology
|January 22, 2000
Summary
Brucella abortus infection caused abortion in a llama, a condition previously undocumented in the species. This study details the pathological findings of this novel Brucella abortus infection in llamas.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Infectious Diseases
- Zoonotic Diseases
Background:
- Brucella abortus is a known cause of abortion in livestock.
- Documented cases of Brucella abortus infection in llamas are absent.
- Llamas are increasingly raised globally for fiber and as companion animals.
Observation:
- A pregnant llama inoculated with Brucella abortus experienced abortion at 8 months gestation.
- Brucella organisms were identified in the placenta, fetus, dam's mammary gland, and lymph nodes.
- Histopathological examination revealed severe placentitis with trophoblastic cell damage.
Findings:
- Brucella organisms were abundant within placental capillaries and trophoblasts.
- Immunohistochemistry confirmed Brucella antigen presence in fetal organs.
- Ultrastructural analysis showed bacteria within placental capillaries and leukocytes.
Implications:
- This study confirms Brucella abortus can cause abortion in llamas.
- Highlights the potential for Brucella transmission to other animals and humans.
- Emphasizes the need for diagnostic vigilance in camelids for Brucella infections.