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Mycoplasma infections in small ruminants
1Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn University, Alabama, USA. ruffidc@vetmed.auburn.edu
The Veterinary Clinics of North America. Food Animal Practice
|August 23, 2001
Summary
Mycoplasmas evade immune responses in small ruminants through antigenic variation, causing significant economic losses. This review covers their pathogenesis, clinical signs, and treatment for these economically important infections.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Microbiology
- Immunology
Background:
- Mycoplasmas possess sophisticated antigenic variation mechanisms to evade host immune surveillance.
- These bacteria are responsible for diverse clinical syndromes in small ruminants, impacting production economics.
- Disease manifestations range from acute fatal septicemia to chronic conditions causing reduced productivity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the pathogenesis of Mycoplasma infections in small ruminants.
- To outline the clinical signs associated with common Mycoplasma syndromes.
- To discuss current treatment strategies for Mycoplasma spp. in small ruminants.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent research findings.
- Synthesis of information on Mycoplasma evasion strategies.
- Compilation of data on disease syndromes, clinical presentations, and therapeutic options.
Main Results:
- Mycoplasmas utilize complex antigenic variation to circumvent host immunity.
- Infections lead to a spectrum of diseases, including septicemia and chronic production loss.
- Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for managing Mycoplasma-related diseases.
Conclusions:
- Mycoplasma spp. pose a significant threat to small ruminant health and farm economics.
- Effective management requires knowledge of their immune evasion tactics and disease presentation.
- Further research into pathogenesis and treatment is warranted for improved control strategies.