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Melioidosis in animals: a review on epizootiology, diagnosis and clinical presentation
1Klinik und Poliklinik für Strahlentherapie und Radiologische Onkologie der TU München, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Ismaningerstr. 22, 81675 München, Germany. naiter13@gaux.de
Abstract:
Melioidosis, an infectious disease caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei is an emerging disease with high impact on animals and man. In different animal species, the clinical course varies and delayed diagnosis poses risks for the dissemination of the agent in non-endemic areas. Not only migration and transport of animals around the world but also tourism increases the risk that melioidosis can leave its endemic boundaries and establish itself elsewhere. Detection of the agent is a major challenge, as the agent has to be handled in laboratories of biosafety level 3 and test kits are not yet commercially available. Veterinarians and doctors should be aware of melioidosis not only as an agent of public interest but also in terms of a bioterrorist attack. The aim of this review is to describe the agent, its aetiology, the manifestation in a variety of animal species as well as to describe diagnostic procedures, typing techniques and countermeasures.
Insights
Melioidosis, caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei, is an emerging infectious disease affecting animals and humans. Early detection and awareness are crucial to prevent its spread globally and address potential bioterrorism threats.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Melioidosis, caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei, is an emerging infectious disease with significant impacts on both animals and humans.
- The disease's varied clinical presentations across species and delayed diagnosis risk its dissemination into non-endemic regions.
- Global animal transport and tourism increase the potential for melioidosis to spread beyond its endemic boundaries.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the causative agent, Burkholderia pseudomallei, and its etiology.
- To describe the clinical manifestations of melioidosis in various animal species.
- To outline diagnostic procedures, typing techniques, and countermeasures for melioidosis.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of scientific publications on melioidosis.
- Analysis of clinical cases and epidemiological data in different animal species.
- Examination of diagnostic and typing methodologies for Burkholderia pseudomallei.
Main Results:
- Burkholderia pseudomallei presents diverse clinical signs in animals, complicating diagnosis.
- Laboratory detection requires specialized biosafety level 3 facilities, and commercial test kits are unavailable.
- The review synthesizes information on disease presentation, diagnosis, and control strategies.
Conclusions:
- Melioidosis poses a significant public health concern and potential bioterrorism threat.
- Veterinarians and medical professionals require heightened awareness of melioidosis.
- Effective diagnostic and control measures are essential to manage the global spread of this emerging infectious disease.
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