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Infection with Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis in five alpacas.
David E Anderson1, D Michael Rings, Joseph Kowalski
1Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
|January 1, 2005
Summary
Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis caused abscesses in young alpacas. Surgical removal and isolation successfully treated the infection, preventing further spread in the herd.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
- Bacteriology
Background:
- Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis is an important pathogen causing caseous lymphadenitis in small ruminants.
- Alpacas, as camelids, can be susceptible to various bacterial infections.
Observation:
- Five young alpacas (22 days to 14 months) presented with subcutaneous abscesses on the head or neck.
- Abscess material cultures and serum hemolysis inhibition assays confirmed Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis infection.
Findings:
- Affected alpacas' dams were seronegative for C. pseudotuberculosis toxin.
- Surgical excision of abscesses and a 90-day isolation period were effective treatments.
- Risk factors included housing in a maternity barn, pasture access, and introduction of new alpacas.
Implications:
- Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis should be considered in camelid differential diagnoses for peripheral lymphadenopathy and subcutaneous abscesses.
- Effective management strategies involve prompt surgical intervention and isolation to prevent herd outbreaks.