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Streptococcus bovis infection in turkey poults
R Droual1, G Y Ghazikhanian, H L Shivaprasad
1California Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory System, University of California, Fresno, CA, USA.
Avian Pathology : Journal of the W.V.P.A
|June 1, 1997
Summary
Streptococcus bovis caused increased mortality in young turkeys on three California farms. Necrotic lesions were found in the spleen and liver, with bacteria identified within macrophages.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Microbiology
- Avian Health
Background:
- Streptococcus bovis (S. bovis) is a bacterium known to cause disease in various animal species.
- Turkey farming is a significant agricultural industry where disease outbreaks can lead to substantial economic losses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the cause of increased mortality in young turkeys on three independent California facilities.
- To characterize the pathological findings and identify the causative agent of the disease.
Main Methods:
- Gross necropsy and histopathological examination of affected turkeys.
- Bacteriological isolation and identification from various tissues (bone marrow, liver, spleen).
- Electron microscopy to visualize bacteria within host cells.
Main Results:
- Increased mortality was associated with S. bovis infection in turkeys aged 1-3 weeks.
- Gross lesions included pale pectoral muscle foci, enlarged spleens, and swollen livers.
- Histopathology revealed splenic and hepatic necrosis, with bacteria observed within macrophage phagosomes via electron microscopy.
Conclusions:
- S. bovis was identified as the causative agent of mortality in these turkey flocks.
- The observed pathological changes are characteristic of S. bovis infection in poultry.
- Effective disease control and prevention strategies are crucial for managing S. bovis outbreaks in turkey farming.
