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Evidence for Parachlamydia in bovine abortion
Silke Ruhl1, Nicola Casson, Carmen Kaiser
1Institute of Veterinary Pathology, University of Zurich, Vetsuisse Faculty, Winterthurerstrasse 268, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland.
Veterinary Microbiology
|October 28, 2008
Summary
Parachlamydia acanthamoebae is identified as a significant cause of bovine abortion in Switzerland. This finding highlights the need for careful handling of cattle abortion materials due to potential zoonotic risks.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Bovine abortion of unknown infectious origin presents a significant economic challenge.
- The role of novel pathogens like Parachlamydia acanthamoebae in cattle abortions requires investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and role of Parachlamydia acanthamoebae in bovine abortions in Switzerland.
- To compare the significance of Parachlamydia spp. versus Chlamydophila abortus in cattle abortions.
Main Methods:
- Real-time PCR was used to screen 235 bovine abortion samples for Chlamydiaceae and Parachlamydia spp.
- Immunohistochemistry was employed to confirm the presence of Parachlamydia in placental lesions.
- Histopathological examination was performed on positive cases.
Main Results:
- Parachlamydia was detected in 18.3% (43/235) of cases via real-time PCR.
- Chlamydophila abortus was found in only 1.3% (3/235) of cases, indicating a minor role.
- Parachlamydia was confirmed in placental lesions of 81.4% (35/43) of positive cases, often associated with purulent to necrotizing placentitis.
Conclusions:
- Parachlamydia acanthamoebae is identified as a novel and significant abortigenic agent in Swiss cattle.
- The findings suggest Parachlamydia plays a more prominent role in bovine abortion than previously recognized.
- Caution is advised when handling bovine abortion material due to the potential zoonotic transmission of Parachlamydia.
