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Published on: October 25, 2015
Staphylococcus-associated abortions in ewes with long-term central venous catheterization
J F Edwards1, A L Lassala, T E Spencer
1Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843-4067, USA. jedwards@cvm.tamu.edu
Veterinary Pathology
|November 6, 2008
Summary
Catheter use in ewes during gestation led to staphylococcal infections, causing abortion. Staphylococcus aureus, isolated from catheters and blood, was linked to severe complications in both ewes and fetuses.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Reproductive Biology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Intravenous catheterization is a common procedure in animal research.
- Potential complications of indwelling catheters, such as infection, require careful monitoring.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the cause of abortion in ewes receiving intravenous infusions during gestation.
- To determine the role of catheterization and potential microbial contamination in pregnancy loss.
Main Methods:
- Forty-two ewes underwent jugular vein catheterization and received daily infusions (saline or saline with arginine).
- Ewes were monitored for abortion, and aborted fetuses and placentas were examined macroscopically and histologically.
- Microbiological cultures were performed on fetal tissues, placentas, and catheter sites.
Main Results:
- A high rate of abortion (26/42 ewes) occurred between 81 days of gestation and term.
- Coagulase-positive Staphylococcus was frequently isolated from aborted fetuses and placentas.
- Catheter-associated jugular thrombophlebitis and endometritis were observed in affected ewes.
Conclusions:
- Catheter-associated staphylococcal infection is a significant cause of abortion in ewes.
- Staphylococcus aureus contamination of indwelling catheters can lead to severe reproductive and systemic complications.
