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Updated: Jun 15, 2026
08:48
Identification of Neutrophil Extracellular Traps in Paraffin-Embedded Feline Arterial Thrombi using Immunofluorescence Microscopy
Published on: March 29, 2020
Feline hemotropic mycoplasmas.
1Department of Medicine & Epidemiology, University of California - Davis, Davis, CA 95618, USA. jesykes@ucdavis.edu
Summary
Feline hemotropic mycoplasmosis, caused by Mycoplasma haemofelis, leads to anemia in cats. Diagnosis relies on PCR assays, and caution is advised due to potential zoonotic transmission.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Hematology
Background:
- Hemotropic bacteria, including hemotropic mycoplasmas, are increasingly recognized in veterinary medicine.
- Historically known as Haemobartonella felis, these organisms are now classified as mycoplasmas.
- Three species infect cats globally: Mycoplasma haemofelis, 'Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis,' and 'Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum.'
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current knowledge on the causes, development, diagnosis, and treatment of feline hemotropic mycoplasmosis.
- To highlight the significance of Mycoplasma haemofelis as a primary cause of anemia in cats.
- To discuss the diagnostic challenges and implications of other hemotropic mycoplasma species.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature search of PubMed and other scientific databases.
- Inclusion of studies on hemotropic mycoplasmosis in cats and other animal species.
- Keywords used: 'hemoplasmas,' 'haemoplasmas,' 'hemotropic,' 'haemotropic,' and 'Haemobartonella.'
Main Results:
- Mycoplasma haemofelis is the most pathogenic species, causing anemia in immunocompetent cats.
- 'Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis' and 'Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum' have controversial pathogenicity, potentially affecting immunosuppressed cats.
- Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays are the most sensitive and specific diagnostic tools, as these organisms are uncultivable.
Conclusions:
- PCR testing for hemotropic mycoplasmas is recommended for cats with hemolytic anemia before antibiotic treatment.
- Positive M. haemofelis results strongly indicate its role in anemia; other differentials should be considered for 'Ca. M. turicensis' and 'Ca. M. haemominutum' infections.
- Careful handling of blood from infected cats is advised due to potential zoonotic transmission.
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