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Selection for tetracycline-resistant Chlamydia suis in treated pigs
Nicole Borel1, Nadine Regenscheit, Antonietta Di Francesco
1Institute for Veterinary Pathology, University of Zurich, Vetsuisse Faculty, Winterthurerstrasse 268, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland. n.borel@access.uzh.ch
Veterinary Microbiology
|November 1, 2011
Summary
This study found that tetracycline-resistant Chlamydia suis rapidly emerged in pigs after antibiotic treatment for conjunctivitis. This highlights the urgent need for careful antibiotic use in livestock to prevent antimicrobial resistance.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Microbiology
- Antimicrobial Resistance
- Swine Health
Background:
- Chlamydia suis is a common pathogen in pigs.
- Conjunctivitis and diarrhea outbreaks necessitate etiological investigation.
- Antimicrobial resistance is a growing global concern.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate Chlamydia suis in a pig farm experiencing an outbreak of conjunctivitis and diarrhea.
- To determine the prevalence of tetracycline resistance in Chlamydia suis isolates.
- To assess the impact of tetracycline treatment on the selection of resistant strains.
Main Methods:
- Real-time PCR and ArrayTube microarray were used to detect Chlamydia suis.
- PCR was employed to identify the tet(C) resistance gene.
- Swab and fecal samples were collected from affected and healthy pigs.
Main Results:
- Chlamydia suis was identified in pigs with conjunctivitis.
- The tet(C) resistance gene was detected in C. suis isolates from both affected pigs and subsequently from healthy pigs after treatment.
- Rapid selection for tetracycline-resistant Chlamydia suis was observed post-antibiotic administration.
Conclusions:
- Tetracycline treatment rapidly selected for tetracycline-resistant Chlamydia suis.
- The findings underscore the potential for rapid antimicrobial resistance development in C. suis.
- Judicious antibiotic use is crucial in swine farming to mitigate resistance.
