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Rapid screening for Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex in clinical elephant trunk wash samples
Roberta J Magnuson1, Lyndsey M Linke1, Ramiro Isaza2
1Animal Population Health Institute, Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Science, Colorado State University, 300 W. Drake Road, Fort Collins, CO 80525, USA.
Research in Veterinary Science
|January 28, 2017
Summary
A new molecular test offers a rapid screening tool for detecting tuberculosis (TB) in elephants. This polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method provides quick results to aid veterinarians in managing TB in elephant populations.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Microbiology
- Molecular Diagnostics
Background:
- Tuberculosis (TB) is a significant concern in elephant populations, posing risks to both animal and human health.
- Current diagnostic methods, primarily culture, are slow (≥8 weeks) and have limited sensitivity for TB detection in elephants.
Purpose of the Study:
- To validate molecular extraction techniques and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for rapid detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in elephant trunk wash samples.
- To identify a rapid, accurate screening tool to aid in the diagnosis of elephant TB.
Main Methods:
- Ninety-nine trunk wash samples from 33 elephants were analyzed using three molecular extraction methods followed by PCR.
- Diagnostic sensitivity, specificity, and kappa agreement were calculated against culture results.
- An internal amplification control was used to monitor PCR inhibition.
Main Results:
- The "Column method" demonstrated superior performance, achieving 100% diagnostic sensitivity (CI 57-100) and a kappa agreement of 0.46 (CI 0.2-0.74) compared to culture.
- Molecular testing identified 8.4% of samples as positive when culture was negative.
- The PCR method proved effective in monitoring for inhibition.
Conclusions:
- Molecular extraction followed by PCR is a valuable rapid screening tool for elephant TB.
- This method can support veterinary diagnostics, enabling timely interventions and biosecurity measures to prevent TB spread.
- While not definitive, the test aids in prompt decision-making for elephant TB management.
