Mycobacterium avium complex infection in pigs: A review

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Microbiology
• Public Health
• Food Safety

Background:

• Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) infections cause substantial economic losses in swine production.
• MAC infections in humans are increasing, presenting treatment challenges due to antimicrobial resistance.
• MAC has been detected in various tissues and meat of slaughtered pigs across Europe.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the economic and public health significance of MAC infections in pigs.
• To emphasize the need for more sensitive and specific diagnostic methods for MAC detection.
• To review current and potential diagnostic approaches for MAC in swine.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing European studies on MAC occurrence in pigs.
• Discussion of diagnostic techniques including PCR assays and gamma interferon release tests.
• Consideration of the tuberculin skin test as a cost-effective detection method.

Main Results:

• MAC is prevalent in pigs, found in lymph nodes, tonsils, diaphragms, other organs, and meat.
• Increasing antimicrobial resistance complicates MAC treatment in humans.
• A range of diagnostic tools, from molecular assays to skin tests, are available for MAC detection.

Conclusions:

• Effective control of MAC in swine is essential for both economic reasons and to mitigate human health risks.
• Development and implementation of sensitive and specific diagnostic methods are critical.
• Continued surveillance and research into MAC pathogenesis and treatment are warranted.