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Experimental Brucella abortus infection in pigs.
F A Stuart1, M J Corbel, R A Brewer
1Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, Central Veterinary Laboratory, Weybridge, Surrey, Gt. Britain.
Veterinary Microbiology
|September 1, 1987
Summary
Brucella abortus infection in pigs was short-lived, with variable antibody responses detected by serological tests. The intradermal test for delayed hypersensitivity proved more consistent for diagnosing Brucella infection.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary immunology
- Bacteriology
- Animal infectious diseases
Background:
- Brucella abortus is a significant pathogen causing brucellosis in livestock.
- Understanding diagnostic methods for Brucella infection in pigs is crucial for disease control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate diagnostic methods for Brucella abortus infection in pigs.
- To assess the reliability of serological tests and delayed hypersensitivity tests.
Main Methods:
- Pigs were inoculated with Brucella abortus Strain 544 via conjunctival, intravenous, or subcutaneous routes.
- Serological tests (agglutination, complement fixation, Rose Bengal plate, antiglobulin, immunodiffusion, ELISA) were performed.
- Intradermal tests for delayed hypersensitivity were conducted and histologically evaluated.
Main Results:
- Infection was short-lived, with organism excretion up to 99 days post-inoculation.
- Serological tests showed variable antibody responses, with some false negatives despite organism excretion.
- The intradermal test for delayed hypersensitivity provided more consistent results.
Conclusions:
- Serological tests for Brucella abortus in pigs can be unreliable due to variable antibody responses.
- The intradermal test for delayed hypersensitivity, especially with histological support, offers a more consistent diagnostic approach.