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Detection of coagulase activity in Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae
1Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Preventive Medicine, Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Ames 50011.
Abstract:
Coagulase activity was detected in 99% of 225 strains of Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae. These strains included isolates from a variety of animal and environmental sources. Activity could be detected by the tube or slide technique, with the tube reactions being easier to interpret. Coagulation of rabbit and/or bovine plasma was observed, with most strains reacting in both. The activity appeared to be a common characteristic of the species and may be useful in differentiating E. rhusiopathiae from Listeria and Corynebacterium species, which fail to demonstrate the activity. There was no correlation noted between coagulase activity and the serotype, source, geographic origin, or virulence (as detected by mouse pathogenicity tests) of the isolates.
Insights
Coagulase activity is a common trait in Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae, found in 99% of tested strains. This finding aids in distinguishing E. rhusiopathiae from similar bacterial species.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Bacteriology
- Veterinary Science
Background:
- Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae is a significant pathogen in animals.
- Accurate identification of E. rhusiopathiae is crucial for disease control.
- Distinguishing E. rhusiopathiae from other Gram-positive bacteria like Listeria and Corynebacterium can be challenging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of coagulase activity in Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae.
- To assess the utility of coagulase activity as a diagnostic marker for E. rhusiopathiae.
- To determine if coagulase activity correlates with other isolate characteristics.
Main Methods:
- Tested 225 strains of Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae for coagulase activity.
- Utilized both tube and slide coagulase tests.
- Examined isolates from diverse animal and environmental sources.
- Assessed correlation with serotype, source, origin, and virulence.
Main Results:
- Coagulase activity was detected in 99% of the E. rhusiopathiae strains.
- Both rabbit and bovine plasma were coagulated by most strains.
- Tube tests provided easier interpretation of results.
- No correlation was found between coagulase activity and serotype, source, origin, or virulence.
Conclusions:
- Coagulase activity is a highly prevalent characteristic of Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae.
- Coagulase testing can be a valuable tool for differentiating E. rhusiopathiae from Listeria and Corynebacterium species.
- Coagulase activity does not appear to be linked to the pathogenicity or epidemiological factors of E. rhusiopathiae.