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Significance of Hemorheological Tests During Mycoplasma Pulmonis Infection in Laboratory Rats
Ádám Deák1, Barbara Bedőcs-Baráth1, Ádám Varga1,2
1Department of Operative Techniques and Surgical Research, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Moricz Zsigmond u. 22, H-4032 Debrecen, Hungary.
Abstract:
Mycoplasma pulmonis (M. pulmonis) is a chronic infection that can appear in laboratory animal facilities. Deviations in hemorheological parameters during many pathological processes were detected, but it is unknown to what extent M. pulmonis infection causes changes in micro-rheological parameters. We performed our study on 25 symptomatic and asymptomatic Wistar rats, randomly selected from the entire population and presumably infected with Mycoplasma. From the blood samples, we determined the hematological parameters, red blood cell deformability under varying shear stress and varying osmolality, and the degree of red blood cell aggregation. We used the data of age- and sex-matched animals from our previous research as a control. Red blood cell count, hemoglobin, hematocrit values, and platelet count were significantly reduced in Mycoplasma-infected animals. Significantly reduced erythrocyte aggregation and deformability were detected. In conclusion, M. pulmonis infection causes significant changes in hemorheological and hematological parameters. Periodic measurement of these parameters can help monitor the infection.
Insights
Mycoplasma pulmonis infection in Wistar rats significantly alters blood properties. This study reveals reduced red blood cell counts, hemoglobin, and impaired red blood cell deformability and aggregation, suggesting Mycoplasma pulmonis impacts hemorheology.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Hematology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Mycoplasma pulmonis causes chronic infections in laboratory animals.
- Hemorheological parameter deviations are common in pathological processes.
- The specific impact of M. pulmonis on micro-rheological parameters is not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of Mycoplasma pulmonis infection on hemorheological and hematological parameters in Wistar rats.
- To assess changes in red blood cell deformability and aggregation.
Main Methods:
- Studied 25 symptomatic and asymptomatic Wistar rats infected with Mycoplasma.
- Analyzed hematological parameters, red blood cell deformability (varying shear stress and osmolality), and red blood cell aggregation.
- Utilized age- and sex-matched control data from previous research.
Main Results:
- Significantly reduced red blood cell count, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and platelet count in infected rats.
- Detected significantly decreased erythrocyte aggregation and deformability.
- Mycoplasma infection led to notable alterations in hemorheological and hematological profiles.
Conclusions:
- Mycoplasma pulmonis infection induces significant changes in hemorheological and hematological parameters.
- Periodic monitoring of these parameters can aid in managing M. pulmonis infections.
- Findings highlight the systemic impact of M. pulmonis on blood rheology.

