Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 14, 2025
Author Spotlight: Advancing Pathogen Detection and Disease Assessment in Real-Time Using M-ROSE
Published on: March 1, 2024
Detection and Remediation of Pneumocystis murina Infections by Environmental Health Monitoring
Lauren M Habenicht1, Shari Hamilton2, Marcia L Hart2
11Office of Laboratory Animal Resources, Department of Pathology, University of Colorado Denver Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado; and.
Abstract:
The increased sensitivity of PCR testing for environmental health monitoring compared with soiled bedding sentinel (SBS) serology can identify rodent pathogens thought to be excluded from a research animal facility. Exhaust dust testing for rodent pathogen surveillance revealed the presence of Pneumocystis murina in 3 colonies that was undetected in previous years of SBS serologic testing. This case series describes the process of follow-up testing used to identify and eliminate or isolate animals infected with P. murina. PCR testing of exhaust dust at the rack, row, and cage level on individually ventilated cage (IVC) racks was leveraged to identify all infected cages. Based on our experience, IVCs and standard cage handling practices are sufficient to contain this organism in mice with altered immune systems, which can harbor chronic P. murina infections. Institutions with an active mouse import program are at ongoing risk of accepting P. murina-positive animals from institutions still relying on SBS serology to identify this pathogen. PCR testing of rodent cage-generated dust can be used to pinpoint P. murina-infected mice housed on IVC racks.
Insights
Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing detects Pneumocystis murina in research animal facilities more effectively than serology. This advanced method aids in identifying and managing rodent pathogen infections in research settings.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Microbiology
- Animal Health Monitoring
Background:
- Traditional soiled bedding sentinel (SBS) serology may miss rodent pathogens.
- Increased sensitivity is needed for comprehensive environmental health monitoring in research facilities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the use of PCR testing for identifying Pneumocystis murina.
- To detail follow-up testing strategies for infected animal colonies.
- To assess the efficacy of individually ventilated cage (IVC) systems in containing P. murina.
Main Methods:
- Utilized exhaust dust testing for rodent pathogen surveillance.
- Employed PCR testing at various levels (rack, row, cage) on IVC racks.
- Documented a case series of P. murina identification and management.
Main Results:
- PCR testing identified P. murina in three colonies previously undetected by SBS serology.
- PCR testing at the cage level successfully pinpointed infected mice on IVC racks.
- Standard IVC handling practices were found sufficient for containment.
Conclusions:
- PCR testing offers superior sensitivity for detecting rodent pathogens like P. murina compared to SBS serology.
- Institutions importing mice are at risk if relying solely on SBS serology.
- PCR detection of cage dust is a viable method for pinpointing P. murina infections in mice housed in IVCs.
Related Concept Videos
01:30Pneumonia V: Nursing management and Prevention
The nurse must practice strict medical asepsis and adhere to infection control guidelines to minimize healthcare-associated infections.
Enhance airway patency
Position the patient correctly to facilitate drainage of the affected lung segments. Manual or mechanical percussion and vibration can also be employed....
01:30Pneumonia III: Complications and Assessment
01:25Transmission-based Precautions II: Airborne and Protective Environment
Airborne precautions:
Use airborne precautions when treating patients known or suspected to have diseases that spread through the air—for example, tuberculosis or measles. These organisms are present in smaller droplets expelled by an infected person and...
01:28Pneumonia IV: Management
Bacterial Pneumonia Treatment
For bacterial pneumonia, antibiotics serve as the cornerstone of therapy. Initial treatment often begins with empirical antibiotics, tailored to the anticipated causative organism and adjusted based on culture results. Key antibiotic choices include:
01:30Pneumonia I: Introduction
Risk Factors
Various factors influence the likelihood of developing pneumonia. Age plays a crucial role, with infants, children under two, and individuals over 65 at increased risk due to their...
01:28Pulmonary Tuberculosis V
Latent tuberculosis infection occurs when TB bacteria are present in a person's body, but are not causing illness or symptoms. It is not contagious, and preventive treatment is crucial to avoid the...