Avian mycoplasma infections: prototype of mixed infections with mycoplasmas, bacteria and viruses

Area of Science:

• Avian diseases
• Infectious disease interactions
• Poultry health

Background:

• Mixed infections involving mycoplasmas, viruses, and bacteria are common in poultry.
• Synergistic interactions between specific pathogens like Mycoplasma gallisepticum, Newcastle disease virus, infectious bronchitis virus, and Escherichia coli are documented.
• Airsacculitis in broilers can be exacerbated by concurrent respiratory viral infections.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the interactions between mycoplasmas, viruses, and bacteria in mixed avian infections.
• To highlight the factors influencing the outcome of these complex infections.
• To suggest potential interactions in less-studied avian species based on existing data.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on mixed avian infections.
• Analysis of documented synergistic effects between specific pathogens.
• Observation of disease precipitation by concurrent infections, such as airsacculitis.

Main Results:

• Synergism is demonstrated between Mycoplasma gallisepticum and common poultry pathogens.
• Concurrent respiratory viral infections can precipitate airsacculitis in broilers infected with Mycoplasma synoviae or Mycoplasma gallinarum.
• Interactions in turkeys, geese, and ducks appear similar to chickens but are less studied.

Conclusions:

• Mixed infections in poultry present complex interactions with significant health implications.
• Understanding these interactions is crucial for effective disease management and prevention strategies.
• Further research is needed, particularly in less-studied avian species, to fully elucidate pathogen interplay.