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Chlamydia psittaci experimental abortion in goats.
American Journal of Veterinary Research
|October 1, 1984
Summary
This study shows that Chlamydia psittaci causes abortions in goats. Infected goats shed the bacteria before and after abortion, with some developing retained placentas or metritis.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Microbiology
- Animal Reproduction
Background:
- Chlamydiosis is a significant cause of abortion in livestock.
- Chlamydia psittaci is a known pathogen implicated in ovine and caprine abortions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the abortifacient potential of a goat-origin Chlamydia psittaci strain.
- To characterize the shedding patterns and reproductive complications associated with experimental chlamydiosis in goats.
Main Methods:
- Eleven pregnant goats were intradermally inoculated with varying doses (2x10^7 or 2x10^6 PFU) of Chlamydia psittaci.
- Goats were monitored for abortion, Chlamydia shedding, and postpartum complications.
Main Results:
- All 11 inoculated goats aborted between 24 to 56 days post-inoculation.
- Chlamydia shedding was detected pre-abortion (as early as 9 days prior) and post-abortion (up to 12 days after).
- Four goats experienced retained placenta or metritis.
Conclusions:
- Chlamydia psittaci is confirmed as an abortifacient agent in goats.
- The bacterium is shed during a period encompassing abortion, posing a risk for disease transmission.
- Reproductive tract complications like retained placenta and metritis can occur following infection.