Mallein test: Difference between revisions

Latest revision as of 10:59, 15 February 2025

A diagnostic test for glanders in horses

Mallein test[edit]

The Mallein test is a diagnostic procedure used to detect glanders, a contagious and often fatal disease caused by the bacterium Burkholderia mallei. This test is primarily used in equine species, such as horses, mules, and donkeys.

History[edit]

The Mallein test was developed in the late 19th century as a means to control the spread of glanders, which was a significant problem in military and civilian horse populations. The test was named after the substance "mallein," which is derived from the bacterium Burkholderia mallei.

Procedure[edit]

The Mallein test involves the intradermal injection of mallein, a protein derivative of Burkholderia mallei. The test is typically administered in the lower eyelid or neck of the animal. After injection, the site is observed for a specific reaction, which usually occurs within 24 to 48 hours.

Positive Reaction[edit]

A positive reaction is characterized by swelling, purulent discharge, and sometimes fever. This indicates that the animal has been exposed to the glanders pathogen and has developed an immune response.

Negative Reaction[edit]

A negative reaction, where there is no significant swelling or discharge, suggests that the animal is not infected with glanders.

Significance[edit]

The Mallein test is an important tool in the control and eradication of glanders. It allows for the identification and isolation of infected animals, thereby preventing the spread of the disease to other animals and humans.

Related pages[edit]

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-'''Mallein test''' is a diagnostic procedure used in veterinary medicine to detect the presence of ''[[Glanders]]'', a contagious and potentially fatal disease primarily affecting horses, but also capable of infecting donkeys, mules, and humans. The disease is caused by the bacterium ''[[Burkholderia mallei]]''. The mallein test, similar in principle to the [[Tuberculin skin test]] used in diagnosing tuberculosis in humans, involves the intradermal injection of mallein, a glycerin extract of cultures of ''Burkholderia mallei''. The test is based on the principle of delayed hypersensitivity; animals infected with the bacterium will exhibit a swelling at the site of injection, typically within 24 to 48 hours.
+{{Short description|A diagnostic test for glanders in horses}}
+{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2023}}
-==Procedure==
+== Mallein test ==
-The mallein test can be administered in several forms, including the ophthalmic test, where mallein is applied to the conjunctiva of the eye, and the more commonly used palpebral and subcutaneous tests. In the palpebral form, mallein is injected into the lower eyelid, while in the subcutaneous test, it is injected beneath the skin of the neck. The site of injection is observed for signs of inflammation and swelling, which, if present, indicate a positive reaction suggesting the animal is infected with ''Burkholderia mallei''.
+The '''Mallein test''' is a diagnostic procedure used to detect [[glanders]], a contagious and often fatal disease caused by the bacterium ''[[Burkholderia mallei]]''. This test is primarily used in [[equine]] species, such as [[horses]], [[mules]], and [[donkeys]].
-==Interpretation==
+[[File:Malleinprobe_1918.jpg|thumb|right|A historical depiction of the Mallein test being administered in 1918.]]
-A positive mallein test is characterized by significant swelling, heat, and possibly discharge at the site of injection, along with systemic signs of fever and lethargy. However, false positives can occur, and further diagnostic testing, including bacterial culture and PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction), may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis of glanders.
-==Regulation and Use==
+== History ==
-Due to the serious nature of glanders and its potential as a bioterrorism agent, the use of the mallein test is strictly regulated in many countries. It is an essential tool in the control and eradication programs for glanders, especially in regions where the disease is endemic. Quarantine and euthanasia of positive animals are common control measures to prevent the spread of the disease.
+The Mallein test was developed in the late 19th century as a means to control the spread of glanders, which was a significant problem in military and civilian horse populations. The test was named after the substance "mallein," which is derived from the bacterium ''Burkholderia mallei''.
-==History==
+== Procedure ==
-The mallein test was first developed in the late 19th century and has since been a critical component in the fight against glanders. Its development paralleled that of the tuberculin test, reflecting a significant advancement in veterinary diagnostics and infectious disease control.
+The Mallein test involves the intradermal injection of mallein, a protein derivative of ''Burkholderia mallei''. The test is typically administered in the lower eyelid or neck of the animal. After injection, the site is observed for a specific reaction, which usually occurs within 24 to 48 hours.
-==Limitations==
+=== Positive Reaction ===
-While the mallein test is valuable for screening purposes, it is not without limitations. False positives and negatives can occur, and the test's interpretation can be subjective. Additionally, the test does not differentiate between current and past infections, which can complicate efforts to control the disease in endemic areas.
+A positive reaction is characterized by swelling, purulent discharge, and sometimes fever. This indicates that the animal has been exposed to the glanders pathogen and has developed an immune response.
-==Conclusion==
+=== Negative Reaction ===
-The mallein test remains a cornerstone in the diagnosis and control of glanders in equine populations. Despite its limitations, when used alongside other diagnostic methods, it provides valuable information for managing this dangerous disease.
+A negative reaction, where there is no significant swelling or discharge, suggests that the animal is not infected with glanders.
-[[Category:Veterinary diagnostics]]
+== Significance ==
-[[Category:Infectious diseases]]
+The Mallein test is an important tool in the control and eradication of glanders. It allows for the identification and isolation of infected animals, thereby preventing the spread of the disease to other animals and humans.
+== Related pages ==
+* [[Glanders]]
+* [[Burkholderia mallei]]
+* [[Equine medicine]]
+* [[Veterinary diagnostics]]
+[[Category:Veterinary medicine]]
 [[Category:Equine diseases]]
-[[Category:Bacterial diseases]]
+[[Category:Diagnostic tests]]
-{{medicine-stub}}