Brucella canis

Brucella canis is a species of the genus Brucella, which is a group of Gram-negative bacteria. This particular species is known to cause brucellosis in dogs, and it can also infect humans, although such cases are rare. Brucella canis is a significant pathogen in veterinary medicine due to its impact on canine health and its zoonotic potential.

Characteristics

Brucella canis is a small, non-motile, aerobic coccobacillus. It is a facultative intracellular pathogen, meaning it can survive and replicate within host cells. The bacterium is known for its ability to evade the host's immune system, leading to chronic infections. It is typically transmitted through contact with infected animals or their secretions.

Pathogenesis

The pathogenesis of Brucella canis involves the bacterium entering the host through mucous membranes or broken skin. Once inside, it is phagocytosed by macrophages and other immune cells. However, Brucella canis has evolved mechanisms to survive and replicate within these cells, avoiding destruction by the host's immune system. This intracellular lifestyle allows the bacteria to disseminate throughout the body, leading to systemic infection.

Clinical Manifestations

In dogs, Brucella canis infection can lead to a variety of clinical signs, including reproductive issues such as abortion, infertility, and epididymitis. Other symptoms may include lethargy, lameness, and lymphadenopathy. In humans, infection is rare but can cause flu-like symptoms, including fever, fatigue, and joint pain.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Brucella canis infection is typically achieved through serological tests, such as the rapid slide agglutination test (RSAT) or the agar gel immunodiffusion (AGID) test. Culture of the organism from blood or tissue samples can also be performed, although it is less commonly used due to the risk of laboratory-acquired infections.

Treatment

Treatment of Brucella canis infection in dogs often involves a combination of antibiotics, such as doxycycline and rifampin. However, treatment can be challenging due to the bacterium's ability to persist within host cells. Infected animals may require long-term therapy and monitoring.

Prevention

Preventing Brucella canis infection involves controlling the spread of the bacterium among dog populations. This includes testing and isolating infected animals, practicing good hygiene, and implementing biosecurity measures in breeding facilities. Vaccines are not currently available for Brucella canis.

Related Pages

• Brucellosis
• Zoonosis
• Veterinary medicine

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  Brucella canis

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  Brucella canis