Harry Hariharan

An investigation of bacterial causes of arthritis in slaughter hogs

Joints from 153 arthritic and 80 normal slaughter hogs were examined by culture for presence of bacteria. Although none of the normal joints yielded bacteria, 37% of the disease joints were positive for bacterial growth. Of 67 bacterial isolates obtained, 45% were Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae. Occurrence of other bacteria in order of their frequency was Streptococcus suis (16%), Actinomyces pyogenes (10%), Mycoplasma spp. including 3 M. hyorhinis isolates (7%), staphylococci (7%), Streptococcus spp. (6%), and organisms of uncertain significance (7%).

Isolation of Bacteroides Ureolyticus from the Equine Endometrium

not be completely eliminated by hydrogen peroxide in methanol incubation. Occasional diffuse background staining was also detected. However, none of the background staining caused confusion in interpretation when appropriate negative control antiserum was compared to Coxiella-specific serum, and careful morphologic examination was performed. We have adapted this technique for routine screening of ovine and caprine placental tissue from abortions. An immunoperoxidase technique applicable to paraffin sections for definitive detection of Coxiella burnetii in placental tissues can contribute to a rapid diagnosis while eliminating the source of laboratory infections from airborne dissemination of the rickettsiae present in fresh tissues. In addition, sample submission is convenient, and retrospective studies of stored specimens are possible. Definitive and rapid diagnosis of Coxiella-induced abortion will facilitate identification of infected dams in commercial and experimental flocks, thereby contributing significantly to prevention of Zoonotic transmission. Acknowledgements. We thank Victor Tobias, Antonia DeNubilo, and Carole Hoch in the Washington Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory for technical support. We would also like to thank Drs. Brad C. Barr, CVDLS, Davis, CA; Alan Bosemworth, NSDA/ADL, Reno, NV; and Barbara M. Daft, CVDLS, San Bernardino, CA, for submission of case material.

Zoonotic Bacteria Associated with Cats

Background: There are several bacterial pathogens, including Bartonella, and Pasteurella that have been known to cause human infections from contact with cats. Recently, certain bacteria have emerged as causes of infection in cats, resulting in transmission to humans. Objectives: This review presents updated information on the zoonotic bacterial pathogens associated with cats, with special emphasis on recent reports. Results: Presently, an increase in the incidence of cat-associated Yersinia pestis human infections in the western USA has become a concern. In addition, infections due to Mycobacterium bovis, and Brucella abortus, are being recognized. Also, a number of human infections due to Campylobacter, Helicobacter, and Salmonella from cats have been documented worldwide. In addition, spread of bacteria resistant to antimicrobial drugs from cats is becoming a possibility. Conclusion: Updated information shows that more zoonotic bacteria than previously recognized are associated with cats worldwide. Immunocompromised persons and young children are particularly at a risk of developing infection from household cats which are allowed to roam around outdoors. It is important to incorporate environmental and animal contact considerations into patient care. With proper handling and precautions, cats can help establish valuable humananimal bonds.

Serotypes of Pseudomonas aeruginosa from human and animal sources.

Forty human isolates and twenty-eight animal isolates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa from Prince Edward Island area (Atlantic Canada) were serotyped using a kit consisting of 4 polyvalent O-group antisera and 17 monovalent O-type (serovar) antisera, in accordance with the International Antigenic Typing Scheme. The results showed a difference between humans/dogs (50%/48% group I) and pigs (71% group IV). Whereas O-serovar 9 and 1 appeared to be most involved in human and canine infections, O-serovar 3 was the predominant type in porcine infections.