Focus on mycobacterial infections

    Andrew Wales, Joanna Lawes and Robert Davies recently reviewed raw diets for canine and feline patients focusing on microbiological hazards for the Journal of Small Animal Practice,1 here they summarize their findings including information to pass to clients when discussing this type of diet.

The number of cases of mycobacterial infections being recognised in small companion animals is slowly increasing, although it should be borne in mind that the number of confirmed cases of M. bovis remains very low. However, in view of the public health implications, it is important that veterinary surgeons have access to accurate information on which to base decisions related to diagnosis and management in order to provide accurate advice to their clients. Last reviewed 2016. The information in this SID is still valid as far as BSAVA Scientific Committee is aware but is not under active review at this time. The Committee will review this content if any new information comes to light.

Microorganisms interact continuously with animal hosts. Occasionally this leads to infection and disease in the host. Detection and identification of an infecting microorganism depends on good sampling technique, competent laboratory methodology and an understanding of the pathogenicity of specific microorganisms. This chapter looks at collection and storage of samples for culture, microscopy and staining, bacterial and fungal identification, significance of bacterial isolates, PCR testing, antigen detection and serology, antimicrobial susceptibility testing, in-practice bacterial culture and antimicrobial susceptibility testing and multidrug-resistant bacterial pathogens. The chapter also includes case examples.