[Canine brucellosis in a beagle breeding colony (author's transl)]

Evaluation of a microplate agglutination test (MAT) for serological diagnosis of canine brucellosis

A microplate agglutination test (MAT) was compared with the tube agglutinin test (TAT), a standard test for the diagnosis of Brucella canis, in terms of the sensitivity and specificity. The results showed that MAT was more sensitive, simpler to perform and easier to read the results than TAT. On top of that the MAT allows us to handle a larger number of samples at once. Using this method we conducted sero-surveillance of the prevalence of B. canis in dogs kept in an Animal Shelter located in Kanagawa Prefecture. Twelve of 485 (2.5%) showed seropositive against B. canis. These results indicate that B. canis infection in dogs is still occurring in Japan.

Canine brucellosis: outbreaks and compliance

Canine infertility has many causes that must be considered during evaluation of abnormal reproductive function. An important infectious agent is Brucella canis. Classically deemed a major reason of abortion, this organism also produces infertility in stud dogs and poses a potential health hazard to dogs and humans. The State of Georgia has, out of necessity, instigated regulations to manage outbreaks and seek compliance by educating the pet owner population about this disease. A review of its etiology, methods of transmission, pathophysiology, clinical signs, diagnosis, serology and culture, pathology, treatment options, and regulated prevention featured by Georgia, are presented.

Canine brucellosis: bacteriological and serological investigation of naturally infected dogs in Mexico City

Bacteriological investigation of canine brucellosis in Mexico City revealed a high rate (11.8%) of Brucella canis infection in a sampling of 59 stray dogs. When conservative criteria were employed in the interpretation of serological test results, there was general agreement between the serological and bacteriological findings; however, some animals with localized male genital tract infections could not be judged as infected solely by serological tests. All Mexican field isolates were identified as B. canis; however, some diversity was observed as regards nitrate reduction, growth in the presence of basic fuchsine, and the degree of mucoidness. The seemingly high prevalence of B. canis infection in Mexico City dogs suggests the need for further inquiry into the possible public health significance.