D311 - Brucella canis

Description:

Brucellosis is a disease caused by the bacteria Brucella canis, which is found throughout the world. It is spread through contact with aborted fetuses, discharges from the uterus of infected bitches, during mating, through maternal milk and possibly through airborne transmission in some cases. The bacteria enter the body through mucous membranes and spreads from there to lymph nodes and the spleen. It also spreads to the uterus, placenta and prostate gland as well as other internal organs at times. In female dogs, infection leads to abortion or early death of infected puppies. Infected females may have no other clinical signs. In some cases there may be decreased fertility rather than abortion. This may be due to resorption of fetuses early in their development. In male dogs, infection of the testicles can lead to infertility due to anti-sperm antibodies developed as the body attempts to fight off the bacterial infection. The testes may atrophy after the initial period of swelling. Scrotal enlargement or infection of the skin over the scrotum may be seen. In both female and male dogs there may be infection of spinal discs (diskospondylitis) which can cause back pain and rear leg weakness or even paralysis. Brucellosis is very difficult to treat successfully. A combination of minocycline and streptomycin is thought to be most effective but is expensive. Tetracycline can be substituted for the minocylcine to reduce costs but also lowers the effectiveness of treatment. All infected animals should be neutered or spayed to prevent sexually related transmission. All infected animals should be considered to be lifelong carriers of the disease, even if treated. It would probably be best not to breed dogs without testing both the male and female for this disease. Breeding should be a deliberate choice - not a random event. For breeding kennels, routine isolation of new dogs would be a very good idea. After isolation, negative tests at entry into the kennel and one month later, it should be safe to let the new dog mix with the others in the kennel.

Diagnosis:

The PCR test for Brucella canis. Positive result confirms Brucella infection.

Sample:

1. Whole blood (3 ml) in a lavender top (EDTA) tube.
2. Uterine swab.
3. Semen for artificial insemination.

Special Handling:

Store samples at 4°C until pick up or shipment.

Test Code:

D311

1. Carmichael et al. (1996) Canine brucellosis: a diagnostician's dilemma. Semin Vet Med Surg (Small Animals).11: 161-5.