Isolation of mycoplasmas from the respiratory tract of horses in Australia.

The research highlights the isolation of mycoplasmas, a type of bacteria, from the respiratory tract of horses in Australia. The bacteria was identified in both live and slaughtered horses, particularly in those with rhinitis.

Method of Collection and Identification

• The researchers collected respiratory samples from both living and slaughtered horses. This included 43 nasal swabs from live horses and 28 tracheal swabs from slaughtered horses.
• In their analysis, the team managed to isolate mycoplasmas from two of the nasal swabs taken from live horses and from one of the tracheal swabs taken from the slaughtered horses.

Findings

• Interestingly, the slaughtered horse that tested positive for mycoplasmas did not exhibit any gross pathological changes in the respiratory tract. This suggests that the presence of mycoplasmas may not always result in visible illness or diagnostic signs, and that testing may be needed to confirm their presence.
• Conversely, the nasal swabs that tested positive for mycoplasmas were taken from horses that were suffering from rhinitis, a condition characterized by inflammation of the mucous membrane of the nose.
• This association suggests a potential link between mycoplasma presence and the development or exacerbation of rhinitis in horses.

Characteristics of the Isolated Mycoplasmas

• The researchers concluded that the three isolated mycoplasmas displayed distinct cultural characteristics. Moreover, due to these differences, it’s likely that they represent three different species of mycoplasmas.
• The study makes clear the potential for multiple species of mycoplasma bacteria to be present in the equine respiratory system, and the possible health impacts of these bacteria.