Work

The use of real-time PCR in the diagnosis and monitoring of Mycoplasma haemofelis copy number in a naturally infected cat

Year: 2004

Type: article

Abstract: A 5-year-old male neutered cat was diagnosed with severe anaemia due to acute Mycoplasma haemofelis infection. Inflammatory respiratory disease was present concurrently. The cat was treated successfully using a fresh transfusion of whole blood and a 6 week course of doxycycline. The patient made a rapid recovery although the allergic airway disease subsequently required specific therapy consisting of inhaled fluticasone and salbutamol. Real-time quantitative PCR assays confirmed the presence of M. haemofelis DNA copies in the blood at presentation. Repeat PCR assays showed a reduction in copy number during treatment and negative PCR results were obtained both 91 and 425 days after presentation. The report describes, for the first time, the use of real-time PCR in the diagnosis and monitoring of natural M. haemofelis copy number, as well as the induction of long-term negative PCR status.

Source: Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery

DOI: 10.1016/j.jfms.2003.12.004

Authors: J.A. Braddock, S. Tasker, R. Malik

Institutions: The University of Sydney, University of Bristol

Language: English

Topic: Microbial infections and disease research

Subfield: Microbiology

Field: Immunology and Microbiology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: green

Funders: Pfizer, GlaxoSmithKline, Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons Charitable Trust, University of Sydney