Chlamydophila caviae

A bacterium that infects guinea pigs

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Chlamydophila caviae
Kingdom:
Phylum:	Chlamydiota
Class:	Chlamydiia
Order:	Chlamydiales
Family:	Chlamydiaceae

Chlamydophila caviae is a species of bacteria in the family Chlamydiaceae. It is an obligate intracellular pathogen that primarily infects guinea pigs, causing a condition known as guinea pig inclusion conjunctivitis (GPIC). This bacterium is of particular interest in veterinary medicine and research due to its similarities with other chlamydial infections in humans and animals.

Characteristics

Chlamydophila caviae is a Gram-negative bacterium that is non-motile and coccoid in shape. Like other members of the genus Chlamydophila, it has a unique biphasic developmental cycle consisting of an infectious elementary body (EB) and a replicative reticulate body (RB). The elementary body is the extracellular, infectious form that can survive outside the host cell, while the reticulate body is the intracellular, non-infectious form that replicates within the host cell.

Pathogenesis

The primary disease associated with Chlamydophila caviae is guinea pig inclusion conjunctivitis. This condition is characterized by inflammation of the conjunctiva, leading to symptoms such as redness, swelling, and discharge from the eyes. The infection is typically transmitted through direct contact with infected secretions or contaminated surfaces.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Chlamydophila caviae infection in guinea pigs is usually based on clinical signs and laboratory tests. Laboratory confirmation can be achieved through polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays, which detect the presence of chlamydial DNA, or through serological tests that identify antibodies against the bacterium.

Treatment

Treatment of Chlamydophila caviae infections in guinea pigs often involves the use of antibiotics such as tetracyclines. Supportive care, including cleaning of the eyes and maintaining good hygiene, is also important in managing the condition.

Research and Importance

Chlamydophila caviae serves as a model organism for studying chlamydial infections due to its similarities with human chlamydial pathogens, such as Chlamydia trachomatis. Research on this bacterium helps in understanding the pathogenesis, immune response, and potential treatments for chlamydial diseases.

Also see

• Chlamydia trachomatis
• Chlamydophila pneumoniae
• Chlamydophila psittaci
• Conjunctivitis
• Zoonosis