Trueperella pyogenes

Trueperella pyogenes is a Gram-positive bacterium that is known to cause various infections in animals, particularly in livestock. It is a facultative anaerobe and is characterized by its rod-shaped morphology. This bacterium is a significant pathogen in veterinary medicine, often associated with suppurative infections.

Taxonomy and Classification

Trueperella pyogenes belongs to the phylum Actinobacteria, which includes high G+C content bacteria. It was previously classified under the genus Arcanobacterium but was reclassified to the genus Trueperella based on phylogenetic and phenotypic analyses.

Morphology and Physiology

Trueperella pyogenes is a small, rod-shaped bacterium that can appear as cocci. It is non-motile and does not form spores. The bacterium is facultatively anaerobic, meaning it can grow in both the presence and absence of oxygen. It is catalase-negative and produces beta-hemolysis on blood agar.

Pathogenesis

Trueperella pyogenes is an opportunistic pathogen that can cause a variety of infections, including mastitis, endometritis, arthritis, and abscesses. It is commonly found in the mucous membranes of healthy animals but can cause disease when the host's immune system is compromised or when there is a breach in the mucosal barrier.

Clinical Significance

Infections caused by Trueperella pyogenes are of significant concern in the livestock industry due to their impact on animal health and productivity. The bacterium is known to cause mastitis in dairy cattle, leading to decreased milk production and quality. It can also cause endometritis in cows, which can affect fertility.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis of Trueperella pyogenes infections typically involves bacterial culture and identification from clinical samples. Treatment often includes the use of antibiotics, although resistance can be an issue. Commonly used antibiotics include penicillin and tetracycline, but susceptibility testing is recommended to guide therapy.

Prevention and Control

Preventive measures include maintaining good hygiene and biosecurity practices on farms to reduce the risk of infection. Regular monitoring and early treatment of infections can help control the spread of Trueperella pyogenes.

Related Pages

• Gram-positive bacteria
• Mastitis
• Endometritis
• Abscess
• Actinobacteria