Brucella Species and Brucellosis

Question 1

Describe Brucella structure

Answer 1

Pleomorphic, fastidious gram negative

Question 2

What animal harbours B. abortus and how do you get it?

Answer 2

In cattle, contaminated milk or direct contact (slaughterhouse).

Question 3

How fast does Brucella grow and in what key condition(s)?

Answer 3

SLOWLY, 10% CO2

Question 4

What animal harbours B. Suis and how do you get it?

Answer 4

Swine, tissue contact, airborne

Question 5

What animal harbours B. Melitensis and how do you get it?

Answer 5

Goats, sheep. Unpasteurized milk and goat cheese.

Question 6

What organ system does Brucellosis affect?

Answer 6

Reticuloendothelial system (macrophages and monocytes)

Question 7

Describe the pathogenesis of Brucellosis

Answer 7

Organisms ingested by PMN, multiply in monocytes, form granulomas in kidney, liver, spleen, and bone marrow.

Question 8

Name the clinical symptoms of Brucellosis

Answer 8

Fever, chills, myalgias (muscle pain), headache, arthralgias (joint pain).

Question 9

Name 2 complications of Brucellosis

Answer 9

Osteomyelitis of vertebrae

Endocarditis (culture negative).

Question 10

How do you diagnose Brucellosis in difficult cases of unknown fever?

Answer 10

Bone marrow biopsy

Question 11

How do you treat brucellosis?

Answer 11

Doxycyline + rifamptin for 2 weeks.

Question 12

Name 2 ways to prevent brucellosis infections

Answer 12

1. Vaccination of young female calves.

2. Herd testing and elimination of infected cattle.