E2 Order Chamydiaceae Flashcards
What are the two important species in the family Chlamydiaceae?
- Chlamydia (no species discussed)
2. Chlamydophila
What is the gram reaction of the family Chlamydiaceae? What is special about their cell walls?
Gram-negative
Cell walls lack peptidoglycan!
What is unique about the family Chlamydiaceae’s metabolism?
Dependant of the host’s ATP
What two forms does the family Chlamydiaceae exist as?
- Elementary body
2. Reticulate body
Which form is infectious?
Elementary body
Which form replicates?
Reticulate body
What animals are affected by Chlamydophila psittaci?
Birds & HUMANS
What is important to remember about Chlamydophila psittaci infections?
It is a REPORTABLE disease!
What animal is least affected by Chlamydophila psittaci?
Chickens
What cells are infected by Chlamydophila psittaci?
- Epithelial cells
- Macrophages
- Synovial cells
What is the route of exposure to Chlamydophila psittaci infection?
Inhalation of droplets or fecal dust
What is the most infectious body substance in animals with Chlamydophila psittaci infections?
Feces
recovered birds shed organism for long periods
What are a few clinical sign in turkeys of Chlamydophila psittaci infection?
- Anorexia
- Conjunctivitis +/- discharge
- Green-yellow diarrhea
What are some of the most useful diagnostic tests for Chlamydophila psittaci infection?
- Culture in chicken embryos (cecal swab)
- Stained smears of infective tissue
- PCR
Is there a vaccine available for Chlamydophila psittaci in Turkeys?
No
What bacteria is the major cause of abortions in sheep & cattle?
Chlamydophila abortus!
What stage abortions occur with Chlamydophila abortus infection?
Late-term abortions
Is there a vaccine for Chlamydophila abortus?
Yes!
How does Chlamydophila abortus infection affect future fertility?
Animal remains fertile
Does Chlamydophila abortus infect humans?
No
What species are infected with Chlamydophila pecorum?
- Sheep & goats
2. Cattle
What type of disease does infection with Chlamydophila pecorum cause?
- Polyarthritis
- Conjunctivitis
- Diarrhea in young calves only
What age of animals are more affected by Chlamydophila pecorum infection? What animal was recently discovered to be susceptible to infection?
Young calves and lambs
Koalas!
What is the usual outcome of infection with pecorum in ruminants?
Spontaneous recovery (except in very young calves)
What clinical signs are caused by Chlamydophila felis infections in cats?
- Conjunctivitis
2. Pneumonitis
What age of animals are most susceptible to infection with Chlamydophila felis?
Young kittens
Is there a vaccine against Chlamydophila felis?
Yes
reduces severity of infection
How common is Chlamydophila felis infection in cats?
10-45% are seropositive
What can be permanently damaged in cats infected with Chlamydophila felis?
Corneal scarring can occur
