Clinical, Serological, Hormonal, Bacteriological and Molecular Detection of Brucellosis in Aborted Cows and Buffalos

Abstract

Abortion is the most obvious manifestation of Brucella infection. In this study, 59 aborted buffalos and 91 aborted cows were included. Diagnosis of Brucella infection in these abortions was based on clinical, serological, bacteriological, hormonal, and molecular assays. Serological studies included the use of RB and ELISA tests as screening tests for infection. Argumentative differences between RB and ELISA results have been shown. Brucella isolated and identified from aborted fetuses, vaginal discharge and milk samples were 7 isolates from aborted cows and 3 from aborted buffalos. Brucella isolates revealed amplification of a 223-bp fragment with B4 and B5 primers. Hormonal assessment in both, brucella infected cows and buffalos, registered significant decrease in progesterone and P/E ratio in comparison with that aborted due to other causes. Immunohistochemical study revealed down expression level of 3BHSD enzyme in placentas of Brucella positive animals. ELISA technique was the valuable serological test to confirm the diagnosis of brucellosis. In conclusion, both RB and ELISA are necessary to be performed together as screening tests in diagnosis of brucellosis, whereas serum hormonal, placental immunohistochemical, and molecular (PCR) assessments have an efficient diagnostic values which can be included for confirmation of brucellosis.