Chelonian
Mycoplasma sp and Herpes viral infections
In turtles and tortoises,
an infection with a virulent Mycoplasma agassizii strain causes the so-called Upper Respiratory Tract Disease (URTD).
This disease is characterised clinically by serous, progressing to a purulent oculo-nasal discharge. Conjunctivitis and ocular
oedema are also clinical presentations. Lethargy, dehydration and anorexia can occur with severe clinical disease. It has
been implicated as a cause of widespread mortality in wild and captive chelonians. A substantial characteristic of Mycoplasmosis
is latency, without causing disease symptoms. Secondary infections are common and it has also been identified in combination
with Herpes virus infections. Herpes viral infections are
also commonly found and can lead to a variety of clinical signs ranging from conjunctivitis, nasal discharge and stomatitis.
In severe cases this can lead to secondary infections with fungal and bacterial pathogens. Pneumonia, lymphoproliferative
disease and a haemorrhagic syndrome have been reported in captive chelonians with herpes viruses. Latency is also a feature
of these viruses and an infected animal is considered a potential carrier for the rest of its life.
A direct detection of Mycoplasma
can be done via culture or by means of PCR. However, the detection via culture can take up to six weeks, while the success
is also dependent on the quality of the sample material. In contrast, the PCR enables a diagnosis within 7 days.
Herpes viruses can typically
be detected from cytology or histopathology samples in clinical cases. However if there is minimal exudate this may be impractical.
Herpes virus PCR is available and is the most useful screening tool.
Suitable samples to consider submitting: Conjunctival swabs, mouth swabs, nasal flush sample.
Cost of Mycoplasma PCR or Herpes PCR
£28.00
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