Recent Approaches in Diagnosis and Control of Mycobacterial Infections with Special Reference to Mycobacterium Avium Subspecies

Abstract

In ruminants, Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP) causes chronic persistent infection in intestine and is also known as paratuberculosis/Johne's disease (JD). It is increasingly being recognized as a problem that adversely affects animal health leading to significant economic losses to livestock industry. Recent emerging evidences have established a link between MAP and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)/Crohn's disease (CD) suggesting its zoonotic importance. There are a range of tests (conventional, serological and molecular) to diagnose MAP infected animals/individuals and/or herds/flocks. However, sensitivity and specificity of these tests vary according to stage of the disease. The correct choice and application of each of these diagnostic tests depends on need and may allow establishing a control program. Many steps have been undertaken to control and eradicate the disease. However, no significant success have been achieved till date by controlling infection through hygienic management as well as culling of infected animals thereby increasing the necessity of vaccination. As MAP cannot be killed by pasteurization, both raw and pasteurized milk are considered as a vehicle of transmission of this bacterium to humans. Present paper comprehensively reviews the diagnostic and control strategies for infections due to mycobacteria specially giving importance to Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis.