Parachlamydia acanthamoebae Infection and Abortion in Small Ruminants
2008

Parachlamydia acanthamoebae Infection and Abortion in Small Ruminants

Sample size: 211 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Ruhl Silke, Goy Genevieve, Casson Nicola, Thoma Rudolf, Pospischil Andreas, Greub Gilbert, Borel Nicole

Primary Institution: University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland

Hypothesis

What is the prevalence of C. abortus and P. acanthamoebae infections in abortions in small ruminants?

Conclusion

Parachlamydia spp. should be considered a new abortigenic agent in sheep and goats.

Supporting Evidence

  • 55 out of 211 specimens were positive for Chlamydiaceae.
  • Only 2 specimens were positive for Parachlamydia spp.
  • Parachlamydia spp. was detected in both a goat and a sheep placenta.

Takeaway

This study found that a germ called Parachlamydia can make sheep and goats have babies that don't survive, and it can also make people sick.

Methodology

The study analyzed formalin-fixed placenta and fetal organs from small ruminants using histopathologic examination and real-time PCR.

Participant Demographics

144 goats and 86 sheep were included in the study.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.3201/eid1412.080582

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