Natural Cilia-Associated Respiratory Bacillus Infection in Rabbits Used for Elaboration of Hyperimmune Serum Against Mycoplasma sp

Abstract

Cilia-associated respiratory (CAR) bacillus was identified in lung lesions of rabbits used for elaboration of hyperimmune serum against Mycoplasma mycoides ssp. capri (Mmc). Numerous Watthin Starry (WS) positive filamentous bacteria aligned perpendicularly to the surface of bronchial epithelial lining were observed. Immunoperoxidase staining of these bacteria was detected using a serum and-rabbit CAR bacillus. Ultrastructural morphology corresponds to that of CAR bacilli previously reported in rabbits. The desirability of monitoring laboratory rabbits for CAR bacillus infection as part of the health programme is reinforced, especially in rabbits used for raising sera against respiratory pathogens of animal species in which CAR bacillus infection has been described. This is the first report of natural CAR bacillus infection in rabbits in Europe.