Camelidae and Cervidae Paratuberculosis Study Guide
Overview and Clinical Importance
Paratuberculosis (also known as Johne's disease) is a chronic, contagious, granulomatous enteritis caused by Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP). This disease affects domestic and wild ruminants as well as camelids (llamas, alpacas, guanacos, vicuñas) and cervids (deer, elk, moose, reindeer). It is characterized by progressive weight loss, protein-losing enteropathy, and ultimately death. There is no effective treatment or cure.
Paratuberculosis is a WOAH-listed disease (World Organisation for Animal Health) with worldwide distribution. The disease has significant economic impact on livestock industries and has been proposed as a potential zoonotic agent linked to Crohn's disease in humans, though this association remains controversial.
Etiology
Causative Agent
Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP) is a small, acid-fast, obligate intracellular pathogen that requires mycobactin J for growth in culture (mycobactin-dependent). Key characteristics include:
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