Molecular testing for brucellosis is used to determine with certainty if an infection is due to this particular microbe.
The genus Brucella comprises 4 major species: Brucella abortus (in cattle), Brucella melitensis (in goat and sheep), Brucella suis (in pig) and Brucella canis (in dog). These microbes cause brucellosis (also called Malta fever), a typical zoonosis that mainly affects farm animals and pets (cattle, goats, dogs, pigs, etc.). Brucellas are small, Gram-negative, unflagellated coccobacilli.
Brucellosis in humans results from direct contact with sick animals (sheep, goats, cattle, bison, dogs, pigs, camels, etc.) or indirectly through the consumption of contaminated foods, in particular unpasteurized milk and dairy products. Bacteria invade the body, either through the mucosa of the upper gastrointestinal and respiratory tracts or through damage to the skin. From there they are transported from the macrophages within which they can survive to the lymph nodes, where lymphadenitis develops. The pathogenic microbes can be transmitted from the affected lymph nodes, initially through the lymph and later to the bloodstream, eventually reaching the liver, spleen, bones, bone marrow, and other tissues of the reticuloendothelial system (RES), within which cells can survive or even multiply. Granulomas are typically created by the intracellular growth of microbes. From these inflammatory sites, Brucellas can enter the bloodstream from time to time, causing one of the typical febrile episodes, usually present at night and accompanied by chills. The incubation period is 2-3 weeks.
Brucellosis is characterized by irregular fever, sweating, weakness, anorexia, headaches, depression, myalgia, and arthralgia.
Brucellosis is a zoonosis that affects animals around the world. Infections with B. melitensis occur more frequently in Mediterranean countries, Latin America, and Asia. B. abortus infections were more common in Central Europe.
Important Note
Laboratory test results are the most important parameter for the diagnosis and monitoring of all pathological conditions. 70%-80% of diagnostic decisions are based on laboratory tests. The correct interpretation of laboratory results allows a doctor to distinguish "healthy" from "diseased".
Laboratory test results should not be interpreted from the numerical result of a single analysis. Test results should be interpreted in relation to each individual case and family history, clinical findings, and the results of other laboratory tests and information. Your personal physician should explain the importance of your test results.
At Diagnostiki Athinon we answer any questions you may have about the test you perform in our laboratory and we contact your doctor to get the best possible medical care.
