Due to the treatment and prevention programs set in place for Streptococcus agalactiae and Staphylococcus aureus, there has been an increase in Mycoplasma-induced mastitis occurrence. Mycoplasmas are very small microorganisms that lack a bacterial cell wall and can be cultured from various locations on both the bodies of sick and healthy cattle. Several species can cause mastitis, including M. bovis (the most common species cultured from the udder; commensal organism of the respiratory tract), M. alkalescens (commonly cultured from the respiratory tract as well), M. bovigenitalium (commonly cultured from the reproductive tract), and M. canadense (commonly cultured from the joints). M. bovis is an important cause of respiratory disease in calves and feedlot cattle. M. bovis has also been involved in joint infections, as well as in abortions and ear infections in calves.
Mastitis: Mycoplasmopsis (Mycoplasma) Diagnostic Aid
Download CL-Res-61-Mycoplasma-Background-and-Control-1