Gallibacterium anatis infection in poultry: a comprehensive review

Abstract

Gallibacterium anatis (G. anatis), a member of the Pasteurellaceae family, normally inhabits the upper respiratory and lower genital tracts of poultry. However, under certain circumstances of immunosuppression, co-infection (especially with Escherichia coli or Mycoplasma), or various stressors, G. anatis caused respiratory, reproductive, and systemic diseases. Infection with G. anatis has emerged in different countries worldwide. The bacterium affects mainly chickens; however, other species of domestic and wild birds may get infected. Horizontal, vertical, and venereal routes of G. anatis infection have been reported. The pathogenicity of G. anatis is principally related to the presence of some essential virulence factors such as Gallibacterium toxin A, fimbriae, haemagglutinin, outer membrane vesicles, capsule, biofilms, and protease. The clinical picture of G. anatis infection is mainly represented as tracheitis, oophoritis, salpingitis, and peritonitis, while other lesions may be noted in cases of concomitant infection. Control of such infection depends mainly on applying biosecurity measures and vaccination. The antimicrobial sensitivity test is necessary for the correct treatment of G. anatis. However, the development of multiple drug resistance is common. This review article sheds light on G. anatis regarding history, susceptibility, dissemination, virulence factors, pathogenesis, clinical picture, diagnosis, and control measures.

Characterization of Gallibacterium anatis Isolated from Pathological Processes in Domestic Mammals and Birds in the Czech Republic

“…Gallibacterium anatis , a member of the Pasteurellaceae family [ 1 ], is widely recognized as an inhabitant of the respiratory, intestinal, and genital tracts, playing an important role as an opportunistic pathogen in poultry. Its significance in poultry has recently been comprehensively reviewed [ 2 , 3 ]. While G. anatis is infrequently isolated and characterized as an opportunistic pathogen in mammals, particularly in cattle [ 1 , 4 , 5 , 6 , 7 , 8 ], it has also been found in a range of human cases including chronic bronchitis [ 9 ], lung abscess [ 10 ], bacteremia leading to death in an immunocompromised patient [ 11 ], and cases of diarrhea [ 12 ].…”

“…In early references, the tissue origin of G. anatis isolates in cattle was unknown [ 3 , 4 , 5 ]. However, recent studies have indicated that the isolates originate from the respiratory system [ 4 , 6 , 7 ].…”