Pathological and Molecular Studies on Some Pathogenic Bacteria in Meleagris Gallopavo of Hybrid Converter Breeds in Egypt

Abstract

T URKEYS (Meleagris gallopavo) are prone to various pathogenic bacterial diseases that affect their production, yet little is known about their pathogenicity in hybrid converter breeds. Therefore, this study is an investigation of the most common bacterial diseases affecting turkeys and their pathological impact on the various tissues. Three turkey farms of hybrid converter breeds were checked in 2023 for any clinical signs. Recently, dead birds were necropsied, and all gross lesions were recorded. Samples from each farm were screened with real time qPCR for the presence of Salmonella typhimurium, E. coli, Clostridium perfringens, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Mycoplasma gallisepticum, and Pasteurella multocida. Tissue samples were subjected to histopathological techniques to determine various microscopic lesions. Real time qPCR revealed that Salmonella, E. coli, and Pseudomonas were positive in all examined farm samples. While clostridia and Mycoplasma were positive in one farm sample, On the other hand, none of the tested samples were positive for Pasteurella. Histopathological examination revealed congestion, necrosis, and leukocytic cell infiltration in multiple organs. This histopathological evidence highlights the health risks associated with these infections in the farm. Further investigation is needed to determine the source of contamination and implement appropriate control measures to prevent the spread of these pathogens.