Non-tuberculous Mycobacteria can Cause Disseminated Mycobacteriosis in Cats

We describe three cases of disseminated mycobacteriosis in cats, caused by M ycobacterium malmoense, M ycobacterium branderi/shimoidei and M. avium, with no identified underlying immunosuppression. In all cases, extracellular mycobacteria were seen in the pulmonary epithelium, intestinal lumen and glomerular tufts, which could affect the shedding of the organism. The present study highlights the importance of mycobacteriosis as a differential even in immunocompetent animals. Considering the close relationship of owners and pets and the potential presence of free mycobacteria in secretions, cats should be considered as a possible environmental reservoir for mycobacteria.
Source: Journal of Comparative Pathology - Category: Pathology Source Type: research