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PCR
Currently, three different types of haemotropic mycoplasmas with different pathogenicity have been described in cats. In addition to the strain Mycoplasma haemofelis , which is known as Ohio isolate, and the most commonly found California isolate, Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum , another strain, Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis , has been known for some years. The latter was first detected in cats in Switzerland, but seems to occur relatively rarely in Germany.
While Mycoplasma haemofelis can cause serious illness even in immunocompetent animals, an infection with Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum usually progresses subclinically in healthy animals. Coinfections are possible with clinical signs typically being more distinct than in monoinfections.
Natural infection probably occurs through vectors; particularly fleas, but also ticks and stinging insects are being discussed. Vertical transmission through the placenta and milk is also possible. Blood transfusions present a risk of infection, too, as well as direct transmission between animals through bite wounds.
Clinical signs in the acute phase are anaemia (haemolytic anaemia as cardinal symptom), fever, splenomegaly, general weakness and possibly polypnoea, tachycardia and icterus. The cause of haemolytic anaemia is damage of the erythrocyte membrane by haemotropic mycoplasmas. Because of the change in the erythrocyte surface, a secondary immune haemolytic anaemia can develop later on; in this case, the direct Coombs test will be positive. The main signs of a chronic infection include weight loss and intermittent fever. Studies have shown that a high percentage of the dog and cat population is infected without the animals showing any clinically relevant signs. These carriers present a particular risk for breeding and blood transfusions.
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Mycoplasma haemotropic
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