Molecular diagnosis and management of leptospiral mastitis

Bovine Leptospirosis is one of the leading causes of abortion, infertility, stillbirths and sudden drop in milk production to complete agalactia in cattle and buffaloes. An outbreak in water buffaloes with the history of sudden appearance of bloody/ pinkish milk from all four quarters and decrease in milk production to complete agalactia was investigated in village Baghot, Mahendergarh, Haryana, India.

A total of fifty eight (n=58) biological samples (milk=38, blood=11 and urine =9) samples) from 17 buffaloes were collected from Baghot and its neighbouring villages of district Mahendergarh, Haryana, India. All collected samples were processed for molecular diagnosis using pathogenic Leptospira specific TaqMan probe based real-time PCR and nucleotide sequencing.

The pathogenic Leptospira spp. was detected in real time PCR from milk samples of 6 animals (35.2%) out of 17 buffaloes. None of the blood and urine sample was found positive for pathogenic leptosipra spp. PCR amplified product were further sequenced and confirmed pathogenic Leptospira spp. The affected animals in the village were treated with parenteral administration of Streptopenicillin, Tranexamic acid and Ascorbic acid for 3-5 days, in recommended doses. Treated animals responded positively to the therapeutic regimen. Furthermore, animal owners and veterinary staff were instructed to take protective measures to ensure no further spread to animals and humans.