Actinomyces bovis is a type of bacteria that can cause a serious condition in cattle called lumpy jaw. The word "Actinomyces" is spelled as /æktənoʊˈmaɪsiːz/ in IPA phonetic transcription, with stress on the second syllable, while "bovis" is spelled as /boʊvɪs/, with stress on the first syllable. The spelling reflects the Latin origin of the word "Actinomyces", which means "ray fungus", and the scientific name of cattle, which is "Bos taurus". Correct spelling of medical terms is essential for accurate communication in healthcare.
Actinomyces bovis is a gram-positive, anaerobic bacterium that belongs to the Actinomyces genus. It is commonly known as the causative agent of bovine actinomycosis, a chronic infectious disease found in cattle. Actinomyces bovis primarily affects the jawbones and related tissues of cattle, causing a condition commonly referred to as "lumpy jaw."
The bacteria can enter the animal's body through injuries or wounds in the mouth, such as tooth fractures or abrasions from sharp feed materials. Once inside, Actinomyces bovis forms characteristic yellow or sulfur granules that contain a mixture of bacteria, necrotic tissue, and inflammatory cells. These granules contribute to the formation of abscesses and fistulae, resulting in the swollen, hard, and lumpy appearance of the jaw.
Actinomyces bovis is an opportunistic pathogen that usually affects immunocompromised or debilitated animals. The disease progresses slowly over months or even years, with symptoms including weight loss, difficulty eating, excessive salivation, and swelling of the affected area. Diagnosis of bovine actinomycosis involves physical examination, sample collection for laboratory analysis, and imaging techniques like X-rays or computed tomography (CT) scans.
Treatment typically requires a combination of surgical intervention, antibiotic therapy, and proper supportive care. Affected animals may require surgical removal of abscesses, debridement of affected tissues, and long-term administration of antimicrobial agents to control the infection. Vaccination and management practices, such as improving hygiene and feeding practices, can help prevent the occurrence and spread of Actinomyces bovis infections in cattle populations.
Nocardia bovis, the specific cause of actinomycosis, or lumpy-jaw, in cattle.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "Actinomyces" is derived from the Greek words "aktis" meaning "ray" and "mykes" meaning "fungus". It was coined by the German botanist Otto Harz for a group of filamentous bacteria that had branched structures resembling rays.
The term "bovis" is Latin for "of cattle". Actinomyces bovis is a specific species of bacteria that was first isolated from bovine (cattle) jaw abscesses in the late 19th century. The name "bovis" highlights the association of this bacterium with cattle.