Bacillus tuberculosis bovis is a subspecies of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex, a group of bacteria that is known to cause tuberculosis in various animals, including humans. It is commonly referred to as bovine tuberculosis, as it primarily infects cattle and other domesticated animals. This bacterial subspecies is related to the human tubercle bacillus, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, but there are slight genetic and phenotypic differences that distinguish B. tuberculosis bovis.
Bacillus tuberculosis bovis is a small, rod-shaped bacterium that is gram-positive, meaning it retains a violet stain in the Gram staining technique. It is an obligate aerobe, requiring oxygen to survive and grow. In terms of pathogenesis, this bacterium is known to be very similar to its human counterpart, M. tuberculosis. It primarily infects the respiratory system, causing granulomatous lesions in the lungs. The bacterium can also spread to other organs and tissues, including lymph nodes, the liver, and even bones.
Transmission of B. tuberculosis bovis most commonly occurs through contact with infected animals or consumption of contaminated animal products, such as unpasteurized milk. In humans, contact with infected animals or consumption of raw milk products are the primary routes of infection. The symptoms of infection are similar to those caused by other forms of tuberculosis, including persistent cough, weight loss, fatigue, and night sweats.
Control and prevention of B. tuberculosis bovis primarily involves implementing measures to prevent the transmission of the bacterium from animals to humans. This includes regular testing and screening of livestock for the presence of the bacteria, as well as pasteurization of milk to eliminate any potential sources of infection. In humans, proper hygiene practices and avoiding contact with infected animals or consuming raw animal
