Tuberculosis in a semi free ranging spotted deer(Axis axis) in a zoological park in North India

Tuberculosis has been identified as a clinical entity of infectious nature in both captive and free ranging wild animals for over a century. Cervids are susceptible to tuberculosis caused by Mycobacterium spp.(M.bovis,... [ view full abstract ]

Tuberculosis has been identified as a clinical entity of infectious nature in both captive and free ranging wild animals for over a century. Cervids are susceptible to tuberculosis caused by Mycobacterium spp.(M.bovis, M.tuberculosis, M.avium) Malsi Deer Park, a mini zoo in North India had a history of average two deaths of Axis deer annually due to tuberculosis based on post mortem findings since last 3 years. Axis deer with a population of 70 is a species of major concern in this zoo.The objective of this case study was confirmative diagnosis of tuberculosis and prevention of further spreading of the disease to other animals and animal keepers by segregating the affected herd. Post mortem examination of a male adult Axis deer was performed. Pus swab from the abscess and tissue sample from lung and abscess cavity wall in 10% formalin was collected for histopathological and bacteriological examination respectively which were performed in three different laboratories. Post-mortem revealed presence of yellow tubercles throughout lung parenchyma. A superficial abscess with thick cream colored pus on right lateral side in neck region and another abscess with cream colored pasty and gritty pus at left lateral side of trachea were recorded. Histopathology reports from all the three laboratories confirmed Tuberculosis. Central University Laboratory also reported presence of acid fast bacilli. KVAFSU, Bengaluru has extracted DNA from the pus sample and PCR & sequencing is under process. It was a confirmed case of Tuberculosis and thus the protocol of immediate segregation of the exposed herd was followed. Further plan of action suggested is random screening of at least 25% of the total animal population in the zoo through Lateral flow assay and PCR followed by sequencing. Animal keepers would be screened through sputum test and TB GOLD Test.