Mycoplasma Synoviae (MS) infection most frequently occurs as subclinical upper respiratory tract infection inducing airsac lesions. After MS becomes systemic it can induce acute to chronic infection of synovial membranes of joints and tendons resulting in synovitis, tendovaginitis or bursitis. Recently MS was isolated from laying flocks with drop in egg production and/or misshapen eggs (so called “glass window eggs”).
Transmission
Mycoplasma Synoviae is spread horizontally via direct contact and vertically from parent to progeny.
Species affected
Chickens and turkeys are the natural hosts for Mycoplasma synoviae. Other species can be infected but do not show clinical problems.
Clinical signs
First recognized signs are pale comb, lameness, retarded growth and, as the disease progresses, ruffled feathers, swelling of joints and breast blisters. Respiratory involvement is generally asymptomatic but is possible; usually 90-100% of the birds will be infected. Clinical synovitis varies around 5-15% in an infected flock. Mortality is low around 1% (exceptional up to 10%). More recent strains induced drop in egg production and/or misshapen eggs (so called “glass window eggs”).
Lesions
In general no lesions are found in the respiratory tract. At post mortem from the early stage of synovitis, a viscous creamy to gray exudate involving synovial membranes of tendon sheaths, joints and keel bursa can be found; other findings are liver and kidney swelling.
Diagnosis
Organism confirmatory diagnosis based on isolation and identification of Mycoplasma synoviae can be done by culturing or PCR. Serological monitoring can be done with serum plate agglutination (RPA), Elisa and HI tests.
Treatment
Mycoplasma synoviae is susceptible to several antibiotics. Antibiotic treatment will diminish clinical signs but not eliminate MS from a flock.
Control and prevention
Prevention by monitoring and vaccination has become a more effective method of combating the disease especially in layers. Economic losses in commercial layers can be reduced by proper use of MS vaccines. Eradication programs (first in breeder flocks), based on stringent monitoring and culling, are preferred in breeders to prevent vertical transmission and are only economically possible when prevalence is low.
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