For half of the living history of the world, bacterial species were alone on the planet. By virtue of their unimaginable variety, overwhelming number and spectacular adaptability to diverse environments, bacteria represent the greatest success story amongst living organisms. Bacterial symbiosis is even thought to have led to the ultimate of successful co-existence true integration in the case of mitochondria. Unfortunately, some host-microbe relationships are more detrimental than beneficial for the host. Mycobacterial infections, the topic of this special issue of the Scientific and Technical Review , exemplify this type of costly association.
Mycobacteria represent a thriving and ingenious family in the microbial domain.
Having thus defused a key weapon in the immune arsenal, the bacilli flourish for years prior to killing or debilitating the host. The many economic and animal health impacts of this successful strategy are examined here. The co-ordinators thank the authors for generously donating their valuable time, experience and knowledge to this endeavour. Sincere thanks are also due to Gill Dilmitis, Head of the Publications Department at the Office International des Epizooties and the editorial staff of the Scientific and Technical Review for their many contributions to this useful volume.