Tuberculosis is primarily transmitted through aerosol droplets, but it can also be transmitted through milk and infected meat. The mycobacterial species most frequently associated with disease are M. tuberculosis and M. bovus . M. avium and M. intercellare commonly known as the M. avium complex. However, there is an increased incidence of M. avium complex infections in AIDS patients, Basset Hounds, and Siamese Cats due to their immune compromised states. Protective immunity to intracellular bacteria such as mycobacteria and Salmonella is dependent on activation of macrophages by type 1 cytokines.
Mycobacterial infections are for the most part uncommon in dogs and cats.
Recently there have been antedotal reports of Mycobacterium avium infections in related Miniature Schnauzers from several different locations in the United States. At this time it is not known if this is a problem in all Schnauzers or only certain breeding lines. We are requesting blood samples from Schnauzers from different parts of the country to better determine if there is a genetic basis for the apparent increased risk for mycobacterial infections in Schnauzers. All testing results will be kept strictly confidential. Dr Lothrop is not soliciting samples from the general Schnauzer population at this time.