Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae (formerly Haemophilus pleuropneumoniae) causes a fatal pleuropneumonia or non fatal chronic respiratory disease. At least 7 serotypes (1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 11, 12) occur in Australia isolates are currently being serotyped at the Animal Research Institute, Yeerongpilly, Qld.

Diagnosis

Gross pathology, bacteriology and histopathology. Focal and diffuse gross lesions of reddish black colour with or without pleurisy are suggestive. Concurrent infection with Pasteurella multocida is not uncommon.

Specimens required

1. Fresh affected lung and bronchial lymph node for culture and PCR.
2. Fixed affected lung in buffered formalin for histopathology.