Neurological meningoencephalitis by Streptococcus gallolyticus in turkey poults
A case report published in Avian Diseases describes neurological issues in turkey poults linked to Streptococcus gallolyticus subsp. pasteurianus. This report highlights two outbreaks in the U.S. Midwest, presenting significant findings from necropsy and histopathological examinations. The study provides important insights into the health challenges faced by poultry, contributing to the broader understanding of avian diseases. The report documents neurological issues in turkey poults associated with meningoencephalitis caused by Streptococcus gallolyticus subsp. pasteurianus. Two outbreaks were recorded in commercial turkey flocks submitted to the Veterinary Diagnostic Lab at the University of Arkansas between July and August 2023. The affected poults exhibited neurological signs, including ataxia and depression, with acute mortality observed in the flocks.
In Outbreak 1, no significant macroscopic lesions were noted in the brain, but slightly enlarged spleens were observed.
In Outbreak 2, pale and enlarged spleens, pale brain tissue, and blood vessel congestion of the meninges were identified in some poults. Cultures from the affected birds yielded small, gray, mucoid-like alpha-hemolytic colonies, confirming the presence of S. gallolyticus. Histological examination indicated meningoencephalitis, characterized by inflammatory cell infiltration in the meninges and brain tissue. The report confirms that S. gallolyticus subsp. pasteurianus can cause severe neurological disease in turkey poults, leading to significant mortality. Similar clinical presentations were observed in subsequent flocks, suggesting a potential for recurrent infections on the same farm. Penicillin administered through the drinking water was found to be effective in reducing mortality and resolving clinical signs within 48 hours of treatment.
