Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae

Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae (Enzootic Pneumonia)

Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae is the causative agent of enzootic pneumonia, a chronic respiratory disease in pigs that significantly reduces productivity in commercial herds. It is a key component of the Porcine Respiratory Disease Complex (PRDC), often acting synergistically with viruses such as PRRSV and Influenza A.

Transmission occurs via:

• Direct pig-to-pig contact, particularly in crowded or poorly ventilated systems
• Airborne spread over short distances
• Colonization of upper and lower respiratory tract epithelium

Clinical signs typically include:

• Dry, non-productive cough(especially post-weaning)
• Reduced weight gain and feed efficiency
• Mild fever and increased respiratory effort in severe cases
• Increased susceptibility to secondary bacterial infections (e.g., Pasteurella multocida )

qPCR testing offers:

• Highly sensitive detection of M. hyopneumoniae DNA from nasal swabs, tracheal swabs, or lung tissue
• Useful in both clinical diagnosis and surveillance in apparently healthy herds
• More reliable than culture, especially in animals pre-treated with antibiotics

This test supports:

• Monitoring and control programs in farrow-to-finish systems
• Early identification in suspected outbreaks, improving treatment decisions
• Assessment of vaccine efficacy or introduction status in high-health herds

Effective use of qPCR enables targeted control strategies, reduced antimicrobial use, and improved respiratory health in commercial swine operations.