A rare case of bovine tuberculosis caused by Mycobacterium bovis in a domestic rabbit

ABSTRACT

A 12-month-old domestic rabbit died suddenly without specific clinical signs. Gross examination revealed irregular yellowish hepatic nodules with pus in the submandibular muscles, lungs, uterus, and small intestines. Histopathological examination of the liver showed granulomatous inflammation with acid-fast-positive bacteria. Mycobacterium bovis SB1040 was identified by polymerase chain reaction and spoligotyping, and Pasteurella multocida was isolated from the multiple lesions. This report demonstrates the pathological features of rare bovine tuberculosis (bTB) in a domestic rabbit, the first case in the Republic of Korea. To ensure public safety, we recommend routine monitoring of rabbits to control the incidence of bTB.