What is the Difference Between Brucella Abortus and Melitensis?

Brucella abortus and Brucella melitensis are two different species of the Brucella bacteria, which can cause brucellosis in animals and humans. Here are the main differences between them:

1. Host animals: B. abortus is primarily associated with cattle, while B. melitensis is mainly found in goats and sheep.
2. Pathogenicity: B. melitensis is considered the most pathogenic of the two species, causing more frequent and severe infections in humans.
3. Geographical distribution: B. abortus is found in many African, European, Asian, and American countries, while B. melitensis is less widespread.
4. Detection: Traditional identification of Brucella species relies on culture, isolation, and subsequent analysis using morphology, biochemical tests, reaction with monospecific antisera, sensitivity to dyes, and phage lysis. However, molecular methods have been developed to detect Brucella at the species level, such as PCR and recombinase polymerase amplification assays.
5. Vaccination: The choice of vaccine type depends on the prevalent Brucella species in a region. If B. melitensis is endemic, B. melitensis vaccines like B. melitensis Rev.1 or B. melitensis M5 can be used, while B. abortus vaccines are preferred in regions where B. melitensis is not endemic.

Comparative Table: Brucella Abortus vs Melitensis

Here is a table comparing the differences between Brucella abortus and Brucella melitensis:

Brucella abortus is primarily associated with cattle and causes brucellosis, leading to abortions and reproductive problems in the host animals. It can also be transmitted from cattle to humans, causing illness.

Brucella melitensis is associated with goats, sheep, and camels, causing brucellosis with symptoms of abortions and reproductive problems in these animals. It can also be transmitted to humans, leading to illness.

Molecular techniques, such as PCR and DNA amplification, are used for the detection and differentiation of Brucella species, including B. abortus and B. melitensis.