Mycobacterium pinnipedii (a seal-adapted variant of M bovis) causes tuberculous lesions in fur seals and sea lions. The organism has been isolated from four species of fur seals and two species of sea lions in several countries as well as from some other animals. In seals, the organism causes lesions in the peripheral lymph nodes, spleen, peritoneum, and lungs. The presence of acid-fast organisms in the granulomatous lesions varies. Aerosols are considered the main route of transmission. Because of the zoonotic risk, precautions should be taken when handling these animals. (Also see Mycobacteriosis.)
OTHER TOPICS IN THIS CHAPTER
Tuberculosis and other Mycobacterial Infections
Overview of Tuberculosis and other Mycobacterial Infections
Tuberculosis in Cattle
Tuberculosis in Sheep and Goats
Tuberculosis in Deer and Elk
Tuberculosis in Horses
Tuberculosis in Elephants
Tuberculosis in Pigs
Tuberculosis in Dogs
Tuberculosis in Cats
Tuberculosis in Rabbits
Tuberculosis in Guinea Pigs
Tuberculosis in Nonhuman Primates
Tuberculosis in Free-ranging and Captive Hoofed Animals
Tuberculosis in Marine Mammals
Mycobacterial Infections Other than Tuberculosis