Incidental Isolation of Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis from the urine of a Clinically Healthy dog: A rare case report

Background: Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis is a well-known pathogen in small ruminants but is rarely reported in dogs. Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis is a globally distributed pathogen that primarily affects sheep and goats, causing caseous lymphadenitis. In horses, it leads to ulcerative lymphangitis and abscesses in the ventral thoracic and abdominal regions. Although less frequent, infections have also been reported in cattle, buffaloes, swine, and camels. The bacterium occasionally exhibits zoonotic potential. Identifying such an infection in a clinically healthy canine patient is unusual and may provide valuable insights into the potential role of dogs as incidental hosts. Methods: A ۲-year-old intact male native dog with no remarkable history or clinical signs underwent ultrasonographic evaluation of the urinary system. Both kidneys and urinary bladder wall thickness appeared normal, but hyperechoic particles were detected in the bladder. To determine the nature of these particles, cystocentesis was performed, and urine samples were submitted for urinalysis and culture, blood samples were also sent to lab for complementary evaluation. Results: Macroscopically, the urine was orange and turbid. Microscopic examination revealed lipid droplets and rod-shaped bacteria, while casts, crystals, and inflammatory cells were absent. Hematology and serum biochemistry profile were unremarkable except for mild anemia. Unexpectedly, urine culture yielded Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis, which was subsequently confirmed by molecular assays. Conclusion: This case describes the rare isolation of C. pseudotuberculosis from the urine of a clinically healthy dog. The finding highlights the potential role of dogs as incidental carriers and underlines the importance of considering atypical pathogens in diagnostic investigations.

کلیدواژه ها:

Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis ، urine ، dog