Clinicopathological and Bacteriological Studies on Pneumonia in Camel (Camelus dromedarius)

This study aimed to isolate the most common bacterial pathogens causing respiratory diseases in camel in addition to studying the hematological, biochemical and histopathological changes associated with the disease. Forty apparently healthy she-camels and 60 respiratory-distressed cases were used in this study. Nasopharyngeal swabs and blood and tissue samples were collected from both groups. The results implicated that Klebsiella pneumonia and Staphylococcus aureus were the most common bacterial pathogens isolated from both healthy and diseased animals. Hematological parameters showed a significant decrease in red cell parameters and a significant increase in total leukocytic counts in the diseased group. Significant decreases were observed in serum concentrations of albumin, calcium, inorganic phosphorus, sodium and chloride, whereas a significant increase were seen in serum levels of total protein, globulin, urea, creatinine, potassium and activities of hepatic enzymes. There was a significant decrease in blood pH and Po2 and a significant increase in Pco2 and bicarbonate levels in the pneumonic animals. The main histopathological alterations included chronic bronchitis, lung fibrosis and interstitial pneumonia. We can conclude that Klebsiella pneumonia and Staphylococcus aureus appeared to be the main bacterial causes of pneumonia in camel. The disease is associated with significant hematological, and biochemical alterations which upon understanding can provide a good knowledge of the pathogenesis and thus controlling the condition in camel.Key words: Acid-base status, bacteriology, Camelus dromedarius, clinical pathology, pneumonia.