An Effective Diagnostic Approach for Successful Recovery from Mycobacterium avium Systemic Infection in a Basset Hound Dog

We describe the diagnostic pathway, clinical follow-up and resolution of generalized avian tuberculosis in a Basset Hound dog. Lethargy, anorexia, weight loss and shifting lameness were observed. Cytological examination of specimens collected from prescapular, retromandibular and popliteal lymph nodes revealed the presence of acid-fast bacilli, subsequently identified as Mycobacterium avium subsp. hominissuis by microbiological and molecular tests. MIC determination was performed to guide therapy, which was subsequently based on clarithromycin (5 mg/kg orally every 12 h) and moxifloxacin (10 mg/kg orally every 24 h). Early and rapid diagnosis, combined with prompt initiation of appropriate antibiotic treatment, resulted in complete recovery of the affected dog.