2019 Volume 72 Issue 11 Pages 686-690
In May 2017, we isolated gram-positive cocci from the lungs of an aborted bovine fetus. The bacterium was identified as Helcococcus kunzii using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Histopathological examination indicated suppurative bronchopneumonia. Immunohistochemical examination using an antiserum prepared from Helcococcus ovis that reacts to H. kunzii revealed a diffuse, positive reaction with gram-positive cocci. These results suggest that H. kunzii was the cause of abortion. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case in which H. kunzii was isolated from an aborted bovine fetus. Further studies are needed to clarify the pathogenesis of H. kunzii infection in cattle.
