Preliminary validation of an indirect ELISA for diagnosis of Johne's disease in goats

Abstract

Johne's disease, caused by Mycobacterium avium ss paratuberculosis (MAP), affects a wide range of livestock species, causing chronic and severe enteritis. In the United States, there are currently no serologic tests licensed by the USDA for diagnosis of this disease in small ruminants, although several are marketed for cattle. An accurate test that was legal for diagnostic use domestically would be a valuable tool for goat and sheep producers and veterinarians in the management of Johne's disease. This study provides preliminary validation of a new indirect ELISA for the detection of anti-MAP antibodies in goats.