Respiratory and production-limiting diseases remain a major challenge within the poultry industry, with Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG) and Mycoplasma synoviae (MS) recognised as two of the most significant pathogens affecting commercial broiler, layer, and breeder operations.
Through EnvirocareVet, the dedicated veterinary diagnostics division of Envirocare Laboratory, we provide molecular PCR testing for MG and MS, offering veterinarians and producers accurate, timely results to support informed disease control and biosecurity decisions.
Understanding MG & MS in Poultry Flocks
MG and MS are cell wall-deficient bacteria that primarily affect the respiratory system and joints of poultry. Their ability to persist in flocks, spread horizontally and vertically, and evade early detection makes them particularly challenging to manage.
-
Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG) is commonly associated with chronic respiratory disease, airsacculitis, reduced weight gain, and significant production losses.
-
Mycoplasma synoviae (MS) may present as respiratory disease or infectious synovitis, leading to lameness, reduced mobility, and poor feed conversion. Certain strains are also linked to eggshell quality defects in layers.
In many cases, birds may remain subclinically infected, allowing disease to circulate silently while impacting performance and increasing vulnerability to secondary bacterial and viral infections.
Why Molecular PCR Testing Is the Gold Standard
Traditional diagnostic approaches may struggle to detect Mycoplasma reliably due to slow growth rates and intermittent shedding. PCR testing overcomes these challenges by detecting Mycoplasma DNA directly from clinical samples.
EnvirocareVet PCR testing offers:
-
High sensitivity and specificity for MG and MS
-
Early detection before widespread clinical signs develop
-
Rapid turnaround times to support timely intervention
-
Accurate differentiation between MG and MS infections
-
Reliable results for surveillance, outbreak investigations, and routine monitoring
This level of diagnostic precision is essential for implementing targeted biosecurity measures and minimising unnecessary production losses.
Applications of MG & MS PCR Testing
EnvirocareVet’s MG & MS PCR testing can be integrated into multiple poultry health programmes, including:
-
Routine flock monitoring and surveillance
-
Pre-placement and breeder health screening
-
Outbreak investigation and disease tracing
-
Verification of flock health status
-
Support for veterinary treatment and control strategies
PCR testing also plays a key role in assessing the effectiveness of control measures and monitoring disease trends over time.
Strengthening Biosecurity & Productivity
Early and accurate detection of MG and MS enables proactive decision making that protects flock health, improves productivity, and reduces the risk of long-term biosecurity breaches. Incorporating molecular diagnostics into routine poultry health management supports:
-
Reduced disease spread within and between sites
-
Improved production efficiency and bird welfare
-
Greater confidence in health status reporting
-
Compliance with veterinary and industry standards
Backed by the analytical expertise, quality systems, and scientific credibility of Envirocare Laboratory, EnvirocareVet delivers veterinary focused diagnostics you can rely on.
Contact EnvirocareVet Laboratory
📩 Email: info@envirocarelab.co.za
📞 Tel: +27 18 294 4283
🌐 Website: https://envirocarelab.co.za/
EnvirocareVet, advancing poultry health through trusted molecular diagnostics.
References
-
OIE (World Organisation for Animal Health).
Mycoplasma gallisepticum and Mycoplasma synoviae – Terrestrial Animal Health Code & Manual of Diagnostic Tests and Vaccines.
OIE recognises MG and MS as significant poultry pathogens and outlines molecular methods, including PCR, as preferred diagnostic tools for detection and surveillance. -
FAO – Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations.
Poultry Development Review: Poultry Health and Disease Control.
Highlights the economic and production impact of Mycoplasma infections and the importance of early detection and biosecurity in commercial poultry systems. -
Merck Veterinary Manual.
Mycoplasmosis in Poultry.
Provides an overview of MG and MS epidemiology, clinical presentation, subclinical infections, transmission routes, and the role of PCR testing in diagnosis and control. -
Ley, D. H. (2003).
Mycoplasma gallisepticum infection. In: Diseases of Poultry (11th Edition).
A foundational reference detailing MG pathogenesis, production losses, and challenges associated with traditional diagnostic methods. -
Kleven, S. H. (2008).
Control of avian mycoplasma infections in commercial poultry.
Avian Diseases, 52(3), 367–374.
Discusses surveillance strategies, biosecurity, and the role of molecular diagnostics in Mycoplasma control programmes. -
Ewing, M. L., & Kleven, S. H. (2013).
Comparison of diagnostic methods for detection of Mycoplasma gallisepticum and Mycoplasma synoviae.
Emphasises PCR as a sensitive and rapid diagnostic tool compared to culture and serology. -
SA Poultry Association (SAPA).
Poultry Disease Management & Biosecurity Guidelines.
Reinforces routine monitoring and laboratory testing as critical components of flock health and compliance within the South African poultry industry.
