Emerging Roles of Mycoplasma and Ureaplasma in Veterinary Medicine: Pathogenesis, Diagnosis and Control Strategies

Abstract

This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the emerging roles of Mycoplasma and Ureaplasma species in veterinary medicine, focusing on their pathogenesis, diagnostic approaches, and control strategies. It highlights their clinical significance in companion animals, livestock, and wildlife, as well as their impact on reproductive and respiratory health. A narrative literature review was conducted by synthesizing current knowledge, diagnostic data, and reported trends associated with Mycoplasma and Ureaplasma infections in veterinary contexts. Literature published between 2000 and 2025 was reviewed from major scientific databases and veterinary diagnostic reports. Peer reviewed publications, surveillance data, and case records addressing epidemiology, pathogenic mechanisms, host pathogen interactions, diagnostic methods, and control strategies were systematically analyzed. Findings reveal that Mycoplasma and Ureaplasma infections are increasingly associated with reproductive disorders, respiratory diseases, and neonatal morbidity in a wide range of animal species. Coinfections with other pathogens are frequently reported, influencing disease progression and complicating diagnosis. Advances in molecular diagnostics have significantly improved detection sensitivity compared with conventional culture-based methods, although diagnostic challenges remain due to asymptomatic carriers and host specific adaptations. Antimicrobial resistance is an additional concern, emphasizing the need for ongoing surveillance and updated treatment guidelines. Overall, this review underscores the growing clinical and economic importance of Mycoplasma and Ureaplasma in veterinary medicine. Strengthening early detection, enhancing diagnostic tools, and implementing integrated management strategies guided by a One Health framework are essential steps to address their complex epidemiology, mitigate their impact on animal health, and reduce their potential risk to public health.