We examined the usefulness of PCR-based restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) and species-specific PCR combined with a newly devised rapid biochemical test using microplates for identifying weakly beta-hemolytic Brachyspira species (WBHB) isolated from pigs. WBHB strains showing atypical biochemical characteristics were decisively identified at the species level by PCR-RFLP and species-specific PCR. Identification of WBHB at the species level in routine diagnostic work will certainly contribute to clarifying the pathogenicity of WBHB.
(Research Team for Environmental/Enzootic Diseases, TEL +81-29-838-7708)
