Production of mastitis in mice with human and bovine ureaplasmas (T-mycoplasmas).

Five ureaplasmas (T-mycoplasmas) of human origin and four of bovine origin were inoculated into the mammary glands of mice. The strains multiplied and neutrophils were observed in sections of infected glands. Some of the glands were macroscopically inflamed, albeit slightly, at necropsy but none of the mice showed any sign of disease during the course of the experiments. All nine ureaplasma strains produced mastitis in BSVS mice and the mammary glands of mice appear more susceptible to ureaplasmas than the udders of cows or goats. Mouse mastitis is suggested as being a suitable small animal model for studying ureaplasma infections.