Über die Bedeutung von Mycoplasmen als Sterilitätsursache beim Rind*

A review of the literature is presented on the strains of Mycoplasma isolated from the bovine genital tract and their relationship to infertility. Although Mycoplasmas have frequently been isolated from the genital organs of bulls, no typical clinical symptoms have been observed and no detrimental effects on spermatozoa have been shown. Mycoplasmas can be transmitted to cows by artificial insemination. In contrast to bulls, Mycoplasmas have been described as causing inflammatory changes such as cervicitir, endometritis and salpingitis in cows. Salpingitis, which may lead to obstruction of the oviduct, has the most serious consequences of later infertility. The author's own observations on the occurrence of Mycoplasmas in the herds in one area are briefly described. Prophylactic and therapeutic measures against genital Mycoplasma infections in cattle are also given.