''Burkholderia mallei'' is a species of the ''[[Burkholderia species - Overview|Burkholderia]]'' genus. ''B.mallei'' causes [[Glanders|glanders]], a contagious disease of ''Equidae'' resulting in nodules and ulcers in the respiratory tract and on the skin.
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''B.mallei'' can be transmited by ingestion of food or water contaminated by nasal discharge of infected ''Equidae'' and occasionally via inhalation or skin wounds. The presence of ''B. mallei'' in the host causes hypersensitivity reactions.
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==Diagnosis==
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A diagnosis of ''B.mallei'' can be made by collecting specimens, including discharges from lesions and blood for serology. The bacteria grows on media containing 1% glycerol. Most strains are non-lactose fermenters on MacConkey agar. Complement fixation and agglutination can be carried out, as can serology.
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The '''Mallein test''' can be done, where mallein is injected intradermally below the lower eyelid; local swelling and discharge indicates positive reation.