Among all currently identified Brachyspira spirochetes, which differ in their carrier spectrum and pathogenicity, two species are the best known: Brachyspira hyodysenteriae and Brachyspira pilosicoli . They are anaerobic bacteria, 0.1 to 0.4 µm in size, with high growth requirements. Both species are the causes of swine dysentery (gastroenteritis) and occur wherever swine is produced. Infection occurs via the oral route when feed comes into contact with infected faeces. In the stomach, the spirochetes survive and as they travel further, they penetrate the cells of the colon mucosa. By penetrating the intestinal walls, the spirochetes damage the mucosa and submucosa, leading to superficial necrosis, mucosal edema and infiltrates. Damage to the mucosa epithelium can lead to disturbances in the water and electrolyte balance, including a large loss of fluids. Dysentery is characterized by bloody diarrhea mixed with mucus and progressive exhaustion and cachexia of the animals. In extreme cases, death rates can reach even 30%.

Diagnostic test AmpliTest Brachyspira (Real Time PCR) allows detection in a single reaction the DNA sequences specific to Brachyspira hyodysenteriae and Brachyspira pilosicoli in DNA preparations obtained from feces, swab or samples of the intestine of animals.
The Real Time PCR is a triplex-type. The FAM channel serves for detection of the DNA sequences specific for Brachyspira hyodysenteriae whereas Brachyspira pilosicoli-specific DNA sequences are detected in the Texas Red channel. The HEX channel is reserved for monitoring of the internal control amplification. Additionally, diagnostic panel contains negative and positive controls allowing to monitor the whole aspects of the Real Time PCR. Positive control was obtained using genetic engeeniring.