Potential Etiologic Link and Association between Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis and Crohn’s Disease in Humans

Abstract

Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis, the cause of incurable, chronic enteritis called as Johne’s disease or paratuberculosis in animals, has also been associated with Crohn’s disease in human beings. Scientific opinion is divided on the possible role of Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis in the etiopathogenesis of Crohn’s disease. Though etiology of Crohn’s disease is still unclear, however, in addition to genetic and environmental factors, microorganisms have been considered as potential agents. With increasing concern about the transmission of zoonotic diseases in human beings, attention has been refocused on Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis as a potential candidate in the etiology of Crohn’s disease. This review discusses the possible role of Myccobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis in the etiology of Crohn’s disease based on previously published information.

Keywords: Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis, Crohn’s disease, Johne’s disease