Dogs may be infected with M tuberculosis, M bovis, and occasionally with M avium complex or M fortuitum, commonly from a human or bovine source. Tuberculous lesions are usually found in the lungs, liver, kidney, pleura, and peritoneum; they have a gray appearance, usually with a noncalcified, necrotic center. Lesions are often exudative and can produce a large quantity of straw-colored fluid in the thorax. False-negative tuberculin tests are common in dogs. Radiographs and a thorough history are useful in diagnosis. Affected dogs should be euthanized because of public health concerns.

Last full review/revision March 2012 by Charles O. Thoen, DVM, PhD