Eperythrozoonosis in pigs

The eperythrozoonosis is an infectious disease of pigs which the mycoplasma -Art Mycoplasma haemosuis (formerly Eperythrozoon suis , hence the name) is caused.

Disease emergence

Transmission is only possible through contact with blood containing the pathogen, i.e. either through blood-sucking insects or through injection cannulas that are used on several animals. The pathogens attach themselves to the red blood cells and thereby cause the production of antibodies directed against their own cells . These clump the blood cells below normal body temperature ("cold antibodies") and lead to anemia . However, this is only possible above a certain pathogen concentration. Once infected, animals repeatedly experience flare-ups of anemia. The disease becomes chronic. Older pigs are only latently infected and only suffer a relapse if they are very weak. The pathogen remains in the body for life.

clinic

In suckling pigs aged three to four weeks, acute illnesses occur with a fever of over 41 ° C and anemia, as well as blue discoloration or death of the tips of the ears and tails as a result of a circulatory disorder. Decrease in performance and jaundice also occur.

diagnosis

Diagnosis is based on blood smears or serologically via KBR , IFT or ELISA .

therapy

The administration of antibiotics ( oxytetracycline ) usually responds well. Preventing blood transfer is recommended. It is not possible to achieve freedom from pathogens in infected animals.

source

• Medical microbiology, infection and epidemic theory von Rolle / Mayr, Enke Verlag Stuttgart (2007)

This article is about a health issue. It is not used for self-diagnosis and does not replace a diagnosis by a doctor. Please note the information on health issues !