Vet Handbook

Veterinary Manual This veterinary manual is intended for use by Murphy-Brown service people and farm managers as a guide for investigation, diagnosing and treating routine disease conditions in our swine herds. Many of the disease challenges that we are presented with on a daily basis are fairly routine and this manual should help sort and develop a sound intervention plan. Even though diseases are often named for a bacteria or virus involved, co-infections are common and environmental stresses are often required for the pig to exhibit the disease. Water and feed availability, ventilation, stocking, vaccine compliance and level of individual pig treatment are all examples of management and environmental factors that affect expression of disease and should not be discounted when investigating the cause or the intervention of a disease. This guide does not include all possible swine diseases and clinical expressions, but does focus on the most common and costly diseases to swine. Use the information in this manual to:

1. Gather a good history and information about what is occurring on the farm and in

the pig. 2. Collect the appropriate tissue samples to get good and helpful diagnostic

feedback. 3. Recognize some of the common or routine causes of disease or death in swine. 4. Formulate a treatment or intervention response that is appropriate and effective.

a. Please note that treatment options are suggestions and not listed in any particular order based on preference or cost.

Following the guidelines outlined in the manual will also help you recognize disease situations that are not routine. Communicate these to the veterinarian immediately. More specific sample collection and diagnostic approaches may be needed to gain a better understanding and develop a specific treatment or response plan. Several Foreign Animal Diseases are reviewed in the manual. These are clearly not routine for our system, but an awareness of what these may look like is important. Sincerely, Murphy-Brown, LLC East Veterinary Services Team

Table of Contents

1. How Do I Work Up A Case? 2. Disease Flow Charts 3. Swine Disease Guide 4. Swine Necropsy Manual 5. Medication Treatment Chart 6. Glossary

How do I work up a case? Questions you need to answer:

1) Age/parity of pigs? 2) Source of pigs? 3) Do I know source history? If not, contact department service representative that

would have that information. 4) What is the medication history? 5) What is the vaccination history? 6) What are the predominant clinical signs? (ie. cough, scour, abortion, neurologic,

or combinations of clinical signs) 7) What is the timeline of clinical signs? When did it start? 8) Are there multiple clinical signs and are they connected? 9) What percent of the animals are affected? Not number affected. 10) What is the percent mortality? Not number dead. 11) What is dying?

a. Fall-back pigs/sows that have not been treated. b. Fall-back pigs/sows that have been treated. c. Big, slab-sided pigs/sows that have not been treated. d. Pigs/sows in good body condition that you wouldnt have treated. e. Big, dead pigs/sows is NOT an acceptable description. f. Bleach-outs

12) Select pigs that would be good candidates for diagnostic sampling. (For detailed description see Pig Selection portion of Swine Necropsy Manual)

a. Observe gross lesions during necropsy b. If the clinical signs and gross lesions are not clear enough to make an

accurate diagnosis, then: i. Collect samples according to the Swine Necropsy Manual paying

close attention to additional sampling that may be needed due to the clinical signs observed.

1. Respiratory = Lungs, Lymph Nodes 2. Enteric (Scours) = Intestines, Lymph Nodes, Fecal Swabs 3. Neurologic = Brain swab and Brain 4. Swollen Joints = Joint swab and/or Joint 5. Skin Lesions = Skin 6. Reproductive = Fetal tissues, Sow blood

All the information that will be collected from the work-up will be needed to narrow down the potential causes of a problem.

1

Reproductive Failure Possible clinical signs: Abortions, increased stillborns, mummies, and decreased liveborn

Abortion

Increased stillborns

+/- Fevers +/- off

Increased Return Service

Late term abortions (+70 days)

Weak born pigs, Unthrifty litters

Abortions at many stages of gestation

Few, sporadic abortions, all

stages of gestation

Elevated numbers of staged mummified feti (esp. in gilts & P1s)

Increased Return Service

Seasonal Change

Pseudorabies Bacterial abortionsLeptospirosisPRRS

Autumn Abortion Syndrome

Parvovirus

Necropsy: +/- late gestation aborted fetus may have small gray to white spots on the liver and/or spleen

Necropsy: +/- umbilical cord segments that are dark, swollen and blood filled. Other segments with gelatinous swelling. Lungs may have tan lesions.

Necropsy: No lesions are visible.

Necropsy: No lesions will be found and all tests will be negative.

Necropsy: Brown decomposed, occasionally dry feti. No lesions will be visible within the fetus

Treat sick sows with anti-inflamatory. Notify Vet and Supervisor.

Check Leptospirosis vaccination status. Check Parvovirus

vaccination status.

Notify Vet and Supervisor, IMMEDIATELY.

Necropsy: +/- culture positive

Review sanitation procedures in farrowing, breeding, and with semen handling.

2

Farrowing House Enteric Disease

Possible clinical signs: Diarrhea (scours)

Diarrhea

Spreads through a pen quickly,+/- Fever

Spreads through pen, unthrifty pigs +/- sudden deaths

TGE Rotavirus

Clostridium perfringens

E. coli (enterotoxigenic, hemolytic etc.)

+/- Vomiting with TGE

Necropsy: Thingut

walls w/ watery fluid contents throughout the

intestinal tract. +/- reddened intestinal tract if complicated

by bacterial infection. All Ages.

Coccidia

Necropsy: Sections of small

intestine with dark red stripes

+/- sections with yellow tissue on

the intestinal surface. Pigs

3

Nursery Enteric Disease

Possible clinical signs: Diarrhea (scours)

Diarrhea

Spreads through a pen quickly,+/-

Fever

Watery Yellow, Green,

Gray-Brown

+/- Cough Spreads through a pen quickly,

unthrifty pigs, +/-sudden deaths

Dark, bloody tarry feces.

Bleached out skin

Rotavirus TGE

Salmonella typhimurium

Salmonella cholerasuis

E. coli (enterotoxigenic, hemolytic etc.)

Pasty, creamy yellow/gray mixed

with watery yellow/gray

Coccidia

Necropsy: Sections of

pasty diarrhea +/- yellowish white tissue

thickening on the inside of

intestines. Pigs at placement.

Necropsy: Thin to normal walled gut

w/ fluid contents or pasty yellowish

diarrhea. +/- gelatinous fluid

between the colon loops and in the

intestinal mesentery. +/- red inflamed

intestines.

Necropsy: Swollen spleen, +/- Liver

w/tiny white spots, Lungs fail to

collapse, Swollen mesenteric lymph nodes, +/- loose

feces

Necropsy: Thingut walls w/ watery fluid contents throughout the

intestinal tract. +/- reddened intestinal tract if complicated

by bacterial infection.

Necropsy: +/- dark red/black blood

clots in intestines/stomach. +/- streaks of blood

near esophageal opening into the

stomach. Crater in esophageal region of stomach. Look for dark gray/black

feces in the intestinal tract to confirm bleeding

ulcer

Notify Vet and Supervisor. Neomycin

+/-Electrolytes

Neomycin, Gentamicin,

Ceftiofur Review E. coli and Salmonella

vaccination.

Check for feed interruptions.

Assess level of spot treatment prior to

bleach outs. Check for concurrent or

past disease.

Contact sow serviceperson, supervisor or

vet

Gastric Ulcer

4

Nursery Respiratory Disease

Possible clinical signs: Thump, cough, sneezing, ocular discharge, nasal discharge, fever

Cough

CNS signs, +/- sudden

deaths

Low prevalence at any time, +/-

prolapses, late in nursery

Dry, nonproductive

Persistent sneeze and

cough

Wet, productive

Sudden Deaths

Fevers, Piling, Thumping,

nasal discharge

Low/moderate incidence in each pen beginning 1-3 weeks into nursery

PRRS + Pasteurella multocida, Strep. suis,

HPS, A. suis

+/- Skin lesions

Pseudorabies

Bordetella Toxicgenic Pasteurella

Mycoplasma hyopneumonia

Necropsy: Swollen

spleen, +/- Liver with tiny

white spots, Lungs fail to

collapse, Swollen

mesenteric lymph nodes, +/- loose feces


+/- Yellow/Brown

Diarrhea

Swine Influenza

Necropsy: +/- Yellow-gray

tissue adhered to the throat

near the tonsil tissue in throat.

Lungs often fail to collapse with reddish

discoloration. Rarely see

small spots in the liver.

Necropsy: Lungs fail to collapse with

red to tan uneven

discoloration. If acute often have reddish tinged foamy material in

airways when cut across.

Necropsy: Cranial-ventral dark red-purple consolidation

+/-whitish yellow tissue on the lung

surface or other organs. Rest of

lungs fails to collapse with

tan-gray discoloration.

Necropsy: Multifocal tan-

gray discoloration

+/- meaty cranial ventral

dark red consolidation.

Aspirin Therapy. Tetracylines and

Penicillin.

Check Ventilation. Tetracyclines Lincomycin

Gentamicin and Ceftiofur

Determine agents involved.

Refer to Swine Disease Guide for treatment options.

Contact Vet and Supervisor,

IMMEDIATELY

Necropsy: Dark red-

purple cranial-ventral

consolidation of lung. The

rest of the lung will fail to collapse.

5

Nursery Sudden Death, Septicemia, CNS signs

Possible Clinical Signs: Sudden death, fevers,+/-skin lesions (red extremities, purple-red blotches of skin), neurologic pigs

Frothy blood tinged fluid from nose or mouth

+/- Barking, hacking cough

Discoloration of extremities (belly, ears, legs), Fever, Swollen

Joints, Lamesness

Abnormal stance, Paralysis, Rigidity,

Twitching, Paddling Blindness

Sudden Deaths, Unexplained mortality

SepticemiaCNS Disease

Pseudorabies

Edema Disease (F18 E.coli)

+/-Yellow/Brown

Diarrhea

APP A.suis

Strep. suis, Haemophilus

parasuis, Erysipelas

rhusiopathiae, Pateurella multocida,

Necropsy: Check water

flow. No significant

gross lesions. Clinical signs

will not be present until after water is

restored.

Necropsy: Thin to normal walled gut with fluid contents

or pasty yellowish

diarrhea. +/- gelatinous fluid

b/n the colon loops and in the intestinal mesentery.

Begins around 3-4 weeks after

placement.

Necropsy: +/- necrotic tissue

in throat. Lungs often

fail to collapse with reddish

discoloration. Rarely see small white spots in the

liver.

Water Deprivation

Necropsy: May not have lesions. +/-

Spider web of white tissue on the surface of

organs in abdomen or chest. Heart

may adhere to the heart sac.

Dark red meaty sections of

Lung. Spleen, Liver, and/or Lynph nodes

may be rounded and

swollen.

Necropsy: Dark red-black dorsal cranial lung lobes +/- whitish yellow tissue on the

surface. Lungs are wet and heavy with

lines of edema.


Necropsy: Swollen



collapse, Swollen


Contact your supervisor ASAP. Aspirin Therapy for all pigs. Use injectable anti-

inflammatory for neurologic pigs. Pulse back on

water (see glossary).

Treat pens with affected pigs and adjacent

pens with Ceftiofur. Contact

Supervisor and Vet.



Review E. coli vaccination. Contact Vet

and Supervisor.




IMMEDIATELY

6

Finishing Enteric Disease Possible clinical signs: Diarrhea (scours)

Diarrhea

Salmonella typhimurium TGE

Bleached out skin

Wet puddly, gray to brown, +/- streaks

of blood Watery Yellow or Green


Dark, Tarry Feces, +/- Puddly

to Watery

Mucous +/-blood Few pigs

affected at one time, variable incidence pen

to pen

Proliferative Ileitis

Gastric UlcerSwine Dysentery

Hemmorhagic Ileitis


Necropsy:

Thingut walls w/ watery fluid

contents throughout the intestinal tract. +/- reddened

intestinal tract if complicated


Necropsy: Swollen



collapse, Swollen


Necropsy: Multifocal

thickening of the gut wall

with yellowish rough red tissue or reddish

rough tissue on the

intestines inside

surface.

Necropsy: Inflamed gut

wall with dark red to gray fluid contents in

the intestine.

Neomycin +/-Electrolytes Notify Vet and Supervisor if

TGE suspected.

Necropsy: Rapid weight loss and poor

growth. Mucous and

necrotic material in the large intestine.

Tylan, Lincomycin

Necropsy: +/- dark red/black blood clots in

intestines/ stomach. Crater in

esophageal region of

stomach. Look for dark

gray/black feces in the

intestinal tract to confirm

bleeding ulcer

Neomycin, Ceftiofur Review

Salmonella vaccination



bleach outs. Check for past or

concurrent disease.

Contact Vet and Supervisor.

7

Finishing Respiratory Disease

Possible clinical signs: Thump, cough, sneeze, fevers, nasal and ocular discharge

Low prevalence at any time, +/-

prolapses, moving slow in

population

CNS signs, +/- sudden deaths.

Fevers, Piling, Thumping,

Nasal Discharge

Wet/Productive Cough Dry/nonproductive cough

Cough

Sudden Deaths


Pseudorabies

Swine Influenza

PRRS +/- Pasteurella multocida, Strep. suis, HPS, A.suis Salmonella cholerasuis

APP A. suis

Necropsy: Swollen



collapse, Swollen




lines of edema.


red to tan uneven







liver.

Necropsy: Dark red-





Spider web of white tissue on the surface

of organs in abdomen or chest.

Heart may adhere to the heart sac. Dark red meaty sections of Lung. Spleen,

Liver, and/or Lymph nodes may be rounded and

swollen.

Neomycin and Ceftiofur



Supervisor and Vet.



Aspirin Therapy. Tetracylines and

Penicillin

Check Ventilation. Tetracyclines


IMMEDIATELY

8

Finishing Sudden Death, Septicemia, CNS signs

Possible clinical signs: Sudden Death, High Fevers, +/- Skin lesions (red extremities, purple red blotches)

+/- Yellow/Brown Diarrhea, +/-

cyanosis of ears and belly.

Frothy blood tinged fluid from nose or

mouth. Open mouth breathing.

Abnormal stance, Paralysis, Rigidity,

Twitching, Paddling, Blindness

CNS Sudden Deaths +/- Septicemia

Pseudorabies

Discoloration of extremities, (belly, ears,

legs), Fever, Swollen joints, lameness

Water Deprivation

APP A. suis


Strep. suis, HPS,

Erysipelas rhusiopathiae





liver.

Necropsy: Check water

flow. No significant

gross lesions. Clinical signs

will not be present until after water is

restored.



lines of edema.

Necropsy: Swollen



collapse, Swollen



Spider web of white tissue on the surface of organs in abdomen or

chest. Heart may adhere to the heart sac.

Dark red meaty sections of Lung.

Spleen, Liver, and/or Lynph nodes may be rounded and swollen.

Contact your supervisor ASAP. Aspirin Therapy

for all pigs. Use injectable anti-

inflammatory for neurologic pigs. Limit

water consumption until



Supervisor and Vet.


Erysipelas--Penicillin, Strep. and HPS--

ceftiofur

Contact Vet and Supervisor, IMMEDIATE

LY

9

Gilt/Sow Enteric Disease Possible clinical signs: Diarrhea (scours)

Diarrhea

Salmonella typhimurium TGE

Bleached out skin

Loose, gray to brown, +/- streaks

of blood Watery Yellow or Green


Dark, Tarry Feces.

Mucous w/blood Few pigs

affected at one time, variable incidence pen

to pen

Proliferative Ileitis

Gastric UlcerSwine Dysentery

Hemmorhagic Ileitis


Necropsy:

Thingut walls w/ watery fluid

contents throughout the intestinal tract. +/- reddened

intestinal tract if complicated


Necropsy: Swollen



collapse, Swollen


Necropsy: Multifocal

thickening of the gut wall

with yellowish rough red tissue or reddish

rough tissue on the

intestines inside

surface.

Necropsy: Inflamed gut

wall with dark red to gray fluid contents in

the intestine.

Necropsy: Rapid weight loss and poor

growth. Mucous and

necrotic material in the large intestine.

Tylan, Lincomycin

Necropsy: +/- dark red/black blood clots in

intestines/ stomach. Crater in

esophageal region of

stomach. Look for dark

gray/black feces in the

intestinal tract to confirm

bleeding ulcer

Neomycin, Ceftiofur Review

Salmonella vaccination



bleach outs. Check for past or

concurrent disease.


IMMEDIATELY


10

Fever, off-feed, thump

CNS signs, +/- sudden deaths.

Fevers, off-feed,

Thumping, Nasal

Discharge

Wet/productive Cough Dry/nonproductive cough

Cough

Sudden Deaths


Pseudorabies

Swine Influenza

PRRS +/- Pasteurella multocida, Strep. suis, HPS, A.suis Salmonella cholerasuis

APP A. suis

Necropsy: Swollen



collapse, Swollen




lines of edema.


red to tan uneven







liver.

Necropsy: Dark red-





Spider web of white tissue on the surface

of organs in abdomen or chest.

Heart may adhere to the heart sac. Dark red meaty sections of lung. Spleen,

Liver, and/or Lymph nodes may be rounded and

swollen.




Supervisor and Vet.



Anti-inflammatory Therapy.

Tetracylines and Penicillin.

Check Ventilation. Tetracyclines, Lincomycin


IMMEDIATELY

Gilt/Sow Respiratory Disease

11

Possible clinical signs: Fall-behinds, thumping, Non-responsive to antibiotics, increased mortality

Fallbehinds, thumping, increased

mortality, non-responsive to

antibiotics

Vaccination Status?

Concurrent Disease control

PRRS PCR positive, interstitial pneumonia on

histopathology

PRRS +/- Pasteurella multocida, Strep.

suis, HPS, A.suis

Consult with veterinarian for control and treatment options

SAMPLES SUBMITTED TO

DIAGNOSTIC LAB.

Necropsy: May not have lesions. +/- Spider web of white tissue on the surface of organs in abdomen or chest. Heart may adhere to the heart sac. Dark red

meaty sections of lung. Spleen, Liver, and/or Lynph nodes may be enlarged. Lymph nodes may be

hemorrhagic.

PCVAD lesions AND IHC positive for PCV on Lymph node, spleen,

tonsil, lung, liver, intestines.

PCVAD

PCVAD/PRRS Diagnosis

12

Skin Disease for all Phases

Skin Lesions

Taktic topical. Call

supervisor.

Check Ventilation.

Topical Treatment (Virkon S, Nolvasan ,

Iodine/Mineral Oil)

Ceftiofur AlbaDry

(prescription)

Mange Greasy Pig

Pigs with or without lesions

rubbing penning

because they are itchy.

Pigs with or without lesions not rubbing the

penning.

Black crust covering head, neck, and body

Check vaccination

status. Penicillin injectable.

Premise Insecticide Treatment.

Find Source: Fire Ants,

Mosquitoes, etc.

Insect Bites

Red, raised, eraser-size

bumps on pigs that may or may not be

itching.

Erysipelas

Red, raised, diamond-like

lesions

Check PCV2 vaccination

status.

PDNS

Red to dark purple blotchy

lesions anywhere on body, namely

hams and belly

SWINE DISEASE

GUIDE

Compiled by Veterinary Services Division, Murphy-Brown East

Disease Guide Page 2 of 40 Revised 11-13-07

Table of Contents

Section I - Diarrhea Causes of Diarrhea .......................................................................................................3 Neonatal Pig Diarrhea Clostridial Enterotoxemia .................................................................................4 Coccidiosis.......................................................................................................5 E. coli ...............................................................................................................6 Rotavirus..........................................................................................................7 T.G.E./Transmissible Gastroenteritis ...............................................................8 Nursery Pig Diarrhea Edema Disease................................................................................................9 Post-Weaning E. coli Diarrhea.......................................................................10 Grower/Finisher/Adult Pig Diarrhea Ileitis...............................................................................................................11 PCV2 Enteritis ...............................................................................................12 Salmonellosis.................................................................................................13 Swine Dysentery ............................................................................................14 Section II - Respiratory Causes of Respiratory Diseases .................................................................................15 Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae (APP)........................................................16 Atrophic Rhinitis .............................................................................................17 Haemophilus parasuis (HPS).........................................................................18 Mycoplasma...................................................................................................19 Pasteurella ....................................................................................................20 PCV2 and PCVAD/PMWS .............................................................................21 Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS)............................22 Salmonella cholerasuis ..................................................................................23 Streptococcus suis.........................................................................................24 Swine Influenza (SIV) ....................................................................................25 Section III Other Common Diseases of Interest Other Diseases of Interest...........................................................................................26 Erysipelas ......................................................................................................27 Gastric Ulcers ................................................................................................28 Greasy Pig...................................................................................................29 Hemorrhagic Bowel Syndrome (HBS)............................................................30 Leptospirosis..................................................................................................31 Parvovirus......................................................................................................32 Roundworms..................................................................................................33 Water Deprivation/Salt Toxicity ......................................................................34 Section IV Foreign Animal Disease Foreign Animal Diseases ............................................................................................35 African Swine Fever.......................................................................................36 Classical Swine Fever (Hog Cholera) ............................................................37 Pseudorabies (PRv).......................................................................................38 Vesicular Diseases (Foot and Mouth, etc) .....................................................39 References..................................................................................................................40


Causes of Diarrhea

Bacterial

E. coli Salmonella sp. Clostridium perfringens

o Type A o Type C

Clostridium difficile Brachispyra hyodysentery (Dysentery) Lawsonia Intracellularis (Ileitis)

Viral

T.G.E. Rotavirus Porcine Circovirus Type 2 (PCV2)

Protozoal

Coccidia

Parasitic

Ascaris suum (Round Worms) - See Other Diseases of Interest


Clostridial Enteritis Cause: Clostridium perfringens or C. difficile are bacteria. Discussion: There are two types of Clostridium perfringens:

o Type A: Causes mild clinical signs of diarrhea in pigs that are not milking well or pigs with overwhelmed immune systems.

o Type C: Is fast acting causing severe signs of diarrhea and possible sudden death. Clostridium difficile causes disease similar to C. perfringens Type A. Severe outbreaks have been attributed to large numbers of gilts and over-treatment with antibiotics Clinical Signs: Type A and difficile Mild to severe pasty diarrhea, typically 0-5 days of age Yellow to orange-yellow colored diarrhea Death within 12 hours to 3 days or survive but growth is stunted Spiral colon edema on postmortem

Yellow watery scour Edema in spiral colon

Type C Sudden death Reddish-brown to bloody diarrhea Red to black colored intestines on postmortem

Inflamed, angry, bloody small intestine Blood filled intestinal segment Key Diagnostics: Type A and difficile Submit fresh and fixed intestine from pigs that just started to scour and have not been treated. Type C Blood and debris filled intestine. Submit fresh and fixed intestine from pigs that just started to scour and have not been treated. Treatment: Oral Medication: Tylan (Contact Vet Services) Injectable Medication: Penicillin, Tylan, Lincomix


Coccidiosis Cause: Isospora suis an intracellular protozoan parasite. Discussion: Pigs between 7 to 14 days are highly susceptible. Mortality is usually low. This disease is self-limiting. Clinical Signs: Scour: Pasty/Creamy Yellow to grayish Poor response to antibiotic therapy Dehydration; weight loss; stunted growth

Pasty, creamy scour Thick film lining small intestine Key Diagnostics: Submit fresh and fixed intestine from pigs that just started to scour and have not been treated. Prevention: Proper sanitation and allowing the crates to dry is essential to preventing this disease. Treatment: Sanitation (Detergent and Disinfectant) is critical to controlling this disease. Flame crates if possible Provide a clean, warm and dry environment for pigs. Marquis Paste (PRESCRIPTION REQUIRED)


E. coli - Colibacillosis Cause: E. coli are bacteria that affects many body systems. Discussion:

General Periods of Manifestation o Neonatal diarrhea (0-72 hours of age) o Milk scours diarrhea (9 days-weaning)

Disease is usually triggered by poor sanitation, chilling of pigs or poor milking by dams Many pathogenic E. coli exist in the intestinal tracts of healthy animals

Clinical Signs: Scours: Yellow fluid diarrhea Weak pigs Dehydration Shivering piglets Inflamed (red) butt Mild inflammation of small intestine on postmortem Undigested milk curd in the small intestine on postmortem

Chilled, dehydrated piglets covered in diarrhea Yellow diarrhea Key Diagnostics: Submit fresh and fixed intestine from pigs that just started to scour and have not been treated. Prevention: Piglet manure feedback to sows pre-farrow Pre-Farrow vaccination of E. coli bacterin Prevent chilled pigs

o Provide adequate supplemental heat o Eliminate ventilation drafts

Ensure pigs get adequate colostrum Farrowing house sanitation Use of drying agents in creep area Treatment: Oral Medication: Gentamicin Pig Pump, Spectam/Scour Halt Injectable Medication: Ceftiofur (i.e., Naxcel, Excede, Excenel), Gentamicin


Rotavirus Cause: Rotavirus is a virus that more commonly affects the gut in newborn pigs. Discussion: Pigs are usually affected at one to five days of age. Clinical signs similar to TGE, but less severe. Death loss is usually low unless there are concurrent infections or stress such as chilling. Tends to be more of a problem in the gilt population because they have less immunity. Clinical signs: Scour: Yellow or gray-black Dehydration Occasional vomiting Key Diagnostics: Submit fresh and fixed intestine from pigs that just started to scour and have not been treated. Prevention: Feedback pre-farrow +/- gilt isolation Farrowing house sanitation Treatment: There is no cure for rotavirus; clinical signs of this disease must be managed properly to reduce their

effects. Piglet manure feedback to sows pre-farrow Use drying agent in creep area

Antibiotics are used only to reduce secondary bacterial infections.


TGE - Transmissible Gastroenteritis Cause: A highly infectious virus known as Coronavirus that affects the gut. Discussion: This disease can occur any time of the year, and is common in the winter. There are two manifestations of this disease at the sow farm:

a) Acute - In a naive herd death loss is severe, approaching 100% in pigs


F18 E. coli - Edema Disease Cause: Toxigenic F18 E. coli bacteria Discussion: Triggered by changes in gut flora caused by changes in diet, inadequate vaccination, decay of colostral

immunity, stress of weaning and/or other infectious agents. Usually seen in the first four weeks after weaning in larger healthy looking pigs. Usually 15-25 days post

placement Clinical Signs: Yellow diarrhea in fall behinds Inflamed butt Lack of coordination (i.e. staggering, knuckling, paddling) Head and eye lid swelling Sudden death Fluid around the stomach and gall bladder and spiral colon on postmortem

Swelling of forehead and eyelids Edema/Fluid in stomach walls

Key Diagnostics: Submit fresh and fixed intestine from pigs that just started to scour and have not been treated. Brain tissue and brain swabs Clinical signs Treatment: Contact Veterinary Services Prevention: Vaccination of nursery shortly after placement with F18 E. coli vaccine Good sanitation Smooth transition to solid diets.


F18/K88 E. coli Post Weaning E. coli Diarrhea Cause: Toxigenic F18 and/or K88 E. coli bacteria Discussion: Triggered by changes in gut flora caused by changes in diet, inadequate vaccination, loss of milk

antibodies, poor environment, stress of weaning and/or other infectious agents. Usually seen in the first two weeks after weaning in variable sized pigs. 5-10 days post placement. Clinical Signs: Increase fall-behind pigs +/- Scour: Gray pasty to watery Prominent backbone, hip bones Dehydration Chronic development to lethargic, wasting, fuzzy, blue ears in 2-3 weeks post placement.

Gray pasty scour Classic Fall-behind pig Chronic appearance 2-3 wks post placement

Key Diagnostics: Submit fresh and fixed intestine from pigs that just started to scour and have not been treated. Prevention: Vaccination of nursery shortly after placement with F18 and K88 E. coli vaccine Good sanitation Smooth transition to solid diets. Treatment: Oral Medication: Gengard, Neomycin Injectable Medication: Ceftiofur (Naxcel, Excede, Excenel)


Ileitis Cause: Lawsonia intracellularis is a spirochete bacteria. Discussion: Clinical signs range from poor growth performance to high death losses depending on age of the pig,

antibiotic used, and environmental stress on the pig. Two manifestations of disease:

Chronic: usually seen in pigs weighing less than 150 lbs (grow-finish) Acute: usually seen in pigs weighing more than 150 lbs (gilts and sows)

Clinical Signs: Chronic

Overall poor performance Chronic diarrhea, weight loss, size variation and slow growth rate Scour: ranges in color and consistency, Cow-pie looseness Thickening of the ileum and spiral colon on postmortem

Cow-pie diarrhea Rough folds inside the ileum that will not flatten out

Acute Sudden death, dead and live pigs may be pale in color Moderate to severe thickening of the ileum and spiral colon on postmortem Stool may be brick red-black in color or bloody. Intestine may be filled with long blood clot Outbreak can occur with stress events (feed outs, temperature fluctuation, concurrent disease)

Bloody diarrhea in bred gilt Intestine filled with clotted blood strands

Key Diagnostics: Submit fresh and fixed intestine from pigs that just started to scour and have not been treated. Postmortem: thickened surface of the ileum, cecum and colon. Often referred to as Garden Hose Gut. PCV2 can cause similar lesions Prevention: Reduce stress Early diagnosis and treatment Acute: controlled exposure +/- vaccination of replacement stock Treatment: Injectable Medication: Tylan Oral Medication: Lincomycin, Tylan, Denagard/Tiamulin


PCV2 Enteritis Cause: Disease caused by Porcine Circovirus Type 2. Discussion: Porcine Circovirus type 2 is nearly ubiquitous in the swine population with nearly all herds testing

positive. PCV2 rarely causes disease by itself. It is usually complicated by other triggers that stimulate the

immune system (stress, PRRS, Mycoplasma, vaccination, etc.) PCV2 can cause diarrhea similar to ileitis Clinical Signs: Most commonly affects pigs between 8 and 16 weeks of age Chronic diarrhea (2-6 weeks), that is unresponsive to antibiotics Can be associated with other symptoms of PCVAD: Poor thrift or wasting, respiratory distress (thumping)

and less frequently jaundice (yellow skin)

Scour in finishing pig Thickened ileum and small intestine with enlarged lymph node

Key Diagnostics: Ileum samples and lymph nodes Lesions occur in the lymphoid tissues (lymph nodes, spleen, tonsils, intestine) as well as lungs and liver. Must confirm presence of lesions and virus for PCV2-enteritis diagnosis Treatment: There is no treatment Control secondary diseases Identify sick pigs early and remove from general population Euthanize pigs that do not respond to treatment rapidly Prevention: Vaccination Reduce Stress Minimize Concurrent diseases (PRRS, SIV, Mycoplasma, etc)


Salmonella sp. - Salmonellosis Cause: Salmonella is a bacteria. Two main types affecting pigs are Salmonella choleraesuis and Salmonella typhimurium. Discussion: Salmonella choleraesuis is responsible for causing severe signs of diarrhea and septicemia. Salmonella typhimurium is responsible for causing mainly clinical signs of diarrhea. Clinical Signs: Scour: dark diarrhea to bright yellow diarrhea (occasionally with blood) Cyanosis (blue coloring of the skin) of the extremities Coughing and thumping Icterus (yellow coloring of body organs) on postmortem Fever (103-106 F) Sudden death to slowly wasting away Emaciation/poor doing pigs

Blue ears, nose indicating septicemia Key Diagnostics: Intestine may be filled with long blood clot Intestinal Lymph nodes are important especially if pigs have been treated with antibiotics. Postmortem: enlarged spleen, liver, lymph nodes and/or wet heavy lungs. Ulcers in the large intestine. Multiple sections of small intestine, cecum, colon, spleen, liver and lymph nodes. Prevention: All-in/all-out groups, sanitation Reduce stress Vaccination Prevent access to flush gutters Treatment: Injectable Medication: Ceftiofur Water Medication: Neomycin, Gentamicin (not in finishing)


Swine Dysentery Cause: Brachyspira hyodysenteriae is a spirochete bacteria. Discussion: Pigs in the grow-finish period are most commonly affected, but can be seen in pigs of any age, including

sows. Replacement gilts most likely to show clinical signs 3-4 weeks post-arrival Causes severe diarrhea (reddish-orange) with mucous and blood 3-4 weeks post-infection, with recurrent

breaks in the same animals at 3-4 week intervals. The same animal can re-break with dysentery 3-4 times before becoming immune. Clinical Signs: Reddish-orange diarrhea with strings of bloody-mucous in severe breaks Occasionally see mucous in normal manure in animals that were previously infected May also see yellow diarrhea with flecks of undigested feed (commonly known as Rice Water Diarrhea)

in previously infected animals exposed to stress Poor feed conversion and ADG, along with double the mortality of a similar unaffected flow Often see tail necrosis and a pink, hairless area between hams (see picture)

Key Diagnostics: At necropsy:

a) Mucous and necrotic material may be present in the large intestine b) Severe cases may have red bands present in the spiral colon/cecum.

Submit fresh and fixed intestine from pigs that just started to scour and have not been treated. Submit multiple fecal samples collected with culture swabs, along with LARGE pieces of spiral colon and

cecum (FIXED and FRESH for both.) Contact Vet. Services IMMEDIATELY if you suspect you have Dysentery! Prevention: Strict rodent control program in and around the farm. Excellent sanitation/disinfection between groups to minimize infective dose to incoming pigs Treatment: DO NOT MEDICATE without prior approval from Vet. Services


Primary Causes of Respiratory Diseases

Bacterial

Haemophilus parasuis (HPS) Streptococcus suis Salmonella choleraesuis Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae (APP) Actinobacillus suis Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae Bordetella bronchiseptica Pasteurella multocida

Viral

Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS) Porcine Circovirus type 2 (PCV2) Swine Influenza Pseudorabies (PR) - see FAD section

Parasitic

Ascaris suum (Roundworms) see other diseases of interest


Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae (APP) Cause: Bacteria called Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae. This is the old Haemophilus pleuropneumoniae. Discussion: There are several serotypes of APP that vary in severity of clinical signs and mortality. The ones of most

concern are 1, 5 and 7. Organism can be transmitted by air and nose-to-nose contact More typically spread by mixing negative animals with carrier animals Outbreaks can be seen with improper sanitation of buildings and transportation Clinical Signs: Fever (106-107F) Per-acute, Acute death (good looking pigs) frothy blood discharge from nose Open-mouthed breathing, wet/productive coughing, dog-sitting, blood-tinged discharge from the nose and

mouth May start in a few pens and spread from there

Note areas of hemorrhage and necrosis on back-side of lung. Key Diagnostics: Necrotic lung surface with abscesses, clot-like hardened knot, back-side of lung Blood may run from cut surfaces of lungs Fibrin and adhesions can be associated with affected area Culture and histopathology on lung tissue Treatment: Note: Must be treated early and aggressively, which can help control the outbreak. Treat affected animals, animals in the same pen and adjacent pens. Contact vet and/or supervisor prior to beginning treatment Injectable Medication: Penicillin, Ceftiofur (Naxcel, Excede, Excenel), Draxxin (PRESCRIPTION

REQUIRED) Water Medication: Tiamulin/Denegard Prevention: BIOSECURITY Proper ventilation Proper sanitation


Atrophic Rhinitis Cause: Two bacteria, Bordetella bronchiseptica and toxigenic Pasteurella multocida work together to cause this disease Discussion: The severity of this disease is greatly determined by ventilation, dust, noxious gases, humidity and

secondary pathogens. Clinical Signs: Severe sneezing Mucous to bloody nasal discharge Blunted or deviated snouts Can affect growth rate and feed conversion

Deviated nose Normal nasal septum

Nasal septum affected by Atrophic Rhinitis, note destruction of spirals and deviation of middle septum Key Diagnostics: Deviated snouts Turbinate atrophy and deviation of the septum Cut nose in half, 2/3 way toward eyes Nasal swab culture and turbinate samples Treatment: There is no treatment for deviated noses Because of the number of animals affected, it is usually best to establish a vaccination program. Prevention: Vaccination Proper ventilation


Haemophilus parasuis (HPS) Cause: Gram-negative bacteria called Haemophilus parasuis Discussion: Also known as Glassers Disease Transmitted by carrier sows. Present in practically all herds. Gilt litters are more susceptible. Disease triggered by stress (high temperature or humidity, weaning, overcrowding). Clinical Signs: Slow wasting disease Fever Neurological signs: Down and paddling unable to get up Swollen joints, unable to walk Coughing and thumping respiration Acute mortality to death in 2-5 days (Good-looking pigs, replacement gilts and boars) Fibrin (Cheese-like material, spiderwebs) on heart, lung, and intestines on postmortem

Polyserositis - Fibrin accumulation around the heart, lungs, liver and intestine

Down and paddling pig Key Diagnostics: HPS is difficult to culture samples should be collected from acutely affected euthanized pigs NOT PIGS

FOUND DEAD Culture of fresh tissue. Brain swabs, brain tissue in neurological (paddling, head-tilt) pigs On necropsy, Haemophilus parasuis and Strep suis are indistinguishable from each other Treatment: Injectable Medication: Ceftiofur, Oxytetracycline - with Anti-inflammatory Water Medication: Chlortetracycline, Sulfamethazine, Tiamulin/Denagard, Aureo-Sulmet, Nuflor (PRESCRIPTION REQUIRED) Prevention: Vaccination of pigs and/or adult females Reduce stress on pigs (Ventilation, mixing, etc.) Minimize PRRS circulation


Mycoplasma Cause: Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae is a bacteria Discussion: Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae is transmitted from older pigs to younger pigs by direct contact. Signs may be seen in pigs as young as three weeks of age. Most pigs do not show clinical signs until 10 weeks to 6 months of age. Clinical signs may be mild and transient to severe and chronic. Clinical Signs: Dry non-productive cough to a moist productive cough lasting six to eight weeks May see thumping Bottom section of the front two lung lobes are firm to the touch, consolidated, fish-flesh appearance Off-feed with bleach-outs Poor performance, weight loss, size variation

Cranio-ventral lung lobe consolidation Key Diagnostics: Standard necropsy submission Treatment: Note: Penicillin and Ceftiofur (Naxcel, Excede, Excenel) DO NOT work against Mycoplasma Injectable Medication: Lincomix, Oxytetracycline, Draxxin (PRESCRIPTION REQUIRED) Water Medication: Lincomix, Chlortetracycline Prevention: Vaccination Proper ventilation Control of other diseases at vaccination (PRRS, PCV2) Control of other diseases in early finishing (PRRS, PCV2, SIV, etc.)


Pasteurella Cause: Bacteria called Pasteurella multocida. Discussion: This bacteria is present in all herds and a common inhabitant of nasal passages By itself, Pasteurella multocida does not affect healthy pigs. It can be very devastating in an already compromised lung (PRRS, SIV, Myco, worm migration, poor

ventilation). Clinical Signs: Productive coughing +/- Thumping Off-feed Variable death loss

Bottom section of the front two lung lobes are firm to the touch (cranial ventral consolidation) Key Diagnostics: Standard necropsy submission Treatment: Injectable Medication: Penicillin, Oxytetracycline, Ceftiofur (Naxcel, Excede, Excenel) Water Medication: Tetracyclines Prevention: Proper ventilation Control other respiratory diseases (PRRS, Mycoplasma, SIV, PCV2) Reduce stress (mixing, poor ventilation)


PCV2 and PCVAD/PMWS Cause: The complete cause is still unclear, however a virus known as Porcine Circovirus Type 2 is present in all cases. Discussion: Porcine Circovirus type 2 is ubiquitous in the swine population with nearly all herds testing positive for the

virus. PCV2 rarely causes disease by itself. It is usually complicated by other triggers including infections with

PRRSV, Mycoplasma, and influenza as well as stimulating the immune system with vaccine.

Clinical Signs: Most commonly affects pigs between 8 and 16 weeks of age High acute mortality Poor thrift, wasting, emaciation Respiratory distress (Thumping) Chronic diarrhea (see PCV2-enteritis) Jaundice (yellowing of skin and muscle tissue) Porcine Dermatopathy and Nephropathy Syndrome (PDNS) Skin Lesions

Enlarged bronchial lymph nodes Sever, patchy lung lobe consolidation Enlargement of inguinal lymph nodes

PDNS on hind quarters White spotted kidneys White streaks on cut surface of kidney

Key Diagnostics: For a PCVAD diagnosis ALL of the following have to be shown:

Clinical signs, Hallmark lesions of lymph tissues Presence of virus in lesions

Lymph Tissues: Lymph Nodes (inguinal, bronchial, thoracic, internal iliac, mesenteric), Tonsil, Spleen Lungs, Liver and Kidney PDNS Skin and Kidney Treatment: Although many have been tried, there has been no successful treatments for PCVAD Prevention: Vaccination Reduce Stress Minimize Concurrent diseases (PRRS, SIV, Mycoplasma, etc)


Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS) Cause: American and European strains of the PRRS virus Discussion: There are many strains of PRRS virus and immunity to each is not cross-protective to all others Can present itself in multiple syndromes:

o Reproductive Abortions (mid-late term), poor conception rates, low born alive, increased still born, mummies and low viable pigs, sow and piglet mortality, fever, off-feed

o Respiratory Nursery or grow/finish phase, cough, thumping, fever, off-feed, poor performance, mortality

o PRDC possible component of Porcine Respiratory Disease Complex with other bacteria (Mycoplasma, Pasturella) and viruses (SIV, PCV2)

o Ill-thrift any age pig, general poor performance and growth rate Impairs the pigs immune system, decreasing the pigs ability to fight off secondary infections Clinical Signs: Abortions, increased stillborns and/or mummies, low viable piglets, increased PWM Ill-thrift pigs of any age Coughing, thumping Fevers, off-feed Fuzzy appearance, domed head Overall poor performance Increased appearance or complication of secondary diseases (Strep. suis, HPS, E. coli, Mycoplasma, etc) Key Diagnostics Diagnostics vary at different stages of production Serology on negative herds, PCR on blood or tissues from affected pigs/sows Lungs, lymph nodes, tonsil Abortion: sow blood, fetuses and placenta Treatment: There is no treatment for the virus Treatment should be aimed at secondary bacterial infections and fever reduction Prevention: BIOSECURITY (Semen, Animals, Transportation, Supplies, People, etc.) Reduce stress Minimize cross-fostering Minimize continuous flow, multiple sources, multiple ages Minimize number of animals shot with the same needle


Salmonella choleraesuis Cause: Bacteria called Salmonella choleraesuis Discussion: Salmonella usually begins as a scour then progresses to a septicemia if left untreated Mostly occurs in the nursery and finishing phases Clinical Signs: Wet/productive coughing and thumping Acute death Cyanosis (blue coloring of the skin) of the extremities (ears, nose, legs, bellies) Enlarged spleen and/or liver and red spots on the kidney. Bright yellow diarrhea Fever

Cyanosis of the extremities (ears, nose, tails)

Enlarged spleen Edema of the spiral colon and inflamed intestinal walls Key Diagnostics: Standard necropsy submission Treatment: Injectable Medication: Ceftiofur (Naxcel, Excede, Excenel) Water Medication: Neomycin, Gentamycin (Not in finishing) Prevention: Vaccination Reduce stress


Streptococcus suis Cause: Bacteria called Streptococcus suis Discussion: Transmitted by carrier sows Present in practically all herds Severe outbreaks can be associated with PRRS flare-ups Clinical Signs All ages of pigs affected; especially in young, growing pigs. Fever Swollen joints and unable to walk Down and paddling unable to get up Coughing and thumping

Polyserositis Spider-webbing (fibrin) in abdomen Down and paddling pig Fibrin accumulation around the heart, lungs, liver and intestine Key Diagnostics: Brain swabs, brain tissue in neurological (paddling, head-tilt) pigs On necropsy, Strep suis and Haemophilus parasuis are indistinguishable from each other Treatment: Injectable Medication: Penicillin, Ceftiofur - with Anti-inflammatory Water Medication: Sulfamethazine, Aureo-Sulmet, Tiamulin/Denegard, Potassium Penicillin

(PRESCRIPTION REQUIRED) Prevention: Vaccination of pigs and/or adult females Reduce stress on pigs (Ventilation, mixing, etc.) Understand PRRS status and minimize circulation


Swine Influenza (SIV) Cause: Multiple types and strains of Swine Influenza type A virus. Discussion: Influenza can be transmitted from humans to pigs, but porcine strains do not easily transmit to humans. Influenza can also be spread from poultry and water fowl to pigs. More commonly transmitted by introducing naive animals into the herd or by air from farm to farm. Outbreaks usually occur in the fall or early winter but can occur any time of the year. Clinical Signs: Sudden onset +/- death In outbreaks, entire group affected simultaneously Fever (>104F) Nasal discharge, conjunctivitis (tear-staining, crustiness around eyes), eartip necrosis Off feed, lethargic Loud, dry, goose-honking cough to thumping cough Recovery maybe as soon as 5-7 days, depending on population dynamics Chronic infections occur in continuous flow populations A dry cough can be seen after a break due to damage of the airways Febrile abortions may occur

Conjunctivitis Ear tip necrosis Key Diagnostics: Samples need to come from acutely affected pigs with active fevers +/- nasal discharge Nasal swabs Treatment: Note: Antibiotic therapy is only to control secondary infections. Improve ventilation and keep affected pigs warm Injectable Medication: Penicillin, Oxytetracycline Water Medication: Aspirin (reduce fevers), Tetracyclines Prevention: Vaccination (people and pigs): Replacement breeding stock, sows pre-farrow, at-risk growing pigs Proper ventilation Separation of pigs from poultry or water fowl


OTHER DISEASES of INTEREST

Bacterial

Leptospirosis Erysipelas Staphylococcuc hyicus (Greasy Pig)

Viral

Parvovirus

Parasitic

Ascaris suum (Roundworms)

Other

Gastric Ulcers Hemorrhagic Bowel Syndrome (HBS) Water Deprivation/Salt Toxicity


Erysipelas Cause: Bacteria called Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae. Discussion: It is a bacterial disease that can affect all ages, but is uncommon in suckling pigs. It can be transmitted by

healthy carriers or contaminated soil or buildings. Two forms:

a) Acute: classic signs including fevers, sudden death and skin lesions b) Chronic: few signs other than arthritis

Clinical Signs: Sudden death Fever (104-106 F) Sore arthritic joints; trouble walking Diamond-shaped, red skin welts Purple ears and underbelly Febrile abortions are possible

Classic Diamond shaped lesions Key Diagnostics: Diagnosis can usually be made by classical skin lesions and rapid response to injectable penicillin Standard necropsy submission Include fresh and fixed skin samples from affected areas Include swollen joints if affected Treatment: Injectable Medication: Penicillin, Ceftiofur (Naxcel, Excede, Excenel) Vaccination during outbreak Prevention: Isolation of incoming breeding stock Vaccination of replacement gilts, boar and sows Good sanitation Treatment/Elimination of carrier animals when signs appear


Gastric Ulcers Cause: Ulceration of non-glandular part of pig stomach, usually due to high gastric pH. Discussion: Most pigs have minor gastric ulcers and are sub-clinically affected Highest prevalence is seen in finishing pigs Usually results from a feed-out event, either involuntary (emergency feed-out, blocked feeder) or

voluntary (anorexia, SIV break). Clinical Signs: Pale pigs, Bleach-outs Dark tarry stools may be seen Acute death may occur

Key Diagnostics: Ulcer in esophageal region of stomach (have to open stomach nearest diaphragm) Pale appearance to major organs Digested blood in stomach (coffee-grounds) Treatment: There is no treatment for gastric ulcer Prevention: Prevent feed-out events (feeder blockage, feed auger, feed motor, bin bridges, feed delivery issues) Reduce stress Provide adequate water Prevent disease outbreaks that may result in animals off-feed (SIV, PRRS, etc)


Greasy Pig Exudative Epidermitis Cause: A bacteria called Staphylococcus hyicus. Discussion: One of many forms of generalized skin infections affecting growing pigs. Tends to be more of a problem in poorly ventilated buildings. Occurs when skin lacerations become infected. More common in gilt litters (i.e., start up herds, parity production). Clinical Signs: Affected areas feel greasy to the touch. Skin lesions start on face, shoulder, and flank. In severe cases the entire pig may be covered. Lesions appear as bumps that ooze material and becomes crust-like. Depression, emaciation and possible death in four to eight days.

Crusts usually start on the face Pustules and crust-like lesions covering pig

Severe cases where entire pig is covered with greasy crust Key Diagnostics: Culture affected sections of skin and histopathology of skin Treatment: Topical Medication: Virkon S, Chlorhexadine, Iodine/Mineral Oil, Albadry (PRESCRIPTION REQUIRED) Injectable Medication: Ceftiofur Prevention: Properly ventilate: Low humidity and a dry environment. Prevent fighting (mixing, stress, etc.) Sanitation of farrowing house processing equipment


Hemorrhagic Bowel Syndrome (HBS) Cause: Unknown Discussion: Acute death in finishing animals and possibly breeding stock cause by bleeding-out into intestinal tract Must be differentiated from gastric ulcers Clinical Signs: Acute death Pale appearance Animals may appear bloated even shortly after death Black to red diarrhea Key Diagnostics: Large sections of intestinal tract are hemorrhagic and filled with watery, unclotted blood Diagnosis of HBS is by ruling out all other possible causes (twisted gut/torsions, ileitis, gastric ulcers,

dysentery, etc.), so complete enteric diagnostic workup is needed Treatment: There is no treatment for HBS Some suggest changing feed or water source Provide electrolytes Prevention: Since there is no known cause, prevention is based on reducing stress


Leptospirosis Cause: Leptospira are bacteria. Discussion: There are six types of leptospira (pomona, bratislava, canicola, icterohemorrhagica, grippotyphosa,

hardjo). The disease is transmitted by urine-contaminated water, rodents, wild animals or swine. Two forms of the disease:

a) Acute Form: abortion storms, weak pigs, stillbirths b) Chronic Form: long-term loss of reproductive efficiency

Clinical Signs: Abortions, stillborns, and/or mummies depending on time of infection Key Diagnostics: Identification of Leptospira from fetal tissues (PCR) Paired serum samples demonstrating high titers above vaccine levels Treatment: Re-vaccinate affected group Oral Medication: Chlortetracycline Prevention: Good sanitation Rodent control Total confinement Proper vaccination protocol


Parvovirus Cause: A virus called Porcine Parvovirus. Discussion: The disease is present on all farms and most animals in the breeding herd have been exposed. The disease goes unnoticed in non-pregnant animals. It is transmitted from the sow to the pigs in utero. Typically it is more of a problem in gilts. Adult animals are sufficiently immunized due to vaccination and

to repeated natural exposure. Sows exposed prior to 65 days of gestation may experience reproductive failure. Clinical Signs: Mummification of fetuses at different sizes. Increase in the number of NIPs. Increase in stillbirths. Increase in small litters.

Key Diagnostics: Submit several mummified fetuses Affected and unaffected gilt blood Treatment: There is no treatment for Parvovirus Review vaccination program Prevention: This disease is easily controlled and outbreaks are usually associated with failure to follow vaccine

protocols. Good vaccination protocol Acclimation and good exposure to breeding stock pre-breeding


Roundworms Cause: An internal parasite called Ascaris suum. Discussion: Large worm seen in growing pigs. Transmitted by ingestion of eggs in manure or contaminated facility. The eggs hatch in the intestine and the young worms migrate through the liver and lungs where they

cause damage. Migration through liver causes scar tissue (Milk-Spots) that lead to liver condemnation at packing plant Clinical Signs: Coughing, thumping followed by swallowing Rough hair coat Stunted growth

Worm migration in major airways in lungs Worm impaction in small intestine

Milk-spots on liver are areas of scar tissue after larval migration Key Diagnostics: Fecal float examination on feces. Observation of worms in feces. White spots on the liver (milk spots). Treatment: Treatment for worms may require multiple deworming as young migrating worms may not be affected by wormer. Consult your veterinarian for optimal response with deworming protocols. Water Medication: Piperazine (Wazine), Levamisole (Tramisol) Prevention: Good sanitation Good deworming program on challenged sites Sow herd oral deworming programs (Atguard, Safequard)


Water Deprivation/Salt Toxicity Cause: Water being shut off or no access to water for long periods of time Discussion: Even in our modern systems, water deprivation is very common Water deprivation is usually directly related to management error When a pig does not have access to water, salt builds up in the pigs brain. When the pigs gain access to

water and drinks too much, too fast. The water is absorbed into the brain where the salt is concentrated. The swelling of the brain causes neurological signs, similar to those seen with bacterial meningitis (Strep suis, HPS) and Edema disease.

Causes may include water not being available or turned back on after: Medicator hookup Fixing broken pipes or hoses Issues with well pumps Plugged water nipples Undetected broken water lines Reduction of water flow Frozen water source/pipes

Clinical Signs: Clinical signs usually occur after access to water is restored to the pigs Signs are neurological:

Paddling Ataxia: Staggered gait, walking in circles Head pressing Blindness Dog-sitting, head and nose raised up, flipping

Key Diagnostics: History of water being off Brain samples must be collected fresh and fixed Treatment: Once recognized, water should be provided to pigs for 15 minutes, then removed for 15 minutes. Repeat

this process until pigs appear to no longer have much interest in water. Affected pigs usually do not recover and either die or are euthanized Affected pigs may respond to reduction of brain swelling with an anti-inflammatory Prevention: Check water availability every day Make sure water is turned back on to pigs when shut off Have plan for supplying water in an emergency


Foreign Animal Diseases

The following diseases are considered Foreign Animal Diseases that are important to the swine industry and the US meat market. These diseases have been eradicated from the United States, have been eradicated from the domestic pig population or have never been documented in the US. It is important to recognize the signs of these diseases promptly because there would be a huge economic impact if these diseases were to enter the US. Failure to report any of these diseases promptly could result in the rapid spread of pathogens to susceptible species across the US. If you suspect any of these diseases contact your veterinarian immediately.

Viral Vesicular Diseases

o Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) o Swine Vesicular Disease o Vesicular Exanthema of Swine o Vesicular Stomatitis

Classical Swine Fever (Hog Cholera) African Swine Fever Pseudorabies (PRv)


African Swine Fever

Cause: African Swine Fever is caused by a virus. In affected areas the virus can be spread by infected ticks. Discussion: This disease resembles Classical Swine Fever in its clinical appearance. This disease has never been in the US, however outbreaks have occurred as close as Haiti, the

Dominican Republic and the Caribbean islands. Clinical Signs: Acute morbidity and mortality (can approach 100%) Fever (>106F), piling Depression Off-feed Conjunctivitis Neurological signs (uncorrdination, hind leg paralysis) Hemorrhages on the skin (ears and flank)

Cyanosis of ear Enlarged spleen Hemorrhagic lymph nodes Key Diagnostics: If you suspect African Swine Fever, contact your veterinarian immediately! Tissue collection will be conducted by a state/federal diagnostician Enlarged spleen, +/- infarcts Enlarged and hemorrhagic lymph nodes Treatment/Control: There is no treatment for Classical Swine Fever Rapid identification and regional control efforts are essential to control the spread of these diseases Prevention: NATIONAL BIOSECURITY FARM BIOSECURITY Do not bring un-approved meat products onto the farm Follow Murphy-Brown, LLC International Travel Policy


Classical Swine Fever (Hog Cholera)

Cause: Classical Swine Fever is caused by a virus. Discussion: This disease is extremely economically important to the US swine industry. Hog Cholera was eradicated from the United States. The last case was seen in 1978. Classical Swine Fever is present in the near-by countries of Haiti, the Dominican Republic and Mexico. The disease is highly contagious and infection can spread rapidly. Outbreaks were usually associated with garbage fed swine. Clinical Signs: Acute morbidity and mortality Fever (>106F), piling Depression Off-feed Conjunctivitis Neurological signs (uncoordination, hind leg paralysis)

Tonsil necrosis Infarcts on the spleen Spotted kidneys, Turkey Egg kidney Key Diagnostics: If you suspect Classical Swine Fever, contact your veterinarian immediately! Tissue collection will be conducted by a state/federal diagnostician The USDA has a CSF surveillance program for swine. This involved testing tonsil samples from routine diagnostic cases. Tonsil Treatment/Control: There is no treatment for Classical Swine Fever Rapid identification and regional control efforts are essential to control the spread of these diseases Prevention: NATIONAL BIOSECURITY FARM BIOSECURITY Do not bring un-approved meat products onto the farm Follow Murphy-Brown, LLC International Travel Policy


Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) and other vesicular diseases

Cause: All vesicular diseases are caused by viruses. Discussion: These diseases are extremely economically important to the US swine industry Clinical signs for these diseases are the same and are covered as Foot and Mouth Disease Other species can be affected with similar signs (Cattle, Sheep, Goats, Horses) Clinical Signs: Vesicles (blisters) on the nose, lips, tongue, teats and the hoofs. Affected tissue may slough off and

result in raw areas Hoofs/claws separate from toes Severe lameness

Key Diagnostics: If you suspect any vesicular disease, contact your veterinarian immediately! Tissue collection will be conducted by a state/federal diagnostician Treatment: There is no treatment for Vesicular diseases Rapid identification and regional control efforts are essential to control the spread of these diseases Prevention: NATIONAL BIOSECURITY FARM BIOSECURITY Do not bring un-approved meat products onto the farm Follow Murphy-Brown, LLC International Travel Policy


Pseudorabies Cause: Pseudorabies is caused by the pseudorabies virus. PRV has been eradicated from commercial swine and is now considered a foreign animal disease. This disease still exists in some feral populations of swine. Clinical Signs: Pneumonia in grow/finish pigs Foaming at the mouth in baby pigs, high mortality rates Fever (103-105 F) Off-feed

Mummified fetuses Necrosis of the tonsils White foci on spleen and liver of young pigs Key Diagnostics: If you suspect Pseudorabies, contact your veterinarian immediately! Treatment/Control: If you suspect Pseudorabies, contact your veterinarian immediately! Prevention: Eradication BIOSECURITY prevent contact of domestic swine from feral swine populations


REFERENCES

AASV Website. http://www.aasv.org/ Cowart, R.P., Casteel, S.W. 2001. An outline of swine diseases. 2nd Ed. Foreign Animal Diseases (The Gray Book). 1998. United States Animal Health Association. Guillamon, M.D.H, Garcia de Jalon, J.A. 2007. A guide to necropsy diagnosis in swine pathology. Iowa State University - College of Veterinary Medicine - Veterinary Diagnostic and Production Animals

Medicine Website. http://www.vetmed.iastate.edu/departments/vdpam/ Jackson, P.G.G., Cockcroft, P.D. 2007. Handbook of Pig Medicine. Schwartz, K.J. 2004. Swine Disease Manual. 3rd Ed. Straw, B.E., Zimmerman, J.J., DAllaire, S., Taylor, D.J. 2006. Diseases of Swine. 9th Ed. Taylor, D.J. 1999. Pig Diseases. 7th Ed.

1Revision Date: 11-20-07

Swine Necropsy Manual

Compiled by Veterinary Services Division, Murphy-Brown East

This guide is intended as a step-by-step guide to the necropsy of pigs. It is not independent of hands-on training by an experienced professional.

2

Pig Selection

Pig Selection Represent the disease Not the cull pigs Not the dead pigs Animals not treated

The pigs chosen to take samples from are the most important step in obtaining an accurate and timely diagnosis. Therefore it is critical that ample time be spent observing the population of pigs and gaining a complete understand of the history prior to collecting samples or performing euthanasia.

At least 2-3 pigs should be sampled from each affected age group to get a clear understanding of the problem. The pigs must be representative of the whole affected population. It is best if the pigs are in the general population and are just starting to exhibit clinical signs.

Selection of the right pigs is important. Diagnostics need to represent the disease affecting most of the animals. These are NOT chronic poor pigs in the cull pens, the dead pigs from this morning, or the repeatedly treated pigs that did not get better. Sampling only pigs that are in the cull pens will skew the diagnostic picture, resulting in isolation of common secondary pathogens or finding lesions masked by scarring.

In addition the pigs chosen for sampling should not be have been administered an antibiotic either injectable or in the water.

33 Golden Rules of Necropsy Quality

Trash In = Trash Out

Quantity - Sample size Thumbnail for Fixed tissues Palm sized for Fresh tissues

Keep it cool!

The golden rule of diagnostics is Trash In, Trash Out, meaning if we supply poor quality samples then the lab will report a poor quality diagnosis.

Sample size is very important. Fixed samples must be small (thumbnail) to allow the formalin to soak into the center of the tissue. Large samples fix on the outside, but the center rots and is of no value. Fresh samples should be large (palm size to whole organ), but not so large you cant fit all the organs in the same bag. Also, be sure to collect enough samples. If the lab doesnt want the tissue they can throw it away we cant go back and get it from the pig.

Place samples on ice and keep cool during collection and delivery to lab/office. Keeping samples cool improves isolation of pathogens and keeps tissues from rotting.

4

Guide Lines and Tips

Biosecurity and Sanitation (clean bags)

Proper Labeling

Do it the right way and same way each time.

If youre not sure ASK!

Be sure to keep all equipment, bags and samples clean. Dont get bags excessively dirty. Rinse off or wipe down any bags with blood, tissue or fecal material on the outside.

Label the bags with enough information for the veterinarian and laboratory to match bags between pigs and with any paperwork. Usually this is Veterinarian specific, but at a minimum Farm ID, Animal number and date of collection should be recorded.

Most veterinarians and laboratories necropsy pigs differently, with different methods and tricks. The general idea is to follow good technique, establish an acceptable routine and repeat this same process each time you necropsy a pig.

If you are not sure of what to collect or how to collect it, contact your veterinarian and ask for assistance and training.

5Euthanasia CO2 Gas Euthanasia Captive Bolt Gun Shot Blunt Trauma

Murphy-Brown Euthanasia Policy

Technique-Nursery/Finish-Landmarks

Euthanasia of pigs is necessary to obtain a good quality submission. Valuable necropsies, and thus diagnostics, come from freshly euthanized pigs. Consider the method of euthanasia, as some can cause lesions that may be confused with a disease process.

1. CO2 gas This is the best method available to us for preserving tissue in a diagnostic case, but size of the animal or availability of a CO2 chamber are the limiting factors.

2. Captive bolt/gun shot This can also destroy the brain in pigs with neurological disease

3. Blunt Trauma This causes hemorrhages and air bubbles to form in the lungs of pigs. In addition, it destroys the target tissue in pigs with neurological disease.

Utilize approved method of euthanasia based on the current Murphy-Brown Euthanasia Policy.

6

Bag 1 Fixed (Formalin)

Tonsil Heart Lung (5 pieces) Liver Spleen Kidney Lymph Nodes

Inguinal Thoracic Bronchial Iliac Mesenteric

Ileum + Cecum Colon Small Intestine (5 pieces)

Bag 2 Fresh Organs Tonsil Heart Lung Liver Spleen Kidney

Bag 3 Fresh Intestine Ileum Cecum Colon Small Intestine

w/ lymph nodes

Other - Bags/Swabs/Tubes Brains Fluids TonsilJoints Skin

Small Sample Size

Thumbnail0.5-1cm, etc

LargeSample Size

Palm sizedWhole organ

LargeSample Size

Palm sizedWhole organ

Most diagnostic workups require 3 sample bags:1 Fixed Tissue with Formalin Fluid1 Fresh Major Organs1 Fresh Intestines

This keeps contamination of organs to a minimum. Additional bags may be required for specific collection of fresh and fixed samples of tonsils, liver, joints, brain, skin or other tissues.These collections should be discussed with your veterinarian first.

7Tools Required Tools

Sharp Knife Knife sharpener Forceps (rat-tooth) Sharp Scissors Formalin Sample Bags (Whirl-Pak) Gloves Sharpie or Pen Euthanasia method

Other Tools Culture Swabs Blood tubes Hacksaw

As with any project, the proper tools are required. Each of the above items helps make the necropsy procedure easier and proper sample collection more efficient.

8

Safety

Knife PPE gloves and glasses Zoonosis

Strep suis Salmonella spp. Etc

Keeping your knifes blade sharp is one of the most key processes when posting pigs. Dull knives tear tissue, rather than cut. This results in a longer time to effectively collect samples, frustration and the handler is more likely to cut themselves with a dull knife.

There are a few diseases that can be transmitted from pigs to people when performing a necropsy, namely Strep suis, Salmonella, etc. Care should be taken to prevent cuts or skin punctures when cutting samples. Gloves should be worn during the necropsy process. Hands should be washed after completion of the necropsy to prevent accidental ingestion of blood, tissues or fecal material. In the event someone cuts themselves, wash the area with soap and water, apply proper first aid and follow the current accident reporting protocols.

9Overall External Appearance

Overall external appearance of the animal can help diagnosis and tissue collection. Examine the pigs body for cyanosis (blue color), skin lesions, evidence of diarrhea, swollen joints, blood pooling from mouth and/or nose, sores, ruptures, abscesses, etc.

10

Opening the Animal

Start by cutting down through the underarms of the pig. Cut farenough so that the arm lays back on the ground. Repeat for both arms.

Tip: To keep your knife blade sharp, dont cut down against the hair and skin. Poke into the skin with the knife point and cut from the inside out.

11

Cut the underside of the hip (from the flank to just below the anus) on one of the hind legs. Cut down so that the hip joint is cut. Reflect the leg back.

Note: Repeating this for both legs is optional, one leg is sufficient.

12

The pig should be laid out with both front legs reflected and atleast one hind leg reflected.

13

The skin is separated at the neck to provide a handle and to allow location of the notch (yellow angle) to cut open the ribcage.

14

Find the notch just behind the top point of the breast bone. This will allow you to cut through the softer cartilage on the ribs, rather than the hard bone, which will quickly dull your knife and leave sharp edges of bone.

15

Keeping the blade of the knife level and parallel to the chest and belly of the pig, cut through the rib cage along the cartilage joints. Using the top flap of skin, pull up on the rib cage to make it easier to visualize organs and cut with the knife.

16

Continue your cut through the rib cage to the belly of the pig. Extend your cut all the way to the base of the belly.

Caution: Be careful not to cut any intestinal sections while cutting. This will contaminate your major organ samples.

17

Tonsil

The tonsil is an important immune system organ. It is also the main organ used for Classical Swine Fever surveillance.

It is difficult to find the first few times, but once you know what you are looking for it is simple.

18

After the pig has been opened, but before taking any other tissue, collect the tonsil. Locate the inside ridge of the lower jaw bone (yellow line). Cut down deep along the inside of this bone on both sides of the jaw.

Note: you can extend your cut from the one used to reflect each front leg.

19

If you have cut deep enough, you should be able to work your thumb and index finger into the inside of the pigs mouth, around the base of the tongue.

20

Carefully, lift the skin and underlying tongue up and cut acrossand down into the mouth to separate the tongue.

Caution: Be careful when cutting through the tongue so that you do not cut your fingers.

21

Tongue

Trachea

Roof of mouth

Location of Tonsil

The Tonsil is located on the roof of the mouth and at the back. The tonsil looks kind of like a butterfly and its surface is pitted like a golf ball (see picture insert). Run your finger along the hard ridges on the roof of the mouth from front to back. When you fall-off the hard ridges your finger should be right on top of the tonsil.

22

Tonsil

Pull the tongue back and cut between the back of tongue and roof of the mouth. This will expose the tonsil for easier collection. Your goal is to reflect back the tongue, trachea (windpipe) and larynx (voice box), away from the tonsil.

23

Tonsil

Larynx(voice box)

After the tongue, trachea and larynx have been pulled back, use the forceps to grasp the tonsil. Use scissors to cut under the tonsil and lift it off the roof of the mouth.

24

Once the tonsil has been removed, cut half of the tonsil and place in a fresh bag and fix the other half in formalin.

Note: Your vet may require the tonsil samples be collected in bags separate from the other tissue samples.

25

Thoracic CavityMajor Organs

Lungs, Heart, Thoracic and Bronchial Lymph Nodes

26

Heart

Diaphragm

Lungs

ThoracicLymph Node

Abdominal Cavity

The major tissues in the thoracic cavity are the, Lungs, Heart, Thoracic and Bronchial Lymph nodes.

Note: The diaphragm separates the Thoracic cavity from the Abdominal cavity

27

Lift up the trachea and cut underneath the lungs and heart (the pluck). Pull up on the pluck and cut/peal them away from the back of the pig. Cut the pluck away from the diaphragm.

Flip the pluck over and examine the back side of the lungs for any lesions.

28

The Lungs

Palpate (feel) the Lung for its texture. It should feel spongy and full of air. Hard or firm lung tissue is a sign of disease.

Observe the lung for differences in color or patterns. A healthy lung is light pink without a pattern.

Estimate the percentage of the lung affected.

Note: Be sure to collect the Bronchial Lymph Nodes before you cut the lungs apart!

29

3

4

5

2

1

5 sections of lung for Fixed Tissues

Note margin line created by healthy and diseased tissue. Fixed samples should be

collected to include this margin

Once the lung has been evaluated, collect samples for fresh and fixed. For samples, identify areas that have lesions and/or do not feel healthy. Collect approximately 5 lung pieces from differentlobes of the lung for fixed tissue.

Tip: For fixed samples, collect along margins of healthy and affected tissue (yellow boxes).

Reminder: Cut small samples (thumbnail) for fixed tissues.

30

For fresh tissue, collect large pieces of lung about palm sized.In young nursery pigs, one whole half of the lung can be collected. In larger pigs, collect 2-3 large pieces from different lobes (top, middle, bottom) of the lung.

Tip: Take fixed samples from one side of the lung and submit theother side for fresh tissue.

31

Bottom or Point of the heart

Atrium of heart

Area for fixed tissue collection

The Heart

For the Heart focus on the left side of the heart. This will be on your right when you open the pig. In most pigs, this is the thicker, more firm side of the heart.

About 2/3 of the way up the heart there usually is a band of white/yellow fat tissue. This is approximately the point where the left heart valve is located. Cut your fixed tissue section fromhere.

32

Cutting the bottom half of the heart and submit for fresh tissue

Cutting the heart long ways and submitting the left side for fresh tissue

(this also allows inspection of thevalves and interior of the heart)

For fresh tissue submission, the entire heart can be submitted if small enough, or half of the heart can be submitted. Opening the heart can help identify problems with the valves or interior of the heart chambers.

33

Lymph Nodes

The lymph node is a center for immune system processes. Lymph tissue is located throughout the entire body, either as nodes or imbedded within organ tissue. This tissue is essentialfor diagnosis of systemic diseases like PCVAD, PRRS and Salmonellosis.

Collect 5 lymph nodes; Thoracic, Bronchial, Inguinal, Iliac, andMesenteric.

34

Heart

Lungs

ThoracicLymph Node

Bronchial Lymph Nodes

Trachea

The Thoracic and Bronchial Lymph Nodes are located in the thoracic cavity (see slide 26).

The Thoracic Lymph Nodes are located just inside the first rib and above the heart and lungs.

The Bronchial Lymph Nodes are located in the back of the lungs on either side of the trachea. The pluck usually needs to be completely removed to identify these lymph nodes. There are several that run next to the trachea, between the two lung lobes.

Note: If the lymph nodes are easy to find, they are enlarged andthere is a disease process occurring.

35

Inguinal Lymph Node

Inguinal Lymph Nodes are found in the groin region of the animal. They can sometimes be seen as large lumps just under the skin between the legs. If you reflected the leg correctly at the beginning, the inguinal lymph node should lay near the cut surface, just under the skin.

Note: The lymph node may be buried in large amounts of fat, but you should be able to palpate and feel them slip between your fingers.

36

Iliac Lymph Node

Rectum

The Iliac Lymph Nodes lay on the back body wall in the lower abdominal cav

Documents

Vet Handbook