Erysipela in pig: case report

Abstract

A clinical case referred by the official veterinary service of the insular slaughterhouse of Gran Canaria, of a pig that died suddenly in the ante-mortem inspection, is described. The lesions observed on the skin are consistent with Erysipelas. A review of the literature on erysipelas in the different species was carried out. The different clinical presentations, macroscopic and microscopic lesions, immunohistochemistry, bacteriological culture, molecular biology and serological techniques were included, as well as preventive and treatment measures. Sudden death, along with diamond-shaped erythematous skin lesions, along with segmental necrosis of skeletal muscle fibers, severe multisystemic vascular lesions (congestion and disseminated intravascular coagulation) were the most relevant findings of the case. Concomitant injuries such as severe suppurative bronchopneumonia were observed. For diagnostic confirmation, samples were sent for microbiological culture and molecular biology. With immunohistochemistry, using a polyclonal antibody against Erisipelothrix rhusiopathiae created in mice, it was possible to demonstrate the presence of antigen associated with the lesions observed. The different results of the techniques used are discussed.