Abstract:

Clostridium novyi infection causing sow mortality in an Iberian pig herd raised in an outdoor rearing system in Spain

Alfredo García, DVM, PhD; Dolores Ayuso, DVM; Jose Manuel Benítez, DVM; Waldo Luis García, DVM; Remigio Martínez, DVM; Sergio Sánchez, DVM, PhD

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Clostridium novyi was the suspected cause of death of two mature gestating Iberian-breed sows, on evidence of a gas-filled necrotic liver, rapid decomposition and tympany of the carcasses, and the absence of any other detectable cause of death. Anaerobic cultures yielded large numbers of Clostridium-like organisms, and C novyi type B was identified using a multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay. In cases of unexpected mortality in gestating sows, veterinarians need to be aware of the most common causes of death, including C novyi infection. In order to achieve a correct diagnosis, it is essential to perform a postmortem examination and collect samples as soon as possible after death. In addition, use of PCR procedures may allow rapid identification of C novyi and the types implicated.

Keywords: Clostridium novyi, Iberian breed pig, sudden death

Cite as: Garcia A, Ayuso D, Benitez JM, et al. Clostridium novyi infection causing sow mortality in an Iberian pig herd raised in an outdoor rearing system in Spain. J Swine Health Prod 2009;17(5):264-268.

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