Pseudomembranous Laryngotracheitis Affecting Suckling Piglets

Abstract

Pseudomembranous laryngortacheitis broke out in the same swine herd in May, 1972, and May, 1973. Finally, 12 suckling piglets were affected with it among 43 piglets of 5 litters. Of them, 5 piglets died of the disease.
Clinical observation revealed an increase in nasal discharge about 10 days of age and marked dyspnea at 15 days of age, when the severely affected animal died from suffocation. Sucklings showing good growth were ready to contract the disease. Contact infection was observed. Natural recovery seemed to take place by 40 days of age.
Histological examination revealed exudative rhinitis, bronchopneumonia, and pulmonary emphysema in addition to pseudomembranous laryngotracheitis. Corynebacierium pyogenes was isolated from three cases and C. psoidopyogenes from one case.