Lameness is the most common cause for treatment with antibiotics in suckling pigs as about 10 % are treated for lameness under Swedish conditions. Etiological agents are mainly streptococci, staphylococci or E. coli, but Trueperella pyogenes may also cause problems. Prevention should aim at reducing trauma to legs and feet. Several studies have shown that piglets treated for arthritis grow slower
than their untreated litter mates. Arthritis and lameness in fattening pigs are often associated with Gram-positive bacteria, but Mycoplasma hyosynoviae may also cause herd health problems. Infections with Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae, can cause problems in outdoor herds and the owners of such herds should consider vaccinations.
Symptoms, outside of lameness – include swollen and painful joints and sometimes an elevated rectal temperature. In serious cases, when septicemia has complicated the disease, depressed general condition may be seen. Early detection and therapy is impor- tant to avoid chronic changes. Lameness can also be caused by traumatic injuries and abrasive floors. A thorough clinical examination is necessary in order to arrive at a correct diagnosis.
Suckling pigs
Streptococcus dysgalactiae subsp. equisimilis is the most common pathogen that is isolated from septic arthritis in Sweden. BBP is therefore the drug of choice. When more than 10 % of piglets are treated for arthritis/lameness a herd health investigation is warranted. Staphylococcus hyicus may also cause arthritis and strains often produce beta-lactamas. An alternative to BPP is T/S, which generally is effective against arthritis caused by E. coli. Use of T/S should be supported by
a sensitivity test. Streptococcus suis, that also may cause meningitis and severe arthritis, have been found in higher numbers than expected in Sweden. Sr. suis is sensitive to penicillin.
Fattening pigs
The drug of choice when treating fattening pigs with arthritis is BPP. If BPP fails beta-lactamas producing staphylococci may be the causative agent in which case T/S is an alternative. When Mycoplasma hyosynoviae is identified as the cause TET is indicated.
The herd health veterinarian and farmer/owner should always be prepared to support therapeutic choices with autopsies and samples for bacteriology, including sensitivity testing, of diseased pigs in order to arrive at an etiologic diagnosis.
All forms of ulcers, lacerations, traumatic lesions of skin and mucosa increase the risks of infections that may lead to arthritis. Lacerations on the faces and abra- sions on the carpi of piglets fighting for access to teats may lead to arthritis and lameness. Good care of the sow and enough bedding and floors of good quality are necessary to prevent diseases in both piglets and sows.