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==Description==
==Description==
An infectious disease caused by [[Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae|Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae]]. The disease is characterised by sudden death, septicaemia, [[Joints Inflammatory - Pathology#Arthritis|arthritis], endocarditis, diamond shaped skin lesions, laminitis and abortion in pregnant sows.
An infectious disease caused by [[Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae|Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae]]. The disease is characterised by sudden death, septicaemia, [[Joints Inflammatory - Pathology#Arthritis|arthritis]], endocarditis, diamond shaped skin lesions, laminitis and abortion in pregnant sows.
Carrier pigs act as reservoir of infection and Organisms are excreted in faeces of acutely-affected pig. Infection occurs via ingestion of contaminated food and water, or through skin abrasions.
Carrier pigs act as reservoir of infection and Organisms are excreted in faeces of acutely-affected pig. Infection occurs via ingestion of contaminated food and water, or through skin abrasions.
Changes in diet, extremes of temperature and fatigue are thought to predispose to infection
Changes in diet, extremes of temperature and fatigue are thought to predispose to infection
3 forms of disease occur:
3 forms of disease occur:
Hyperacute
*Hyperacute
Acute
*Acute
Chronic
*Chronic
Hyperacute:
Sudden death, more common in younger pigs. May be found dull, collapsed or pyrexic with a scarlet tinge to the skin.
Acute:
Anorexia and pyrexia are the two most common clinical signs of the acute form in young pigs. Affected animals still die but normally afte day in which time they become dyspnoic.
Older pigs tend to show pyrexia, anorexia and polydypsia.
Pigs show, pink/purple raised areas or extensive diamond-shaped plaques over skin within 24-48 hours of developing clinical signs. If pregnant sows are infcted at this time they may abort.
Chronic:
Lesions may resolve within a week, or become necrotic and slough
**Acute; incubation period 2-3 days
**Acute; incubation period 2-3 days