Arthritis in pigs induced by dietary factors. Microbiologic, clinical and histologic studies.

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  • 1 November 1971
    • journal article
    • Vol. 9  (5) , 677-93
Abstract
Eight-week-old pigs fed a protein-rich diet ad libitum developed an abnormal intestinal microbial flora within 1 week. The main feature was a significant increase in the number of atypical Clostridium perfringens, type A. In the first week after the change of diet, the pigs showed disturbances of movement and swollen peripheral joints. The ESR was concomitantly elevated and later on hypergammaglobulinaemia with increased antibody titres to Cl. perfringens antigens were noted. Joint deformities were observed after some months.