Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 9, 2026
08:46
A Neonatal Imaging Model of Gram-Negative Bacterial Sepsis
Published on: August 12, 2020
Neonatal osteomyelitis associated with Staphylococcus aureus in turkey poults
Matilde Alfonso1, H John Barnes
1Poultry Health Management, Department of Population Health & Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, 4700 Hillsborough Street, Raleigh, NC 27606, USA.
Avian Diseases
|April 19, 2006
Summary
Young turkeys can develop Staphylococcus aureus osteomyelitis after toe trimming, leading to leg weakness and significant mortality. Early recognition of swelling and inflammation in toes and joints is crucial for flock health management.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Avian Medicine
- Bacterial Infections
Background:
- Osteomyelitis is a serious bone infection.
- Young turkeys are susceptible to bacterial infections post-hatching.
- Toe trimming is a common practice in turkey poult production.
Observation:
- A case study documented Staphylococcus aureus causing osteomyelitis in turkey poults.
- Affected poults exhibited leg weakness, toe inflammation, and swollen hock joints.
- Mortality rates reached 12.6% in the first week post-hatching.
Findings:
- Staphylococcus aureus was identified as the causative agent, isolated from infected joints and footpads.
- Microscopic examination revealed granulocytic infiltration and bacterial colonies consistent with S. aureus.
- Infection likely entered through the portal created by toe trimming, spreading to bones and joints.
Implications:
- Neonatal staphylococcal osteomyelitis should be suspected in turkey flocks with increased mortality post-trimming.
- Clinical signs include severe toe/joint swelling and inflammation, indicating potential bone infection.
- Understanding the link between toe trimming and S. aureus infection is vital for preventative strategies.
