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Published on: July 22, 2011
Erysipelothrix spp. genotypes, serotypes, and surface protective antigen types associated with abattoir condemnations
Joseph S Bender1, Christa K Irwin, Hui-Gang Shen
1Veterinary Diagnostic and Production Animal Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA.
Summary
Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae serotypes 1a and 2 are common in condemned U.S. pig carcasses. Erysipelothrix tonsillarum, potentially virulent, was also identified, highlighting its role in swine erysipelas.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Microbiology
- Animal Pathology
Background:
- Swine erysipelas, caused by Erysipelothrix species, is a significant concern in the swine industry.
- Slaughter condemnations provide a valuable source for characterizing bacterial pathogens affecting swine health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the characteristics of Erysipelothrix species isolated from swine carcasses condemned at an abattoir.
- To identify serotypes and species of Erysipelothrix and assess the presence of surface protective antigen A (spaA).
Main Methods:
- Specimens were collected from 70 pig carcasses with suspected swine erysipelas lesions over 18 months.
- Bacterial isolation, serotyping, and species identification using multiplex real-time polymerase chain reaction were performed.
- Lesion classifications (acute, subacute, chronic) were correlated with isolate characteristics.
Main Results:
- Erysipelothrix species were isolated from 84.3% of carcasses.
- Serotypes 1a and 2 of Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae were the most prevalent, found in acute, subacute, and chronic cases.
- Erysipelothrix tonsillarum was identified in 3.4% of carcasses, including those negative for E. rhusiopathiae, and lacked spaA.
Conclusions:
- Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae serotypes 1a and 2 remain prevalent in U.S. abattoir condemnations.
- Surface protective antigen A (spaA) is characteristic of E. rhusiopathiae isolates in this study.
- The isolation of E. tonsillarum suggests a potential role in swine erysipelas pathogenesis, warranting further investigation.
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