Pathology and pathogenicity of Eimeria scabra (Henry, 1931) in experimentally infected pigs

Pathology and pathogenicity of the coccidium Eimeria scabra were studied in pigs experimentally infected at 1-2 months of age. Two phases were evident in the course of pathogenic process. In the first phase, 7-8 days after inoculation (DAI), caudal jejunum and ileum were affected by a severe catarrhal inflammation characterized by intensive infiltrate containing numerous neutrophils and eosinophils, vigorous activation of Peyer's patches, villous fusion and general atrophy of epithelium. In the second phase, 9 DAI, release of immature oocysts was associated with break-down of the epithelial barrier and development of pseudomembranes. Reparative and regenerative processes followed immediately, and 13 DAI, the structure of caudal jejunum and ileum was completely reestablished.