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Staphylococcus hyicus virulence in relation to exudative epidermitis in pigs
H C Wegener1, L O Andresen, V Bille-Hansen
1National Veterinary Laboratory, Copenhagen, Denmark.
Summary
Virulent Staphylococcus hyicus strains cause exudative epidermitis in piglets. A specific 30 kDa protein produced by these virulent strains may be responsible for the skin disease.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Dermatology
- Bacteriology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Exudative epidermitis in piglets is caused by Staphylococcus hyicus.
- Virulent and avirulent S. hyicus strains can coexist in infected piglets, complicating diagnosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To differentiate between virulent and avirulent S. hyicus strains.
- To identify potential virulence factors associated with exudative epidermitis.
Main Methods:
- Isolation and characterization of S. hyicus strains from piglets.
- Injection of concentrated culture supernatants into healthy piglet skin.
- Histopathological examination of skin lesions.
- Protein profile analysis using gel electrophoresis.
Main Results:
- Virulent S. hyicus supernatants induced crusting and acanthosis in piglet skin.
- Avirulent S. hyicus supernatants did not cause skin changes.
- A 30 kDa protein was consistently found in supernatants from virulent strains but absent in avirulent strains.
Conclusions:
- Piglet skin crusting is a reliable indicator of S. hyicus virulence.
- A 30 kDa protein produced by virulent S. hyicus may be an exfoliative toxin responsible for exudative epidermitis.