Evident similarity of porcine postparturient dysgalactia to subclinical porcine coliform mastitis

Abstract

The present commentary aims to motivate future research and initiate new investigation on porcine periparturient disorders. After a short characterization of the clinical presentation of coliform mastitis, this commentary concentrates on the subclinical variant. The subclinical form of the disease resembles in most aspects what is referred to as postparturient dysgalactia syndrome of sows, and is considered highly prevalent in the field. Since the recent introduction of the ill-defined postparturient dysgalactia syndrome, experimental work has declined. Except for review articles, there is a shortage of recent publications in this area. Previously published experimental data led to a promising approach to prevent coliform mastitis by reducing the level of teat contamination by coliform bacteria. With the ongoing need to reduce antimicrobial use in food-producing animals, there is a continued need to investigate preventive strategies.