Clostridium novyi infection causing sow mortality in an Iberian pig herd raised in an outdoor rearing system in Spain

Abstract

Clostridium novyi was the suspected cause of death of two mature gestating Iberian-breed sows, on evidence of a gas-filled necrotic liver, rapid decomposition and tympany of the carcasses, and the absence of any other detectable cause of death. Anaerobic cultures yielded large numbers of Clostridium-like organisms, and C novyi type B was identified using a multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay. In cases of unexpected mortality in gestating sows, veterinarians need to be aware of the most common causes of death, including C novyi infection. In order to achieve a correct diagnosis, it is essential to perform a postmortem examination and collect samples as soon as possible after death. In addition, use of PCR procedures may allow rapid identification of C novyi and the types implicated.