ThePigSite猪群健康
Thrombocytopaenic Purpura - Bleeding
(484) This is an uncommon condition seen only in young piglets from approximately 7 to 21 days of age. It arises when the sows colostrum contains antibodies that destroy the piglets blood platelets (thrombocytes). The immune system of the sow during the period of pregnancy recognises the platelets as foreign protein and produces antibodies against them. The formation of these antibodies is also related to the boar that is used. Disease commences 7 to 10 days after the intake of colostrum.Clinical signs
These can be sudden and are indicated by good pigs found dead. Look closely at the skin of these and you will see haemorrhages wherever there has been bruising, teeth marks or trauma. Haemorrhages are evident throughout all body tissues. The piglet dies through the failure of normal blood clotting mechanisms. The disease is very sporadic but up to half the litter may be affected. Invariably the pigs die.
Treatment
There is no known treatment other than good nursing. In the early stages of the disease it is worthwhile cross-fostering litters to remove exposure to any lingering antibodies in the sows milk.
Management control and prevention
THROMBOCYTOPAENIC PURPURA
Note the haemorrhages throughout the carcase, skin and lymph nodes.
