Intravenous treatment of septicemia secondary to Salmonella Group B in a 3-month-old Yorkshire piglet

Abstract

Salmonellosis is primarily an enteric disease but pigs can present with varied clinical signs and different levels of severity. This paper will discuss characteristics of Salmonella enterica, its pathogenesis, how it is diagnosed, and what management practices can be initiated to prevent it. In the event of septicemia in pigs, prognosis is poor as continued intravenous treatment and support is difficult. Pathogenesis of salmonellosis involves stimulation of the immune response, endotoxin release, and the production of hypersecretory diarrhea. Persistent infection leads to irritation of the gastrointestinal mucosa, dehydration, vasculitis, strictures, and if severe enough, septicemia. Due to its intracellular nature, its ability to be shed intermittently and silently, the prevalence of virulence factors, and its multidrug-resistant forms, Salmonella enterica is challenging to treat and to prevent. This report outlines a case of porcine salmonellosis treated intravenously with gentamicin via placement of a portal catheter.