Joint sepsis in calf workshop Flashcards
What is sepsis?
Life-threatening dysregulated response to pathogens in bloodstream, commonly bacterial in farmed species
What are common conditions associated with sepsis in farm animals?
Septic (poly)arthritis, septic meningitis, enteritis
What is the primary risk factor for sepsis in neonatal calves?
Failure of Passive Transfer (FPT)
What are some clinical signs associated with sepsis in neonate farm animals?
Meningitis, uveitis, enteritis, joint pain/swelling
How can circulating bacteraemia lead to joint sepsis in calves, lambs & piglets, and what are its common characteristics?
Circulating bacteraemia secondary to a nidus of infection elsewhere
Common characteristics:
- Any age calf/lamb, but <3 weeks more common
- Multiple joints are affected
- Co-morbidities may be evident
e.g. Secondary to omphalophlebitis or unhygienic tail docking
How can a penetrating wound lead to joint sepsis in calves & lambs, and what are its common characteristics?
Penetrating wound can introduce bacteria directly into joint, leading to infection
Common characteristics:
- Typically older calf/lamb (>3 weeks)
- Usually affects a single joint
- Visible wound may be present
E.g.: Carpal sepsis following injury when calf attempts to jump gate
How can pathogens cause joint sepsis in calves/lambs?
Certain bacteria tend to localise on articular surfaces, leading to joint infection
Typically occurs in older calves/lambs (>3 weeks)
Example: Mycoplasma bovis (calf) or Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae (lamb & piglet)
What are the common characteristics of a penetrating wound leading to joint sepsis in pigelts?
Suckling piglets housed on rough surfaces
Abrasions over joints visible
Any age but typically older piglets and adults
Single joint affected
Wound visible
What is ‘Joint ill’?
Colloquial term for septic polyarthritis in farm animals
Most important cause of joint sepsis in farm animals
What are the key components of joint sepsis treatment in farm neonates?
Antibiotics - bacteria are usual cause
Pain relief (NSAIDs)
Good nursing/supportive care
Joint lavage
What are the common causative agents of joint sepsis in farm neonates & what antibiotics can be used?
What NSAIDs can be used for pain relief in farm animals?
Carprofen
Flunixin
Ketoprofen
Meloxicam
Sodium salicylate (aspirin)
All licensed in cow, all but Carprofen licensed in pig & none licensed in sheep but can use all under cascade
