Gangrenous dermatitis in chickens and turkeys

Abstract

Gangrenous dermatitis (GD) is a disease of chickens and turkeys that causes severe economic losses in the poultry industry worldwide. Clostridium septicum, Clostridium perfringens type A, and occasionally Clostridium sordellii are considered the main causes of GD, although Staphylococcus aureus and other aerobic bacteria may also be involved in some cases of the disease. GD has become one of the most significant diseases of commercial turkeys in the United States. Several infectious and/or environmental immunosuppressive factors can predispose to GD. Skin lesions are considered to be the main portal of entry of the microorganism(s) involved. GD is characterized by acute onset of mortality associated with gross skin and subcutaneous tissue lesions consisting of variable amounts of serosanguineous exudate together with emphysema and hemorrhages. The underlying skeletal muscle can also be involved. Ulceration of the epidermis may be also noticed in cases complicated with S. aureus. Microscopically, necrosis of the epidermis and dermis, and subcutaneous edema and emphysema are commonly observed. Gram-positive rods can be identified within the subcutis and skeletal muscles, usually associated with minimal inflammatory infiltrate. A presumptive diagnosis of GD can be made based on history, clinical signs, and gross anatomic and microscopic lesions. However, confirmation should be based on demonstration of the causative agents by culture, PCR, immunohistochemistry, and/or fluorescent antibody tests.

Avian Pathogenic Escherichia coli and Clostridium perfringens: Challenges in No Antibiotics Ever Broiler Production and Potential Solutions

“…GD is commonly observed in broilers that are closer to market age (>35d) and is associated with increased condemnation rates and downgrades of carcasses at slaughter [ 128 ]. With prevalence and severity of GD increasing in the US, these downgrades will continue to increase production losses [ 132 ].…”

Characterization of Avian Pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC) Associated With Turkey Cellulitis in Iowa

“…In addition, other microorganisms including Streptococcus spp. and Staphylococcus aureus have also been identified as potential agents of disease (5,8,9). Of significant interest to the current study is the view that E. coli is an infrequent cause of cellulitis in turkeys (9).…”

“…and Staphylococcus aureus have also been identified as potential agents of disease (5,8,9). Of significant interest to the current study is the view that E. coli is an infrequent cause of cellulitis in turkeys (9). Damage to tissues as a result of cellulitis often have their origin as a result of a trauma or injury to the bird and studies have demonstrated the importance of quality litter that is less likely to cause trauma as well as the microbiome of the litter which has the potential to affect skin health in injured or compromised birds.…”

Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in Poultry Species in Algeria: Long-Term Study on Prevalence and Antimicrobial Resistance

“…Sci. 2020, 7, 54 2 of 11 also be spread via the bloodstream resulting in synovitis, chondronecrosis with osteomyelitis, arthritis, and endocarditis [7][8][9].…”