

If there is no history of CL in the herd, a biopsy of the abscess can be sent for laboratory testing. Generally, if a herd has a history of CL, this is enough to assume the diagnosis. This protects both humans and the rest of the herd.ĭiagnosis is generally based on finding a fairly firm abscess in the location of a lymph node. The infection is potentially transmissible to humans, so wear protective clothing when working with infected or possibly infected animals. Goats infected with CL should be milked last, and all equipment cleaned and sanitized after use. CL can also be spread indirectly through contaminated equipment and surfaces in the barn. Nasal secretions can also be a source of infection as lung lesions grow, rupture, and expel their contents. The infection is transmitted directly to other herd members when external abscesses rupture as they increase in size. If there are abscesses in the lung, goats often exhibit signs of respiratory distress and wasting which will reduce productivity and can eventually lead to death. These abscesses displace normal tissue and can cause difficulty breathing, eating, and ruminating, depending on the location of the abscess. feeders, milking stanchion, handling equipment), the infection will spread.Īs the lesions in lymph nodes grow, abscesses containing creamy white, yellowish, or greenish-coloured pasty pus, rich in bacteria form. splinters from wooden feeders, combat wounds, scratching at parasites or flies) and if a goat puts their injured head where a goat with a draining abscess has (e.g. Most often, the first abscesses are in the head and neck area, as the head is most susceptible to injury (e.g. Swollen lymph nodes are typically not detectable for two to six months after initial infection. Goats become infected when the bacteria enters through an open wound or mucous membranes (e.g. In humans, two lymph nodes are found under the chin and you (or your doctor) may find them swollen if you are sick. There are many lymph nodes throughout the body. Lymph nodes play an important role in the immune system – storing white blood cells and filtering foreign particles to detect infections. Hides from slaughtered goats may also be worth less due to CL blemishes.
CAPRINE VIRUS ABORTION AND RESPIRATORY FREE
Additionally, producers who have a herd free of CL generally avoid purchasing infected goats or goats from an infected herd, which can reduce the value of breeding stock. Goats with CL can lead to economic losses due to carcass condemnation, reduced milk production, and weight loss. However, CL abscesses can also form internally in the lungs, udder, liver, and kidneys. This contagious disease is best known for abscesses (buildup of pus) in the external lymph nodes of the neck and abdomen. Ca seous lymphadenitis (CL) is a chronic infection of sheep and goats caused by Cornebacterium pseudotuberculosis bacteria.
