Hematologic and Lymphatic Diseases

Chapter 64 Hematologic and Lymphatic Diseases


Several conditions can affect the hematologic and lymphatic systems. These conditions include those that lead to anemia, swollen lymph nodes, and multisystemic diseases. These conditions are often difficult to diagnose and treat, especially if they are affecting more than one body system.



CASEOUS LYMPHADENITIS


Caseous lymphadenitis is not uncommon in sheep and goat herds. Certain breeds and management practices predispose a herd to this disease. Caseous lymphadenitis is caused by the bacterium Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis. Infection most commonly spreads through breaks in the skin, such as when shearing, tail docking, and running through dip tanks. The organism can survive for long periods in damp, dark areas such as soil and manure.




CLINICAL SIGNS



• Swelling of superficial lymph nodes (Fig. 64-1)

• In sheep, these abscesses form layers and have the appearance of an onion; in goats, the abscess material is thick and creamy

• If abscesses form in the viscera, chronic weight loss may occur

• Overall signs of poor production

image

Figure 64-1 Locations of the most common palpable lymph nodes that can become enlarged in caseous lymphadenitis. The parotid (a), retropharyngeal (b), mandibular (c), prescapular (d), prefemoral (e), and popliteal (f) nodes are shown; arrow points to the superficial inguinal lymph node (g). Also shown is the most common location for wattles. However, wattles also can be found in other areas of the cervical region.


(From Pugh DG: Sheep and goat medicine, Philadelphia, 2002, WB Saunders. Adapted from Williams CSF: Routine sheep and goat procedures, Vet Clin North Am Food Anim Pract 6:753, 1990.)



DIAGNOSIS



• Serologic testing and culture of the organism from the necrotic, abscessed area


TREATMENT



• If caseous lymphadenitis is suspected, abscesses should not be allowed to rupture open and drain in close proximity to the flock or herd.

• Animals should be isolated for treatment.

• Antimicrobial therapy is often unrewarding.

• When the abscess is opened it should be drained and flushed with either iodine or chlorhexidine solution.


INFORMATION FOR CLIENTS



• Affected animals should be removed from the flock or herd.

• The environment should be kept free from sharp objects that may compromise the skin barrier.

Related posts:

  1. Hematologic and Immunologic Diseases
  2. Hematologic and Immunologic Diseases
  3. Diseases of the Cardiovascular System
  4. Hematologic Diseases

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Aug 31, 2016 | Posted by in GENERAL | Comments Off on Hematologic and Lymphatic Diseases

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