Reproductive[1]
Pyometra is uncommon but occurs in intact females and has similar clinical signs as in dogs. Mucohemorrhagic vaginal discharge, lethargy, reduced appetite, and fever are common signs. Ultrasonography and radiography can aid in diagnosis. Treatment involves ovariohysterectomy, antibiotics, and supportive treatment. This is discussed further in the surgery section.
Metritis can occur but is also uncommon. If it does occur, it happens approximately 4 days after parturition. Signs include fever, lethargy, dehydration, and a foul smelling purulent vaginal discharge. Treatment involves antibiotics, NSAIDs, IV fluids, and tetanus prophylaxis (if not currently up to date). Once the sow is stabilized, ovariohysterectomy is recommended.
Parvovirus, if present, will cause fetal infection between 35 and 70 days of gestation and usually results in fetal death. The virus is spread through fomites, boar semen, and transplacentally. If a pregnant sow is infected, the virus spreads from one fetus to the next, resulting in mummies of varying growth stages. The sow will still go to term, but the piglets will likely all be mummified and of different sizes. Abortions are rare. Other minor clinical signs include diarrhea and skin lesions.[2]
In addition to the skin and other systemic effects of Erysipelas mention in the Skin section of this chapter, acute infections with Erysipelas can cause abortion in sows. Subacute infections can cause infertility, smaller litter sizes, and occasionally mummies. Chronically infected boars may be infertile for 6-8 weeks and have a fever.[3]
Leptospirosis is an important zoonotic pathogen to considered as it can cause severe symptoms in humans including liver and renal failure, and even death. In swine it is predominantly a reproductive pathogen. Acute leptospirosis signs are nonspecific (mild fever, ataxia, and depression). The chronic form can cause abortions, stillbirths, small litters, and weak piglets. Treatment with tetracyclines and/or aminoglycosides are the mainstay of antibiotic therapy.[4]
