Enterotoxemia
Enterotoxemia
Enterotoxemia (pronounced: en-ter-o-tox-e-mia) is a condition caused by the release of a toxin by the bacteria Clostridium perfringens in the intestines of some animals, particularly sheep and goats.
Etymology
The term "Enterotoxemia" is derived from three Greek words: "enteron" meaning intestine, "toxon" meaning poison, and "haima" meaning blood. Thus, it literally means "poison in the blood from the intestines."
Definition
Enterotoxemia is a fatal disease that affects animals, especially ruminants, caused by the toxins produced by the bacterium Clostridium perfringens. The disease is characterized by sudden death in animals, often associated with changes in diet that result in overgrowth and toxin production by the bacteria.
Symptoms
Symptoms of enterotoxemia include sudden death, severe abdominal pain, bloody diarrhea, and neurological signs such as convulsions and opisthotonos (a condition in which the head and tail are bent towards the body).
Causes
Enterotoxemia is caused by the bacterium Clostridium perfringens, which is normally present in small amounts in the intestines of healthy animals. However, when an animal's diet is suddenly changed or when it overeats rich feed, the bacteria can multiply rapidly and produce large amounts of toxin.
Treatment
Treatment for enterotoxemia is often unsuccessful due to the rapid progression of the disease. However, if caught early, treatment with antibiotics and antitoxins may be attempted.
Prevention
Prevention of enterotoxemia is achieved through proper feeding practices and vaccination with a Clostridium perfringens type C and D toxoid.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Enterotoxemia
- Wikipedia's article - Enterotoxemia
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