Rauschbrand
Rauschbrand ist eine rasch tödlich verlaufende Clostridieninfektion des Rindes, verursacht durch Clostridium chauvoei, die Gasbrand in großen Muskelgruppen hervorruft. Betroffen sind meist gut entwickelte Jungrinder auf der Weide, häufig ohne Vorwarnung. Im Boden befindliche Sporen werden aufgenommen und aktivieren sich im Muskel, wo sie tödliche Toxine freisetzen.
Quick facts
- Type:
- Infectious
- Typical onset:
- Peracute
- Body systems:
- Musculoskeletal, Multisystemic, Muscular
- Affected species:
- CATTLE, SHEEP
- Reference codes:
- NCBITAXON 46867
Overview
Blackleg is a peracute, usually fatal clostridial myonecrosis of cattle, classically affecting thrifty young animals on good pasture.
Causes
Infection with Clostridium chauvoei; spores ingested from soil lodge in muscle and germinate after bruising or low-oxygen conditions, releasing gas and toxins that destroy muscle.
Signs
Sudden severe lameness, fever, and hot painful muscle swellings that become cold and crackle with gas; depression and rapid death often within a day. Many animals are simply found dead.
Diagnosis
History and lesions (dark, gassy, sweet-smelling muscle) at necropsy, confirmed by detection of the organism in affected tissue.
Treatment & Management
Rarely successful due to speed of disease; high-dose penicillin and surgical debridement may be attempted in very early cases.
Prevention
Routine multivalent clostridial vaccination of young stock, with timely boosters; prompt removal and proper disposal of carcasses.
Sources & references
- Merck Veterinary Manual — Describes Clostridium chauvoei myonecrosis, sudden death, and vaccination in cattle.
- Wikipedia — Overview of blackleg in cattle and sheep.
- NCBI Taxonomy
This content is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you are worried about your pet, contact your veterinarian.