What is it?
A disease usually caused by clostridia bacteria, most frequently Cl. Septicum and Cl. Perfringens. Staphylococcus aureus may well be implicated as the causal bacteria or as an additional pathogen. Gangrenous dermatitis affects chickens and turkeys, usually between 4-7 weeks of age.
Signs
Sudden mortality, marked depression, uncoordinated movement, skin becomes gangrenous with severe cellulitis particularly over thighs, wings and wattles. Death within a few hours and rapid decomposition.
Influencing factors
- Skin wounds
- Immunosuppressive agents-IBD (Gumboro), Marek’s disease, chicken anaemia, reoviruses
- Nutritional factors– inadequate protein for feather and skin growth/inadequate salt exacerbating fighting and therefore skin damage
- Mycotoxicosis-increased susceptibility to bruising and immunosuppression
- Management factors-higher than optimal stocking density, unhygienic conditions, insufficient cleaning and disinfecting between flocks
Clostridial organisms are ubiquitous in nature and may be found in the intestine, litter and soil. The spores they produce are highly resistant in the environment and will be in greater concentrations in contaminated feed, water and litter.
Diagnosis
Post Mortem findings will show lesions under the wings, between the thighs, over the ribs and flanks in the form of reddened moist skin and cellulitis. Underlying muscle is usually discoloured and oedematous; gas is produced by the clostridial organisms. The kidney, heart and liver are often congested; some carcases will also show congested lungs. Morbidity and mortality can reach 8-9% in untreated flocks.
Control
High standards of hygiene; swift removal of carcases, fly control, avoidance of overcrowding and skin trauma. Supply of uncontaminated food and water. Good protection against immunosuppressive agents.