Chapter 5

POSTMORTEM DISPOSITIONS

 

5.1 SEPTICEMIA/TOXEMIA GROUP 

5.1.1 GENERAL

The lesions and symptoms of a disease are but manifestations of the body's reaction to the disease. Inflammation is the effect of the body's cellular, vascular and humoral responses to the disease process. Without the body's reaction to disease (inflammation), disease would be difficult to detect. As meat and poultry inspectors, the veterinarian has the responsibility to detect and evaluate the alterations in physiology and anatomy caused by disease or injury. Disposition of animal carcasses is based on this evaluation. In most cases, the judgement or evaluation of the effect of a disease process is more important in the disposition decision than is the etiology per se.

5.1.1.1 SEPTICEMIA 

Septicemia is a condition due to the presence of pathogenic organisms and their associated toxins in the blood stream. Many bacterial and viral diseases have this characteristic. These infectious diseases are called septicemias when they are accompanied by:

 

Changes in body temperature.

Changes in pulse rate and prostration.

Congestion, hyperemia and hemorrhages.

Edema

Lymphadenopathy

Dehydration

Darkened Musculature.

Degeneration of parenchymatous organs

Anemia

Not all septicemias will have all of the above changes.

5.1.1.2 TOXEMIA

Toxemia is an intoxication caused by the absorption of bacterial products formed at a local source of infection. Toxemia is characterized by degenerative changes in the parenchymatous organs.

Pyelonephritis

Degenerative changes in liver, heart, and kidneys. Bacteria remain in urinary tract.

Septic Mastitis

Toxic changes observed in parenchymatous organs, but organisms in mammary gland. (Sometimes this is a septicemia as well.)

5.1.1.3 SAPREMIA

Sapremia is toxic changes in parenchymatous organs and vessels due to the absorption of the end products of tissue disintegration. Dead fetuses and retained necrotic fetal membranes lead to a sapremia. Septicemia and toxemia are clinical rather than pathological concepts. On antemortem, animals with either may show the following:

 

 

Altered body temperatures

Depression

Hemorrhage of visible mucous membranes

Chilling

On Postmortem, one may see:

Cyanosis and darkened musculature (heat and congestion)

Hyperemia or anemia (Bone marrow depression)

Edema

Dehydration

Hemorrhage

Necrosis

Parenchymatous degeneration, sometimes cachexia

 

Grossly it is not always possible to tell which (septicemia or toxemia) is present. Lesions of either septicemia or toxemia indicate a systemic or generalized disease - an abnormal physiological state. Even though they may not actually be dangerous to consumer's health, they are obnoxiously repugnant and, therefore, aesthetically unacceptable. Since most often the etiologies of either septicemia or toxemia are doubtful or unknown, they constitute potentially one of the most dangerous health hazards in meat and poultry inspection. The problem of differentiation between septicemia and a localized inflammation is often not easy (particularly in poultry because lymph nodes are not present). 

 

IN POULTRY

If localized - Salvage parts

If a Septicemia - Condemn

 

IN MAMMALS

Generalized lymphatic enlargement without hemorrhage and/or EDEMA does not necessarily indicate septicemia or toxemia.

 

QUESTION: What might it be?

 

5.1.1.4 POISONS

Review the definition of these. Some produce characteristic clinical and postmortem lesions. Others are much less specific. (Check Smith, Jones and Hunt's "Veterinary Pathology" for poisons.

 

Remember that poisons:

1. Produce necrosis

2. Cause degeneration of cells

3. Disturb nerve function

4.Cause hemorrhages

Animals with lesions of systemic poisoning are unwholesome and are condemned.

 

SEPTICEMIA - TOXEMIA-- POISONINGS can not be differentiated on basis of antemortem or postmortem examination only. All involved systemically are to be condemned. 

5.1.2 SEPTICEMIA

 

Note: Conditions should be placed in the septicemia/toxemia category when a specific disease cannot be diagnosed.

5.1.2.1 ANTEMORTEM:

A. Method of Diagnosis:

  • 1. Observation
  • 2. Temperature
  • 3. Physical examination

B. Confusing Conditions:

  • 1. Specific diseases (Hog Cholera, etc.)
  • 2. Poisonings
  • 3. Toxemias

C. Significant Findings:

  • 1. Elevated temperature (could be normal or subnormal)
  • 2. Downer or physical depression
  • 3. Injury or suppurating wounds
  • 4. Anorexia
  • 5. Evidence of pain
  • 6. Shivering
  • 7. Dyspnea
  • 8. Congested visible mucous membranes (eye-mouth-vulva)
  • 9. Injection site (neck)

D. ANTEMORTEM DISPOSITION

  • 1. Condemnation - if diagnosis can be made
  • 2. Suspect - those animals with some of the findings but not definitive diagnosis.
  •  

NOTE: All Downers not moribund must meet 24 hr. withholding requirement. Injection site = Withhold/Call Supervisor

 

5.1.2.2 POSTMORTEM:

A. Method of diagnosis

  • 1. Observation
  • 2. Palpation
  • 3. Incision

B. Confusing Conditions

  • 1. Same as listed on antemortem

C. Significant Findings

  • 1. Infected wounds or bruises
  • 2. Generalized acute lymphadenitis
  • 3. Degeneration of liver, spleen, heart, kidney
  • 4. Petechial hemorrhages - pericardium, kidneys
  • 5. Poorly clotted blood
  • 6. Petechial or ecchymosis of mucous/serous membranes
  • 7. Blood stained serous exudate in either or both cavities
  • 8. Injection sites

D. Postmortem Dispositions

  • 1. Condemnation - A carcass manifesting septicemic lesions is never passed.
  • 2. Acute lymphadenopathy alone is not enough evidence for condemnation.

 

5.1.3 TOXEMIA

A condition in which toxic materials are in the circulation.

NOTE: Often an associated lesion causing the toxemia will be mastitis, metritis and wound infection.

 

5.1.3.1 ANTEMORTEM

A. Method of diagnosis

  • 1. Observation
  • 2. Temperature
  • 3. Olfaction (Acetonemia - Gangrene)

B. Confusing Conditions

  • 1. Plant and chemical intoxication
  • 2. Downers, other than toxemia (broken leg, split, paralysis)

C. Significant Findings

  • 1. Depression
  • 2. Temperature change (up or down)
  • 3. Dehydration
  • 4. Confused, pain, convulsions
  • 5. Moribund
  • 6. Locomotor changes

D.Disposion

  • 1. Condemn

 

NOTE: Specific disease conditions such as mastitis, etc., are condemned for the specific condition and not toxemia. Suspect animals showing signs, but not conclusive.

 

5.1.3.2 POSTMORTEM:

A. Method of diagnosis

  • 1. Observation (associated conditions may be present)
  • 2. Palpation
  • 3. Incision
  • 4. Olfaction

B. Confusing Conditions

  • 1. Uremia
  • 2. Septicemia
  • 3. Lymphoid conditions (Malignancies - Hyperplasia)
  • 4. Recent Parturition (Pale liver and involution changes)

C. Significant findings

Systemic changes

  • 1. Hemorrhages in vital organs
  • 2. Lymph node involvement, edematous, hemorrhagic
  • 3. Areas of tissue necrosis
  • 4. Degenerative changes in parenchymatous organs

 

NOTE: Toxins may depress lymph tissue formation, while septicemia tends to increase it.

 

D. POSTMORTEM DISPOSITION

  • 1. Condemn (for specific condition if known)
  • 2. No carcass with evidence of toxemia is ever passed.

 

5.1.4 PYEMIA

5.1.4.1 ANTEMORTEM

A. Method of diagnosis

  • 1. Observation
  • 2. Palpation
  • 3. Temperature

B. Confusing Conditions

  • 1. Neoplasm
  • 2. Peritonitis and Pleuritis
  • 3. Caseous Lymphadenitis
  • 4. Injection sites
  • 5. Suppurating wounds

C. Significant Finding

  • 1. Depression-Lethargic attitude
  • 2. Temperature changes (may be normal)
  • 3. Swollen joints
  • 4. Umbilical abscessation
  • 5. Subcutaneous abscesses
  • 6. Cachexia
  • 7. Scirrhous Cord

D. ANTEMORTEM DISPOSITION

  • 1. Suspect animal showing signs, but not conclusive
  • 2. Condemn animal showing any combination of signs which suggest condemnation on postmortem, for example, numerous abscesses, cachexia or elevated temperature,

5.1.4.2 POSTMORTEM

A. Method of Diagnosis

  • 1. Observation
  • 2. Palpation
  • 3. Incision
  • 4. Olfaction

B. Confusing Conditions

  • 1. Actinomycosis
  • 2. Tuberculosis
  • 3. Neoplasms (some of these have necrotic centers due to liquefactive necrosis)
  • 4. Caseous lymphadenitis
  • 5. Necrobacillosis
  • 6. Miscellaneous swellings

C. Significant findings

  • 1. Generalized multiple abscesses
  • 2. Hemorrhages in lymph nodes, kidneys, serous surfaces
  • 3. Serous degeneration of fat and muscles
  • 4. Degenerative changes in parenchymatous organs

D. POSTMORTEM DISPOSITIONS

  • 1. Condemnation

    All carcasses with pyemia are condemned.

    • a. Generalized multiple abscesses
    • b. Abscesses associated with systemic manifestations
  • 2. Pass (After removal and condemnation of affected tissue)

When it is determined that abscesses are localized and the carcass is otherwise in good condition. (Localized well encapsulated abscesses in more than one organ without systemic manifestations).

 

5.2 SPECIFIC SEPTICEMIC/TOXEMIC CONDITIONS 

5.2.1 HOG CHOLERA

Uncomplicated hog cholera may have minimal lesions and may not resemble the textbook picture.

5.2.1.1 ANTEMORTEM

A. Method of Diagnosis

  • 1. Observation
  • 2. Temperature
  • 3. Physical examination

B. Confusing Conditions

  • 1. Erysipelas
  • 2. Septicemic Salmonellosis
  • 3. Other septicemias

C. Significant Findings

  • 1. Depressed Hypoesthesia - Listless - not inclined to move
  • 2. Elevated temperature
  • 3. Exudative conjunctivitis
  • 4. Huddling-piling-vomiting
  • 5. Respiratory distress
  • 6. Erythemia
  • 7. Weaving and uncoordinated movements
  • 8. Cyanosis of skin
  • 9. High mortality

D. ANTEMORTEM DISPOSITION

1. CONDEMNATION (If diagnosis is hog cholera)

NOTE: Contact APHIS. They will tell you what they want done. Do not authorize killing animal pending APHIS decision.

2. HOG CHOLERA SAMPLING

  • a. Brain - Formalin -> Histopathology
  • b. Tonsils/spleen - frozen -> fluorescent antibody and culture

 

NOTE: Take temperatures of all hogs in lot showing cholera-like symptoms. Suspect any hogs showing inconclusive symptoms provided no hogs in lot show conclusive signs of hog cholera.

 

5.2.1.2 POSTMORTEM

A. Method of Diagnosis

 

SPECIAL NOTE: Hemorrhagic band, which is quite friable at the epiphyseal line of the costochondral junction is seen in acute hog cholera. In subacute cases, the band is white and irregular.

 

D. POSTMORTEM DISPOSITIONS

1. Condemnation

  • a. Suspects showing inconclusive symptoms of hog cholera are condemned if hemorrhagic lesions of the kidneys and lymph nodes resembling hog cholera are found.
  • b. Characteristic lesions of hog cholera in non-suspects will be considered hog cholera if accompanied by kidney and lymph node lesions.

2. PASS without restriction

  • No conclusive lesions of hog cholera present. 

 

5.2.2 SWINE ERYSIPELAS

5.2.2.1 ANTEMORTEM

A. Method of diagnosis

  • 1. Observation
  • 2. Temperature
  • 3. Physical examination

B. Confusing Conditions

  • 1. Arthritis
  • 2. Hog cholera and other septicemic acute febrile conditions
  • 3. African Swine Fever
  • 4. Vesicular exanthema
  • 5. Transport injury (sore feet)
  • 6. Reared on concrete
  • 7. Skin conditions (parasites, rough handling, beating, fighting)

C. Significant findings

  • 1. Fever in acute manifestations
  • 2. Bright and alert, but reluctant to move
  • 3. Squeal in pain if force to move
  • 4. Raised, red, edematous, rhomboid wheals in acute form
  • 5. Sloughing of skin in rhomboid shaped areas in chronic arthritis
  • 6. Sudden death, if excited
  • 7. Eyes normal
  • 8. Continue to eat

D. ANTEMORTEM DISPOSITION

  • 1. CONDEMN if fever and characteristic symptoms are present.
  • 2. SUSPECT if skin lesions are present with normal temperature.

 

5.2.2.2 POSTMORTEM

A. Method of Diagnosis

  • 1. Observations
  • 2. Palpation
  • 3. Incisions

B. Confusing Conditions

  • 1. Dermatitis (Allergic, Parasitic)
  • 2. Hog cholera
  • 3. African swine fever
  • 4. Superficial bruises (Cane marks, boot marks, other trauma)

C. Significant Findings 

  • 1. Arthritis
  • 2. Skin lesions
  • 3. Vegetative endocarditis
  • 4. Hemorrhagic and edematous lymphadenitis
  • 5. Congestion of body organs
  • 6. Petechial hemorrhages of kidneys (In erysipelas, these are small and few in number, while in septic arthritis, they are numerous and large.)
  • 7. Gastritis with "paint brush" effect 

D. POSTMORTEM DISPOSITION

1. Condemnation

  • a. Acute skin and lymph node involvement with parenchymatous organs involved.
  • b. Acute extensive skin and lymph node involvement without organ pathology
  • c. Erysipelas with arthritis and degeneration of organs

2. Pass without restriction

  • a. With no systemic involvement (remove and condemn affected tissues).
  • b. Chronic skin lesions with no systemic involvement -(Report as diamond skin) 

 

5.2.3 POLYARTHRITIS

5.2.3.1 Antimortem

A. Method of diagnosis

  • 1. Observation
  • 2. Palpation
  • 3. Temperature

B. Confusing Conditions

  • 1. Injuries
  • 2. Congenital abnormalities
  • 3. Pericarditis
  • 4. Founder
  • 5. Peritonitis
  • 6. Paralysis

C. Significant Findings

  • 1. Enlargement of one or more joints
  • 2. Abnormal location
  • 3. Painful or abnormal stance and movement
  • 4. Reluctance to move or start
  • 5. Depression
  • 6. Infected navel
  • 7. Temperature normal to elevated
  • 8. Associated cachetic condition 

D. ANTEMORTEM DISPOSITION

1. Condemnation

  • a. Fever, arthritis in swollen painful joints
  • b. Arthritis with cachexia

2. Suspect

  • a. Localized arthritic conditions
  • b. Even multiple arthritics, if little or no fever

5.2.3.2 POSTMORTEM

A. Method of Diagnosis

  • 1. Incision of swollen joints
  • 2. Palpation of joints and tissues

B. Significant Findings

  • 1. Enlarged joints
  • 2. Enlarged and congested adjacent lymph nodes
  • 3. Degeneration of parenchymatous organs
  • 4. Retrogressive changes in carcass condition
  • 5. Associated disease condition (swine erysipelas, navel ill, etc.)

 

NOTE: If lesions are those of associated disease, disposition is made on basis of findings of disease.

 

  • 6. Increased amount of synovial fluid (careful due to stress???)
  • 7. Turbid and/or purulent synovial fluid
  • 8. Blood tinged synovial fluid

C. POSTMORTEM DISPOSITION

1. Condemnation

  • a. Arthritis with retrogressive carcass changes
  • b. Arthritis when impractical to remove all affected joints
  • c. Arthritis associated with systemic changes
    • 1) Enlarged hemorrhagic lymph nodes
    • 2) Petechial hemorrhages in organs
    • 3) Degeneration of organs

2. Pass

If the condition is localized, the number of joints involved is not of primary concern

  • a. With no systemic effects, remove joints and pass carcass or what's left.
  • b. After removal of joints, pass without restriction

 

NOTE: Remove joints before opening joint capsule to avoid contamination. After joint capsule is opened be certain to remove contaminated tissue. Remove adjacent involved lymph nodes and condemn them.

 

5.2.4 PERICARDITIS

(Includes traumatic reticulitis associated with pericarditis)

5.2.4.1 ANTEMORTEM

A. Method of Diagnosis

  • 1. Observation
  • 2. Palpation
  • 3. Temperature

B. Confusing Conditions

  • 1. Pleuritis, Pneumonia, Emphysema
  • 2. Peritonitis and Adhesions
  • 3. Anasarca and Dropsical conditions
  • 4. Patchy fat distribution
  • 5. Chronic debilitating conditions
  • 6. Torsion of abomasum or other G. I. organs
  • 7. Nephritis
  • 8. Dystocia
  • 9. Brisket disease

C. Significant Findings

  • 1. Edema of brisket and lower portion of abdominal wall
  • 2. Tucked up abdomen
  • 3. Abnormal breathing (shallow and rapid)
  • 4. Distended jugular furrow with exaggerated pulse
  • 5. Stiff, stilted gait, reluctance to more, "sprung elbows"
  • 6. Pain elicited on palpation in cardiac region
  • 7. weakness
  • 8. ataxia
  • 9. Fever variable - depends upon stage
  • 10. Dehydration, sunken eyes, rough hair coat
  • 11. cachexia 

D. ANTEMORTEM DISPOSITION

1. Condemnation

  • a. With diagnosis and systemic involvement
  • b. Absence of jugular pulse or fever should not deter if other indicative findings are present. 

2. Suspect

Signs of pericarditis but no conclusive systemic effects

5.2.4.2 POSTMORTEM

A. Methods of Diagnosis

  • 1. Observation
  • 2. Palpation
  • 3. Incision
  • 4. Olfaction

B. Confusing Conditions

  • 1. Abscess (Beware that a well encapsulated chronic abscess on or attached to heart is not confused with pericarditis)
  • 2. Systemic diseases with a pericarditis

C. Significant Findings

  • 1. Traumatic reticulitis with penetration of diaphragm, pericardium and heart.
  • 2. Purulent pericarditis with or without evidence of trauma
  • 3. Fibrinous or serofibrinous (shaggy heart)
  • 4. Edema of body and tissues
  • 5. Systemic changes (Degeneration and Lymphadenitis)
  • 6. Putrefactive odor
  • 7. Arthritis
  • 8. Nephritis
  • 9. Pneumonia
  • 10. Pleuritis
  • 11. Hepatitis
  • 12. Peritonitis 

D. POSTMORTEM DISPOSITION

1. Condemnation

  • a. Acute or purulent pericarditis with systemic changes
  • b. Generalized edema with any type of pericarditis
  • c. Pericarditis associated with arthritis, nephritis, peritonitis, pneumonia, pleuritis, etc., with signs of cachexia

2. Pass

2. Pass without restriction localized pericarditis with no systemic changes.

 

NOTE: Things to remember: Large amounts of pus do not mean automatic condemnation. Adhesions mean chronic condition. Look for systemic changes before condemnation. Remove and condemn all abnormal tissue when carcass is passed. 

 

5.2.5 PNEUMONIA

Only primary pneumonias are discussed here, not pneumonia associated with other diseases.

5.2.5.1 ANTEMORTEM

A. Methods of Diagnosis

  • 1. Observation
  • 2. Olfaction
  • 3. Temperature

B. Confusing Conditions

  • 1. Pericarditis
  • 2. Peritonitis
  • 3. Infectious Bovine Rhinotracheitis
  • 4. Shipping fever
  • 5. Tuberculosis
  • 6. Actinobacillosis
  • 7. Emphysema
  • 8. Parasitic conditions of lungs
  • 9. Diaphragmatic hernia
  • 10. Thoracic Trauma
  • 11. Obstructions
  • 12. Excitement (Overexertion)
  • 13. Diphtheria

C. Significant Findings

  • 1. Fever (But long standing pneumonia may not show temperature elevation)
  • 2. General depression with pulmonary distress
  • 3. Cough
  • 4. Swollen eyes - injected sclera - watery eyes
  • 5. Nasal discharge
  • 6. Injection sites
  • 7. Reluctance of animal to move (sprung elbows)
  • 8. Cachexia - moribund - unthrifty 

 

D. ANTEMORTEM DISPOSITION

1. Condemnation

  • a. Fever - general depression - marked pulmonary distress
  • b. Pneumonic symptoms in a moribund animal
  • c. Pneumonia with cachexia

2. Suspect

  • a. Animal showing signs of pneumonia but no firm evidence of systemic involvement

5.2.5.2 POSTMORTEM

A. Method of Diagnosis

  • 1. Observation
  • 2. Incisions
  • 3. Palpation

B. Confusing Conditions

  • 1. Pulmonary Abscess
  • 2. Necrobacillosis
  • 3. Tuberculosis
  • 4. Actinobacillosis
  • 5. Emphysema
  • 6. Atelectasis
  • 7. Parasitism
  • 8. Caseous Lymphadenitis
  • 9. Pleuritis
  • 10. Tank water scald
  • 11. Neoplasms
  • 12. Hydrothorax and pyothorax
  • 13. Allergies

C. Significant Findings

1. Stages of pneumonia:

  • a. Congestion
  • b. Red Hepatization
  • c. Gray Hepatization
  • d. Consolidation

2. Extent of involvement: 

  • 1. Incise lung tissue as well as open bronchi/bronchioles
  • 2. Lymph nodes of organ are swollen and hemorrhagic
  • 3 Systemic changes include swollen hemorrhagic lymph nodes other than those of lungs, congestion and degeneration of body organs, fat and muscle changes
  • 4 Foreign substance in lungs (medicinals)
  • 5 Parasites
  • 6. Chronic suppurative pneumonia 

THINGS TO REMEMBER:

1. Extent of involvement must be considered

2. Pleuritis may be with pneumonia or a separate entity

3. Foreign body pneumonia usually brings gangrene

4. Hypoderma migrations produce a greenish slimy area in mediastinal fat

5. Do not confuse with chronic suppurative pneumonia, look for toxic effect

6. Unthrifty

7. In primary diseases with pneumonia, handle as the primary disease, not the pneumonia

D. POSTMORTEM DISPOSITION

1. Condemnation

  • a. Acute, extensive with swollen hemorrhagic nodes (Usually no systemic changes - Not enough time)
  • b. Acute, extensive with acute pleuritis
  • c. Pneumonia with systemic changes
  • d. Pulmonary necrosis with secondary toxic changes

2. Pass

2. Pass without restrictions carcasses with less than above (Remove and condemn all abnormal tissue) 

 

5.2.6 PERITONITIS (Includes traumatic reticuloperitonitis)

5.2.6.1 ANTEMORTEM

A. Method of Diagnosis

  • 1. Observation
  • 2. Temperature
  • 3. Palpation 

B. Confusing Conditions

  • 1. Pericarditis
  • 2. Pleuritis - Pneumonia
  • 3. Arthritis
  • 4. Metritis - Dystocia
  • 5. Gastritis - Rumenitis - Enteritis
  • 6. Nephritis - Cystitis
  • 7. Impaction - Abomasal Displacement

C. Significant Findings

  • 1. Tucked up abdomen
  • 2. Shallow thoracic breathing
  • 3. Stiff - stilted gait - reluctance to move
  • 4. Scleral injection - fever
  • 5. Gaunt - Dehydration - depression
  • 6. Atony of rumen
  • 7. Injection sites or wounds on abdomen
  • 8. Evidence of Dystocia (Penetrating wounds in genital tract)
  • 9. Evidence of pain (Grinding of teeth)

D. ANTEMORTEM DISPOSITIONS

  • 1. Condemnation - with significant signs and systemic effects
  • 2. Suspect - exhibits signs but not conclusive of systemic effect

5.2.6.2 POSTMORTEM

A. Methods of Diagnosis

  • 1. Observation
  • 2. Palpation
  • 3. Incisions

B. Confusing Conditions

  • 1. Bruising of Abdominal wall
  • 2. Adhesions
  • 3. Tuberculosis
  • 4. Mesothelioma
  • 5. Injections in abdominal musculature

 

NOTE: Free hemorrhage will stain peritoneal surface red but there will be no inflammation.

C. Significant Findings

  • 1. Inflammation of peritoneum
  • 2. Lymphadenitis
  • 3. Injection sites
  • 4. Parenchymatous degeneration of organs
  • 5. Accumulation of fluid in abdominal cavity
  • 6. Abdominal wall trauma or trauma of abdomen

D. POSTMORTEM DISPOSITIONS

1. Condemnation

  • When there is acute, diffuse peritonitis (Even if no systemic changes are present)

2. Pass without restrictions

  • Localized and no systemic changes

 

5.2.7  GASTROENTERITIS

5.2.7.1 ANTEMORTEM

A. Methods of Diagnosis

  • 1. Observation
  • 2. Temperature
  • 3. Olfaction

B. Confusing Conditions

  • 1. Peritonitis
  • 2. Metritis - Cystitis - Nephritis
  • 3. Traumatic Pericarditis
  • 4. Impaction
  • 5. Abomasal Displacements
  • 6. Rabies - Straining
  • 7. Dystocia
  • 8. Injection into abdominal musculature

C. Significant Findings

  • 1. Fever
  • 2. Diarrhea (Character and color of importance and smeary area around around anal region and protruding anus)
  • 3. Gaunt - tucked up abdomen
  • 4. Weakness - ataxia - depression
  • 5. Stiff, stilted gait - saw horse stance
  • 6. Pain (Teeth grinding)

D. ANTEMORTEM DISPOSITIONS

1. Condemnation

  • a. Profuse diarrhea with elevated temperature
  • b. Diarrhea with dehydration and debilitation
  • c. Diarrhea with cachexia

NOTE: If diarrhea is part of another primary condition, condemn for the primary condition if determined.

2. Suspect

  • Diarrhea with inconclusive signs of systemic effects

5.2.7.2 POSTMORTEM

A. Method of Diagnosis

  • 1. Observation
  • 2. Palpation
  • 3. Incision
  • 4. Olfaction

B. Confusing Conditions

  • 1. Inflammation of visceral peritoneum
  • 2. Intestinal emphysema
  • 3. Serous pancreatitis
  • 4. Edema disease (swine)
  • 5. Calcified fat around pancreas (swine)

C. Significant Findings

  • 1. Acute extensive inflammation of stomach and/or intestinal wall
  • 2. Degenerative changes in organs
  • 3. Systemic lymphadenitis
  • 4. Gangrenous areas of intestine

D. POSTMORTEM DISPOSITIONS

1. Condemnation

  • a. Acute, extensive, hemorrhagic or gangrenous with or without systemic changes
  • b. Gastroenteritis with systemic changes

2. Pass without restrictions

  • Localized or with no systemic changes (Remove and condemn affected portions)

 

5.2.8 NEPHRITIS AND PYELONEPHRITIS

5.2.8.1 ANTEMORTEM

A. Methods of Diagnosis

  • 1. Observation
  • 2. Palpation
  • 3. Temperature
  • 4. Olfaction

B. Confusing Conditions

  • 1. Metritis and vaginitis
  • 2. Peritonitis - pericarditis - reticulitis
  • 3. Johnne's disease
  • 4. Leptospirosis
  • 5. Chemical and plant poisons
  • 6. Torsions and Blockage of GI tract
  • 7. Other infectious disease

C. Significant Findings

  • 1. Evidence of pain
  • 2. Elevated temperature
  • 3. Frequent urination or attempts
  • 4. Abnormal physical appearance of urine
  • 5. Poor condition - Urine odor on breath - Crystals on preputial hairs or absence of hairs

 D. ANTEMORTEM DISPOSITIONS

1. Condemnation

It is difficult to diagnose nephritis on antemortem, for that reason condemnations will be in most instances for the condition which has caused the nephritis if this condition can be determined

2. Suspected

Animals showing symptoms of nephritis which do not merit condemnation shall be suspected.

5.2.8.2 POSTMORTEM

A. Method of Diagnosis

  • 1. Observation
  • 2. Palpation
  • 3. Incision
  • 4. Olfaction

B. Confusing Conditions

  • 1. Kidney worms
  • 2. Urinary Obstruction
  • 3. White-spotted kidneys of calves
  • 4. Lymphocytic infiltration
  • 5. Infarcts
  • 6. Neoplasm
  • 7. Kidney cysts
  • 8. Hydronephrosis
  • 9. Traumatic injuries
  • 10. Depressed white scars

 

NOTE: Trauma to kidney area may result in profuse subcapsular hemorrhage. DO NOT CONFUSE WITH SYSTEMIC EFFECT. 

C. Significant Findings

  • 1. Inflammation
  • 2. Enlarged kidneys
  • 3. Hemorrhage in kidney and renal lymph node
  • 4. Kidney may be enlarged, pale grayish in color
  • 5. Multiple abscesses in kidney
  • 6. Pyelonephritis - Pus in medulla, pelvis, ureters with swollen ureters
  • 7. Systemic changes
  • 8. Uremia 

5.2.8.2 . POSTMORTEM DISPOSITION

1. Condemnation

  • a. Nephritis with inflammation - systemic changes
  • b. Multiple abscess throughout kidney showing systemic changes
  • c. Pyelonephritis with systemic changes
  • d. Uremia with any stage of nephritis

2. Passed without Restriction

  • Those carcasses that show no systemic changes after removal and condemnation of affected tissues

NOTE: Condemn kidneys with healed embolic infarcts. Pass carcasses with interstitial nephritis IF there are no systemic changes but condemn the kidneys.

SPECIAL NOTE: Hydronephrosis without systemic changes does not warrant condemnation. Kidneys are condemned in these cases.

 

5.2.9  MASTITIS

5.2.9.1 ANTEMORTEM

A. Methods of Diagnosis

  • 1. Observation
  • 2. Palpation
  • 3. Temperature

B. Confusing Conditions

  • 1. Milk fever
  • 2. Lameness
  • 3. Distended Lactating Udder

C. Significant Findings

  • 1. Traumatic injury to udder
  • 2. Swollen udder

    May range from slight edema to firm, hard, feverish, painful enlargements involving whole quarters of udder.

  • 3. Lameness due to irritation of udder - reluctance to move
  • 4. Anorexia - dehydration - gaunt
  • 5. Depression
  • 6. Variable temperature
  • 7. Paraplegia - found as paralysis of legs (animal "hops" when forced to move)
  • 8. Purulent to sero-sanguinous exudate
  • 9. Gangrenous - Blue-black discolored area with sloughing

D. ANTEMORTEM DISPOSITION

  • 1. Condemnation - Any animal with mastitis and systemic symptoms.
  • 2. Suspect those with mastitis and inconclusive signs of systemic involvement.

NOTE: Not every condition of animal dictates being suspected. Udder removed in normal kill if no systemic problems.

5.2.9.2 POSTMORTEM

A. Methods of Diagnosis

  • 1. Palpation
  • 2. Observation
  • 3. Incision 

B. Significant Findings

  • 1. Udder removed on non-suspects - inflammation would be marked by acute lymphadenitis of supramammary nodes.

NOTE: WATCH OUT THAT NODES NOT REMOVED WITH GLAND. You would miss inflammation

  • 2. Hyperemia in area of attachment
  • 3. Acute congestion of udder
  • 4. Traumatic injuries of udder
  • 5. Foul smelling exudate - abnormal milk - gangrenous tissue
  • 6. Septicemic lesions - swollen congested nodes and organs
  • 7. Toxic lesions - degeneration of parenchymatous organs - edematous

C. POSTMORTEM DISPOSITIONS

1. Condemnation - evidence of systemic changes

NOTE: Enlarged, hyperplastic lymph nodes (supramammary and/or iliac) are NOT ENOUGH TO CONDEMN ALONE.

2. Pass without restriction

  • a. Mastitis localized and no generalized lymphadenitis and animal is in good condition.
  • b. If no systemic changes, pass 

5.2.10 METRITIS

5.2.10.1 ANTEMORTEM

A. Method of Diagnosis

  • 1. Observation
  • 2. Temperature
  • 3. Olfaction
  • 4. History (If available)

B. Confusing Conditions

  • 1. Pyelonephritis - Nephritis
  • 2. Cystitis
  • 3. Dystocia

C. Significant Findings

  • 1. Vaginal discharge with foul odor
  • 2. Fetal membranes or remnants protruding from vagina
  • 3. Tucked up belly
  • 4. Exudate on perineal hairs
  • 5. Injection sites
  • 6. Variable Temperature
  • 7. Depression
  • 8. Cachexia
  • 9. Tenesmus

D. Disposition

  • 1. Condemn - animals with systemic symptoms
  • 2. Suspect - animals with vaginal discharge and no conclusive systemic signs

 

SPECIAL NOTES:

a. Withhold from slaughter any animal with retained fetal membranes.

b. When fetal membranes are passed, release for slaughter, if animal normal.

c. Any animal treated for fetal membranes must meet withdrawal times for medication.

 

5.2.10.2 POSTMORTEM

A. Method of Diagnosis

  • 1. Observation
  • 2. Incision
  • 3. Palpation
  • 4. Olfaction

B. Significant Findings

  • 1. Thickened - hyperemic uterine wall
  • 2. Purulent to watery material within uterus
  • 3. Lymphadenitis
  • 4. Secondary degenerative changes

C. Confusing Conditions

  • There should be none on postmortem - You can see uterus.

D. Significant Findings

  • 1. Thickened, hyperemic uterine wall
  • 2. Purulent to watery material within uterus
  • 3. Lymphadenitis
  • 4. Secondary degenerative changes

NOTE: True mummified fetus is not synonymous with metritis

E. POSTMORTEM DISPOSITIONS

1. Condemnation

  • a. Acute generalized lymphadenitis with metritis
  • b. Chronic metritis with pus and purulent material and evidence of systemic changes

NOTE: Pus or Purulent material alone is not enough - must have systemic effects. Uterus may be like a large encapsulated abscess.

2. Pass without restrictions

  • Metritis localized and no systemic changes - good condition 

5.2.11 NECROBACILLOSIS

5.2.11.1 ANTEMORTEM

A. Method of Diagnosis

  • 1. Observation
  • 2. Palpation
  • 3. Incision

B. Confusing Conditions

  • 1. Lameness injury
  • 2. Arthritis

C. Significant Findings

  • 1. Foot Rot
  • 2. Cachexia

D. ANTEMORTEM DISPOSITIONS

  • 1. Condemn with systemic effects and/or cachexia
  • 2. Suspect - less than evidence to condemn

5.2.11.2 POSTMORTEM

A. Method of Diagnosis

  • 1. Observation
  • 2. Palpation
  • 3. Incision 

B. Confusing Conditions

  • 1. Tuberculosis
  • 2. Carcinoma or other neoplasms
  • 3. Abscesses
  • 4. Peritonitis
  • 5. Actinobacillosis
  • 6. Mastitis
  • 7. Traumatic injuries to metacarpal or metatarsal areas (usually remove prior to routine inspection)

C. Significant Findings

  • 1. Generalized multiple lesions occurring as a result of Spherophorus organism entry into systemic system. (Lung)
  • 2.Systemic changes - toxemia
    • a. Hemorrhages in vital organs
    • b. Enlarged and edematous nodes
    • c. Parenchymal degeneration

NOTE:Examine liver for toxic effects - more important than number of lesions

  • d. Serous degeneration and infiltration of muscle and fat
  • e. Localized lesion distribution - Liver, diaphragm and peritoneum

SPECIAL NOTE :Lesions on serous surfaces may be mistaken for adhesions, if not incised to detect necrotic centers.

Liver lesions are usually grayish-yellow, circumscribed foci or numerous disseminated nodules which are small, compact with surrounding red zone. With time, lesions will develop a connective tissue capsule. Later stages of the condition will have necrotic masses containing flaky, greenish purulent material.

D.POSTMORTEM DISPOSITIONS

1.Condemnation - Generalized multiple lesions from bacteremia with cachexia

2.Pass with restriction - no systemic involvement - condemn affected tissue

5.2.12 LISTEROSIS

5.2.12.1 ANTEMORTEM

A. Method of Diagnosis

  • 1.Observation
  • 2.Temperature

B. Confusing Conditions

  • 1.Any CNS symptoms - viral, bacterial, rabies, chemical and nutritional
  • 2.Traumatic injury to brain
  • 3.Middle ear disturbances with equilibrium changes

C. Significant Findings

  • 1.Any or all of the following with or without fever
    • a.crossed legged stance
    • b.circling
    • c.depression
    • d.excitement
    • e.pressing head against objects
    • f.facial paralysis

2.Facial paralysis without fever with head tipped to one side (May be recovered case).

D. ANTEMORTEM DISPOSITIONS

  • 1.Condemn all animals showing acute signs of disease
  • 2.Such animals may be treated if company requests:
    • a.All recovered cases handled as suspects
    • b.Animals with CNS symptoms should not be sent to slaughter
    • c.Either condemn or hold for further observation to determine reason for CNS disturbances.

5.2.12.2 POSTMORTEM

A. Method of Diagnosis

  • 1.Not usually diagnosed on postmortem - there are no gross lesions
  • 2.Need laboratory for diagnosis

B.Confusing Conditions None should exist

C.Significant Findings

  • 1.Septicemia if septicemia form present
  • 2.Meningeal vessels congested and CSF cloudy (Not normally a part of postmortem examination)
  • 3.Laboratory confirmation

D. POSTMORTEM DISPOSITIONS

  • 1.Condemn - Any animal which showed recovery signs on antemortem if septicemic lesions on postmortem - downer with laboratory confirmation
  • 2.Pass without restrictions - recovered animal if no lesions - Condemn head

5.2.13 CASEOUS LYMPHADENITIS

5.2.13.1 ANTEMORTEM

Rarely diagnosed on antemortem - Lymph nodes may be so enlarged as to be detected, pulmonary symptoms are indistinguishable

5.2.13.2 POSTMORTEM

A.Methods of Diagnosis

  • 1.Observation
  • 2.Palpation
  • 3.Incision
  • 4.Old sheep and/or yearlings should be thoroughly palpated.

B.Confusing Conditions

  • 1.Pyemia
  • 2.Purulent Pneumonia
  • 3.Malignant Lymphoma
  • 4.Parasitic nodules
  • 5.Carcinoma

C.Significant Findings

  • 1.Enlarged abscessed lymph nodes with greenish yellow pus which tends to be dry and granular. It takes experience to detect many small lesions in nodes. Gross section of lesion is laminated like an onion. Nodes of preference are the prefemoral, prescapular, popliteal, bronchial, sublumbar and mediastinal.
  • 2.Organ involvement: lungs, liver, heart, kidneys and spleen. Once lesions are found, incise all nodes.

D.POSTMORTEM DISPOSITIONS

1.Condemnation

  • a.Thin carcass with well marked lesions in viscera and skeletal nodes
  • b.Thin carcass with extensive lesions any place
  • c.Well nourished carcass with numerous and extensive lesions

2.Passed for Cooking

  • a.A thin carcass showing well marked lesions in the viscera with only slight lesions elsewhere.
  • b.A thin carcass showing well marked skeletal lesions with only slight lesions elsewhere.
  • c.A well nourished carcass showing well marked lesions in the viscera and skeletal lymph nodes.

3.Passed without restrictions

Conditions are slight and localized in a few nodes or organs, after the affected organ or part and its nodes are trimmed and condemned.

SPECIAL NOTE: The VMO has the responsibility to check behind lab personnel to determine that lesions are not being missed. This is important when killing old sheep.

 

NOTE:VISCERA: Organs and associated nodes that may be involved with caseous lymphadenitis.

THIN:Not to include anemic, emaciated or cachexic carcasses, not well developed - less well finished.

SLIGHT:Well marked, extensive degree of involvement.

5.2.14 GRANULOMATOUS GROUP

5.2.14.1 ACTINOMYCOSIS AND ACTINOBACILLOSIS

GENERALLY:Actinomycosis (Lumpy Jaw) involves bony structures.Actinobacillosis (Wooden Tongue) involves soft tissues.

5.2.14.1.1 ANTEMORTEM

A.Method of Diagnosis

  • 1.Observation
  • 2.Palpation

B.Confusing Conditions

  • 1.Infected teeth
  • 2.Sinusitis
  • 3.Injuries
  • 4.Epithelioma with lymph node involvement
  • 5.Sialoadenitis, sialolithritis, cysts
  • 6.Other tumors
  • 7.Food impacted in jaws of old cows with bad teeth

C.Significant Findings

  • 1.Swelling or enlargement of soft and/or hard tissues of head and neck (includes tongue - may have fistulous tracts).
  • 2.Draining fistulous tracts on udders of sows
  • 3.Excessive salivation and animal in poor condition

5.2.14.1.2 POSTMORTEM

A.Method of Diagnosis

  • 1.Observation
  • 2.Palpation
  • 3.Incision
  • 4.Laboratory if needed

B.Confusing Conditions

  • 1.Infected teeth
  • 2.Sinusitis
  • 3.Injuries
  • 4.Epithelioma with lymph node involvement and/or other tumors
  • 5.Abscesses
  • 6.Salivary Cysts
  • 7.Tuberculosis
  • 8.Fungal Granulomas
  • 9.Chronic Pneumonias (with lung involvement)
  • 10.Parasites

C.Significant Findings

  • 1.Localized involvement with involvement limited to draining node. No signs of systemic involvement.
  • 2.Systemic involvement as indicated by lesion distribution (Extensive and/or Active).

D.POSTMORTEM DISPOSITIONS

1.Condemnation

  • a.When lesions are generalized
  • b.Antemortem fever and active lesions on postmortem
  • c.Multiple acute or actively progressive lesions
  • d.Associated with cachexia
  • e.Systemic involvement (Parenchymatous degeneration)
  • f.Extensive lesions in either body cavity

2.Carcass passed without restrictions

  • a.Head and/or tongue only (Condemn head and tongue)
  • b.Bone involvement is slight and no node involvement (Condemn bone only)
  • c.Disease confined to nodes and slight (Pass head and tongue after removal and condemnation of affected tissue).

NOTE:Head and tongue may be treated separately.

NOTE:Send all granulomatous thoracic lesions to NADL for diagnosis. Lesions from animals condemned for either disease must be sent to NADL for confirmation.

 

5.2.15 TUBERCULOSIS

5.2.15.1 ANTEMORTEM

(NON-REACTORS ARE NOT USUALLY DIAGNOSED ON ANTEMORTEM)

A.Methods of Diagnosis

  • 1.Observation
    • a.Reactors are tagged and branded prior to being shipped for slaughter and treated as suspect. Forms will accompany such animals.
    • b.T.B. - Reactor - Suspect - Exposed - These animals must be identified by establishment personnel.
  • 2.Temperature taken on reactors
  • 3.Palpation may be done

B.Confusing Conditions

  • 1.Emaciation
  • 2.Thinness
  • 3.Cachexia

C. Significant Findings (These could cause one to be suspicious of T.B.)

  • 1.Weakness
  • 2.Anorexia
  • 3.Loss of weight
  • 4.Emaciation
  • 5.Low grade fever
  • 6.Weak, intermittent, hacking cough
  • 7.Swollen, firm, superficial lymph nodes

D. Antemortem Dispositions

1. Condemnation

  • a.If a reactor has to be condemned for any disease, and/or condition, it should he given a thorough postmortem examination in the inedible products area.
  • b.Non-reactors are NOT condemned for tuberculosis on Antemortem. Condemn for the condition exhibited.

2. Suspect

  • Reactors are treated as suspect using the reactor tag number as identifying number

5.2.15.2 POSTMORTEM

Animals identified as TB "SUSPECTS" or TB "EXPOSED" shall receive a routine postmortem examination. TB reactors shall receive a postmortem examination as prescribed in Guideline #4, "Inspection of Tuberculin Reactors."

NOTE:The postmortem examination of tuberculin reactors should present a challenge to the attending veterinarian. It must be remembered that a positive reaction indicates exposure to either human or bovine strains of M. tuberculosis and it is expected that such contact would result in some lesions. Avian lesions in the lymph nodes of the G. I. tract are often overlooked. The guidelines referred to above are to insure a thorough and meticulous slicing of all nodes as thinly as possible as well as other measures.

 

A.Method of Diagnosis

  • 1.Observations
  • 2.Palpations
  • 3.Incisions

B.Confusing Conditions

  • 1.Coccidiomycosis
  • 2.Mucormycosis
  • 3.Caseous Lymphadenitis
  • 4.Actinobacillosis
  • 5.Adrenal Gland Tumor
  • 6.Malignant tumors and abscesses

C. Significant Findings

1.Cattle

  • a. Primarily affects respiratory system, lungs, pleura, and lymph nodes of head and thorax.
    • 1)Active lesions - hyperemic around the caseous center

      2)Old lesions - encapsulated and calcareous

  • b.Digestive tract lesions
    • l)Lesions of head, digestive tract with or without the liver or Peritoneum

2.Swine

  • a.Primarily affects the digestive system
  • b.Lesions are most frequent in cervical, mesenteric, and hepatic nodes)
  • c.Spleen - lesions usually stand up and/or may be cauliflower-like in appearance with the color ranging from red to Yellow and white.
  • d.Little calcareous deposition may he found.
  • e.Some pulmonary involvement may be present.

3.Sheep

Lesions of lymph nodes of the respiratory tract and lungs .

(Remember that sheep have pulmonary nematodes which produce calcareous nodules)

D. POSTMORTEM DISPOSITION

  • 1.Condemnation of Carcass when (All Species)
    • a. Generalized (distribution of lesions indicates systemic involvement)
    • b. Active and associated with fever on antemortem
    • c. Associated with cachexia
    • d. Lesions in muscle, bone or joint or node draining such tissue
    • e. Extensive in either body cavity
    • f. Multiple, acute, or progressive lesions

     

  • 2.Condemnation of Organ or part

When the organ or part or corresponding lymph node has lesions and the carcass is otherwise normal.

  • 3.Carcasses passed without restrictions
    • a.Cattle - T. B. reactors cannot be passed for food. Non-reactors, T.B. suspects or T.B. exposed animals may be passed for food.
    • b.Swine - Carcass may be passed for food without restrictions as long as lesions are localized and limited to one primary site (Primary site - cervical, mesenteric and mediastinal nodes)
  • 4.Carcasses and/or portions of carcasses passed for cooking
    • a.Cattle
      • 1)T.B. reactors, T.B. suspects and/or T.B. exposed animals with lesions that are localized must be passed for cooking.

        2)Non-reactors with localized lesions are passed for cooking (affected organ or part is condemned).

b.Swine

  • 1)Localized lesions in any two primary sites, carcass must be passed for cooking. Example: If tuberculosis is present in cervical and mesenteric nodes, carcass can only be passed for cooking. If there is a cervical abscess and tuberculous involvement of a mesenteric lymph node in the same animal, reexamine the cervical abscess. If the cervical abscess is not tuberculous, the carcass may be passed for food after condemnation of affected tissues. If the abscess is tuberculous, the carcass can only be passed for cooking. involvement.

c.Sheep, Goats and Equine

  • Carcasses with lesions less than those described for condemnation shall be passed for cooking.

USE OF NADL LABORATORY WITH SUSPECTING MATERIAL

  • All suspected TB lesions on non-reactors go to NADL
  • Reactors, suspect and exposed lesions go to NADL.

 

5.2.16 UREMIA - (ALL SPECIES)

5.2.16.1 ANTEMORTEM

A.Methods of Diagnosis

  • 1.Observation
  • 2.Palpation
  • 3.Olfaction
  • 4.Temperature

B.Confusing Conditions

  • 1.Pericarditis
  • 2.Peritonitis
  • 3.Abdominal stress and pain of other etiologies
  • 4.Miscellaneous dropsical conditions
  • 5.CNS disturbances
  • 6.Drug residues - hypersensitive animal

C.Significant Finding

  • 1.Urinary findings
  • 2.Strong urinary odor on expiration
  • 3.Renal colic
  • 4.Grinding of teeth - pain
  • 5.Variable temperature
  • 6.Recent castration or urethrotomy
  • 7.istention of tissues around prepuce
  • 8.Infiltration of ventral surfaces of body

D. ANTEMORTEM DISPOSITIONS

  • 1. Condemnation if conclusive signs of uremia
  • 2. Suspect
    • a.Animals showing inconclusive signs of uremia
    • b.Animals showing early signs of uremia (hold for more detailed examination for disposition)

5.2.16.2 POSTMORTEM

A. Method of Diagnosis

  • 1.Observation
  • 2.Incision
  • 3.Palpation
  • 4.May heat tissues to help detect odor

NOTE: Use care to select tissues for heating that have not been mechanically contaminated.

B. Confusing Conditions

  • 1.Nephritis
  • 2.Pyelonephritis
  • 3.Cystitis
  • 4.Peritonitis
  • 5.Stephanuriasis
  • 6.Hydronephrosis
  • 7.Cystic kidneys
  • 8.Other dropsical conditions
  • 9.Castration
  • 10.Midline cellulitis

C. Significant Findings

  • 1. Nephritis

NOTE:An obstruction (calculi) will cause necrosis that will result in varying degrees of inflammation, hemorrhage and swelling. May also involve bladder, ureters and urethra.

  • 2. Pyelonephritis
  • 3. Peritonitis
    • a.may be from bladder rupture
    • b.bladder may be so distended that urine escapes between the cells resulting in the accumulation of a urine-like fluid in the peritoneal cavity, Usually no urine odor.
  • 4.Hydronephrosis
  • 5.Uriniferous odor to muscles
  • 6.Ruptured urinary bladder with inflammation

D. POSTMORTEM DISPOSITION

1.Condemnation

  • a.Condemn carcasses with urine odor, whatever the cause.
  • b.If primary cause can be identified, condemn for the primary condition

2. Pass

  • Pass without restriction carcasses with localized edema and localized odor. Trim affected tissues.

5.2.17 SKIN CONDITIONS

5.2.17.1 DERMATITIS ERYTHEMA URTICARIA (PHOTOSENSITIZATION)

5.2.17.1.1 ANTEMORTEM

A.Methods of Diagnosis

  • 1.Observation
  • 2.Palpation

B.Confusing Conditions

  • 1.Scrapie
  • 2.Erysipelas (Diamond Skin)
  • 3.Aujeszky's Disease
  • 4.Streptothricosis
  • 5.Wart

C.Significant Findings

  • 1.Erythema
  • 2.Photosensitization
  • 3.Serous Exudate and Incrustations
  • 4. Burns
  • 5. Pruritis
  • 6. Alopecia
  • 7. Rough, thickened skin
  • 8. External parasites

D. ANTEMORTEM DISPOSITIONS

  • 1.Condemnation - Condemn animals with severe skin involvement with signs of cachexia or systemic involvement.
  • 2.Suspect
    • a.Animals with extensive involvement but otherwise normal
    • b. Diamond skin
    • c.Animals with lesions which may result in condemnation of part or all of carcass on postmortem
    • d.Animals with inconclusive signs of systemic involvement

5.2.17.1.2 POSTMORTEM

A.Methods of Diagnosis

  • 1.Observation
  • 2.Palpation
  • 3.Incisions

B.Confusing Conditions

  • 1.Overscalded hogs - Overscalded hogs are mushy appearing with broken skin.
  • 2. Erythema from improper handling on antemortem
  • a.Bright red streaks from whipping and beating
  • b.Cane marks are circular but can be confused with diarnond back lesions

C.Significant Findings

  • 1.Cutaneous lesions
  • 2.Generalized lymphadenopathy and/or petechial hemorrhages in organs
  • 3.Secondary bacterial infection and degeneration in parenchymatous organs
  • 4.Poor condition by body tissue degeneration

D.POSTMORTEM DISPOSITIONS

1.Condemnation

  • a.extensive skin lesions and poor condition of carcass
  • b.skin lesions and septicemic condition

2. Pass

  • Pass without restriction carcasses with no systemic involvement. Trim and condemn affected tissues.

 

5.2.18 PARASITES IN MEAT

5.2.18.1 GENERAL PHILOSOPHY

The presence of parasites in meat is repugnant, in itself, to the consumer. The consumer could care less whether or not the parasites are, in fact, transmissible to humans. The consumer simply does not want any "worms" in his meat. Therefore, all parasites or their lesions are considered to be obnoxious and detrimental to the wholesomeness of meat.

The disposition of meat affected with parasites or their lesions is dependent on the complete removal of the parasite, or, in some few cases, the ability to render them harmless or non-infective. FINAL DISPOSITION DECISIONS ARE INFLUENCED OR MODIFIED BY THE DEGREE OF INVOLVEMENT AND THE RESULTING SYSTEMIC INVOLVEMENT.

For example, if an organ or part is so severely affected that a systemic effect results, then the systemic effect must be the basis of the decision despite the fact that the affected part might be removed.

Of paramount importance is a thorough knowledge of the life cycle of the parasite, its distribution in the host and its effect on the health of the host. Of even greater importance is whether or not the parasitic form can survive in the flesh after death of the host. The Regulations give specific dispositions for carcasses affected with certain specific parasites. In general, with few exceptions, parasite dispositions fall into three main categories:

A.GENERALIZED INFECTIONS

In which the parasites or their lesions cannot be removed with certainty and the carcass is condemned. (e.g., Viable Cysticercosis).

B.LOCALIZED INFECTIONS WITH SYSTEMIC MANIFESTATIONS

In which an organ and/or part is involved to the point where systemic manifestations are evident. (e.g., Verminous pneumonia, Stephanuriasis)

C.LOCALIZED INFECTIONS

In which the organ or part can be condemned and the carcass passed without further restrictions. (e.g., Liver flukes, "nodule worms," Cattle grubs).

There are three parasitic zoonoses of meat animals in this country which may be transmitted by consumption of meat.

1. Cysticercus cellulosae

2.Cysticercus bovis

3. Trichinella spiralis

Special considerations are given these three conditions. Both cysticercae are larval forms of human tapeworms. Cysticercus cellulosae (T. solium) is found in pork and Cysticercus bovis (T, saginate) is found in beef. Cysticercus cellulosae is of greater importance as a health menace because T. solium is able to exist in both larval and adult forms in the human host; and may even result in autoinfections with the larval form by means of either reverse peristalsis or self-contamination with fecal material on the fingers. Cysticercus bovis (T. saginate) does not survive in human muscle.

5.2.18.2 TRICHINOSIS

Is unique among the parasites encountered in meat inspection. It cannot be diagnosed by gross examination and as yet there is no test which will guarantee absolute freedom of the presence of the parasite in Pork. We must, therefore, assume that all swine are infected and must be treated to destroy Trichinae by heating, freezing or curing.

5.2.18.3 ASSUMPTIONS:

  • 1.The consumer is expected to thoroughly cook fresh pork that has not been treated to destroy Trichinae. (While some people relish rare beef, few people tend to eat rare pork.)
  • 2. Since the Trichina worm is microscopic in size, we make the assumption that, having been rendered non-infective in the pork by heating, freezing, or curing, it is no more harmful or obnoxious to consume than the bacteria we drink in pasteurized milk.

5.2.19 CYSTICERCOSIS IN BEEF (BEEF MEASLES)

CATTLE are the intermediate host; man is the definitive host. (Adult Tapeworm is in man, larval form in cattle).

5.2.19.1. ANTEMORTEM - Not Detectable

5.2.19.2 POSTMORTEM

A. Methods of Diagnosis

  • 1. Observation
  • 2. Palpation
  • 3. Incision

B. Confusing Conditions

  • a.Other localized parasitic lesions (calcified lesions) Hypoderma larvae. If meat is watery and discolored but no cyst is found, then consider other etiologies
  • b.Nerve sheath tumors
  • c.Eosinophilic myositis
  • d.Abscesses
  • e.Remnants of normal tissue (fat, blood vessels, etc.)
  • f.Other neoplasms

C.Significant findings

  • 1.Any cyst anywhere
  • 2.Alive or Dead
  • 3.One or many
  • 4.Any edema or discoloration of the musculature anywhere whether cysts are found or not.
  • 5.Sites at which cysts are usually found on routine inspection procedures
    • a.Muscles of mastication
    • b.Heart
    • c.Tongue
    • d. Esophagus
    • e. Diaphragm and its pillars
    • f.Cut surfaces of exposed muscles in normal dressing procedures

6.Detailed Examination

When Cysticercosis is detected in routine inspection, the affected carcass and all its parts are retained for further examination by the attending veternatrian. The following procedures must be used:

  • a. Re-examine the cheeks, heart, and esophagus by sight and numerous incisions. Make several deep longitudinal slices in the tongue
  • b.Remove peritoneum from diaphragm and examine the muscles of the diaphragm and "hanging tender" by numerous incisions.
  • c. Carefully examine visually the cut surfaces of all exposed muscles. If one or more lesions are found at one location in steps a-c, only, then make disposition based on these findings. If lesions are found at Two or more sites examined, then proceed to step d.
  • d.Make one incision in each round exposing muscles in cross section and one transverse incision into each forelimb commencing two or three cm. above the point of the olecranon and extending to the humerus.
  • e.When one beef carcass in a "lot" is found to contain a tapeworm cyst, the following procedures shall be required for all carcasses in the lot.

1) Multiple incisions in

  • a) interventricular septum
  • b) external and internal masseters

2)Close observation of

  • a) tongue
  • b) esophagus
  • c) cut surfaces

3) if available and identified

  • a)Examine cheeks, hearts, and tongues of carcasses of lots passed prior to finding lesions. Inspectors must be alert to house practices which tend to sub-divide original lots into sub-lots to avoid this expanded procedure.

D.POSTMORTEM DISPOSITION

1. Condemnation if:

  • a. Meat is edematous, discolored and there are lesions of cysticercosis
  • b. Infestation is extensive. This is defined as lesions in at least Two of the usual inspection sites and also lesions in at least two of the sites exposed by:
    • 1) an incision made into each round exposing cross section of the musculature
    • 2)a transverse incision into each forelimb as described earlier

2.Carcasses passed with restrictions

  • a.Any carcass with less than extensive infestation and no edema or discoloration (after removal and condemnation of lesion and surrounding tissues)
  • b. Treatment of Restricted Carcasses

    1)Refrigeration

    • --carcasses 10 days not above 15o F

      --boned meat 20 days not above 15o F

    2) Heating

    • 140o F internal temperature
  • c.must have positive inspectional control with whatever method used.

 

3. Edible viscera and offal treated in same manner.

 

5.2.20 CYSTICERCUS CELLULOSAE OF SWINE

(Pork Measles) Adult tapeworm in man, bladder worm in swine.

5.2.20.1 ANTEMORTEM - Not detectable

5.2.20.2 POSTMORTEM

A.Methods of Diagnosis

  • 1.Observation
  • 2.Palpation
  • 3.Incision
  • 4.Cheeks and heart are the most frequent sites of extensive involvement.
  • 5.When the carcass is retained for Cysticercus cellulosae, these steps must be done:
    • a.Re-examine cheeks,heart and esophagus by sight/ incision; make several deep longitudinal slices in tongue
    • b.Remove peritoneum from diaphragm and examine by incision
    • c.Carefully examine cut surfaces exposed in dressing
    • If no further lesions are found, make a decision on initial findings. If additional lesions are found:
    • d.Make incisions parallel to exposed surface cuts
    • e.Remove peritoneum from abdominal wall muscles in the flank and paralumbar regions
    • f. Observe and make incisions
    • If no other lesions are found, make a decision. If additional lesions are found, then perform the following:
    • g.Make bold deep cuts in primal parts to determine extent of involvement

B.Confusing Conditions

1. Other cyst-like conditions

  • a.congenital
  • b. endocarditis

2. Abscesses

C. Significant Findings

  • 1.Meat is watery and/or discolored
  • 2. Cysts in heart, tongue, esophagus, muscles of carcass (grape-like clusters in tissues underneath tongue)

D. POSTMORTEM DISPOSITIONS

NOTE:All suspected cases must be confirmed by laboratory evaluation; however, there is no requirement that you wait for laboratory results before making a disposition.

 

1. Condemnation of carcass

  • a.meat is watery or discolored
  • b. condition is extensive (one or more cysts on most cut surfaces)

2. Passed for Cooking

  • a.any involvement less than extensive (remove and condemn all affected tissue)
  • b.condemn if plant has no approved procedure for cooking.

5.2.21 CYSTICERCUS OVIS