Septic Arthritis and its Clinical Approaches in Cattle

Septic Arthritis and its Clinical Approaches in Cattle

Septic arthritis, a severe joint infection, poses a significant challenge in the cattle industry. It leads to pain, lameness, and economic losses due to reduced milk production and decreased weight gain in affected animals. Clinical approaches to septic arthritis in cattle involve timely diagnosis, proper management, and prevention strategies. In this essay, we will explore the causes, clinical signs, diagnostic methods, treatment options, and preventive measures related to septic arthritis in cattle.

ABSTRACT

One of the common problems encountered by an Indian animal farmer is mostly the lameness of cattle which could be highly attributed to septic arthritis which can lead to economic loss.Lameness due to joint infection is the second common cause next to lameness due to digit abnormalities or infections. Septic arthritis is the most common infection of synovial structures in cattle, followed by infection of tendon sheaths and synovial bursae.It is caused by the invasion of microorganisms into synovial space. Infection of the joint can be through different ways. Animals are mostly depressed and or presented with acute non–weight-bearing lameness, joint swelling, pain and heat on joint palpation and with or without fever. Early diagnosis is essential for successful treatment of septic arthritis.This article is intended to give a brief outline of septic arthritis and its clinical approaches.

Keywords: cattle, septic arthritis, infection

ETIOLOGY OF SEPTIC ARTHRITIS

Infection of the joint mostly develops through several possible routes, haematogenous route was found to be the most common commonly presented (navel ill in calves) or by indirect infection from a focus nearby or by direct infection through trauma or through arthrocentesis which was found to be the least common.Umbilicusis a verycommon route of infection in young calves. Inadequate hygiene and disinfection of the umbilicus afterbirth and failure of transfer of passive immunity are the most important factors contributingto umbilical infectionIn adult cattle the hematogenous spread is mostly seen in diseases originating in the postpartum period such as lacerations after forced extraction, retained placenta, endometritis, mastitis, and endocarditis (Margarettenet al., 2007). Several organisms were found to be the cause of septic arthritis such as Mycoplasma, Lactococcus lactis(Wichtelet al., 2003),Chlamydophila(Twomey, 2003), Salmonella typhimurium (Blake et al., 1997)Erysipelothrixspecies (Dreyfusset al., 1990) and Streptococcus dysgalactiae(Ryan et al., 1991). After the infectious agent enters the synovial space, a severe inflammatory response develops. Bacteria can damage the cartilage or the synovial membrane directly and alter the character of the synovial fluid. Even sometimes severe immunological host response is seen. Inadequatenutrition and enzymatic degradationleads to articularcartilage degeneration resulting in break-down products, which in turn cause synovitis of the particular joint(Van pelt, 1968).

Clinical signs

Septic arthritis is usually characterized by important clinical signs such as severe lameness, distention of the joint, pain on palpation and during passive motion of the affected joint. The animal may or may not have fever and appears dull and appear depressed. Usually only one joint is infected but in calves polyarthritis is seen more commonly than in adult cattle (Rohdeet al., 2000).

DIAGNOSIS

The first basic thing in diagnoses is to observe the animal’s stance and the posture. Compare the affected limb to the normal limb to determine obvious swelling, wounds, shifting ofweight, and foot posture, such as toe touching or favoured weight bearing on the medialor lateral claw. A combination of clinical findings, radiographic examination, synovial fluid analysis and microbial culture results are necessary to establish a diagnosis (O’Callaghan, 2002). Radiographic findingsshowssoft tissue swelling, gas accumulation in the joint, widening of the joint space in acute condition or narrowing of the joint space because of articular destruction. Sometimes bony lesions such as osteolytic changes are seen if the infection is persistent for 10 to14days. Arthrocentesis should be carried out for macroscopic and microscopic evaluation of the synovial fluid and bacterial culture. Macroscopic evaluation of the synovial fluid shows higher volume, reduced viscosity, changed colour (yellow, reddish, brown), turbidity, fibrin, and abnormal odour.Other parameters that are analysed are White blood cell count (WBC), percentages of neutrophils (PMN), total protein (TP) concentration and specific gravity. TP concentration > 4.5 g/dl, WBC ≥ 25’000 cells/µl, percentage of PMN≥ 80% indicate septic arthritis. (Rohdeet al., 2003). The simultaneous use of different culture mediums helps in confirming the infective organism and in choosing the right antibiotic for the treatment. Ultrasound can also be used for diagnosis and is superior to radiography for evaluation of soft tissues (Kofler, 1996). TREATMENT The ideal treatment of synovial infection should be focussed on control the infection, removal of bacteria, removal of abnormal joint fluid , control inflammation and restoration of joint function(Nuss, 2011). Surgical removal of an infected umbilicus should be carried out in case of young calves. In cases that are diagnosed early, parenteral antibiotic therapy can be very effective, bringing about a complete resolution of the joint damage and a return to normal function. Cephalosporins, ampicillin or penicillin in combination gentamicin are a good choice. IV or IM administration should be preferred to reach higher local minimal inhibitory concentration levels. Systemic antibiotics should be administered for 2-3 weeks after improvement of clinical signs(Nuss, 2011). Joint lavage is a simple and effective treatment in cases, which have failed to respond to parenteral antibiotic therapy and in animals which would otherwise become permanently crippled. It is an easy to carry out procedure which can be done under general or local anaesthesia. NSAID’S such as Flunixin meglumine (dose of 2.2 mg/kg) and Ketoprofen (3 mg/kg) can be used for effective pain control for a period of two to three days(Jackson, 1999), which reduces the inflammatory response and increases the comfort of the patient. Arthroscopy and arthrotomy are the preferred techniques of treatment in very severe cases.

Causes of Septic Arthritis in Cattle

Septic arthritis in cattle can be caused by various microorganisms, including bacteria and fungi. The most common sources of infection are:

1. Hematogenous Spread: Bacteria or fungi enter the bloodstream from other infections, such as pneumonia or metritis, and spread to the joints.
2. Direct Penetration: Trauma, injections, or surgical procedures may introduce microorganisms directly into a joint.
3. Extension from Osteomyelitis: Infection in the adjacent bone can extend into the joint, leading to septic arthritis.

Clinical Signs

Septic arthritis in cattle can manifest through several clinical signs, including:

1. Lameness: Affected cattle exhibit lameness in the affected limb, which can range from mild to severe.
2. Joint Swelling: Swelling in the infected joint is a common sign.
3. Pain: Cattle may display signs of pain when the affected joint is manipulated.
4. Elevated Body Temperature: Fever is often observed in cattle with septic arthritis.
5. Reduced Appetite: Infected cattle may experience a decreased appetite and reduced milk production.
6. Joint Effusion: The joint may accumulate pus or synovial fluid, leading to visible swelling and discomfort.

III. Diagnostic Methods

Timely and accurate diagnosis is crucial for the effective management of septic arthritis in cattle. Several diagnostic methods are employed:

1. Clinical Examination: A thorough physical examination by a veterinarian, including assessment of lameness and joint swelling, is the initial step in diagnosing septic arthritis.
2. Synovial Fluid Analysis: Aspiration of synovial fluid from the affected joint is essential. The analysis of this fluid can confirm the presence of infection and identify the causative microorganism.
3. Radiography: X-rays are useful to assess joint damage, particularly if there is a suspicion of concurrent osteomyelitis.
4. Blood Tests: Complete blood counts and serum chemistry profiles may reveal leukocytosis and elevated acute phase proteins in infected cattle.
5. Culture and Sensitivity Testing: Identifying the specific pathogen causing the infection and its susceptibility to antibiotics is critical for effective treatment.

Treatment Options

The treatment of septic arthritis in cattle involves a multifaceted approach, including:

1. Antibiotic Therapy: Once the causative microorganism is identified, targeted antibiotic treatment is initiated based on sensitivity testing.
2. Joint Lavage: In cases with significant joint effusion, joint lavage or flushing may be necessary to remove infected material and debris.
3. Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): These medications can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with the infection.
4. Supportive Care: Adequate nutrition, clean bedding, and minimizing stress are essential for the recovery of affected cattle.
5. Surgical Intervention: In severe cases, surgical drainage and debridement of the joint may be required.

Preventive Measures

Preventing septic arthritis in cattle is crucial for the overall health and productivity of the herd. Key preventive measures include:

1. Hygiene and Sterility: Maintain strict hygiene during injections, surgeries, and other procedures to prevent direct introduction of microorganisms into joints.
2. Timely Wound Management: Promptly treat wounds to prevent secondary infections that may lead to septic arthritis.
3. Vaccination: Depending on the prevalent pathogens in the region, consider vaccination against diseases that can lead to secondary joint infections.
4. Proper Handling: Ensure proper handling techniques to minimize the risk of trauma-related septic arthritis.
5. Regular Health Monitoring: Implement regular veterinary examinations to identify and address health issues promptly.

Conclusion

Septic arthritis is a significant concern in cattle, leading to economic losses and animal welfare issues. A timely diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and preventive measures are essential in managing this condition. As with many diseases in livestock, prevention plays a crucial role in minimizing the incidence of septic arthritis in cattle. Proper farm management practices, including hygiene, vaccination, and regular veterinary care, can go a long way in preserving the health and well-being of the herd and ensuring the sustainable production of dairy and meat products.

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