Lawsonia intracellularis

Part of the 'Essential Guides on Swine Health and Production' series, this volume examines the impact of Lawsonia intracellularis, an obligate intracellular, gram-negative bacterium that primarily affects the intestinal tracts of pigs and other species. The book details the progression of intestinal lesions and the clinical signs of proliferative enteropathy, such as diarrhea and weight loss. It provides evidence-based guidance on diagnostic techniques, including histopathology and PCR testing. Additionally, the text evaluates various control measures, including the use of prophylactic antibiotics like tiamulin and the implementation of avirulent live vaccines to prevent outbreaks and mitigate economic losses in commercial swine production.

1. Introduction, 2. Impact of Lawsonia intracellularis infections on pig farms (Economics, Feed conversion and weight gain), 3. What is Lawsonia intracellularis? (Bacteria – intracellular, How does L. intracellularis infect the pig intestine)