Ergotism
At low levels, the toxins produced by ergot cause reduced growth. Present in substantial amounts, they produce gangrene in extremities and ear and tail necrosis.
Alternative names: Mycotoxins, ergotism, ergotoxins, intoxication with ergot, Claviceps purpurea
Information
These toxins are produced by rye ergot (Claviceps purpurea), which affects wheat, oats and ryegrass. They cause the walls of small blood vessels (capillaries) to contract, thus restricting blood flow, particularly in the mammary gland and extremities.
Symptoms
Sows, nursery, and fattening
- Slow growth.
- Rapid breathing.
- Depression.
- Reduced blood supply due to blood vessel contraction.
- Bluish skin.
- Gangrene in extremities.
- Necrosis of tail and ears.
Causes / Contributing Factors
- Harvesting infected grain.
Diagnosis
- Difficult to diagnose but is based on clinical presentation, especially necrosis of the extremities.
- Identification of toxins in grain or feed.
Control/Prevention
- None.
- Avoid the use of wheat, oats, and rye grass in the feed formulation.
- Withdrawal of suspected feed.
