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Mud fever
Synonym(s): lameness, foot
Introduction
- Cause: Dermatophilus species of bacteria following exposure to wet conditions.
- Signs: generalized dermatitis of the lower leg, with thickened scabby skin and possible lameness.
- Diagnosis: the presence of hair loss, crusts or scabs, and dermatitis of the lower legs.
- Treatment: usually self-resolving.
- Prognosis: good.
Geographic incidence
- Temperate climates.
- Not common.
- Can affect groups.
Age predisposition
- Can affect any age group.
- Youngstock appear to be more at risk, possibly due to the more extensive rearing conditions on some farms.
Public health considerations
- Dermatophilus bacteria are zoonotic.
Cost considerations
- May cause damage to cattle hides which would lower their value.
Pathogenesis
Etiology
- A sporadic disease caused by Dermatophilus species, usually Dermatophilus congolensis.
- Gram positive anerobe.
- It is restricted to living layers of the epidermis.
- Usually affects the lower legs.
- Hindlimbs seem to be affected more than forelimbs.
- Can also affected other parts of the body that are exposed to a lot of wet conditions.
- Muzzle, back.
- The bacteria is thought to be spread by direct contact between animals.
- Generally associated with cattle exposed to prolonged periods of cold, wet and muddy conditions.
- This disrupts the natural barrier of the skin and allows establishment of the bacteria.
Predisposing factors
Specific
- Wet, muddy conditions ie cattle managed at pasture.
Disease progression
- The dermatitis may progress up the leg, or in severe cases, secondary infection can occur leading to a cellulitis.
Diagnosis
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Treatment
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Prevention
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Outcomes
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Further Reading
Publications
Refereed Papers
- Recent references from PubMed and VetMedResource.
Other sources of information
- Shearer J K (2009) Chapter 52 - Infectious disorders of the foot skin. In: Food animal practice. 5th edn. Eds: Rings D & Anderson D. W.B. Saunders, USA. pp 234–42.