North American Veterinary Licensing Examination (NAVLE) Practice Test

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What pathogen is most likely responsible for rapid deaths with hemorrhagic enteritis in 2 to 3-day-old pigs?

  1. Haemophilus parasuis

  2. Clostridium perfringens type C

  3. Salmonella choleraesuis

  4. Enterotoxigenic E. coli

The correct answer is: Clostridium perfringens type C

Clostridium perfringens type C is recognized as a significant pathogen responsible for rapid deaths accompanied by hemorrhagic enteritis, particularly in young pigs aged 2 to 3 days. This bacterium produces potent toxins that can lead to severe intestinal necrosis and enteritis, resulting in rapid onset of clinical signs and mortality. The pathogenesis linked to C. perfringens type C includes its ability to cause severe damage to the intestinal lining, leading to bleeding and diarrhea, which are characteristic of the disease. In neonatal pigs, their immature immune systems and the presence of passive immunity through colostrum can play roles in susceptibility to infection. When they are exposed to bacterial agents such as Clostridium perfringens type C, particularly in environments where the bacteria proliferate, the outcome can be swift and devastating. The disease is often exacerbated in situations where there is a lack of proper sanitation or where sows have not been adequately vaccinated, increasing the risk of transmission and disease expression. Other options, while they may cause gastrointestinal disease in swine, do not typically present with the same rapid progression to death primarily characterized by hemorrhagic enteritis shortly after birth. Haemophilus parasuis, for example, is associated