Diamond skin disease, an infection that causes significant pain and discomfort and can be fatal if untreated, is a serious concern for pig owners. While everyone hopes to find a diamond in the rough, no one wants their pig to suffer from this debilitating disease.
Dr. Kevin Washburn, a professor at the Texas A&M School of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, and Dr. Bridget Savitske, a veterinary resident in large animal internal medicine, provide insights into this common skin disease in pigs. They explain the signs of the disease and offer prevention tips with the help of your veterinarian.
Understanding Diamond Skin Disease
Diamond skin disease, also known as Erysipelas, is a long-standing and prevalent infectious disease in pigs. Its name derives from the distinctive diamond-shaped patterns that can appear on an infected pig’s skin.
The disease begins subtly but can worsen, presenting symptoms such as high fever, loss of appetite, depression, diamond-shaped skin lesions, and, if untreated, death.
“Diamond skin disease causes vasculitis, or inflammation of the blood vessels, which leads to the diamond-shaped pattern,” Washburn explained. “The capillary beds in the skin become clogged, resulting in areas that lose blood flow, forming the characteristic diamond shapes.”
While the diamond-shaped lesions are a clear indicator, they do not always manifest.
“The disease can present in various forms,” Savitske noted. “Since it causes sepsis, the body’s severe response to infection, it can affect almost any organ system and manifest in different ways.”
Diagnosing the disease can be challenging, but changes in behavior are a critical sign for owners.
“Affected pigs will become lethargic, stop eating, and cease their usual activities,” Washburn said. “In non-pigmented breeds or pigs with white or light-colored areas, you may see discolored skin lesions develop.”
Washburn and Savitske emphasize the importance of taking your pig to a veterinarian if you notice any abnormal behavior.
The Importance of Vaccination
Fortunately, diamond skin disease is preventable through vaccination.
“Pigs should be vaccinated as weanlings, once they start eating solid food, and then receive a booster shot at least three weeks later,” Washburn advised. “After the booster, they should be vaccinated annually.”
Often, the antibodies for diamond skin disease are included in a combination vaccine, simplifying the vaccination process.
“There is a combination vaccine that includes protection against respiratory and reproductive tract diseases, which can prevent pregnancy loss,” Washburn said.
While pigs are the primary carriers of diamond skin disease, humans are also at risk of skin infections and potentially sepsis if exposed.
If your pig has diamond skin disease, it is crucial to exercise caution. Washburn advises keeping pet pigs outside to avoid spreading the infection.
“Since the disease is spread through fecal matter and nasal secretions, owners should avoid chewing their fingernails, kissing the pig, or allowing the bacteria near their face,” Savitske warned.
The infection occurs when the bacterium is ingested, often due to environmental contamination, and multiplies in the body.
“Pigs typically contract diamond skin disease through contaminated soil,” Washburn said.
To reduce the risk of infection, owners should provide pigs with clean bedding, fresh water, and store food in a sanitary location to limit contamination.
By vaccinating your pig annually, monitoring for signs of illness, and maintaining a clean environment, you can help your pet avoid diamond skin disease and ensure a longer, healthier life.
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