Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae, a re-emerging pathogen: a case report in laying hens from a cage-free farm

• Leandro Cádiz ^[1] ; Fernando Navarrete ^[2] ; Héctor Hidalgo ^[2]
  1. [1] Universidad de las Américas

     Universidad de las Américas

     Santiago, Chile

     
  2. [2] Universidad de Chile

     Universidad de Chile

     Santiago, Chile

     
• Localización: Austral journal of veterinary sciences, ISSN 0719-8000, ISSN-e 0719-8132, Vol. 58, Nº. 1, 2026, págs. 159-165
• Idioma: inglés
• Enlaces
  • Texto completo
• Resumen

  • Erysipelas, caused by Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae, has re-emerged as a significant threat in cage-free poul-try systems. In May 2025, we investigated a sudden increase in mortality on a commercial layer farm in Chile. Eleven hens were necropsied, revealing systemic lesions consistent with septicemia. Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae was isolated from multiple organs and confirmed through biochemical testing, histopathology, and PCR, identifying serotype 1b. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing showed marked sensitivity to β-lactams and resistance to fluoroquinolones, mac-rolides and tetracyclines. The outbreak was successfully controlled with amoxicillin therapy. This case highlights the increased risk of infectious diseases associated with cage-free production and underscores the need for continued diagnostic surveillance and antimicrobial resistance monitoring.