THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM 15 



Scurvy 



This is a disease manifested by ulceration and hemor- 

 rhage of the gums, unthriftiness, and debility. It is of 

 rather common occurrence in young pigs. 



Etiology. There appears to be no specific exciting 

 cause of this condition. However, it usually occurs in 

 pigs that are improperly fed, kept in unsanitary quarters, 

 or those produced from continued inbreeding. 



Lesions. Scurvy is characterized by progressive 

 ulceration of the gums. These ulcers are irregular, 

 ragged, and bleed almost constantly. Petechial hemor- 

 rhages may be found in the skin, and in the mucous 

 andx serous membranes. The liver and kidneys may 

 show fatty changes. The spleen and lymph nodes are 

 enlarged. 



Symptoms. Progressive emaciation, dullness, dimin- 

 ished appetite, increased thirst, and a dislike to move 

 characterize scurvy. On inspection, the gum ulcerations 

 will be observed, and there may also be cutaneous hemor- 

 rhages visible. The disease is rather serious unless the 

 cases are observed early. 



Parotitis Parotiditis 



Parotitis is rare in swine. In The American Veterinary 

 Review (Vol. 43, p. 298), Kaupp reported three fatal 

 cases. It appears from the report that two dogs also 

 contracted the disease. This condition is usually not 

 serious, and when the conditions associated with it are 

 relieved the lesions rapidly disappear. 



Tonsillitis 



The tonsillar tissue of swine is prone to either acute 

 or chronic inflammation. Acute tonsillitis is closely 

 associated with acute pharyngitis, and the cause is 

 probably most frequently infectious in character. The 

 tonsillar tissue becomes tumefied and projects above the 

 surface, while the buccal mucous membrane is hot and 

 red. The affected animals are indisposed and dull, and 



