A case of eagle fern (Pteridium aquilinum) poisoning on a pig farm

Abstract Background Free-range pig farming represents a minor proportion of production in France but is attracting an increasing number farmers because societal expectations and the opportunity to use pasture-grazed forage. However, this type faces several challenges, including biosecurity, parasitic management, contact with wild fauna pathogenic flora. Case presentation Two Gascon pigs raised on outdoor fattening farm Hautes-Pyrenees department were submitted after sudden death for necropsy at National Veterinary School Toulouse. The two different breeds from same group 85 animals that had grazed 4-ha plot land being used grazing first time. Based in-depth interview farmer, epidemiological information available, histology examinations, hypothesis great eagle fern intoxication was proposed. Although sample available diagnosis small, success administered therapy confirmed our diagnosis. It recommended short term, be prevented access by changing their pasture or removing plants. Vitamin B1 vitamin B6 via feed as Ultra B® 1 mL per 10 kg body weight day 2 days (providing 9 mg thiamine (vitamin B1) 0.66 pyridoxine B6) day). Marked remission observed, 6 intoxicated symptoms surviving (yielding therapeutic rate over 50%), did not compensate loss initial condition. In total, intoxication, died, recovered. Conclusions significance report lies scarcity cases reported literature, though such may become significant problem development rearing continues. Thus, should included differential nervous system swine. case also emphasizes importance anamnesis discussion farmer essential step guide