Trichuriasis

Trichuris suis (whip worm) is a parasite of the large intestine that causes diarrhea in growing pigs.

Alternative names: whip worm, whipworm, Trichuris suis

Information

Trichuris suis (whip worm) is a parasite of the large intestine that causes diarrhea, sometimes containing blood and mucus. This diarrhea slows pig growth and may cause weight loss.

 

Symptoms

Sows, nursery, and fattening

  • Diarrhea with blood and/or mucus.
  • Dehydration.
  • Hairy pigs.
  • Slow growth and weight loss.

 

Causes / Contributing Factors

  • Pigs raised outdoors, especially those exposed to soil.

 

Diagnosis

Clinical presentation. Analysis of feces for eggs. Worms in the large intestine observed during necropsy.

 

Control/Prevention

  • Limit pigs' exposure to the soil.
  • Use of anthelmintic specificly for treating Trichuris suis. Not every anthelmintic is effective against this worm.

E-diagnostics

Pig disease diagnostic tool

access

Atlas of pathology

Images of major swine diseases

access