Naturally occurring Tyzzer's disease and intestinal spirochetosis in guinea pigs
Zwicker, G.M.; Dagle, G.E.; Adee, R.R.
Laboratory Animal Science 28(2): 193-198
1978
ISSN/ISBN: 0023-6764 PMID: 642440 Document Number: 134186
Bacillus piliformis infection (Tyzzer's disease) occurred in two young guinea pigs, causing unthriftiness and diarrhea which resulted in death. There was necrosis and inflammation of the ileum, cecum, and colon. Intestinal epithelial cells contained organisms resembling Bacillus piliformis. Spirochetes were found in the cecum and colon, mainly in crypts. Acute diarrhea occurred in another guinea pig which became cachetic and was killed. Histologically, large numbers of spirochetes were present in the wall of both the cecum and colon, and they were associated with severe necrosis and inflammation. Bacillus pilformis was not found in this animal.