Abstract:
Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis or caseous lymphadenitis is a common condition in sheep
and goats. Two cases are described involving otitis media-interna and, in one case, cerebellar
abscessation. The first case began with otitis externa and progressed to cerebellar abscessation,
presumably as a result of C. pseudotuberculosis infection based on the macroscopic appearance
of the abscess. The second case of otitis media-interna involved C. pseudotuberculosis with
parasitic encephalitis or secondary meningo-encephalitis. Caseous lymphadenitis is a
worldwide problem in livestock and also has zoonotic implications. Antimicrobial therapy
of abscesses is often unrewarding due to the thick encapsulation of the abscesses and the
extremely contagious nature of the organism. Alternative measures of treating this condition
must be sought. In flocks or herds where caseous lymphadenitis has been diagnosed, it should
be considered as a differential diagnosis for neurological conditions. The potential for spread
must be kept in mind when it is suspected to be the cause of otitis in livestock.
