Factors associated with the recovery of non-claw-associated lameness in gestating sows: A special focus on acute phase proteins and clinical signs.

CRP and Pig-MAP levels cannot predict recovery from lameness in gestating sows.

This longitudinal study investigated the prognostic value of acute phase proteins (CRP and Pig-MAP) combined with clinical signs for predicting recovery from non-claw-associated lameness in gestating sows. One hundred sixteen moderately to critically lame sows from three conventional herds were included and monitored for up to 28 days while receiving standard treatment (sick pen relief, antibiotics, and NSAIDs). Blood samples were collected at inclusion and study exit. Results showed 54.3% of sows recovered, while 3.4% required euthanasia. Mean CRP levels were lower in the recovery group (240.5 µg/mL) compared to the non-recovery group (327.4 µg/mL), and Pig-MAP levels were similarly lower in recovered sows (2.03 mg/mL vs. 2.29 mg/mL). However, logistic regression analysis revealed that neither clinical signs nor acute phase protein levels significantly predicted recovery outcomes. The findings suggest that these biomarkers cannot be reliably used for prognostic assessment in lame gestating sows, highlighting the need for additional research to identify more effective predictive indicators.

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