Camelidae and Cervidae Necrotic Stomatitis Study Guide

Overview and Clinical Importance

Necrotic stomatitis (oral necrobacillosis) is a serious infectious disease affecting the oral cavity of camelids (llamas, alpacas) and cervids (deer, elk, reindeer). The condition is characterized by necrotizing, ulcerative lesions of the oral mucosa caused primarily by Fusobacterium necrophorum, a gram-negative, obligate anaerobic bacterium. This disease represents a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in both domestic and wild populations of these species.

In camelids, necrotic stomatitis is relatively uncommon but can occur as part of a broader syndrome called alimentary necrobacillosis, which may involve the esophagus and gastric compartments. In cervids, the disease is more commonly recognized as part of the lumpy jaw complex or can present as primary oral lesions, particularly in farmed deer populations where it represents one of the most economically important diseases.

Etiology

Primary Causative Agent

Fusobacterium necrophorum is the primary etiologic agent of necrotic stomatitis. Key characteristics include: