Actinobacillus lignieresii (Wooden Tongue)

Infectious DiseaseBacteriaBovineNew

Key Points

Wooden tongue is an infection of soft tissues, caused by Actinobacillus lignieresii commensals
Most commonly seen in cows
Disease occurs following oral mucosal trauma which allows bacterial invasion
Clinical signs include a firm, enlarged tongue, dysphagia and hypersalivation
Diagnosis is primarily based on clinical presentation
Sodium iodide and/or antibiotics are used for treatment
Prevention relies on reducing oral trauma, either from food or the environment

Differential Diagnoses

Lumpy jaw (A. bovis)
Botryomycosis
Neoplasia
Foreign body granuloma

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