The Mycotoxins in Swine

Zearalenone (ZEA), fumonisin (FUM), aflatoxin, ochratoxin, deoxynivalenol (DON/vomitoxin), and other tricothecenes are very important mycotoxins affecting pig performance. ZEA affects reproduction in swine, primarily weaned and prepubertal gilts, causing vulvo vaginitis, hypertrophy of the mammary glands and uterus, with occasional prolapse of the rectum and vagina. On the other hand, FUM has been associated with pulmonary edema and immunosuppression, increasing the susceptibility to respiratory diseases such as APP (Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae), PRRS (Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome), and circovirus. Pigs are very sensitive to DON, which decreases appetite significantly with a reduction in liver size.