Abstract

Epitheliogenesis imperfecta (EI) is a congenital discontinuity of squamous epithelium which has been reported in various species of animals.It occurs due to a recessively inherited mutation in one of the genes responsible for proper extracellular adhesion. Affected animals usually die of ulceration and opportunistic infection especially when the condition is extensive. Surgical correction is usually recommended to save the life of affected animals which are otherwise culled. This case report, which appears to be the first report of the occurrence in pigs in Nigeria- based on the available records, presents the clinical and histological description of a case of EI in a piglet, which was successfully managed conservatively. This may provide management method other than surgery and culling to farmers when this disease presents within their herd.

Key words: Epitheliogenesis imperfecta, Congenital defect, Honey, Pig.