Yes, Pneumonia of Swine, Mycoplasmal caused by Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae can indeed lead to chronic lung damage in pigs. While clinical signs like coughing and respiratory distress may improve with treatment, the infection often persists in the lungs. This chronic presence of the bacteria triggers ongoing inflammation and immune responses. Over time, this can result in:
- Airway remodeling: The airways can become thickened and narrowed due to fibrosis (scar tissue formation), making breathing more difficult.
- Reduced lung capacity: The damage to lung tissue can decrease the overall volume of air the lungs can hold, leading to decreased oxygen uptake.
- Increased susceptibility to other infections: Chronic lung damage weakens the pig's respiratory defenses, making them more vulnerable to secondary bacterial or viral infections.
Therefore, even if pigs appear clinically recovered from Pneumonia of Swine, Mycoplasmal, the long-term consequences of the infection can significantly impact their lung health and overall well-being.