Join this channel to get access to perks:
[ Ссылка ]

Haemoglobinuria in cattle is a condition characterized by the presence of free hemoglobin in the urine, often indicating a breakdown of red blood cells (hemolysis). It can be caused by various factors, including infectious agents, nutritional deficiencies, toxins, and other underlying health conditions.

Aetiology
Infectious Causes:

Babesiosis (Redwater disease): Caused by Babesia bovis or Babesia bigemina, transmitted by ticks.
Leptospirosis: Infection with Leptospira spp. can cause hemolysis.
Clostridial diseases: Clostridium haemolyticum (bacillary hemoglobinuria).
Nutritional Deficiencies:

Phosphorus deficiency: Particularly in young, rapidly growing animals.
Toxins:

Bracken fern poisoning: Ingestion of the fern can lead to bone marrow suppression and hemolysis.
Copper toxicity: Excessive copper can cause oxidative damage to red blood cells.
Miscellaneous:

Post-parturient hemoglobinuria: Often associated with low phosphorus levels in high-producing dairy cows shortly after calving.
Cold water hemoglobinuria: Occurs when cattle drink very cold water after being overheated, leading to acute hemolysis.
Clinical Diagnosis
History and Physical Examination:

Sudden onset of red or dark-colored urine.
Signs of anemia: pale mucous membranes, weakness, and lethargy.
Possible jaundice due to liver involvement.
Laboratory Tests:

Urinalysis: Presence of free hemoglobin in the urine (positive hemoglobin test with a negative test for red blood cells).
Blood Smear: Identification of parasites like Babesia.
Serology: For specific infections like leptospirosis.
Biochemistry: Elevated levels of bilirubin, reduced hematocrit, and other indicators of hemolysis.
Phosphorus levels: To check for hypophosphatemia.
Differential Diagnosis:

Distinguish from hematuria (presence of red blood cells in urine) through centrifugation of the urine sample and examination of the sediment.
Symptoms
Acute Cases:

Dark red or coffee-colored urine.
Sudden weakness or collapse.
Increased heart and respiratory rates.
Fever (especially in infectious cases).
Jaundice.
Chronic Cases:

Progressive anemia.
Weight loss.
Decreased milk production.
Treatment
Supportive Care:

Fluid therapy: To maintain hydration and support renal function.
Blood transfusion: In severe cases of anemia.
Specific Treatments Based on Aetiology:

Babesiosis:
Antiprotozoal drugs (e.g., diminazene aceturate, imidocarb).
Tick control measures.
Leptospirosis:
Antibiotics (e.g., tetracyclines or penicillin).
Phosphorus Deficiency:
Phosphorus supplements (e.g., sodium phosphate).
Bracken Fern Poisoning:
Removal from the source of bracken fern.
Blood transfusions in severe cases.
Copper Toxicity:
Chelation therapy (e.g., penicillamine).
Supportive care to manage renal and liver damage.
Preventive Measures:

Regular vaccination and parasite control.
Balanced diet with adequate minerals.
Avoiding access to toxic plants and substances.
Proper management of drinking water temperature.
Prognosis
The prognosis for haemoglobinuria in cattle varies widely depending on the cause, severity of the condition, and how quickly treatment is initiated. Acute cases can have a high mortality rate if not promptly treated, while chronic cases require ongoing management and monitoring.

Effective prevention and early intervention are key to reducing the incidence and impact of this condition in cattle herds.

свернуть