Hematologic, blood gas, cardiac biomarkers and serum biochemical parameters in calves with atresia coli and theirs relationship with prognosis

ABSTRACT

Background: Atresia coli is an intestinal anomaly. Generally, absence of defecation in calves less than 10 days old, diminishing appetite, progressing abdominal distention and time-developing depression are reported in atresia coli. Although a calf consumes its milk normally in first days, loss of appetite develops over time. Occasional minor pain indications are observed. The objective of this study was to evaluate of hematologic, blood gases, cardiac biomarkers and serum biochemical parameters before operation in calves with atresia coli, and to investigate relationship with prognosis of these parameters.Materials, Methods & Results: Thirty calves with atresia coli and 6 healthy calves for control were used as material. Poor suction reflex, anorexia, dehydration, abdomen-kicking, frequent leg movement, abdominal distension and depression were observed in calves brought to the clinic. Some calves presented swashing sound depending on content of intestines when abdomen was shaken. Intestine atresia was diagnosed by history and clinical examination. After clinical examination, operation was performed. All calves were observed during 10 days after operation. Fifteen of 30 calves died during 10 days after operation. The blood lactate, WBC, LDH and CK-MB levels in non-surviving calves with atresia coli were significantly higher compared to control calves. The venous blood pH level was significantly lower in non-surviving calves compared to surviving calves. In addition, when compared to the control group, the blood pCO2 level was significantly higher in non-surviving and surviving calves with atresia coli while the pO2 and O2 saturation levels were significantly lower.Discussion: In calves with intestinal atresia, hematologic parameters are normal in first 48 h of disease. However, leukocytosis and shift to the left have been reported over time. However, leukocytosis due to peritonitis, bacterial overgrowth, etc. have been reported over time.[...](AU)