Degree of deformity and certain hormone, vitamin and trace element levels in the serum of calves with congenital flexural deformity

Abstract

The present study aimed to investigate the correlation between certain hormone, vitamin and trace element levels and congenital defects in calves with congenital flexural deformity. The study included 15 calves (study group) which were clinically and radiologically diagnosed with congenital flexural deformity and 15 clinically healthy calves (control group). After obtaining the anamnesis of the calves, general physical, clinical and radiological examinations of the extremities were conducted. The calves were diagnosed with congenital flexural deformity when they partially attained or did not attain normal extension angles during passive joint flexion movements. The congenital flexural deformity in the extremity was categorized based on the cranial angle of the carpal and ankle joints, measured with a radiogram, and the posture of the extremity. Blood samples were obtained from all calves for biochemical analysis and blood serum was extracted. Serum retinol (vitamin A), alpha tocopherol (vitamin E), cholecalciferol (vitamin D), certain trace elements (calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, copper, iron, zinc and manganese), T3 and T4 levels were measured. It was determined that the serum zinc levels of the calves with flexural deformity were lower, magnesium, calcium, vitamin E, free T3 and T4 levels were higher in comparison to the healthy calves in the control group. There was no difference between the other vitamin (D, E) and mineral levels. In conclusion, instead of subjective evaluation, objective evaluation criteria were presented in the grading of the deformity. It was also thought that it would be useful to consider objective evaluation in determining treatment options. It was thought that the addition of zinc to animal feeds during pregnancy in farms that the cases are common, can reduce these deformities.

Congenital digital flexural deformity (knuckling): Epidemiology, the association of trace elements and surgical treatment in neonatal bovine calves

“…This was dissimilar to the previous report of Ochube et al [ 20 ], who stated that the knee joint was more prone to develop deformity than the fetlock joint. Fazili et al [ 8 ] reported forelimb knuckling at a higher prevalence, similar to our finding. We have recorded all the cases in the front leg.…”

“…In this study, the number of male calves with flexural deformity was higher than the females, similar to previous researchers [ 7 , 8 ]. Because male calves gain more weight at birth than female calves, there may be a weight disparity between the fetus and the mother, limiting the fetus’s usual mobility within the uterus and eventually leading to the development of constricted limbs.…”

“…The serum levels of zinc and vitamin D were found to be significantly lower on day 21 post-surgery than before surgery, indicating that the excess or imbalance of these trace elements and vitamin D may be closely associated with the development of flexural deformity. Genccelep et al [ 8 ]; Galloway et al [ 23 ] stated the values of zinc and vitamin D were markedly lower in postoperative conditions as compared with the control group, which is similar to our findings. Myotonic dystrophy type II is correlated with zinc imbalance which may contribute to developing flexural deformity in calves [ 9 , 24 ].…”

“…Based on the clinical characteristics and the angulation of the deformed extremity, some researchers divided flexural deformity into three categories: mild, moderate, and severe, but this classification, arthrometric, or goniometric data were not taken into consideration [ 8 ]. A straightforward, affordable, trustworthy, impartial, and non-invasive technique for deformed joint classification is goniometry Govoni et al [ 14 ] which has been followed in this study.…”

“…Two major flexural abnormalities include extreme carpal angulation and arthrogryposis, characterized by neck bending and deformed carpal or tarsal joints. The knuckling is caused by inherited factors, improper uterine postures, insufficient nutrition, and shortages or excesses of vitamins and minerals [ 8 , 9 ]. The diagnosis can be determined with ease by observing the flexed limb during an inspection.…”