Inherited congenital myoclonus of polled Hereford calves (so-called neuraxial oedema): a clinical, pathological and biochemical study

Abstract

Thirty-four newborn polled Hereford and polled Hereford cross calves affected with a condition previously described as neuraxial oedema and six normal calves were examined. None of the affected calves were seen to stand after birth and when first examined the calves were in lateral recumbency, with extension and crossing of the hindlimbs. All the affected calves were bright and alert, could lift their heads and apparently could see and hear. When the calves were encouraged to stand spontaneous and stimulus-responsive myoclonic extensor spasms, with whole body rigidity, were consistently observed. Thirty-two of the affected calves had macroscopic lesions in the coxae. No significant pathological or biochemical lesions were observed in the central nervous system of any of the calves. The water content of the cerebellum did not differ between normal and affected calves. As oedema of the central nervous system is not a feature of this condition it is more appropriate to describe it as inherited congenital myoclonus.

Neurological diseases of ruminant livestock in Australia. V: congenital neurogenetic disorders of cattle

“…22,23 Breeding experiments have confirmed that ICM is transmitted in an autosomal recessive manner and this disorder has been described in several countries (e.g. 22,23 Breeding experiments have confirmed that ICM is transmitted in an autosomal recessive manner and this disorder has been described in several countries (e.g.…”

Clinical, Clinicopathologic, Postmortem Examination Findings and Familial History of 3 Arabians with Lavender Foal Syndrome

“…13 A similar deficit of spinal glycine receptors with myoclonus has been reported in Peruvian Paso horses. 14 Although the involvement of glycine receptors with LFS is possible, no associated coat color dilution or cranial signs of strabismus and nystagmus, which were prominent in the full term foals reported here, have been reported in affected Hereford calves 15 or Peruvian Paso horses. 14 Rapid eye movements in lavender foals were reported by Bowling.…”

Disorders of Involuntary Movement

“…60 Healy and colleagues differentiated two syndromes found in Hereford and Polled Hereford cattle. This syndrome has also been erroneously described as neuraxial edema.…”