A multifocal symmetrical necrotising encephalomyelopathy in Angus calves.
OBJECTIVE
To define a neurological disorder in Angus calves.


METHODS
Clinical and pathological examinations were performed on affected Angus calves from a herd experiencing 1% annual mortality from neurological disease.


METHODS
Angus calves developed ataxia, nystagmus, strabismus, muscular tremors, opisthotonus, bruxism, hyperaesthesia, tetanic spasms and episodic convulsions at 2 to 6 weeks of age. Death occurred 4 to 7 days after the onset of clinical signs. GROSS PATHOLOGY: Bilaterally symmetrical, yellow-grey foci were present in the medulla oblongata.


RESULTS
Symmetrical degenerative lesions affected the dorsal vagal motor, lateral cuneate and olivary nuclei in the medulla oblongata and sometimes the spinal cord, substantia nigra and cerebellar peduncles. Malacia was characterised by spongiosis of the neuropile, vascular hyperplasia, infiltration of gitter cells, spheroid formation and delayed degeneration of neurones.


CONCLUSIONS
Angus calves may develop a multifocal symmetrical necrotising encephalomyelopathy.
Philbey
A W
AW
New South Wales Agriculture, Regional Veterinary Laboratory, Wagga Wagga, New South Wales 2650. Adrian.Philbey@vet.gla.ac.uk
Martel
K S
KS
D000818:Animals; D001219:Aspartate Aminotransferases / Q000032:analysis; D002417:Cattle; D002418:Cattle Diseases / Q000378:metabolism / Q000473:pathology*; D002490:Central Nervous System / Q000378:metabolism / Q000473:pathology; D003402:Creatine Kinase / Q000032:analysis; D004492:Edetic Acid / Q000032:analysis; D005260:Female; D005779:Immunodiffusion; D007150:Immunohistochemistry; D007770:L-Lactate Dehydrogenase / Q000032:analysis; D007888:Leigh Disease / Q000378:metabolism / Q000473:pathology / Q000662:veterinary*; D008297:Male; D008526:Medulla Oblongata / Q000473:pathology*
D004492:Edetic Acid; D007770:L-Lactate Dehydrogenase; D001219:Aspartate Aminotransferases; D003402:Creatine Kinase