Clinical and clinico-pathological effects of Escherichia coli endotoxin in mature cattle

The effects of intravenous administration of Escherichia coli endotoxin were studied in eight mature lactating cows. Three cows were studied following intrammary infection with E. coli. Significant clinical findings are presented. Significant clinico-pathological findings include leukopenia, decreased blood serum calcium concentrations and increased levels of serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase and serum ornithine-carbamyl transferase. Significant elevations of plasma corticosteroids were also noted.