Severe renal oxalosis in five young Beefmaster calves

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Pathology
• Animal Genetics
• Nephrology

Background:

• Renal oxalosis is a serious kidney condition characterized by the deposition of calcium oxalate crystals.
• Purebred Beefmaster calves in the US were diagnosed with severe renal oxalosis.

Observation:

• Clinical signs included weakness, anorexia, lethargy, alopecia, dehydration, and diarrhea.
• Affected calves exhibited end-stage renal disease and succumbed within weeks of birth.
• Necropsy revealed dilated renal calyces with calculi and histological evidence of interstitial fibrosis and tubular crystal accumulation.

Findings:

• Calcium oxalate crystals were identified within renal tubules and, in one case, tracheal glands.
• The varied diets and lack of exogenous oxalate exposure point towards an endogenous cause.
• The condition's occurrence in young, purebred calves suggests a potential inherited metabolic defect, specifically primary hyperoxaluria.

Implications:

• This study highlights a potential genetic predisposition to primary hyperoxaluria in Beefmaster cattle.
• Understanding the metabolic defect is crucial for diagnosis, management, and potential breeding strategies.
• Further research into the genetic basis of this condition is warranted to prevent future outbreaks.