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Pathophysiologic changes due to coronavirus-induced diarrhea in the calf
Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
|September 1, 1978
Summary
Diarrheal calves experience severe fluid and electrolyte loss, leading to hypovolemic shock and acidosis. Understanding these imbalances is crucial for effective supportive therapy in calves.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Animal Physiology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Calf diarrhea causes significant losses of water, sodium, chloride, bicarbonate, and potassium.
- Severe cases lead to hypovolemic shock, with up to a 50% decrease in blood volume.
- Acidosis develops due to fecal bicarbonate loss, lactic acidosis, and renal dysfunction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the complex fluid and electrolyte disturbances in diarrheal calves.
- To understand the mechanisms behind acidosis and potassium shifts.
- To inform the development of optimal supportive therapeutic strategies.
Main Methods:
- The study focuses on analyzing the physiological consequences of diarrheal losses.
- It examines the shifts in extracellular and intracellular fluid compartments.
- It investigates the metabolic acidosis and its impact on potassium homeostasis.
Main Results:
- Water loss primarily affects the extracellular space, leading to hypovolemia.
- Acidosis causes cellular buffering and potassium efflux, resulting in increased plasma potassium despite a total body deficit.
- Hypoglycemia contributes to the clinical signs of weakness and lethargy.
Conclusions:
- Effective supportive therapy for diarrheal calves requires a thorough understanding of water, electrolyte, and acid-base derangements.
- The paradoxical increase in plasma potassium concentration is a critical finding.
- Addressing fluid, electrolyte, and metabolic imbalances is paramount for calf survival.