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Bent-limb syndrome in lambs raised in total confinement
Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
|December 15, 1978
Summary
High dietary iron in confined lambs caused bent-limb syndrome by affecting vitamin D. Reducing iron or giving vitamin D3 prevented the condition.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Animal Nutrition
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Bent-limb syndrome observed in lambs raised in confinement.
- Characterized by forelimb curvature, radiographic long bone abnormalities, and endochondral dysplasia.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate the etiology of bent-limb syndrome in confined lambs.
- Determine the role of mineral and vitamin imbalances in disease development.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of feed and serum for mineral concentrations.
- Histological examination of affected long bones.
- Experimental intervention with dietary iron reduction and vitamin D3 administration.
Main Results:
- Elevated dietary iron (400 ppm) and serum iron/inorganic phosphorus levels noted.
- Normal calcium and phosphorus ratios did not influence disease incidence.
- Massive doses of vitamin D3 and reduced dietary iron showed prophylactic effects.
Conclusions:
- Excess dietary iron is implicated in bent-limb syndrome pathogenesis.
- High iron likely impairs vitamin D metabolite formation in kidneys.
- Vitamin D3 supplementation and iron reduction can prevent the condition.