Enzootic calcinosis in ruminants: A review

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Pathology
• Toxicology
• Ruminant Medicine

Background:

• Enzootic calcinosis (EC) is a chronic disease affecting ruminants, characterized by soft tissue calcification and metabolic imbalances.
• It is linked to the ingestion of toxic plants containing 1,25(OH)2D3 glycosides, with several plant species identified as causative agents.
• The disease has been documented for over a century, impacting various continents.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive review of enzootic calcinosis (EC).
• To elucidate the pathogenic mechanisms, including genetic and cellular changes.
• To consolidate information on plant sources, epidemiology, diagnosis, and control strategies.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of enzootic calcinosis (EC) research.
• Analysis of clinical and pathological findings in affected ruminants.
• Examination of toxicological data on calcinogenic plant principles.

Main Results:

• EC is characterized by soft tissue calcification, hypercalcemia, hyperphosphatemia, and hypoparathyroidism.
• Key toxic principles identified include 1,25(OH)2D3 glycosides from plants like Solanum glaucophyllum and Trisetum flavescens.
• Pathogenesis involves genetic modulation, altered bone protein expression, smooth muscle cell de-differentiation, and calcium-phosphorus imbalance.

Conclusions:

• Comparative pathology offers significant insights into EC pathogenesis.
• A thorough understanding of EC's history, epidemiology, and clinical signs is crucial for effective management.
• Control and prophylaxis strategies require integrated approaches addressing plant toxicity and animal management.