A molar pregnancy in an embryo donor cow

A 6-year-old Hereford embryo donor cow was referred to Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine for a mass in the tip of her left uterine horn. The cow had recently undergone an embryo collection which yielded unfertilized, degenerated ova. Transrectal palpation and ultrasound revealed a multi-locular mass enveloped by two separate compartments that resembled an amniotic and allantoic cavity within the uterus. Tissue was collected via a uterine flush and submitted for histopathology. The tissue was determined to be placenta, confirming the diagnosis of a molar pregnancy. Following treatment, the cow was able to produce numerous viable embryos. Molar pregnancies are rare and characterized by abnormal growth of trophoblastic cells leading to formation of intrauterine cystic masses. It is important to routinely perform an ultrasonographic examination of the cow's reproductive tract approximately 30 days following non-surgical in vivo embryo collections to detect and treat unwanted conditions such as pregnancy and cystic conditions.