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Idiopathic megaesophagus in a calf: clinical and pathologic features
Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
|December 15, 1985
Summary
A calf with megaesophagus regurgitated after eating hay due to esophageal muscle being replaced by fat. This condition, megaesophagus in calves, highlights a rare cause of esophageal dysfunction.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Gastroenterology
- Pathology
Background:
- Megaesophagus, a condition characterized by esophageal dilation and hypomotility, can affect various animal species.
- Understanding the underlying causes of megaesophagus is crucial for diagnosis and management in veterinary practice.
Observation:
- A 4-month-old Gelbvieh calf exhibited regurgitation 3-9 minutes post-ingestion of hay, but not grain or water.
- Diagnostic imaging, including fiberoptic endoscopy and positive-contrast radiography, confirmed the presence of megaesophagus.
Findings:
- Necropsy revealed a dilated esophagus proximal to the thoracic inlet.
- Histological examination showed that the esophageal muscularis was largely replaced by adipose tissue, indicating a severe form of esophageal lipomatosis.
Implications:
- This case suggests a potential link between esophageal lipomatosis and megaesophagus in young cattle.
- Further research into the etiology and prevalence of esophageal lipomatosis is warranted.
- This finding contributes to the differential diagnosis of esophageal dysfunction in calves.