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Evaluation of liver function tests in neonatal calves
E G Pearson1, G Dirksen, J Meyer
1College of Veterinary Medicine, Oregon State University, Corvallis 97331, USA.
Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
|December 1, 1995
Summary
Diagnosing liver disease in young calves is challenging. While common tests are unreliable alone, direct bilirubin and glutamate dehydrogenase (GMD) show promise for confirming hepatic disease in calves under six weeks old.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Animal Pathology
- Diagnostic Testing
Background:
- Hepatic disease poses a significant health concern in young calves.
- Accurate and timely diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment and management.
- Existing diagnostic tests for liver conditions in calves require further evaluation for clinical utility.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the diagnostic efficacy of various liver function tests and enzyme assays for detecting hepatic disease in young calves.
- To compare the sensitivity and specificity of different biomarkers in calves under six weeks of age.
Main Methods:
- A prospective case-control study was conducted.
- Included 28 clinically normal calves and 47 calves with histologically confirmed hepatic disease.
- Liver function tests and serum enzyme activities were measured and compared between groups.
Main Results:
- Common liver tests (bilirubin, GGT, ALP, AST, ALT, LDH) were not clinically useful alone in calves under six weeks.
- Direct bilirubin (87% sensitivity) and glutamate dehydrogenase (GMD, 59% sensitivity) showed higher sensitivity than other markers.
- Serum enzyme activities and total bilirubin were significantly higher in newborn calves compared to two-week-old calves.
Conclusions:
- Direct bilirubin and GMD levels can aid in confirming hepatic disease in calves under six weeks.
- Total serum bile acids may also be a useful indicator.
- Percutaneous liver biopsy remains a valuable diagnostic tool for comprehensive information.