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Five cases of cranial duplication in calf
S Otonari1, M Nakai, R Yamaguchi
1Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Faculty of Agriculture, Miyazaki University, Japan.
The Journal of Veterinary Medical Science
|June 1, 1993
Summary
This study reports on five calves with cranial duplications, noting varied head fusion and universal cleft palates. Organ development in duplicated heads correlates with cranial nerve duplication degrees.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Developmental Biology
- Teratology
Background:
- Cranial duplication is a rare congenital anomaly in mammals.
- Understanding the morphological variations and underlying developmental factors is crucial for veterinary science.
Observation:
- Five cases of calves with cranial duplications (diprosopus) were examined.
- Each calf presented a single body with two heads exhibiting varying degrees of fusion.
- Asymmetrical arterial supply (hemilateral common carotid or lingual artery) was noted on the medial aspects of the duplicated heads.
Findings:
- All observed duplicated heads exhibited cleft palates.
- No significant developmental disparities were found between the duplicated heads within individual calves.
- The development of cranial and neck organs appeared contingent upon the extent of cranial nerve duplication.
Implications:
- This case series provides morphological insights into cranial duplication in cattle.
- Findings suggest a complex interplay between vascular, neural, and palatal development in duplicated heads.
- Further research can elucidate the specific genetic and environmental factors contributing to this teratogenic event.