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Neospora caninum in aborted twin calves
1Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort, Republic of South Africa.
Journal of the South African Veterinary Association
|June 1, 1993
Summary
Neospora caninum, a parasite, was identified in aborted twin calves in South Africa. This diagnosis confirms the parasite as a cause of bovine abortion, highlighting significant cardiac and brain lesions.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Parasitology
- Bovine Reproduction
Background:
- Bovine abortion poses significant economic challenges in livestock farming.
- Neospora caninum is a known cause of bovine abortion globally.
- Limited data exists on Neospora caninum prevalence in South African cattle.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report the first diagnosis of Neospora caninum causing bovine abortion in South Africa.
- To characterize the neuropathological and cardiopathological findings associated with Neospora caninum infection in aborted calves.
Main Methods:
- Immunohistochemical testing on formalin-fixed, wax-embedded brain tissues.
- Microscopic examination of brain and cardiac tissues for characteristic lesions.
Main Results:
- Neospora caninum was detected in the brains of twin aborted calves.
- Microscopic lesions included multifocal necrosis, gliosis, inflammation in the brain, and severe epicarditis with myocarditis.
- Lesions were characterized by infiltration of immune cells like macrophages and lymphocytes.
Conclusions:
- Neospora caninum is confirmed as a cause of bovine abortion in South Africa.
- The parasite induces significant inflammatory and necrotic lesions in the brain and heart of affected fetuses.
- This finding necessitates increased surveillance and control strategies for Neospora caninum in South African cattle herds.