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Alterations in acid-base balance and serum electrolyte concentrations in cattle: 632 cases (1984-1994)
A J Roussel1, N D Cohen, P S Holland
1Department of Large Animal Medicine and Surgery, Texas Veterinary Medical Center, Texas A&M University, College Station 77843, USA.
Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
|June 11, 1998
Summary
Acid-base and electrolyte levels in cattle vary by age and breed. Dehydrated cattle showed lower sodium, potassium, and chloride levels, aiding in clinical predictions without lab tests.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Animal Physiology
- Clinical Pathology
Background:
- Acid-base balance and serum electrolyte concentrations are critical indicators of health in cattle.
- Understanding typical alterations in these parameters across different cattle groups is essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and characterize common changes in acid-base balance and serum electrolytes.
- To correlate these changes with factors such as age, breed, hydration, and clinical condition in cattle.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective study was conducted involving 632 cattle.
- Data on blood gases (pH, PVO2, PVCO2), bicarbonate (HCO3-), base excess (BE), and serum electrolytes (sodium, potassium, chloride, total carbon dioxide) were collected.
- Cattle were categorized by age (<1 month vs. ≥1 month), breed type, hydration status, and clinical signs.
Main Results:
- Older cattle (≥1 month) had higher BE, pH, and HCO3- but lower PVCO2, sodium, potassium, and chloride compared to calves.
- Dairy breeds showed lower BE and HCO3- than beef breeds (calves), and lower sodium and potassium than beef breeds (older cattle).
- Dehydrated cattle exhibited significantly lower serum sodium, potassium, and chloride concentrations. A high anion gap was more prevalent in non-surviving cattle.
Conclusions:
- Consistent patterns of acid-base and electrolyte alterations were observed in specific cattle groups.
- These findings suggest that clinical assessment can aid in predicting electrolyte and acid-base status, potentially reducing the need for immediate laboratory analysis.