Parturient haemoglobinuria in buffaloes--a review

Parturient haemoglobinuria is a disease of economic importance in buffalo rearing countries in general and in India, Pakistan and Egypt in particular. This study reviews the information on aetiology, epidemiology, clinical aspects and treatment of parturient haemoglobinuria in buffaloes. The body of literature reviewed suggests that phosphorus deficiency in the diet of affected animals plays a major role in causing this disease, although the precise mechanism involved is complex. The possible factors involved and their interplay, plus the clinical picture of affected animals and the results of different preventive and therapeutic regimes are discussed. The study also identifies areas for further research.