Pathohistological and Biochemical Changes in Lacaune Ewes with Ketosis

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to establish the pathohistological and biochemical changes in ewes from the Laucane breed with ketosis. Blood samples were obtained from 106 dairy ewes for determination of β-hydroxybutyrate (ВНВА), non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), glucose (Gl), aspartate aminotransferase (ASAT), alanine aminotransferase (ALAT) and total bilirubin (Tb). The ewes were divided in three groups: pregnant, recently lambed and lactating. Target ewes were classified as healthy (C), affected with subclinical ketosis (SCK) and with clinical ketosis (CK) depending on their blood BHBA levels. The quantities of NEFA in sheep with SCK were statistically significantly elevated, while in sheep with CK – decreased. The levels of glucose decreased, while the activities of ASAT, ALAT and Tb levels were increased in ewes with SCK and CK ketosis. Histological examination revealed cellular vacuolation in hepatocytes, karyolysis, karyorrhexis, necrotic changes and high-grade fatty dystrophy of the liver and kidneys in ewes with ketosis.