A case of pericarditis in Angus cattle

Abstract

A 10-years-old Angus cow was evaluated on the field for suspected traumatic pericarditis. Physical exam findings included tachycardia, mixed dyspnea, decreased intensity of heart sounds on the left, absence of heart sounds on the right but presence of fluid sounds, bilateral turgidity of the jugular veins, positive venous compression test, brisket and ventral abdominal oedema. The cow exhibited light pain while palpation at brisket region. Hematology revealed significant erythrocytopenia, higher hematocrit, lower hemoglobin concentration, significant leukocytosis with neutrophilia and lymphocytopenia. Serum biochemical findings had reduced glucose, urea nitrogen, albumin, sodium, potassium, chloride, calcium, phosphorus levels and increased levels of AST, ALT, GGT, total protein and globulin. Ultrasonography has shown pericardial effusion and strands of fibrin. The prognosis was poor, and pericardiocentesis or pericardiotomy were inadequate methods of treatment, thus euthanasia was indicated.