Ethylene glycol toxicity in two calves

Abstract

Burdur Mehmet Akif Ersoy University Veterinary Faculty Animal Hospital was brought from livestock to 3 calves aged between 15 and 20 days with complaints of weakness, dehydration, inability to get up and nervous findings. Two of them failed to the treatment, and brought to the pathology department after euthanized. Both animals were macroscopically dehydrated, cachectic, and hair loss in some parts of the body. There was 1-2 liters of white light colored transparent fluid in the abdominal cavity. Many organs and serous membranes in the abdominal cavity were hyperemic. At histopathological examination, haemorrhage, edema and degenerative changes were detected in many parenchymatous organs. Calcium oxalate crystals were found in many tubular lumen, especially proximal convolute tubules in kidneys. In the light of clinical, macroscopic and histopathological findings, the case was diagnosed with ethylene glycol toxicity. Ethylene glycol toxicity is often seen in cats and dogs living near industrial or auto car repair shops, and animals that accidentally drink antifreeze wastes. In this case report, ethylene glycol toxicity was reported for the first time in calves in livestock.