Disorders of sexual development in small ruminants

Intersex conditions, also known as disorders of sexual development (DSD), are uncommon in small ruminants. This report describes in detail, 2 cases of DSD in small ruminants, including clinical presentation, histopathological and cytogenetic analysis that led to the final diagnoses. Case 1, a mixed-breed ewe, was assessed due to a reported ram-like behavior at ~ 6 months of age. Physical examination revealed abnormal external genitalia with enlarged clitoris and bilateral inguinal gonads, histologically confirmed as testicular tissue. Karyotyping revealed sex chromosome blood chimerism (54XX, 54XY), implicating freemartinism as the cause of DSD. Case 2 was a 1-year Nigerian Dwarf cryptorchid male goat presented for castration. During surgery, bilateral ovoid gonads attached to a bicornuate uterus were identified. Histology revealed testicular tissue and uterus alongside vas deferens were consistent with persistent Müllerian duct syndrome. This report describes presentations, findings, and features of DSD, a rare occurrence in small ruminants.