Persistence of the ductus arteriosus in heifer

Abstract

The ductus arteriosus is a structure that connects the pulmonary arch to the aorta during the fetal life of mammals. This ductus allows arterial blood to bypass the unexpanded lung. The absence of closure of this channel characterizes the persistence of the ductus arteriosus. The aim of this study was to describe a case of persistent ductus arteriosus (PDA) in a four-day-old crossbred heifer. The animal had apathy, decubitus and anorexia. The clinical signs evolved to severe dyspnea and death of the animal. Necropsy was performed in which PDA was observed. It has been mentioned that PDA is uncommon in ruminants when compared to dogs. However, some authors suggest that the lack of diagnosis in large animals, especially in ruminants, makes this disease a rare condition. In humans and small animals, the treatment of PDA is surgical. However, there are no reports of this treatment for cattle. PDA in calves should be included in the differential diagnosis of animals with severe dyspnea shortly after birth.