A Complex Case of Abomasum Displacement in a Pregnant Dairy Cow: Postmortem Findings of Liver Abscess and Traumatic Reticuloperitonitis

Background and Clinical Significance: Liver abscesses are prevalent in feedlot cattle but are infrequently documented in pregnant dairy cows, especially during the dry period. This case report illustrates a unique occurrence of a significant liver abscess occurring concurrently with abomasum displacement and traumatic reticulitis, emphasizing the diagnostic difficulties arising from overlapping physiological alterations during late gestation. The research highlights the need for diligent observation and sophisticated diagnostics in identifying abnormal situations in pregnant cows. Case Presentation: A six­ year­ old Holstein cow in her fourth lactation was presented during the late dry phase, at 276 days of gestation and 21 days before anticipated calving. The cow had lethargy, diarrhea, and reduced feed consumption. The clinical examination identified a left­ sided abomasum displacement, corroborated by auscultation, percussion, and fluctuation assessments. Blood biochemistry revealed high gamma­ glutamyl transferase (GGT) (before surgery-52.9 TV/L; after surgery- 169.5 TV/L) and aspartate transferase (AST) values (before surgery- 120.4 TV/L; after surgery- 77.9 TV/L, indicative of hepatic impairment. A right­ sided omentopexy was executed to rectify the abomasum displacement; nevertheless, the cow’s condition worsened postoperatively, necessitating a caesarean operation to deliver the calf. Notwithstanding the intervention, the cow’s condition deteriorated further, resulting in euthanasia. The necropsy disclosed a substantial liver abscess (50 cm in diameter), fibrinous peritonitis and pleuritis, fibrotic adhesion of the liver to the diaphragm, pulmonary fibrotic adhesion to the diaphragm and costal pleura, acute abomasitis, in the abomasum, the feed is mixed with sand and gravel impurities, acute hemorrhagic enteritis, a foreign body (metal nail, about 4 centimeters in length) found in the reticulum. Conclusions: This instance underscores the intricacy of detecting and controlling dual metabolic and infectious illnesses in pregnant cattle. Essential insights encompass the significance of comprehensive clinical and necropsy assessments, proactive health surveillance, and the rectification of dietary and management variables to reduce hazards. These findings offer essential insights for enhancing health outcomes during the susceptible dry period.