Association Of Vitamin B12, Cobalt And Sulfur Levels In Serum and Cerebrospinal Fluid Of Dromedary Camels With Neurological Signs

Abstract

The hypothesis of this study was that higher levels of sulfur following chronic digestive disorders in camels could decrease the concentration of cobalt and vitamin B12, which possibly might cause neurological disorders. Therefore, this study was aimed to determine levels of vitamin B12, cobalt and sulfur in serum and CSF of camels with neurological signs. Five apparently healthy camels and 7 dromedary camels with neurological signs like shivering, tremor, staggering, rotation of the head, slight vision impairment and progressive worsening general condition were included in the present study. The diseased animals showed previously chronic digestive problems like constipation, emaciation and weakness. Clinical examination and collection of blood and cerebrospinal fluid samples were done. The concentrations of vitamins B12, cobalt and sulfur in cerebrospinal fluid and serum samples were determined using HPLC assay. There was a decrease in levels of vitamin B12 and cobalt in serum and CSF for affected camels, while there was an increase in the level of sulfur in serum and CSF of affected camels as compared to healthy. The obtained results of serum and CSF in healthy and diseased animals could help in early diagnosis of neurological disorders in camel.