Atresia Ani: A Congenital Defect and Its Successful Management in Non-Descript Calf

Abstract

Congenital defects, abnormalities of structure or function present at birth, may be caused by genetic or environmental factors, or a combination of both; in many cases, the causes are unknown. The most common bovine environmental teratogens include toxic plants consumed by the dam and maternal-fetal viral infections during gestation. The developmental defects varies with pre-attachment period (before 14 days of gestation) and period of embryo (between 14 � 42 days of gestation) of fetal development are highly susceptible to mutation and teratogens, respectively (Bademkiran et al., 2009). Congenital malformation sometimes leads to perinatal mortality, and it may also decrease maternal productivity and reduce the value of the defective neonates. Severe defects results in abortion of the calf or a return to service of the calf and cow. Congenital anomalies have been estimated to occur in 0.2%�5% of calves. (Bademkiran et al., 2009). Atresia ani, (imperforate anus) is a congenital abnormality characterized by persistence of the anal membrane resulting in a thin membrane covering the normal anal canal or is the failure of the anal membrane to break down (Noden and Lahunta 1985). Merei et al. (2001) reported most congenital malformations was atresia ani and most frequently encountered in males calves and pigs. Various surgical techniques have been use to correct atresia ani in domestic animals (Singh, 1989). This report communicates a case of atresia ani in male calf, which was successfully treated by surgical intervention.