Haemato-biochemical changes and peritoneal fluid cytology in clinical cases of bovine peritonitis

Abstract

Thirty two clinical cases were used to study changes in blood and peritoneal fluid of cattle suffering from peritonitis. Haematology revealed reversal of lymphocyte to neutrophil ratio, left shift and toxic changes in neutrophils, in majority of animals. Biochemical analysis revealed deranged liver and kidney function tests, increased glucose and lactate whereas albumin, chloride and calcium concentrations were decreased. Peritoneal fluid changes were altered consistency and colour; increased volume, specific gravity and total protein concentration; and presence of degenerated neutrophils, bacteria and gut contents. Neutrophils percentage in peritoneal fluid was higher than the reference range. From the present study, it was concluded that the prognosis of peritonitis cases has to be precisely assessed on the basis of both haematological and peritoneal fluid examination. On overall moderate to marked left shift and moderate to severe toxic cytological changes in neutrophils along with unfavourable peritoneal fluid changes were indicative of poor prognosis.