Ovary and ovarian bursa in dromedary camels: Clinical relevance of the topographical features

Abstract

This study aimed to associate ovarian characteristics with the efficiency of clinical examination and occurrence of genital diseases in dromedary camels. The reproductive tract of 870 female camels was examined through standard transrectal palpation and by ultrasonography during the breeding season. The ovaries were examined for structures and dimensions. The follicles were categorized according to size, the thickness of the wall and contents. Follicle aspiration was carried out from females with overgrown follicles (OVGF, n=127), and the obtained follicular fluids were examined. At the slaughterhouse, 100 genital tracts were examined in situ and after dissection. Ovarian bursae were examined for patency and the presence of fluid (ovarian hydrobursitis, OVHB). Risks associated with the development of OVGF and OVHB were identified by the logistic regression. The results showed that, due to topographical difference, the right ovary was more accessible at rectal palpation than the left ovary (98.9% vs. 96.1%, p=.0005). Time needed for rectal palpation of the right ovary was shorter than the left ovary (25.1±25s vs. 34.6±34.5s, p=.03). Significant relationships were found between OVGF and OVHB (Odds ratio=10.5, p=.001), OVGF and clinical endometritis (Odds ratio=21.1, p=.001), OVGF and vaginal adhesion (Odds ratio=4.4, p=.03), and OVHB and clinical endometritis (Odds ratio=11.3, p=.001). Ultrasonographic examination was imperative for the differentiation between active corpus luteum, old non-active corpus luteum and small luteinized follicle. In conclusion, anatomical arrangement of the ovary and ovarian bursa in dromedary camels affects the likelihood of their accessibility during clinical examination and predisposes to unusual genital disorders.