Here are the necropsy results
Polioencephalomacia
Final report: January 10, 2020
This is a final report, which follows the preliminary report sent on December 23, 2019.
Polioencephalomacia has multiple causes including true thiamine deficiency, lead, and sulfur among
others, but in this case is likely due to alterations in rumen flora with an increase in thiaminase
producing bacteria secondary to rumen acidosis as the rumen pH was 5.5. Rumen acidosis can also
result in dehydration and other metabolic abnormalities that can lead to death. Polioencephalomalacia
associated with rumen acidosis is often sporadic in the herd, as in this case. Lead levels were NOT
indicative of toxicity. Arsenic and nitrate levels were also NOT indicative of toxicity.
Calcium levels are considered marginal (adequate levels are 6.0-7.5 mg/dL), but we typically see milk
fever in animals that have calcium levels below 3.5 mg/dL. Magnesium levels are considered
adequate. Testing for BVD and bovine coronavirus was negative. The fecal float results and
microscopic findings are indicative of at least low level parasitism.
Comments
Jenny P. Pope, DVM, Dipl. ACVP, Pathologist
