Hormonal, biochemical, and hematological profiles in female camels (Camelus dromedarius) affected with reproductive disorders

Abstract

The aim of this study was to assess the blood profiles in female camels affected with common reproductive disorders. Estradiol-17β (E2), progesterone (P4), thyroxin (T4), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), magnesium (Mg), cholesterol, glucose, triglycerides, total protein, albumin, globulin, hematocrite, and total and differential white blood cell counts (WBC) were determined in blood of female camels affected with endometritis (n = 15), vaginal adhesions (n = 15), and ovarian cysts (n = 15). Normal cyclic animals were used as controls (n = 15). Diagnosis of reproductive disorders was based on transrectal palpation, ultrasonographic examination, and exploration of the vagina. Increased WBC counts (P = 0.03) and a tendency for neutrophelia (P = 0.05) were noted in female camels with vaginal adhesions. These animals were also characterized by having higher concentration of serum P4 (P = 0.0001), T4 (P = 0.001) and total protein (P = 0.007), in comparison with female camels with endometritis, ovarian cysts, or controls. Animals having ovarian cysts with thin walls and homogenous hypoechogenic contents had greater serum E2 (P = 0.001) and P4 (P = 0.0001) than those having ovarian cysts with thick walls and non-homogenous echogenic contents. Animals with endometritis, vaginal adhesions, and ovarian cysts revealed lower serum Zn concentration than that of control group (P = 0.003). Other blood parameters did not differ significantly compared to controls. In conclusion, this is the first report characterizing blood constituents in female camels with various reproductive disorders. These profiles may be valuable in clarifying the etio-pathogenesis of these disorders. © 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.