Hematology and biochemistry parametars in neonatal calves with low iron levels

Abstract

Serum iron (Fe) deficiency is a common problem in newborn calves in dairy industry. Iron deficiency have an influence on the immune status of calves as well as on erythropoesis and thrombopoesis. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine Fe status in neonatal calves and to relate Fe status to basic hematological and biochemical parameters and serum fibrinogen levels. Blood was collected from 21 calves of Holstein-Friesian breed (7 female and 14 male) 12 to 24 hours after birth. Calves were divided into two groups. Group A included calves with iron concentration less than 14μmol/L and group B calves with concentration greater than14μmol/L. Iron concentration, total iron binding capacity (TIBC), fibrinogen, albumin and total protein were determined using standard laboratory techniques. Leukocyte count was determined using manual and PCV using microhematocrit method. The platelet count and differential leukocyte count was obtained by blood smears examination. The results have shown that all animals at birth had iron deficiency without signs of anemia. Platelet count was higher in group B. TIBC was significantly higher and transferrin saturation was significantly lower in group A. Fibrinogen concentration, other blood elements and globulin concentration were within the previously reported values for neonatal calves. Based on these results, we supposed that concentration of iron can influence platelet count in healthy neonatal cattle. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings and to establish its physiological significance.