Serum retinol, alpha-tocopherol, cholecalciferol, and some mineral levels in ruminants with congenital digestive and urogenital system anomalies

ABSTRACT: This study aimed to investigate the relationship between serum vitamin and mineral levels and congenital defects in digestive and urogenital system anomalies in calves, lambs, and kids. The study material consisted of 13 calves, 15 lambs, 10 kids clinically and radiologically diagnosed with congenital digestive and urogenital system anomalies and 10 newborn clinically healthy calves, 10 lambs, and 10 kids. Congenital defects were diagnosed by clinical and radiological examination. Blood samples were collected from all animals, and sera were extracted for biochemical analysis. Vitamins A, D, and E, calcium, phosphorus, sodium, potassium, chlorine, magnesium, copper, iron, zinc, selenium, and manganese levels were measured in serum samples. Penile urethral diverticulum in kids, atresia ani, atresia ani with vaginal fistula in lambs, and atresia ani and atresia coli defects in calves were determined. Copper levels were higher, and zinc levels were lower in kids with penile urethral diverticulum compared to the control group. Vitamin A levels were lower in lambs with digestive system anomalies compared to the control group. Meanwhile, copper levels were higher in lambs with digestive system anomalies. Vitamin A and D levels were lower in calves with digestive system anomalies compared to the control group. There was no difference in the levels of the other parameters compared to the control group. In conclusion, insufficient serum vitamin A levels may play a role in the etiopathogenesis of congenital intestinal atresia in calves and lambs. Therefore, we believe that parenteral vitamin A administration to the mother, especially in the last trimester of pregnancy in regions with continental climates and poor green vegetation, would be beneficial. Further research should be conducted to determine the role of vitamin A in the etiopathogenesis of congenital atresia ani and coli.