Selected serum biochemical parameters and acute phase protein levels in a herd of Saanen goats showing signs of pregnancy toxaemia

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine selected serum biochemical parameters and acute phase protein levels in a herd of Saanen goats showing signs of pregnancy toxaemia. Seventy five female goats were used and divided into three groups. Group 1 (n = 57) (blood serum glucose levels were within the physiological range), Group 2 (n = 11) (serum glucose values were low) and Group 3 (n = 7) (serum glucose values were high). Goats in Groups 2 and 3 were diagnosed with pregnancy toxaemia. Apart from serum glucose, β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), triglycerides, blood pH, calcium (Ca), sodium (Na), potassium (K), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), haptoglobin (Hp), serum amyloid A (SAA) and tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were measured in all animals. In Group 3 average Hp and SAA values were found to be significantly (P < 0.001) higher than in Groups 1 and 2, and also higher in Group 2 than in Group 1. Acute phase proteins in goats with pregnancy toxaemia may be used in the course and the prognosis of the disease. The evaluation of acute phase proteins is useful and also quicker in cases of suspected pregnancy intoxication.