Changes in electrocardiographic, hematologic and biochemical indices of Markhoz goat breed in experimental hypocalcemia

Abstract

<strong>Background:</strong> Milk fever in cattle, sheep and goats occurs around the time of parturition and is caused by hypocalcemia. <strong>OBJECTIVES:</strong> The aim of this study was to investigate the physiological effects of experimental hypocalcemia on electrocardiography, hematology and serum biochemical changes in Markhoz goat breed. <strong>METHODS:</strong> Ethylene diamine tetra- acetate solution 4.6% was intravenously infused to 5 healthy goats (experimental group) and 5 healthy goats received 0.9% saline solution (IV) as control group. In both groups, electrocardiogram was recorded in base apex lead and serum was collected before and after infusion. Electrocardiography, biochemical and hematologic parameters were measured. Clinical signs of hypocalcaemia were caused by EDTA infusion. <strong>RESULTS: </strong>The results in experimental group showed a significant decrease in calcium, lactate dehydrogenase, potassium, and increase in glucose concentration, (p<0.05).The white blood cells, lymphocytes, eosinophils decreased significantly (p<0.05). Magnesium concentration, creatine phosphokinase, alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase, phosphorus, red blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, Mean cell volume, Mean cell hemoglobin did not show significant change (p>0.05), heart rate change, presence of arrhythmias and its type were significant (p<0.05). But, QRS pattern, T shape, P, QRS and T amplitude, S-T and Q-T interval waves had no significant change (p>0.05). No significant change was seen in control group. <strong>CONCLUSIONS:</strong> The results indicate that evaluating some biochemical, enzymatic, hematological and electrocardiography changes can be helpful in the diagnosis of hypocalcemia.<br />