Prevalence and pathology of pancreatic disorders in cattle

Abstract

The present study was undertaken to assess the prevalence and various pathological disorders of the pancreas in cattle. One hundred pancreas collected from the slaughter house and autopsy specimens formed the basis of the study. Serum and urine samples were collected from the slaughtered animals for clinico- pathological evaluation. Fifty one per cent of the pancreas showed lesions of which, 17 per cent severe, 14 per cent showed moderate and 20 per cent showed mild lesions. It was observed that chronic pancreatitis was the most common condition encountered. Other specific conditions encountered were parasitic infections (2), pancreatic tumour (2), pancreatic lithiasis (1) and islet cell hyperplasia (1). Serum amylase value showed correlation with changes in pancreas, while urine and serum glucose values did not show correlation with islet changes. Many of the conditions reported were the first record. The incidence of pathological disorders encountered were relatively high. The need and scope for investigation in to the pathological disorders in cattle were highlighted.