Hydroureteronephrosis and fetal mummification secondary to uterine torsion in a Merino ewe.

Abstract

A 6 year old pluriparous Merino ewe was presented for investigation of a large intra-abdominal mass. Post-mortem examination revealed a 360° clockwise uterine torsion was present with a mummifying fetus. The torsion involved the left ureter resulting in a severe hydroureteronephrosis. Uterine torsion is uncommon in the ewe, occurring in less than 0.1% of pregnancies in one report (Mahmoud et al. Livest Res Rural Dev 2018;30), but cases are likely to be undiagnosed, particularly under the extensive management conditions typical of Australia. The chronicity of the condition in this ewe would support this statement. To the authors' knowledge this is the first reported case of hydroureteronephrosis secondary to uterine torsion in any species.