Liver Disorders Associated with Metabolic Imbalances in Dairy Cows.

Abstract

This article discusses the complex interrelationships that originated from metabolic stress, triggering unbalances that result in suboptimal liver health. The severe changes occurring around parturition require drastic incrementation in lipolytic activity, leading to significant adipose tissue remodeling. This increased activity ultimately exceeds the liver's normal function. The inability of the liver to perform proper metabolic regulation, together with concurrent inflammatory states, altered immune status, and physiologic imbalances, results in greater risk for disease, lower milk production and fertility, and compromised well-being and lifespan in the herd.