Prolonged gestation in two Holstein cows: transabdominal ultrasonographic findings in late pregnancy and pathologic findings in the fetuses.

Abstract

Prolonged pregnancy in cattle is a rare condition that is commonly accompanied with fetal adenohypophyseal hypoplasia. The final diagnosis is often challenging as breeding date error remains possible in virtually all situations. In this report, fetal wellbeing assessment is depicted in two Holstein cows suffered from prolonged pregnancy. Transabdominal ultrasonographic findings were compatible with healthy non-stressed fetuses. The clinical and pathologic findings encountered in both fetuses expelled after corticosteroid induction of parturition consisted of adenohypophyseal aplasia and hydronephrosis. Other nervous system anomalies (hydrocephaly or holocephaly) were observed. Tetralogy of Fallot was also found in one calf.