Arthrogryposis and placental edema in an IVF calf
Keywords: Arthrogryposis, bovine, IVF, AM, Akabane, lupin
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Arthrogryposis (< Greek meaning "crooked joint") in a Holstein calf obtained through in vitro fertilization (IVF).
The cause of arthrogryposis in this case was not determined and the author is not aware of any reported association between IVF and arthrogryposis. However it is well known that infection by the Akabane and Schmallenburg viruses in all ruminants may cause arthrogryposis. It is also seen when pregnant animals have ingested lupines.
A recessive genetic condition known as Arthrogryposis Multiplex (AM) or “Curly Calf Syndrome” exists in Angus cattle where calves that are homozygous for the AM gene show arthrogryposis.
Interestingly, this calf also showed unusual placental edema, especially in the chorion. In the image below, there appears to be a collection of fluid between the chorion and allantois.
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However, the following image shows that this is not free fluid between the chorion, Instead, the fluid resides within the chorion itself, in the form of edema.
Placental anomalies have been described in IVF calves before. An interesting case of hydrops of the fetal membranes can be found elsewhere in LORI. Also, placental anomalies in IVF calves are briefly reviewed in a paper by R. MacDonald: 2011. Hydrops in a heifer as a result of in-vitro fertilization. Can Vet J ;52:791–793.
