Iraqi Journal of Veterinary Sciences

Abstract

The Objective of the present study was to investigate the clinical and pathological aspects of peritonitis secondary to traumatic reticuloperitonitis, ruminitis, and ruminal tympanites in water buffaloes. Results of this study have showed that cases of acute peritonitis were more frequent than cases of chronic peritonitis. Body temperature, heart rate, and respiratory rate were higher significantly in cases of acute peritonitis than in cases of chronic peritonitis (P0.05) and that these parameters were higher significantly in cases of peritonitis than in control animals. Ruminal motility was higher significantly in acute cases of peritonitis than in chronic peritonitis but it was lower significantly in cases of peritonitis than in control animals. Inappetance, grunting, and scant feces were more frequently seen in cases of acute peritonitis than in cases of chronic peritonitis. Arching of the back, rough coat, dripping urination, disinclination to move, and lying down with care were seen in cases of acute peritonitis only. Loss of body weight was seen in cases of chronic peritonitis only. Decreased milk production was more frequent in cases of chronic peritonitis than in cases of acute peritonitis. The packed cell volume values were higher significantly in cases of acute peritonitis than in control and chronic peritonitis. In contrast, the erythrocyte sedimentation rate was higher significantly in cases of chronic peritonitis, and in cases of peritonitis than in control animals. Plasma fibrinogen levels were higher significantly in cases of chronic peritonitis than in cases of acute peritonitis, and in cases of peritonitis than in control animals. The total lymphocytes count and neutrophils values were higher significantly in cases of acute peritonitis than in chronic peritonitis, and in peritonitis than in control animals. The lymphocytes value was significantly lower in cases of acute peritonitis than in chronic peritonitis and in control animals. Histologically, the lesions were in the form of congestion, extensive hemorrhages, and edema of the peritoneal tissue. Thrombosis of some blood vessels, areas of necrosis, and minimal mixed type inflammatory cells were also seen. Erythrocytes were the main consitituent of the exudate and deposits of hemosiderin were visualized in areas of hemorrhages.