Severe bronchopneumonia and distal limb ischemia in a six week old Holstein heifer
The following clinical report describes a case of severe bronchopneumonia and distal limb ischemia in a six week old Holstein heifer. Patient history included gastrointestinal disease and generalized distal limb edema at two weeks of age (resolved), and progressive respiratory disease at five weeks of age. Due to poor response to treatment and progressive left pelvic limb lameness, the calf was referred to a veterinary teaching hospital for further evaluation. Initial evaluation confirmed severe respiratory disease and treatment was initiated accordingly. The left hind fetlock showed evidence of mal-perfusion distally. In addition to other diagnostics, computed tomography angiography (CTA) of the pelvic limbs was performed, revealing evidence of severe vascular compromise in the left distal limb. The calf’s respiratory disease resolved after an eight days of hospitalization, and the etiology of the compromised distal limb remained unknown. The information gathered from CTA in this case may serve as a prognostic indicator for future cases with similar injuries.