Synonyms

No known synonym

Name of the disease in English

Hypomagnesemic tetany-Grass tetany

The disease in brief

Hypomagnesemia is caused by a combination of deficient intake and metabolic factors that reduce its bioavailability or increase its use. The disease is common in cows grazed on lush pastures, with no other forage distributed before the grass, especially on cold or rainy days, and more often on 4-7 year old cows. : High-risk grass plots contain a lot of potassium, nitrates, are used after a cold period, in spring or autumn. The disease also occurs in malnourished cattle without mineral intake.

Clinic & diagnosis

This disease is suspected in a cow in pasture (or in a barn receiving spring grass) or receiving a limited level-maintenance diet without mineral supplements; it is necessary to note at the same time:

-A rapid evolution (a few hours or during the day, or subacute (1-3 days)

-A restless and / or worried cow, or she licks, or automatically chews, or shows exaggerated reactions to stimulation, or tremors or muscle contractions (head, neck), or convulsions (repeated movements) while pedaling (if lying down), or opisthotonus or aggression.

Typical sign of the disease

No description

Pictures

See below

Diagnostic formulas

No description

Differential diagnosis

-Tetanus NV19

- TX4 lead poisoning

- Strychnine N170 poisoning

-Bacterial meningoencephalitis NV13.1

-Necrosis of the cerebral cortex NV20

-Vitamin A deficiency- NV21

-cetosis nerve form NV14

Confirm a suspicion?

A blood test on an anticoagulant will allow the magnesemia to be measured.

Prognosis and treatment

Magnesium infusion in the form of hypophosphite and calcium borogluconate

-A subcutaneous injection of magnesium sulfate

-If necessary, a tranquilizer

Prevention

-During the weeding period, suggest:

                          -a ration of corn silage or equivalent energy fodder before grazing.

                          -A daily intake of magnesium in the ration (50g / d of calcined magnesia)

References

-Veterinary Medicine-Pocket companion -9th Edition BLOOD DC-page 521