Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
LARGE ANIMAL REVIEW, cilt.31, sa.6, ss.395-397, 2025 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
Postpartum hemoglobinuria (PPH) is a rare but potentially serious metabolic disorder in small ruminants, and cases in sheep are rarely reported. This case report describes an outbreak of PPH associated with hypophosphatemia in a flock of meat-producing ewes. The case involved a 4-year-old Akkaraman ewe that developed reddish urine, weakness, anorexia, and mild dehydration several weeks after lambing. A review of the herd’s history revealed that multiple ewes, particularly those that had produced triplets, had exhibited similar clinical signs, and several had died in the preceding days. The diet was found to be insufficient in terms of mineral content, and signs of pica were noted in the flock, suggesting a chronic imbalance in the diet's mineral content. Diagnostic evaluation included physical examination, hematology, biochemistry, blood smear analysis, and urine testing. Hypophosphatemia along with decreased calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels was detected. Hemoglobinuria was confirmed through urine centrifugation and an ammonium sulphate precipitation test, and other potential causes of pigmenturia were excluded based on clinical and laboratory findings. Together, these findings supported a diagnosis of PPH secondary to dietary phosphorus deficiency. There was no evidence of parasitic or infectious hemolytic disease. Treatment consisted of intramuscular phosphorus supplementation, subcutaneous calcium and magnesium preparations, and supportive therapy. All affected animals responded positively, with complete clinical recovery observed after five days of treatment. A vitamin and mineral supplement was subsequently added to the animals diet to prevent recurrence, and no new cases were reported during the subsequent one-year follow-up period. This case demonstrates that PPH, although rare in sheep, can pose a significant health challenge to flocks with inadequate nutrition. Even moderate reductions in serum phosphorus may predispose susceptible animals to hemolysis, underscoring the variability in individual tolerance. The present report highlights the importance of balanced dietary mineral intake, proper postpartum monitoring, and early therapeutic intervention to prevent losses associated with PPH in sheep.