Serum Levels of Retinol, Alpha-tocopherol, Cholecalciferol and Some Minerals Substances in Calves with Congenital Amaurosis

In this study, it was aimed to investigate the relationship between serum vitamin, mineral substances levels and congenital defects in calves with congenital amaurosis. The material of this study consisted of 17 calves (study group) clinically diagnosed with congenital amaurosis and 15 clinically healthy calves (control group). After taking the medical history of the calves, general physical examinations and eye examinations were carried out. Vision test was performed. Amaurosis was diagnosed by negative vision test, positive obstacle test and pupillary test results and presence of dilated pupillary. Blood samples were taken for biochemical analyses from all the calves and serums were obtained. Levels of serum retinol (vitamin A), alpha-tocopherol (vitamin E), cholecalciferol (vitamin D) and mineral substances (calcium, magnesium, copper, iron, zinc, and manganese) were measured. In study group serum vitamin A and zinc levels were lower; copper, iron, and manganese levels were higher compared to the control group. There was no difference in other vitamins (D, E) and mineral substance levels. As a result, simultaneous decrease of vitamin A and zinc levels has a role in the pathogenesis of the amaurosis. For that reasons, it is concluded that in the areas that has continental climate and poor green vegetation like Van, usage of parenteral vitamin A and zinc additive in the ratio is beneficial especially in the last one-third of the gestation