Ultrasound features of the udder and teat of water buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis L.) at different stages of lactation

Issue Date

7-2012

Abstract

This study was conducted to determine if there are differences in the ultrasound features of the udder and teat of water buffaloes at different stages of lactation. Thirty-three 4-8 yr old lactating Bulgarian Murrah buffaloes with 2-4 parities, weighing 450-600 kg, were allocated into three groups based on the stage of lactation - early (1-3 mon), middle (4-6 mon) and late (7-9 mon) stage of lactation. Examination of the teat and udder was done using an ultrasound machine equipped with a 5 MHz linear array scanner. Digital analysis of the ultrasonograms of the udder and teat was performed and histogram echo means were compared. The udder and teat wall showed three fairly distinct layers in the sonogram and the udder and teat sinuses had homogenous hypoechoic substances contained in the lumen. Teat wall thickness was significantly higher in early stage of lactation compared to the late phase. There were significantly negative correlations between days in lactation and echogenicity of the udder wall, udder parenchyma and teat wall. Results obtained in this study can be used to compare with the features and echogenicity of diseased udder and teat in lactating water buffaloes at different stages of lactation.

Source or Periodical Title

Philippine Journal of Veterinary Medicine

ISSN

0031-7705

Volume

49

Issue

2

Page

76-82

Document Type

Article

Physical Description

illustrations, tables

Language

English

Subject

Lactation, Teat, Udder, Ultrasound, Water buffalo

Digital Copy

yes

Link to Full Text

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