Less Common Complication of Traumatic Reticulitis in Cattle: Abscess on Left Thoracic Wall

Abstract: The aim of this study was to introduce abscess on left thoracic wall of cattle as less common complication of traumatic reticulitis and finding the best way for diagnosing them. During two years, among 75 cases confirmed suffering from traumatic reticulitis, five cows with thoracic abscess were examined clinically, radiographically and ultrasonographically. Clinical signs observed included anorexia, pyrexia, abdominal pain and weight loss. All of the cases had a big abscess in the back portion of left humerus on the thoracic wall. In every case, the diagnosis was confirmed by the centesis and aspiration of the abscess. In all cows, radiographic findings revealed a metal foreign body in the reticulum penetrating it. Ultrasonography revealed a large reticular abscess with a well-developed capsule that appeared as echogenic deposits that were sometimes accompanied by hypoechogenic fluid. The abscess was elongated towards the left thoracic wall and appeared in the posterior portion of the left humerus. The abscess was incised and drained from body surface and the reticulum during a rumenotomy. After the abscess drainage and treatment with antibiotics, all cows recovered and became healthy. It is concluded that foreign bodies should be considered in the differential diagnosis of localised swelling on the thoracic wall and the best way for diagnosing them is a combination of clinical findings, laboratory testing, ultrasonography and radiography.