Pathomorphology of traumatic reticuloperitonitis in a Holstein Friesian bull in an organised farm

Abstract

Traumatic reticuloperitonitis (TRP) is a critical and fatal condition affecting cattle worldwide. It arises from the accidental ingestion of sharp metallic objects, primarily nails, wires, or other foreign bodies, which penetrate the reticular wall, leading to inflammation of the pericardium. It poses significant challenges to cattle health and productivity, as well as economic losses in the livestock industry. A 8 year old male Holstein Friesian bull was presented for postmortem examination with a history of recumbency for the past 2 days and sudden death. Postmortem examination revealed that, over the left caudo-lateral portion of diaphragm, the membrane was thickened and it was found adherent to the left caudal portion of pleura forming a thick area of abscess. A long hard nail (of about 9 cm in length) was found piercing through a tract formed beneath the left caudo-lateral portion of diaphragm forming an abscess with thick capsule adjoining the caudal portion of left lung and forming a tract along the anterior portion of the reticulum. Dirty brown fluid oozed out on cut section. Histopathological examination was performed and case was diagnosed as Traumatic reticuloperitonitis.