Alterazioni ematologiche e della funzionalità immunitaria aspecifica nel periodo del periparto in bovine con endometrite

Blood samples were collected from nine dairy cows admitted to uterine flushing. Blood collection was repeated 7 times, starting 15 days before partum and ending 28 days after partum. A complete hematological examination and a phagocytosis test were performed on whole blood; on serum, haptoglobin (Hp), total protein, glucose, NEFA and beta-OH butyrate (BOHB) were measured. Within two weeks after parturition six cows showed endometritis. These cows showed a reduced number of leucocytes before partum and decreased phagocytic activity at partum. At the onset of the symptoms of the endometritis, a decrease in leucocyte number and an increase in haptoglobin concentration were observed. However, Hp levels increased about parturition also in healthy animals. A significant negative correlation was observed between phagocytic activity and NEFA and BOHB.