High sulfide concentrations in rumen fluid associated with nutritionally induced polioencephalomalacia in calves
Gould, D.H.; McAllister, M.M.; Savage, J.C.; Hamar, D.W.
American Journal of Veterinary Research 52(7): 1164-1169
1991
ISSN/ISBN: 0002-9645 PMID: 1892274 Document Number: 371937
Nine 115- to 180-kg, hay-adapted, Holstein steers were fed an experimental diet with added sodium sulfate that induces polioencephalomalacia (PEMM). Five calves developed the disease. Thiamine concentrations in blood, CSF, brain, and liver were not indicative of thiamine deficiency. The odor of hydrogen sulfide in eructated rumen gas was associated with the onset of PEM. Sulfide concentrations in rumen fluid were measured 1 or 2 times a week by 2 techniques. Sulfide concentrations progressively increased in all 9 calves after the feeding of the PEM-inducing diet commenced. The highest concentrations conicided with the onset of clinical signs of PEM and were significantly higher in the calves that developed PEM than in those that did not. This suggests that PEM can result for sulfide toxicosis following excess production of sulfide in the rumen.