Immune complex glomerulonephritis of suspected iatrogenic origin in five Japanese Black calves

BERNIER GOSSELIN, Véronique; KIM, Dae Y.; NAGY, Dusty W.; SHOEMAKE, Brian M.; SHAW, Daniel P.; ROYAL, Angela B.; EVANS, Tim J.; MIDDLETON, John R.

Case 2 returned to the VHC 10 days after discharge with a 3-day history of submandibular edema, and a 1-day history of heme and protein on urine dipstick. Physical examination revealed lethargy, injected sclera, purulent nasal discharge, submandibular and ventral neck edema, and thrombophlebitis in the right jugular vein (previous intravenous catheter site). Cardiac auscultation revealed tachycardia (170 bpm) and a grade IV systolic, left apical murmur. Complete blood count and plasma biochemical profile abnormalities were consistent with those from the previous visit, except a resolved left shift. During hospitalization, the calf was alert and maintained a good appetite, but due to persistent hypoalbuminemia and proteinuria the calf was euthanized 2 days after admission. Consistent gross findings on Cases 1, 2, 4 and 5, the 4 cases necropsied at the MU VMDL, were cavitary effusions including peritoneal (Cases 1 and 2) and tricavitary (Cases 4 and 5), and pulmonary edema (Cases 2, 4 and 5). Case 1 had multifocal petechiae and ecchymoses in the intestinal wall, uterus, urinary bladder, kidneys, and left ventricular endocardium. Case 2 had diffusely pale kidneys, enlarged mesenteric lymph nodes, and right jugular vein thrombosis (catheter site). Case 4 had submandibular edema and Case 5 had epicardial and subendocardial hemorrhages.