ISSN:
1433-2981
Keywords:
Cervus elaphus
;
Haptoglobin
;
Plasma viscosity
;
Reference values
;
Seasonal variation
;
Sedation
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Medicine
Notes:
Abstract An automatic haematology analyser (Technicon H6000/C) providing red cell, white cell and platelet parameters was calibrated for the blood of red deer Cervus elaphus. Haematology reference values for these parameters, plasma viscosity and plasma fibrinogen are presented for defined groups of female weaner red deer (n = 123), adult red deer hinds (n = 86) and weaner male red deer (n = 37), the latter being bled using physical restraint and also using xylazine sedation. Age, sex, sedation and season-related differences were found. Reference values are also presented for serum haptoglobin in adult hinds and levels were similar to those seen in cattle. Seasonal analysis of the hinds was checked on a further group of 336 hinds, showing higher acute phase proteins in spring and summer which were possibly related to an increase in eosinophil count starting in spring and continuing through into autumn, and slightly increased neutrophil counts in the summer. Circulating red cell mass parameters were higher in the winter in the hinds, whereas the reverse was found in male weaner deer. There was some evidence of mild iron deficiency in late pregnancy and during lactation in the females. MCV appeared to increase with age, and basophil count was higher in the male deer than in females. No evidence for a neutrophil leucocytosis during pregnancy was found. Plasma viscosity was essentially the same for adult hinds and male weaners, but slightly lower in female weaners, the male group showing a slightly higher upper limit for fibrinogen. Plasma viscosity exhibited seasonal variation.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF00368273
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