Radiographic, Ultrasonographic and Thermographic Findings in Neonatal Calves with Septic Arthritis: 82 cases (2006-2013)

Septic arthritis is defined as inflammation of a joint caused by various microorganisms. The aim of this study was to evaluate the diagnosis and treatment characteristics of septic arthritis encountered in 82 calves. Fifty-eight cases were monoarthritis, and 24 cases were polyarthritis. Omphalitis was detected in 17 calves. Dorsal, medial and lateral thermograms of joints revealed hot points (n=82). In ultrasonographic examination, inflammatory effusions with different echogenity were seen. Widening of joint space (n=35) and new bone formation (n=42) were detected by radiography. Arcanobacterium pyogenes and Escherichia coli (83%) were commonly founded microorganisms. Medical treatment was successful in total of 59 calves (71.9%), 1 calf with polyarthritis and 58 calves with monoarthritis. Twenty-three calves were slaughtered because no clinical improvement was observed till the 14 day of treatment.