Effects of bacterial pneumonia in neonatal calves on serum lipids

A total of 31 neonatal calves (9 clinically healthy and 22 with pneumonia), between 22 and 28 d of age were used. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid was obtained through transtracheal aspiration for Gram-staining and bacterial culture. Bacteria were identified according to the routine and described procedures. Serum concentrations of total cholesterol, triglycerides, and high-density lipoproteins were analysed enzymatically. While total cholesterol (P=0.001) and high-density lipoprotein (P=0.05) concentrations were statistically decreased, there was an increase in serum triglyceride and very-low-density lipoprotein concentrations (P=0.01). The results indicated a relationship between serum lipid concentrations and bacterial pneumonia. This may be associated with hepatocellular damage initiated by subsequent sepsis.