Postnatal Assessment of Serum Amyloid A Concentrations and Biochemical
Profiles In Lactating Female Donkeys and Newborn Donkey Foals
Abstract
Objective:Proper knowledge of biochemical parameters and inflammatory
markers like serum amyloid A (SAA) is crucial in monitoring the first
postpartum period in equids. Materials and Methods:Since no information
is available on SAA for donkeys at this stage, 100 animals including
lactating female donkeys (n.20) and newborn foals (n.20) within 48h from
foaling, and lactating female donkeys (n.20) and foals (n.40) after 30
days from parturition were enrolled in the study to assess routine
biochemical profile including SAA. Results:Lactating female donkeys
showed higher alkaline phosphatase and lower bilirubins and cholesterol
at 30 days of lactation compared to postpartum. Neonatal donkey foals
showed significantly higher concentrations of sodium, alkaline
phosphatase, lactic dehydrogenase, blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, and
albumin within 48h of age. In contrast, higher values of phosphate and
triglycerides were observed in older foals of 30 days of age.
Significant higher SAA concentrations were recorded during the
peripartum period in both lactating female donkeys (27.69±1.67 μg/ml)
and newborn donkey foals (39.62±18.58 μg/ml) compared to SAA values
recorded in lactating female donkeys(13.59±2.76 μg/ml) and in donkey
foals (15.87±19.42 μg/ml) at 30 days after parturition.
Conclusion:Lactating female donkeys and foals were tested and assessed
for SAA before and after parturition and one month postpartum. The
assessment results are an important basis for monitoring the health of
lactating female donkeys and foals at this stage, and now they are also
facing new challenges, such as the peak lactation period of lactating
female donkeys and the adaptation of the foal to the extra-uterine
environment.