Читать книгу Bovine Reproduction - Группа авторов - Страница 296

Fluid accumulation in the vaginal cavity is a common cause of scrotal enlargement in bulls. This accumulation can occur bilaterally, but unilateral enlargement is more common. The condition can be further defined by the type of fluid present. Hemorrhage in the vaginal cavity commonly results from trauma and is known as a hematocele. Injury or periochitis can cause the accumulation of an inflammatory exudate or transudate in the vaginal cavity which is referred to as a hydrocele [10]. Bilateral scrotal hydroceles have been reported in bulls secondary to ascites caused by gastrointestinal parasitism [11]. Fluid accumulation in the vaginal cavity causes distention of the parietal vaginal tunic, creating the appearance of testicular swelling. Depending on the nature of the fluid present and the degree of distension of the parietal vaginal tunic, the affected side may palpate firm and the testicle itself may be hard to identify. The presence of fluid in the vaginal cavity can easily be confirmed with ultrasound (Figure 18.5). Fibrinous and fibrous adhesions between the testicle and the parietal tunic may also be visible on ultrasound.

Figure 18.5 Ultrasound of scrotum of a bull with a hydrocele. Note anechoic fluid distention of vaginal cavity.

Source: Image courtesy of Darcie Sidelinger and Heath King.