[Enzootic calcinosis in sheep after consumption of golden oat grass (Trisetum flavescens L., P. B.)].

In 12 sheep (Coburger Fuchsschaf; 10 female, 1 male, 1 wether), grazing on a pasture with approximately 20 (to 40)% golden oat grass and fed the respective hay, clinical findings and outcome of Trisetum flavescens induced calcinosis were controlled for 2 1/2 years. Besides lameness typical for calcinosis (slightly bent carpus and relatively stretched position of tarsal and fetlock joints when standing, 'kneeling' on the carpi) the patients showed increasing impairment of the circulatory and respiratory systems (holosystolic endocardial murmur, congestion, exspiratory dyspnoea etc.). 4 of the 12 sheep died (2) or had to be euthanatized (2) because of peracute heart failure; 5 patients showing chronic circulatory insufficiency as well as 1 animal suffering from severe lameness had likewise to be euthanatized (Ubersicht 1-3). One calcinotic ewe (No. 12), still alive at the time of this evaluation (2003), gave birth to 2 healthy lambs and nursed them. The ram (No. 5) had to be eliminated for another disease. The mostly severe calcifications of the cardiac valves, the endocardium and the arterial vessels as observed during the pathomorphological examination are consistent with the clinically diagnosed cardiovascular insufficiency. Furthermore, calcification of several tendons and ligaments, the kidneys and in 3 cases of the pulmonary parenchyma could be found. Clinical observations and post mortem findings showed a remarkable individual variation. Compared to calcinosis in cattle, in sheep the functional disturbance of the circulatory system was striking.