Erythrocyte membrane alterations in enzootic bovine hematuria.

Erythrocyte membrane enzymes and chemical constituents were studied in animals presenting enzootic bovine hematuria (EBH) and in normal animals. Mg2+-ATPase, Na+, K+, Mg2+-ATPase and ouabain insensitive Na+, K+, Mg2+-ATPase activity were decreased significantly in the affected animals. Cholesterol:phospholipid and sialic acid:phospholipid ratios also decreased in animals suffering from EBH. No significant changes were found in acetylcholinesterase, sialic acid, sulfhydryl groups and cholesterol in membranes of affected animals.