Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita from a Holstein Friesian Cow

A 3 year old artificially inseminated Holstein Friesian (HF) cow was presented with dystocia on 1^st May, 2017 after 273 days of gestation. Rectal examination revealed a calf in transverse presentation with its dorsum towards the cervix. The head was in right ilial position with stiff and fixed flexed forelimbs and hind-limbs. Forced traction of the foetus was unsuccessful and a caesarean section was conducted which led to the exteriorisation of a small foetus with severe contraction of the limb joints, torticolis and lack of muscle development. The calf died shortly after birth and post-mortem revealed a cleft palate. To our knowledge, this was the first reported case of arthrogryposis multiplex congenita in Zambia.