Concurrent Occurrence of Hydrallanto-amnios in a Buffalo and its Clinical Management: A case report

A 4-year old primiparous buffalo was presented with the stated history of prolonged gestation, inappetance and gradual bilateral abdominal enlargement since last 10–15 days giving a characteristic bloated bull frog appearance. General clinical examination revealed rectal temperature 101.4˚F, pale mucous membrane but there was no evidence of straining. To investigate further, per rectal examination revealed a taut uterus (bulged, tense and inelastic) with palpable placentomes whereas fetal parts were inaccessible. Per-vaginal examination revealed a soft cervix without any advancement of fetal parts into the pelvic inlet. Based on characteristic clinical observations ultrasonography (USG) was recommended which revealed an enlarged fluid filled uterus with speckled appearance. The characteristic signs and USG results were suggestive of hydrops of fetal membranes. Animal was stabilized with sufficient intravenous fluids and was followed by cervical dilation therapy for expulsion of fetus. Upon gradual dilation of cervix, trans-cervical allantocentesis was performed to remove allantoic fluid, with simultaneous infusion of intravenous fluids to prevent hypovolemic shock, which was performed over a period of three hours. A dead male monster fetus was extracted per vaginally. The presence of large quantity of allantoic and amniotic fluid, monster fetus as well as characteristic placental lesions confirmed that it was a case of concurrent hydrallantois and hydramnios. The supportive treatment included intravenous fluid, parental antimicrobial agent, anti-inflammatory drugs, vitamins and antioxidants. The treatment regimen was followed up for 5 days and animal was recovered uneventfully.