Bovine Mastitis Study Guide

Overview and Clinical Importance

Bovine mastitis is defined as inflammation of the mammary gland (udder) in cattle. It represents the most economically significant disease affecting the dairy industry worldwide, with annual losses estimated at $147 per cow. Mastitis occurs when microorganisms enter the teat canal and establish infection within the mammary gland parenchyma, triggering an inflammatory response characterized by elevated somatic cell counts (SCC), altered milk composition, and in severe cases, systemic illness.

Understanding mastitis pathophysiology, particularly endotoxemia associated with coliform infections, is critical for NAVLE success. Coliform mastitis, though representing only 2-4% of cases, causes the highest fatality rates (30-50%) due to systemic effects of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) endotoxin release.

Etiology and Classification of Mastitis Pathogens

Mastitis pathogens are classified based on their primary reservoir and mode of transmission. This distinction is critical for implementing appropriate control measures.