NAVLE Reproductive

Bovine Omphalophlebitis Study Guide

March 28, 2026 25 min read 28 views
Omphalophlebitis is inflammation and infection of the umbilical vein in neonatal calves. This condition represents one of the most common and economically significant diseases in bovine neonates, ranking as the third most common disease after...

Overview and Clinical Importance

Omphalophlebitis is inflammation and infection of the umbilical vein in neonatal calves. This condition represents one of the most common and economically significant diseases in bovine neonates, ranking as the third most common disease after neonatal diarrhea and bovine respiratory disease. The umbilical vein courses cranially from the umbilicus to the liver, making omphalophlebitis particularly dangerous due to the potential for ascending infection leading to hepatic abscessation and septicemia.

High-YieldOmphalophlebitis typically presents in calves 1-3 months of age with mild fever, lethargy, failure to thrive, and an enlarged umbilicus. Unlike omphalitis (external infection), omphalophlebitis involves the umbilical vein and can extend to the liver. The umbilical vein courses CRANIALLY toward the liver.
Structure Fetal Function Post-Natal Remnant
Umbilical Vein (1) Carries oxygenated blood from placenta to fetus via liver Becomes falciform ligament (round ligament of liver)
Umbilical Arteries (2) Carry deoxygenated blood from fetus to placenta Become round ligaments of bladder
Urachus (1) Connects fetal bladder to allantoic cavity Normally atrophies; incorporated into bladder apex

Umbilical Anatomy in Calves

The umbilical cord contains four essential structures that undergo significant changes after birth:

NAVLE TipRemember 'VEIN to LIVER, ARTERIES to BLADDER' - The umbilical VEIN courses CRANIALLY to the liver (becomes falciform ligament), while umbilical ARTERIES course CAUDALLY along the bladder (become round ligaments). This directional knowledge is essential for understanding infection spread patterns.
Organism Gram Stain Clinical Association
Escherichia coli Gram-negative Neonates, acute cases; most common
Trueperella pyogenes Gram-positive Chronic cases; abscess formation
Staphylococcus aureus Gram-positive Purulent infections

Etiology and Pathophysiology

Risk Factors

Environmental Factors:

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