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This article was published in 1960
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INSTITUTE OF INSPECTORS OF STOCK OF N.S.W. YEAR BOOK.
Muscular Dystrophy in Lambs in N.S.W.
B. P. SETCHELL, B.V.Sc., Ph.D., Veterinary Research Station, Glenfield
During the last twelve months a condition similar to that known overseas as White Muscle Disease, Stiff Lamb Disease or Muscular Dystrophy became quite prominent in N.S.W. During the year, twenty outbreaks were reported, mainly by the District Veterinary Officer, Armidale, the Veterinary Inspector, Armidale and the Veterinary Inspector Glen Innes; although one case was seen at Goulburn and one from Cooma. Lambs from a few days up to two months, but usually four to six weeks old, were affected; the animals involved running in most cases on clover-dominant pastures. These lambs showed clinical picture of stiffness, particularly in the hind legs, and unwillingness to move; while at post-mortem, white flecking and pallor of the muscles, particularly of the hind legs, was apparent. In some cases the heart muscle also was affected.
The diagnosis was supported by the finding at Glenfeld of high Glutamate Oxalacetate Transminase (G.O.T.) values in serum in the absence of evidence of liver dysfunction. G.O.T. is an enzyme which is liberated into the plasma from damaged liver and muscle cells. Histopathological examination of affected muscles showed degeneration similar to that described by overseas workers.
There also have been many condemnations at Wagga Abattoirs of lamb carcases showing extensive lesions of white, unattractive musculature, particularly fore-quarters; although this does not seem to be associated with clinical symptoms.
Overseas, evidence concerning the aetiology of similar conditions is conflicting. In different parts of the world, cases have been prevented by giving Vitamin E in some instances. Selenium but not Vitamin E in some, and either Selenium or Vitamin E in others. We have no definite evidence in N.S.W., but as Vitamin E has been found overseas to be of value mainly where the sheep are wintered indoors, It seems more likely that Selenium might be involved. Some owners in the Armidale area have had good results with Selenium treatment of affected lambs, and it is hoped to carry out further trials this year.