Idiopathic hemorrhagic pericarditis in a Holstein cow

Abstract

A two-year-old Holstein heifer with clinical signs of right-sided heart failure which appeared two weeks after calving, including tachycardia and muffled heart sounds was presented. Pericarditis was diagnosed using echocardiography. Pericardiocentesis revealed hemorrhagic pericardial fluid and cytologic findings were compatible with idiopathic hemorrhagic pericarditis. Pericardial drainage and lavage was suggested, but the owner refused. A rumen magnet was administered to the cow, and penicillin was given for seven days. Two months after the initial diagnosis, clinical examination of the cow was normal, including normal echocardiographic findings.