White Muscle Disease (WMD) is a veterinary term used to describe a disorder that affects young livestock, particularly calves, lambs, and foals. It is a nutritional deficiency disease caused by insufficient levels of selenium and/or vitamin E in their diet. The condition is characterized by muscular weakness, stiffness, and potentially death if left untreated.
WMD occurs when the body's antioxidant defense system is compromised due to a lack of selenium and vitamin E, essential nutrients for maintaining muscle health and function. A deficiency in these nutrients impairs the energy production process within the muscle cells, leading to muscle degeneration. As a result, affected animals exhibit symptoms such as difficulty in standing or walking, stiff limbs, muscle tremors, and eventual paralysis.
The name "White Muscle Disease" originates from the most noticeable clinical sign, which is the discoloration of affected muscles. Due to impaired blood circulation, the muscles lose their reddish color and turn pale or white during advanced stages of the disease.
Preventing and treating WMD involves ensuring adequate levels of selenium and vitamin E in the animal's diet, either through natural sources or dietary supplementation. Regular veterinary check-ups, particularly in areas known to have selenium-deficient soils, are crucial to detecting early signs of the disease and implementing appropriate interventions.
Overall, White Muscle Disease is a nutritional deficiency disorder that affects young livestock, causing muscle weakness, stiffness, and potentially fatal complications if not addressed promptly with proper nutritional management.
