EFFECT OF ARSENIC ON COW`S UDDER PARENCHIMA

Abstract

During last several decades, arsenic and its compounds have been characterized as major environmental pollutants and thus potential causes of both human and animals poisoning. Water and milk are one of the major sources of arsenic. In this study, the influence of arsenic from drinking water on the concentration of arsenic in cow`s milk was investigated, as well as the influence of arsenic on the udder parenchyma. The study included twenty cows from six farms in Banat. The cows from which blood and milk samples were taken were in good condition and clinically healthy. A statistically significant positive correlation (r=0.541 p=0.000) between arsenic concentration in drinking water for animals and cow`s milk was observed at all examined farms. Ultrasound examination of udder showed changes in parenchyma in 77 out of 120 cows. Arsenic present in drinking water for animals as well as in cow`s milk may have significant negative impact on cow`s health and may lead to pathological changes in the udder.