The Unique Case of Arthrogryposis in Indigenous Gir Cow Calf

Arthrogryposis or arthrogryposis multiplex congenital (AMC) comprises non-progressive conditions characterized by multiple joint contractures found throughout the body at birth. During this case study the calf borne with arthrogryposis was dead during distocic delivery. The arthrogrypotic calf had varying expressions of the defect with all 4 limbs (tetramelic) affected and curvature and multiple articular rigidity of joints. The arthrogrypotic Gir calf was the offspring of phenotypically normal parents. These observations plus the fact that no medication was administered during pregnancy strongly suggest involvement of genetic factors in the etiology of the disease, probably an autosomal recessive trait.