Uterine Infection in Buffalo Cows: a Review

Postpartum uterine infections result from uterine contamination with bacteria during parturition. The prevalence of uterine infections varies considerably among studies. Uterine infection implies adherence of pathogenic organisms to the mucosa, colonization or penetration of the epithelium, and/or release of bacterial toxins that lead to establishment of uterine disease. The development of uterine disease depends on the immune response of the cow as well as the species and number (load or challenge) of bacteria. Postpartum metritis is one of the most important disorders in buffaloes. The incidence rate of uterine infection in buffalo cows has been found to be much higher than in cows. A variety of species of bacteria, both Gram-positive and Gramnegative aerobes and anaerobes, can be isolated from the early postpartum uterus. Most of these are environmental contaminants that are gradually eliminated during the fi rst 6 weeks postpartum. Bacterial contamination of the vagina and other external reproductive organs might occur during wallowing.