Korean Journal of
Veterinary Service

Bovine dermatophytosis is a highly contagious disease that adversely affects animal growth and reduces meat and milk production. Nutritional deficiencies and immune status are suspected risk factors, but their roles remain unclear. This study investigates the association between trace minerals, vitamins, serum biochemical parameters, and immune-related cytokines with bovine dermatophytosis. Forty calves aged 6∼7 months were selected and raised together on the same farm. They were divided into two groups: the control group (n=20) and the infected group (n=20). Serum was collected and analyzed for serum trace minerals, vitamins, biochemical parameters, and cytokine levels. Trichophyton verrucousm was isolated from infected calves. The infected calves had significantly lower zinc (P<0.001) and vitamin E (P=0.02) levels and significantly higher interleukin (IL)-6 (P=0.014) and IL-17A (P=0.018) levels. Regarding serum biochemical parameters, glucose (P=0.008) and total bilirubin (P=0.003) levels were significantly higher in the infected calves than in healthy ones. Hyperglobulinemia and high alkaline phosphatase levels were observed in the infected calves, without statistical significance. Our findings suggest the necessity of considering nutritional elements such as zinc and vitamin E for the prevention and treatment of bovine dermatophytosis. Additionally, the observed changes in immune and serum biochemistry factors post-infection may provide a foundation for future research on the host’s biological responses to infection.

Keywords: Dermatophytosis, Trace element, Cytokine, Calf