BLOOD MINERAL AND VITAMIN-E CONCENTRATIONS IN LLAMAS

Objective-To establish reference values for blood concentrations of to tal calcium (Ca), inorganic phosphorus (P), iron (Fe), copper (Cu), zi nc (Zn), selenium (Se), and vitamin E (Vit E) in clinically normal lla mas. Animals-270 llamas ranging in age from < 1 month to > 15 years an d grouped by age, sex, pregnancy status, and stage of gestation. Selec ted llamas were from 21 farms in Oregon, did not have previous health problems, and met specific health criteria on examination. Procedure-S erum and blood samples were obtained and analyzed for concentrations o f Ca, P, Fe, Cu, Se, Zn, and Vit E, and total iron binding capacity (T IBC) and percentage of transferrin saturation (% Sat). Mean difference s by age, sex, pregnancy status, and stage of gestation, as well as al l interactions, were compared to establish reference values. Results-M ean values and reference ranges for most of the minerals and vitamins were similar to previously reported values. Male versus female differe nces were not identified for any measurements. Age was a significant v ariable for Ca, P, Fe, and Se concentrations, as well as Ca-to-P ratio and TIBC. identified age-based effects were modeled by use of linear regression. Copper and Zn concentrations and % Sat did not differ as a function of age. Serum Vit E concentration was influenced by an age b y sex interaction and stage of gestation. Conclusions-Age was found to be an important variable influencing many blood nutrient concentratio ns in healthy llamas. Clinical Relevance-Clinical diagnosis of metabol ic disease may be improved with use of age-based reference values, esp ecially for neonates.