Reference intervals of some electrophoretic and haematological parameters in Italian goats: comparison between Girgentana and Aspromontana breeds

Abstract

The aim of this study was to establish and compare reference intervals of some haematological and electrophoretic parameters at different ages (1–2, 3–4 and over 5 years) in two Italian goat breeds: Aspromontana and Girgentana. A total of 90 female Aspromontana goats and 95 female Girgentana goats, ranging from 1 to 11 years of age, clinically healthy, were used. Blood samples were collected from each animal and analysed for haematological parameters and serum proteins profile with routine methods. Two-way analysis of variance showed a significant effect of age on white blood cell (WBC, P < 0.0001) in Aspromontana goats and on haematocrit (Hct, P < 0.009) in Girgentana goats. Statistical analysis showed a significant effect of age on concentrations of total protein (P < 0.05), albumin (P < 0.01) and on the albumin: globulins (A/G) ratio (P < 0.05) in Aspromontana goats. In Girgentana goats, statistical analysis showed a significant effect of age on concentrations of total protein (P < 0.01), albumin (P < 0.01) α-globulins (P < 0.05), γ-globulins (P < 0.01) and on the A/G ratio (P < 0.01). Age-related effects were not detected in β₁-globulins and β₂-globulins fractions in booth breed. Statistical analysis showed a significant effect of breed in the following haematological and electrophoretic parameters: WBC (P < 0.005), Hct (P < 0.0001), mean corpuscular volume (P < 0.0001), mean corpuscular haemoglobin (P < 0.01), mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentrations (P < 0.0001), concentrations of total protein (P < 0.03), α-globulins (P < 0.001), β₁-globulins (P < 0.05), β₂-globulins (P < 0.01) fractions and on the A/G ratio (P < 0.05).