- (A) Affected calf. Notice the short neck and contraction of the distal joints. (B) Radiograph of the cervico-thoracic part of the vertebral column, showing multiple malformed vertebrae and scoliosis (arrows) and fusion of the proximal part of several ribs (arrowheads).
Breed: Holstein-Friesian
CVM (Complex Vertebral Malformation). The defect, which is inherited recessively, is only seen in Holstein-Friesian cattle. The defect is found in aborted foetuses, prematurely born calves as well as newborn and stillborn calves. The calves are deformed, the neck and breast are shorter than normal, and the extreme joints of the legs are curved downwards. Also organic heart diseases have been observed. CVM is caused by a mutation in the transport molecule SLC35A3.
The defect is inherited recessively, i.e. a sick calf must inherit the defect from both parents. Carriers of CVM are healthy, but can be identified by a DNA analysis.
The first ancestors to carry the defect were identified as the US Holstein bull Penstate Ivanhoe Star (US 1441440) and his much used son Carlin-M Ivanhoe Bell (US 1667366) is also a carrier.
The test only requires a sample of the animal itself, and there is no need to test the parents.
Results for CVM test
- TV (the animal has not inherited the defect from its parents)
- CV (the animal is a carrier, i.e. it has inherited the defect from one of its parents).
GenoSkan A/S
Niels Pedersens Allé 2
DK-8830 Tjele
