Changes of Hematology Profile, Blood Biochemistry and Hormonal Functions of Dromedary She-Camels under the Northwest Coastal Desert in Egypt

Abstract

The camel is a versatile livestock specie that holds significant economic value. In this study, the hematology profile, blood biochemistry and hormonal functions of dromedary she-camels in the northwest coastal desert of Egypt were assessed. Blood samples were collected from twelve adult dromedary she-camels during different seasons. The rectal temperature was higher in summer, while respiration rate was higher in winter and spring than in other seasons (P<0.05). Packed cell volume and mean corpuscular volume were the highest (P<0.05) in summer. The AST activity was the highest in spring, while ALT activity increased in autumn compared with other seasons (P<0.01). The highest lymphocytes and neutrophils were noticed in summer and spring, respectively. Albumin was higher (P<0.01) in winter and spring than in summer and autumn. The greatest level of cortisol hormone was observed during spring season (P<0.0001). Summer season produced higher levels of T3 compared to other seasons (P<0.0001), while summer and spring recorded the greatest levels of T4 when compared to other seasons. Collectively, it can be observed that season had a significant effect on blood profile, biochemistry, and hormones, affecting the reproductive patterns of dromedary she-camels in the northwest coastal desert of Egypt.