Demyelination in Lambs from Ewes which Feed on Seaweeds

Abstract

Summary

1. A brief description is given of a nervous disorder in lambs born by ewes which feed on seaweeds during pregnancy. Pathologically the disease is characterized by a demyelination confined to the cerebrum. The copper intake in affected areas does not seem to be low, but the ewes in these areas show low values for blood copper, i.e. less than 0.2 mg Cu/litre. The copper content of livers from affected lambs is very low. 2. A field experiment showed that the disorder can be largely prevented by giving a supplement of copper to the pregnant ewes.