Eltiam

Eltiam

Malignant toe lesions (Toe Tip necrosis, Toe Ulcer) in dairy cows

Document Type : Review article

Author
Ahmadreza Mohamadnia
Department of clinical sciences, Veterinary faculty, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran.
10.61882/eltiamj.12.2.7
Abstract
Background and Type of Study: Lameness considered as an abnormality in gait, usually a clinical sign of pain in animals. Lameness has a significant impact on cattle welfare and culling, and causes considerable economic losses in the dairy industry.
Objective: To define the causes, pathogenesis, treatment, and prevention of Toe ulcers and necrosis.
Methods: A review of published findings from recent years in Iran and other countries.
Results: The development of white line disease in zone 3 and sole ulcer or toe necrosis in zone 1 are both parts of a multifactorial claw horn disruptive lesions and are components of the laminitis complex, originating from genetics, nutrition, management, and housing conditions. Factors such as access to pasture, properly sized freestalls with appropriate bedding, overcrowding, and using rubber mats play a role in the occurrence of this condition. The most common cause of toe necrosis is attributed to the wear theory, which itself relates to claw hardness and elasticity, followed by increased moisture content of the sole horn, its thinning, and white line separation as other causes. Secondary bacteria such as Treponema species or other pyogenic bacteria may invade the corium, leading to inflammation of the third phalanx, osteomyelitis of the second phalanx, ligament swelling, tenosynovitis, cellulitis, and in some cases, septicemia. Over the past twenty years, these conditions have doubled in Europe, and the incidence of toe necrosis has increased from 1–3% to as high as 10%.
Final Conclusion: Conditions such as toe ulcers, toe necrosis, and non-healing ulcers are serious problems in the livestock industry, causing major economic losses. With proper planning and a correct understanding of their occurrence, measures can be taken to control and prevent these complications.
Keywords
Toe Tip Necrosis Syndrom
Toe ulcer
Dairy cow
Digital dermatitis
Subjects
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  • Receive Date 26 April 2026
  • Publish Date 21 January 2026