Effects of ingestion of plastic bags on the forestomachs and liver tissue of cattle

Abstract

The objective of the current study was to evaluate histopathological changes in the liver and the macroscopic and microscopic modifications caused by the presence of plastic bags in the forestomachs of cattle. To reveal this problem, a study was undertaken at the slaughterhouse, involving sixty (60) animals in total, which included 44 males and 16 females, selected without any prior selection process. After slaughter, emptying, and washing of the rumen–reticulum, foreign bodies and macroscopic lesions were investigated. Histopathological analysis was performed on samples of the liver and rumen. Macroscopic examination of the forestomachs with plastic bags revealed congestion, hemorrhage, stunting, sagging, atrophy, and thinning of the papillae. Areas of erosion and ulceration in forestomachs of all cattle harboring a large quantity of plastic bags. Ulcerations and nodular formations were also present. The forestomachs walls were thinner than normal and had a light mottled wall and compressed papillae. The microscopic examination revealed a wide variety of lesions. Destruction, degeneration, necrosis, focal hyperplasia of the keratinized epithelium, and especially lesions of fragmentary or segmental ruptures were observed. The papillae are atrophied, compressed, shortened, folded, besides the buds’ length was shortened. These microscopic changes can be attributed to the pressure exerted on the rumen wall and mechanical irritation induced by plastic impaction or released chemicals by these plastic bags. Microscopic examination of the liver of cattle with plastic bags in the rumen did not reveal the presence of histopathological changes. The identified pathological alterations played a role in the clinical manifestations and could disrupt nutrient absorption, leading to compromised animal health and diminished production and reproduction.