Follicular Cysts with Trabeculae in Cattle: Diagnosis, Impact, and Reproductive Management
Ovarian cysts are among the most common causes of infertility in cattle. A specific and often underdiagnosed type is the follicular cyst with trabeculae, which requires transrectal ultrasonography for accurate detection.
These cysts directly affect herd reproductive efficiency by causing anestrus, irregular cycles, failed inseminations, and extended calving intervals — all of which result in significant economic losses for both beef and dairy operations.
What Are Follicular Cysts with Trabeculae?
Follicular cysts are defined as fluid-filled ovarian structures over 2.5 cm in diameter that persist for more than 10 days without ovulation and without the presence of a functional corpus luteum.
When internal walls or partitions form inside these cysts, they are classified as follicular cysts with trabeculae. On ultrasound, they appear as anechoic cavities with fine echogenic lines creating compartments within the cyst.
Causes and Contributing Factors
These cysts are caused by a dysfunction in the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, typically due to:
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Abnormal luteinizing hormone (LH) release
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Negative energy balance postpartum
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Poor body condition (too low or too high)
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Genetic predisposition
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Improper management during early postpartum or synchronization protocols
The trabeculae themselves are not the cause, but a morphological evolution of the cyst, often making it more resistant to treatment.
How Are They Diagnosed?
The only reliable way to diagnose this type of cyst is through transrectal ultrasonography, ideally with 7.5 MHz probes for high-resolution imaging.
Typical ultrasound findings:
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Circular structure over 25 mm
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Thin external wall
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Anechoic internal fluid
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Fine internal echogenic lines (trabeculae), single or multiple
⚠️ Rectal palpation cannot detect trabeculae, which makes it easy to confuse these cysts with functional follicles or simple cysts.
Reproductive Impact
Follicular cysts with trabeculae are often persistent and less responsive to standard hormonal treatments, especially if misdiagnosed.
📉 Effects on herd fertility:
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Prolonged anestrus
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Increased days open
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Failed AI attempts
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Higher costs in synchronization programs
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Lower pregnancy rates in timed AI protocols
Treatment Options
Treatment should be based on accurate ultrasound diagnosis. Recommended protocols include:
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GnRH (e.g., Buserelin, Lecirelin) to induce luteinization
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PGF2α 7–9 days later if a corpus luteum develops
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In stubborn cases: progesterone-based resynchronization protocols (intravaginal devices + estradiol)
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Recheck via ultrasound after 10 days to assess treatment success
🧪 Follow-up is key: shrinking cyst, CL formation, or full resolution are signs of progress.
Can They Be Prevented?
Yes — prevention depends on proper postpartum and metabolic management:
✅ Balanced energy intake during transition
✅ Body condition scoring at calving and before breeding
✅ Proper execution of synchronization programs
✅ Early ultrasound monitoring, especially in high-value cows
Conclusion
Follicular cysts with trabeculae are a reproductive challenge that require specific identification and treatment. Ultrasonography is essential for distinguishing these cysts from others and avoiding ineffective or costly protocols.
At BovinosVirtual, we teach our students how to detect, interpret, and manage these conditions in real animals — not with simulators — through hands-on courses in ultrasound, palpation, and reproductive protocols.
