Corpus luteum with a cavity in cattle: An overview of past and present knowledge

Abstract

It is recognized that in cattle there are two physiological, yet morphologically different, forms of corpora lutea (CL): homogeneous ones and those with a cavity. Because of its resemblance to a luteal cyst, a corpus luteum with a cavity may be a significant diagnostic problem. In this article, the author aims to present essential historical and current knowledge of this form of the corpus luteum, from the first analyses in which it was discovered, through extensive CL population studies of the late twentieth century, to theories prevailing in recent years. The conception rates reported by authors cited in this text are compared for both homogeneous and cavitary CL. The article also gives the percentage of cavitary CL in the population, their mean size and concentrations of progesterone secreted. The relationship between the occurrence of CL with a cavity and cows’ fertility is described. The article also presents criteria suggested for the size classification of cavitary CL and the most important information about the occurrence of cavitary CL.