Diffuse Alopecia and Thyroid Atrophy in Sheep

The study "Diffuse Alopecia and Thyroid Atrophy in Sheep" examined five adult sheep with severe alopecia and thyroid abnormalities due to selenium and zinc deficiency. The sheep had below-normal thyroid hormone serum concentrations, smaller thyroid glands, and low zinc and selenium concentrations in both serum and liver. The study concluded that thyroid atrophy, alopecia, and hyperkeratosis in sheep are associated with low serum and liver concentrations of zinc and selenium. This is the first study to link zinc and selenium deficiencies to hypothyroidism in sheep. The study also found that the interaction between zinc and selenium deficiency results in more severe injuries than when these deficiencies occur separately. The researchers recommend mineral supplementation, especially zinc, during dry periods.