A new syndrome reported in Maine, Percentage Chi, and Shorthorn calves over the last few years, PHA is uniformly lethal. The dams also suffer from dystocia related to the large size of the calf.
 
Anasarca refers to the collection of fluid in the skin and body cavities of the calf. In some cases the calves had been reported as "bulldogs" due to the facial appearance caused by this fluid collection. The term should not be applied as this syndrome is distinct from bulldog dwarfism and using the term could be misleading. The fluid markedly increases the size and weight of the fetus causing dystocia at time of delivery.  Small, under developed lungs are apparent in the dead calves.

Because the ASA has an open herdbook, allowing other breeds into our database and percentage pedigrees, PHA could be a risk in certain cattle.  We strongly suggest using ASA’s website Animal Search function to access the most up-to-date genetic abnormality-status for each animal in our database.

Reporting Abnormal Calves: Call ASA immediately. ASA will reimburse all expenses. Take photos or video that best display the abnormality. We will need DNA (hair or tissue) from the calf, dam and sire. (We have DNA on all A.I. sires and donor dams.) If the calf is dead, chill the carcass until ASA has been contacted.