PESQUISA VETERINÁRIA BRASILEIRA

Abstract in English:

Abstract.- Pedroso P.M.O., Bandarra P.M., Bezerra Júnior P.S., Raymundo D.L., Borba M.R., Leal J.S. & Driemeier D. 2009. [Natural and experimental poisoning by Nerium oleander (Apocynaceae) in cattle in Rio Grande do Sul.] Intoxicação natural e experimental por Nerium oleander (Apocynaceae) em bovinos no Rio Grande do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(5):404-408. Setor de Patologia Veterinária, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: davetpat@ufrgs.br This paper describes natural and experimental poisoning of cattle by Nerium oleander in Rio Grande do Sul. Two out of eight cattle died acutely after consumption of leaves of Nerium oleander, branches of which had been cut and placed into a paddock where the animals were kept. An affected cow did not show clinical signs, but a 4-month-old calf presented lateral recumbence, paddling, vocalization and death. Main gross findings in the cow naturally poisoned and in two experimentally intoxicated heifers were observed in the heart and included hemorrhages in the left atrium, clots and hemorrhages in the left ventricular endocardium, and pale areas in the interventricular septum and ventricular myocardium. Histologically, there was coagulation necrosis of individual cardiac fibers or small groups of fibers, characterized by enhanced cytoplasmic eosinophily and picnotic nuclei. These lesions were most severe in the papillary muscle. The diagnosis was based on presence of the trimmed N. oleander in the paddock where the animals stayed, evidence of consumption of the plant, consistent clinical and pathological findings, and experimental reproduction of the disease through oral administration of 0.5 and 1.0g/kg of its green leaves to two cattle.

• Nerium oleander plant poisoning poisonous plant intoxicação por planta plantas tóxicas Apocynaceae

Abstract in Portuguese:

Abstract.- Pedroso P.M.O., Bandarra P.M., Bezerra Júnior P.S., Raymundo D.L., Borba M.R., Leal J.S. & Driemeier D. 2009. [Natural and experimental poisoning by Nerium oleander (Apocynaceae) in cattle in Rio Grande do Sul.] Intoxicação natural e experimental por Nerium oleander (Apocynaceae) em bovinos no Rio Grande do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(5):404-408. Setor de Patologia Veterinária, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: davetpat@ufrgs.br This paper describes natural and experimental poisoning of cattle by Nerium oleander in Rio Grande do Sul. Two out of eight cattle died acutely after consumption of leaves of Nerium oleander, branches of which had been cut and placed into a paddock where the animals were kept. An affected cow did not show clinical signs, but a 4-month-old calf presented lateral recumbence, paddling, vocalization and death. Main gross findings in the cow naturally poisoned and in two experimentally intoxicated heifers were observed in the heart and included hemorrhages in the left atrium, clots and hemorrhages in the left ventricular endocardium, and pale areas in the interventricular septum and ventricular myocardium. Histologically, there was coagulation necrosis of individual cardiac fibers or small groups of fibers, characterized by enhanced cytoplasmic eosinophily and picnotic nuclei. These lesions were most severe in the papillary muscle. The diagnosis was based on presence of the trimmed N. oleander in the paddock where the animals stayed, evidence of consumption of the plant, consistent clinical and pathological findings, and experimental reproduction of the disease through oral administration of 0.5 and 1.0g/kg of its green leaves to two cattle.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Nogueira V.A., França T.N. & Peixoto P.V. 2009. [Ionophore poisoning in animals.] Intoxicação por antibióticos ionóforos em animais. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(3):191-197. Projeto Sanidade Animal Embrapa/UFRRJ, Seropédica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil. E-mail: pfpeixoto@terra.com.br The therapeutic use of ionophores in veterinary medicine has grown in the last years, with resultant increase in the risk of poisoning in animals. Ionophores are used as food additives as coccidiostacts in several animal species and growth promoter and bloat prevention in ruminants. The most often used ionophores are monensin, lasalocid, narasin and salinomycin. There is a great variation in the susceptibility to the toxic effect of ionophores in different animal species. Poisoning can occur when the dosage is too high or when not correct doses for a certain animal species are given. Cases of poisoning have been described in sheep, swine, horses, dogs and poultry. For horses ionophores are extremely toxic. The use of ionophores is only safe when used accordingly to the instructions of the manufacturer and especially for each animal species. In this paper the most important data regarding clinical-pathological and pathogenic aspects, and also the conditions in which the poisoning may occur are critically reviewed.

• Monensin lasalocid narasin salinomycin poisoning animals

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Nogueira V.A., França T.N. & Peixoto P.V. 2009. [Ionophore poisoning in animals.] Intoxicação por antibióticos ionóforos em animais. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(3):191-197. Projeto Sanidade Animal Embrapa/UFRRJ, Seropédica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil. E-mail: pfpeixoto@terra.com.br The therapeutic use of ionophores in veterinary medicine has grown in the last years, with resultant increase in the risk of poisoning in animals. Ionophores are used as food additives as coccidiostacts in several animal species and growth promoter and bloat prevention in ruminants. The most often used ionophores are monensin, lasalocid, narasin and salinomycin. There is a great variation in the susceptibility to the toxic effect of ionophores in different animal species. Poisoning can occur when the dosage is too high or when not correct doses for a certain animal species are given. Cases of poisoning have been described in sheep, swine, horses, dogs and poultry. For horses ionophores are extremely toxic. The use of ionophores is only safe when used accordingly to the instructions of the manufacturer and especially for each animal species. In this paper the most important data regarding clinical-pathological and pathogenic aspects, and also the conditions in which the poisoning may occur are critically reviewed.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Bezerra Jr P.S., Santos A.S., Bandarra P.M., Pedroso P.M.O., Pavarini, S.P., Spanamberg A., Ferreiro L. & Driemeier D. 2009. [Experimental poisoning by Aspergillus clavatus in sheep.] Intoxicação experimental por Aspergillus clavatus em ovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(3):205-210. Setor de Patologia Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: davetpat@ufrgs.br This paper describes the experimental reproduction of a neurological condition in sheep by the administration of a beer by-product contaminated with Aspergillus clavatus. Samples of this by-product, in which pure cultures of A. clavatus grew, originated from two farms where outbreaks of A. clavatus poisoning in cattle had occurred. The onset of symptomatology was 2 to 6 days after dosage with the contaminated beer by-product or pure A. clavatus culture. The clinical course lasted from one and a half to 12 days. Clinical signs were predominantly of locomotor and respiratory nature and included muscle tremors, hyperesthesia, and progressive tachypnea, rigidity of the pelvic limbs, posterior weakness, and recumbency. One sheep also showed occasional knuckling of fetlocks of the hind limbs. Gait abnormalities and tremors were more pronounced after exercise. In 6 of 7 sheep, appetite and dypsia were maintained until close to death or euthanasia. The main histological findings consisted of chromatolytic neuronal degeneration and necrosis in selected nuclei of the brain stem, the ventral horn of the spinal cord and the spinal, trigeminal, stellate and celiac ganglions. Three sheep also presented slight degenerative and necrotic changes in muscles of the pelvic and thoracic limbs.

• Aspergillus clavatus sheep beer by-product poisoning neuronal chromatolysis

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Bezerra Jr P.S., Santos A.S., Bandarra P.M., Pedroso P.M.O., Pavarini, S.P., Spanamberg A., Ferreiro L. & Driemeier D. 2009. [Experimental poisoning by Aspergillus clavatus in sheep.] Intoxicação experimental por Aspergillus clavatus em ovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(3):205-210. Setor de Patologia Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: davetpat@ufrgs.br This paper describes the experimental reproduction of a neurological condition in sheep by the administration of a beer by-product contaminated with Aspergillus clavatus. Samples of this by-product, in which pure cultures of A. clavatus grew, originated from two farms where outbreaks of A. clavatus poisoning in cattle had occurred. The onset of symptomatology was 2 to 6 days after dosage with the contaminated beer by-product or pure A. clavatus culture. The clinical course lasted from one and a half to 12 days. Clinical signs were predominantly of locomotor and respiratory nature and included muscle tremors, hyperesthesia, and progressive tachypnea, rigidity of the pelvic limbs, posterior weakness, and recumbency. One sheep also showed occasional knuckling of fetlocks of the hind limbs. Gait abnormalities and tremors were more pronounced after exercise. In 6 of 7 sheep, appetite and dypsia were maintained until close to death or euthanasia. The main histological findings consisted of chromatolytic neuronal degeneration and necrosis in selected nuclei of the brain stem, the ventral horn of the spinal cord and the spinal, trigeminal, stellate and celiac ganglions. Three sheep also presented slight degenerative and necrotic changes in muscles of the pelvic and thoracic limbs.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Grecco F.B., Schild A.L., Soares M.P., Raffi M.B., Sallis E.S.V. & Damé M.C. 2009. [Organophosphate poisoning in buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) in southern Brazil.] Intoxicação por organofosforados em búfalos (Bubalus bubalis) no Rio Grande do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(3):211-214. Laboratório Regional de Diagnóstico, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Campus Universitário s/n, Pelotas, RS 96010-900, Brazil. E-mail: alschild@terra.com.br This paper describes organophosphate (ORF) poisoning in a herd of water buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) in southern Brazil, which were treated with a single dose of 12mg/kg body weight of Expertan® pour-on (chlorpyriphos) to control ectoparasites. Clinical signs, observed 7-45 days after exposure, were diarrhea, hypersalivation, ataxia, muscular tremors, weakness of pelvic limbs, paresis and flaccid paralysis and lateral recumbence. Out of 267 buffaloes 61 died. Necropsy of three animals that died 24-72 hours after onset of clinical signs, revealed congestion and serosal hemorrhages scattered along the bowel, emphysema and edema of the lungs. No significant histopathological changes were found. Residues of chlorpyriphos were detected in liver, kidneys and nervous system of the one necropsied buffalo. Despite the absence of histological lesions in the central and peripheral nervous system, the epidemiological, clinical, gross and toxicological findings suggest delayed neurotoxicity induced by organophosphates.

• Diseases of water buffaloes poisoning organophosphate toxicosis

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Grecco F.B., Schild A.L., Soares M.P., Raffi M.B., Sallis E.S.V. & Damé M.C. 2009. [Organophosphate poisoning in buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) in southern Brazil.] Intoxicação por organofosforados em búfalos (Bubalus bubalis) no Rio Grande do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(3):211-214. Laboratório Regional de Diagnóstico, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Campus Universitário s/n, Pelotas, RS 96010-900, Brazil. E-mail: alschild@terra.com.br This paper describes organophosphate (ORF) poisoning in a herd of water buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) in southern Brazil, which were treated with a single dose of 12mg/kg body weight of Expertan® pour-on (chlorpyriphos) to control ectoparasites. Clinical signs, observed 7-45 days after exposure, were diarrhea, hypersalivation, ataxia, muscular tremors, weakness of pelvic limbs, paresis and flaccid paralysis and lateral recumbence. Out of 267 buffaloes 61 died. Necropsy of three animals that died 24-72 hours after onset of clinical signs, revealed congestion and serosal hemorrhages scattered along the bowel, emphysema and edema of the lungs. No significant histopathological changes were found. Residues of chlorpyriphos were detected in liver, kidneys and nervous system of the one necropsied buffalo. Despite the absence of histological lesions in the central and peripheral nervous system, the epidemiological, clinical, gross and toxicological findings suggest delayed neurotoxicity induced by organophosphates.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Câmara A.C.L., Costa N.A., Riet-Correa F., Afonso J.A.B., Dantas A.F.M., Mendonça C.L. & Souza M.I. 2009. [Spontaneous poisoning in cattle by mesquite beans, Prosopis juliflora (Leg. Mimosoideae) in Pernambuco.] Intoxicação espontânea por vagens de Prosopis juliflora (Leg. Mimosoideae) em bovinos em Pernambuco. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(3):233-240. Clínica de Bovinos, Campus Garanhuns, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco, Av. Bom Pastor s/n, Cx. Postal 152, Mundaú, Garanhuns, PE 55292-901, Brazil. E-mail: aclcamara@yahoo.com.br Three outbreaks of poisoning by Prosopis juliflora pods are reported in the semiarid region of the state of Pernambuco, Northeastern Brazil, in cattle grazing in fields invaded by the plant or ingesting mesquite beans as a concentrate food. In two farms the disease occurred sporadically. In another, 112 (9.28%) cattle out of 1206 were affected, 84 (6.96%) died due to emaciation, and 28 (2.32%) gained weight after the pods had been withdrawn from the feed. Main clinical signs were progressive weight loss, atrophy of the masseter muscles, dropped jaw, tongue protrusion, difficulties in prehending food, tilting the head during mastigation or rumination, salivation, impaired swallowing, and decreased tone of the tongue. The hematology reveals hypoproteinemia and anemia. Gross lesions were emaciation and reduction in size of the masseter muscles, which appear thinner than normal and grayish due muscular atrophy. Degeneration of neurons of the trigeminal motor nuclei, Wallerian degeneration of the trigeminal nerve roots, and muscular atrophy of the masseter muscles with substitution by fibrous tissue were observed on histologic examination. For the prevention of the poisoning is necessary to limit the amount of mesquite beans in animal nutrition. It is also necessary to develop research to determine the economic and sustainability of the use of Prosopis juliflora for animal food, human food or other uses such as charcoal, wood and fuel wood.

• Poisonous plants Prosopis juliflora Leguminosae Mimosoideae plant poisoning cattle cranial nerves impairment neuronal degeneration

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Câmara A.C.L., Costa N.A., Riet-Correa F., Afonso J.A.B., Dantas A.F.M., Mendonça C.L. & Souza M.I. 2009. [Spontaneous poisoning in cattle by mesquite beans, Prosopis juliflora (Leg. Mimosoideae) in Pernambuco.] Intoxicação espontânea por vagens de Prosopis juliflora (Leg. Mimosoideae) em bovinos em Pernambuco. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(3):233-240. Clínica de Bovinos, Campus Garanhuns, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco, Av. Bom Pastor s/n, Cx. Postal 152, Mundaú, Garanhuns, PE 55292-901, Brazil. E-mail: aclcamara@yahoo.com.br Three outbreaks of poisoning by Prosopis juliflora pods are reported in the semiarid region of the state of Pernambuco, Northeastern Brazil, in cattle grazing in fields invaded by the plant or ingesting mesquite beans as a concentrate food. In two farms the disease occurred sporadically. In another, 112 (9.28%) cattle out of 1206 were affected, 84 (6.96%) died due to emaciation, and 28 (2.32%) gained weight after the pods had been withdrawn from the feed. Main clinical signs were progressive weight loss, atrophy of the masseter muscles, dropped jaw, tongue protrusion, difficulties in prehending food, tilting the head during mastigation or rumination, salivation, impaired swallowing, and decreased tone of the tongue. The hematology reveals hypoproteinemia and anemia. Gross lesions were emaciation and reduction in size of the masseter muscles, which appear thinner than normal and grayish due muscular atrophy. Degeneration of neurons of the trigeminal motor nuclei, Wallerian degeneration of the trigeminal nerve roots, and muscular atrophy of the masseter muscles with substitution by fibrous tissue were observed on histologic examination. For the prevention of the poisoning is necessary to limit the amount of mesquite beans in animal nutrition. It is also necessary to develop research to determine the economic and sustainability of the use of Prosopis juliflora for animal food, human food or other uses such as charcoal, wood and fuel wood.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Furlan F.H., Lucioli J., Borelli V., Fonteque J.H., Stolf L., Traverso S.D. & Gava A. 2009. [Poisoning by closantel in sheep and goats in the State of Santa Catarina, Brazil.] Intoxicação por closantel em ovinos e caprinos no Estado de Santa Catarina. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(1):89-93. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Centro de Ciências Agroveterinárias, Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina, Lages, SC 88520-000, Brazil. E-mail: a2ag@cav.udesc.br Two outbreaks of closantel overdosage in sheep and goat flocks are described. In the first outbreak 12 sheep were affected, 5 of them showed blindness, three sheep died (Sheep 1-3) and two were euthanized 6 months after the onset of clinical manifestation (Sheep 4 and 5). In the second outbreak 26 goats were affected, from which six survived despite blindness and one was euthanized. Clinically the animals showed depression, ataxia, motor incoordination, decreased or absent pupil reflexes. In some animals this clinical picture developed to bilateral blindness, with no reaction to threat and bilateral irresponsive midriasis. In the ophthalmic examination retinal vessel atrophy and hyperreflexia were observed. The histological examination showed myelin edema leading to status spongiosus in the central nervous system and compressive neuropathy of the optic nerve, associated with retinal degeneration and/or atrophy. This report aims to describe the epidemiologic, clinic and pathologic aspects of closantel overdosage in sheep and goats.

• Closantel sheep goats status spongiosus retinal degeneration

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Furlan F.H., Lucioli J., Borelli V., Fonteque J.H., Stolf L., Traverso S.D. & Gava A. 2009. [Poisoning by closantel in sheep and goats in the State of Santa Catarina, Brazil.] Intoxicação por closantel em ovinos e caprinos no Estado de Santa Catarina. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(1):89-93. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Centro de Ciências Agroveterinárias, Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina, Lages, SC 88520-000, Brazil. E-mail: a2ag@cav.udesc.br Two outbreaks of closantel overdosage in sheep and goat flocks are described. In the first outbreak 12 sheep were affected, 5 of them showed blindness, three sheep died (Sheep 1-3) and two were euthanized 6 months after the onset of clinical manifestation (Sheep 4 and 5). In the second outbreak 26 goats were affected, from which six survived despite blindness and one was euthanized. Clinically the animals showed depression, ataxia, motor incoordination, decreased or absent pupil reflexes. In some animals this clinical picture developed to bilateral blindness, with no reaction to threat and bilateral irresponsive midriasis. In the ophthalmic examination retinal vessel atrophy and hyperreflexia were observed. The histological examination showed myelin edema leading to status spongiosus in the central nervous system and compressive neuropathy of the optic nerve, associated with retinal degeneration and/or atrophy. This report aims to describe the epidemiologic, clinic and pathologic aspects of closantel overdosage in sheep and goats.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Bonel-Raposo J., Riet-Correa F., Guim T.N., Schuch I.D., Grecco F.G. & Fernandes C.G. 2007. [Acute poisoning and abortions in guinea pigs by the pods of Enterolobium contortisiliquum (Leg. Mimosoideae).] Intoxicação aguda e abortos em cobaias pelas favas de Enterolobium contortisiliquum (Leg. Mimosoideae). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(12):593-596. Departamento de Patologia Animal, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Campus Universitário s/n, Pelotas, RS 96010-900, Brazil. E-mail: bonel-raposo@brturbo.com.br The objective was to study the acute toxicity and the abortive properties of Enterolobium contortisiliquum pods in guinea pigs. Pods of E. contortisiliquum were administered orally to 4 groups of 3 guinea pigs each. Another group of 3 guinea-pigs was used as control. Group 1 and 2 were fed with one dose of 5 and 10g of pods for kg body weight, respectively. The guinea pigs of Group 3 and 4 received 10 and 15g/kg, respectively, divided into daily doses of 5g/kg. One guinea pig from Group 2 and one from Group 4 died 12 and 18 hours after the end of the administration. Gross lesions were hemorrhages of the stomach and of the large and small gut, enlarged liver, and dilated gall bladder. Histologically, the liver had severe vacuolation and necrosis of periportal hepatocytes. In another experiment a ration containing 4% of pods of E. contortisiliquum was fed to 2 groups of 4 guinea-pigs, 35 days after mating. Four of the 8 guinea pigs aborted 6-15 days after the beginning of ingestion. The other 4 guinea pigs were not pregnant. All guinea pigs were euthanized after abortion or at the end of the experiment. Histologically all animals had mild to severe periportal hemorrhagic necrosis. All fetuses had variable degree of autolysis. In 4 fetuses studied no significant histologic lesions were observed. The acute lesions observed in guinea-pigs are similar than those observed in the spontaneous poisoning by Enterolobium spp. in cattle. Similar lesions are observed in guinea-pigs poisoned experimentally with saponins from E. gummiferum. The results of the experiments in pregnant guinea pigs suggest that E. contortisiliquum can be used to study the abortive effect of its pods or its toxic compounds.

• Poisonous plants hepatotoxic plants abortion Enterolobium contortisiliquum Legumiosae Mimosoideae guinea pigs

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Bonel-Raposo J., Riet-Correa F., Guim T.N., Schuch I.D., Grecco F.G. & Fernandes C.G. 2007. [Acute poisoning and abortions in guinea pigs by the pods of Enterolobium contortisiliquum (Leg. Mimosoideae).] Intoxicação aguda e abortos em cobaias pelas favas de Enterolobium contortisiliquum (Leg. Mimosoideae). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(12):593-596. Departamento de Patologia Animal, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Campus Universitário s/n, Pelotas, RS 96010-900, Brazil. E-mail: bonel-raposo@brturbo.com.br The objective was to study the acute toxicity and the abortive properties of Enterolobium contortisiliquum pods in guinea pigs. Pods of E. contortisiliquum were administered orally to 4 groups of 3 guinea pigs each. Another group of 3 guinea-pigs was used as control. Group 1 and 2 were fed with one dose of 5 and 10g of pods for kg body weight, respectively. The guinea pigs of Group 3 and 4 received 10 and 15g/kg, respectively, divided into daily doses of 5g/kg. One guinea pig from Group 2 and one from Group 4 died 12 and 18 hours after the end of the administration. Gross lesions were hemorrhages of the stomach and of the large and small gut, enlarged liver, and dilated gall bladder. Histologically, the liver had severe vacuolation and necrosis of periportal hepatocytes. In another experiment a ration containing 4% of pods of E. contortisiliquum was fed to 2 groups of 4 guinea-pigs, 35 days after mating. Four of the 8 guinea pigs aborted 6-15 days after the beginning of ingestion. The other 4 guinea pigs were not pregnant. All guinea pigs were euthanized after abortion or at the end of the experiment. Histologically all animals had mild to severe periportal hemorrhagic necrosis. All fetuses had variable degree of autolysis. In 4 fetuses studied no significant histologic lesions were observed. The acute lesions observed in guinea-pigs are similar than those observed in the spontaneous poisoning by Enterolobium spp. in cattle. Similar lesions are observed in guinea-pigs poisoned experimentally with saponins from E. gummiferum. The results of the experiments in pregnant guinea pigs suggest that E. contortisiliquum can be used to study the abortive effect of its pods or its toxic compounds.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Tortelli P.F., Barbosa J.D., Oliveira C.M.C., Dutra M.D., Cerqueira V.D., Oliveira C.A., Riet-Correa F. & Riet-Correa G. 2008. [Poisoning by Ipomoea asarifolia in cattle and sheep in the Marajó Island, Northern Brazil.] Intoxicação por Ipomoea asarifolia em bovinos e ovinos na Ilha de Marajó. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(12):622-626. Central de Diagnóstico Veterinário, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Campus de Castanhal, Universidade Federal do Pará, Rua Maximino Porpino da Silva 1000, Pirapora, Castanhal, PA 68743-080, Brazil. E-mail: griet@ufpa.br To determine plant poisonings occurring on Marajo Island, state of Pará, northern Brazil, 7 farms were visited. All farms had native pastures with low forage availability severely infected by Ipomoea asarifolia. In 5 farms poisoning in sheep by the plant was reported. The disease occurs mainly during the dry period and lambs are more frequently affected than adult sheep. Sheep with clinical signs were observed in 2 farms. In 4 establishments farmers reported the occurrence of I. asarifolia poisoning in cattle. In one farm affected cattle were observed during two visits, one during the dry season and another at the start of the raining season. Deaths are observed mainly in calves. In both species the poisoning occurs every year with variable morbidity and low mortality. One bovine and one sheep with severe clinical signs were euthanized and post-mortem examination was performed. No gross or histologic significant lesions were observed. In all farms buffaloes were raised together with cattle and sheep, and in 3 farms goats were also raised. None of the farmers reported the intoxication in these species.

• Cattle Ipomoea asarifolia sheep toxic plants tremogenic toxins

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Tortelli P.F., Barbosa J.D., Oliveira C.M.C., Dutra M.D., Cerqueira V.D., Oliveira C.A., Riet-Correa F. & Riet-Correa G. 2008. [Poisoning by Ipomoea asarifolia in cattle and sheep in the Marajó Island, Northern Brazil.] Intoxicação por Ipomoea asarifolia em bovinos e ovinos na Ilha de Marajó. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(12):622-626. Central de Diagnóstico Veterinário, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Campus de Castanhal, Universidade Federal do Pará, Rua Maximino Porpino da Silva 1000, Pirapora, Castanhal, PA 68743-080, Brazil. E-mail: griet@ufpa.br To determine plant poisonings occurring on Marajo Island, state of Pará, northern Brazil, 7 farms were visited. All farms had native pastures with low forage availability severely infected by Ipomoea asarifolia. In 5 farms poisoning in sheep by the plant was reported. The disease occurs mainly during the dry period and lambs are more frequently affected than adult sheep. Sheep with clinical signs were observed in 2 farms. In 4 establishments farmers reported the occurrence of I. asarifolia poisoning in cattle. In one farm affected cattle were observed during two visits, one during the dry season and another at the start of the raining season. Deaths are observed mainly in calves. In both species the poisoning occurs every year with variable morbidity and low mortality. One bovine and one sheep with severe clinical signs were euthanized and post-mortem examination was performed. No gross or histologic significant lesions were observed. In all farms buffaloes were raised together with cattle and sheep, and in 3 farms goats were also raised. None of the farmers reported the intoxication in these species.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Araujo J.A.S., Riet-Correa F., Medeiros R.M.T., Soares M.P., Oliveira D.M. & Carvalho F.K.L. 2008. [Experimental poisoning by Ipomoea asarifolia (Convolvulaceae) in goats and sheep.] Intoxicação experimental por Ipomoea asarifolia (Convolvulaceae) em caprinos e ovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(10):488-494. Hospital Veterinário, CSTR, Campus de Patos, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Patos, PB 58700-000, Brazil. E-mail: franklin.riet@pq.cnpq.br Ipomoea asarifolia causes a tremogenic syndrome in sheep, goats, cattle and buffaloes. The objectives of the experiments were (1) to determine the toxicity to goats of fresh I. asarifolia collected during the raining and the dry season, and the toxicity of the dried plant, and (2) to determine the toxicity of the plant to sheep, and if the active principle is eliminated through the milk. In the first experiment the plant collected in the dry season and in the raining season was fed to 16 goats. The plant collected during the dry season caused clinical signs at the daily doses of 5g and 10g/kg body weight. The plant collected during the raining season was toxic at daily doses of 20g and 30g/kg, indicating that the plant is more toxic during the dry season. The plant collected in the dry season and dried was fed to 9 goats at doses of 1.7g, 2.0g, 3.4g, and 5.1g per kg. Daily doses of 3.0g, 4.0g and 5.1g/kg caused clinical signs, showing that the plant maintains its toxicity after being dried. In the second experiment the fresh plant collected in the dry and in the raining season was fed to 10 sheep. The plant collected in the dry season was toxic at the dose of 5g/kg, and the plant collected in the raining season was toxic at the doses of 10g and 20g/kg. The experimental results suggest that sheep are more susceptible to the poisoning than goats. As some farmers mentioned that suckling non-grazing lambs are poisoned by milk ingestion, I. asarifolia was fed at daily doses of 2.5g, 5.0g and 10g/kg for variable periods to 5 sheep from the day of parturition (2 sheep), after the last day of pregnancy (1 sheep) and 60 days before parturition (2 sheep). The sheep but not the lambs showed clinical signs of intoxication suggesting that the active principle is not eliminated through the milk at doses toxic for the lambs. In one euthanized sheep no gross or histologic lesions were detected. The main ultra-structural findings were found in Purkinje cell dendrites and included swelling, decrease or absence of dendritic spines, decrease or absence of neurotubules and neurofilaments and vacuolation of the dendroplasm. Swelling of the smooth endoplasmic reticulum and granular eletrondense inclusions in dendroplasm was observed. Swelling of astrocyte foot processes was conspicuous. It is suggested that these alterations are a result of continuous tremors induced by the plant with liberation of glutamate causing excitotoxicity, which probably constitutes a neuronal mechanism of defense.

• Toxic plants Ipomoea asarifolia goats sheep plant poisoning Purkinje cells swollen dendrites exitotoxicity tremogenic toxins

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Araujo J.A.S., Riet-Correa F., Medeiros R.M.T., Soares M.P., Oliveira D.M. & Carvalho F.K.L. 2008. [Experimental poisoning by Ipomoea asarifolia (Convolvulaceae) in goats and sheep.] Intoxicação experimental por Ipomoea asarifolia (Convolvulaceae) em caprinos e ovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(10):488-494. Hospital Veterinário, CSTR, Campus de Patos, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Patos, PB 58700-000, Brazil. E-mail: franklin.riet@pq.cnpq.br Ipomoea asarifolia causes a tremogenic syndrome in sheep, goats, cattle and buffaloes. The objectives of the experiments were (1) to determine the toxicity to goats of fresh I. asarifolia collected during the raining and the dry season, and the toxicity of the dried plant, and (2) to determine the toxicity of the plant to sheep, and if the active principle is eliminated through the milk. In the first experiment the plant collected in the dry season and in the raining season was fed to 16 goats. The plant collected during the dry season caused clinical signs at the daily doses of 5g and 10g/kg body weight. The plant collected during the raining season was toxic at daily doses of 20g and 30g/kg, indicating that the plant is more toxic during the dry season. The plant collected in the dry season and dried was fed to 9 goats at doses of 1.7g, 2.0g, 3.4g, and 5.1g per kg. Daily doses of 3.0g, 4.0g and 5.1g/kg caused clinical signs, showing that the plant maintains its toxicity after being dried. In the second experiment the fresh plant collected in the dry and in the raining season was fed to 10 sheep. The plant collected in the dry season was toxic at the dose of 5g/kg, and the plant collected in the raining season was toxic at the doses of 10g and 20g/kg. The experimental results suggest that sheep are more susceptible to the poisoning than goats. As some farmers mentioned that suckling non-grazing lambs are poisoned by milk ingestion, I. asarifolia was fed at daily doses of 2.5g, 5.0g and 10g/kg for variable periods to 5 sheep from the day of parturition (2 sheep), after the last day of pregnancy (1 sheep) and 60 days before parturition (2 sheep). The sheep but not the lambs showed clinical signs of intoxication suggesting that the active principle is not eliminated through the milk at doses toxic for the lambs. In one euthanized sheep no gross or histologic lesions were detected. The main ultra-structural findings were found in Purkinje cell dendrites and included swelling, decrease or absence of dendritic spines, decrease or absence of neurotubules and neurofilaments and vacuolation of the dendroplasm. Swelling of the smooth endoplasmic reticulum and granular eletrondense inclusions in dendroplasm was observed. Swelling of astrocyte foot processes was conspicuous. It is suggested that these alterations are a result of continuous tremors induced by the plant with liberation of glutamate causing excitotoxicity, which probably constitutes a neuronal mechanism of defense.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Anjos B.L., Irigoyen L.F., Fighera R.A., Gomes A.D., Kommers G.D & Barros C.S.L. 2008. [Acute poisoning by bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum) in cattle in central Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.] Intoxicação aguda por samambaia (Pteridium aquilinum) em bovinos na Região Central do Rio Grande do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(10):501-507. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br Cases of acute poisoning by bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum) in cattle from 10 small farms of seven municipalities of the Central Region of Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil, were reviewed. The study encompassed 6,256 necropsies of cattle considering a 43-year period and included 15 necropsies of cattle dying from acute bracken poisoning. Morbidity and mortality were 17.9% and lethality was virtually 100%. In 40% of the farms the disease occurred in small outbreaks affecting several cattle per farm and in 60% only one bovine was affected in each farm. Main clinical signs include fever (40-42°C), apathy, drooling, and hemorrhages; the latter were mainly from the gums, nostrils, and gastrointestinal tract. Multiple petechiae were observed in several mucosae and in the skin. Occasionally hematuria and blood in the milk were reported. The disease was invariably fatal after a course of approximately two days. Hematological changes included severe neutropenia, non-regenerative normocytic normochromic anemia and thrombocytopenia. Necropsy findings include hemorrhages o varying degrees in several organs and infarcts in the liver. Both hemorrhages and hepatic infarcts were confirmed histologically; clusters of bacterial rods and thrombosed vessels were associated with the infarcts. Marked bone marrow aplasia was a consistent finding in the four cases in which the marrow was evaluated.

• Diseases of cattle poisonous plants Pteridium aquilinum bracken fern hemorrhagic disorders pathology

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Anjos B.L., Irigoyen L.F., Fighera R.A., Gomes A.D., Kommers G.D & Barros C.S.L. 2008. [Acute poisoning by bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum) in cattle in central Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.] Intoxicação aguda por samambaia (Pteridium aquilinum) em bovinos na Região Central do Rio Grande do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(10):501-507. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br Cases of acute poisoning by bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum) in cattle from 10 small farms of seven municipalities of the Central Region of Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil, were reviewed. The study encompassed 6,256 necropsies of cattle considering a 43-year period and included 15 necropsies of cattle dying from acute bracken poisoning. Morbidity and mortality were 17.9% and lethality was virtually 100%. In 40% of the farms the disease occurred in small outbreaks affecting several cattle per farm and in 60% only one bovine was affected in each farm. Main clinical signs include fever (40-42°C), apathy, drooling, and hemorrhages; the latter were mainly from the gums, nostrils, and gastrointestinal tract. Multiple petechiae were observed in several mucosae and in the skin. Occasionally hematuria and blood in the milk were reported. The disease was invariably fatal after a course of approximately two days. Hematological changes included severe neutropenia, non-regenerative normocytic normochromic anemia and thrombocytopenia. Necropsy findings include hemorrhages o varying degrees in several organs and infarcts in the liver. Both hemorrhages and hepatic infarcts were confirmed histologically; clusters of bacterial rods and thrombosed vessels were associated with the infarcts. Marked bone marrow aplasia was a consistent finding in the four cases in which the marrow was evaluated.