PESQUISA VETERINÁRIA BRASILEIRA

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Rech R.R., Rissi D.R., Rodrigues A., Pierezan F., Piazer J.V.M., Kommers G.D. & Barros C.S.L. 2006. [Poisoning by Solanum fastigiatum (Solanaceae) in cattle: epidemiology, clinical signs and morphometry of cerebellar lesions.] Intoxicação por Solanum fastigiatum (Solanaceae) em bovinos: epidemiologia, sinais clínicos e morfometria das lesões cerebelares. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(3):183-189. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br Nineteen cases of Solanum fastigiatum (Solanaceae) poisoning in cattle from three municipalites in the State of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, occurring from 2003 to 2005, are described. Morbidity and mortality rates were respectively 6.7% and 3.4%. Average age of affected cattle was five-year-old (2 to 8-year-old) and duration of clinical courses was 3-18 months. Clinical signs observed in all affected cattle were cerebellar deficits characterized by hypermetry, incoordination, falls, muscle tremors, transitory seizures and wide base stance. One affected bovine had encephalic traumatic subdural hemorrhage and another had gross atrophy of the cerebellum. Histologically, lesions were restricted to the cerebellum and consisted of partial or complete vacuolation of the perikaria of Purkinje neurons with occasional axonal spheroids in the granular cell layer and in the white matter of the cerebellum. In advanced cases there were extensive loss of cerebellar Purkinje neurons and proliferation of the Bergmann’s glia. The morphometric evaluation of the numbers of Purkinje neurons and of the thickness of the cerebellar molecular layer indicated decreased numbers of Purkinje neurons with consequent decrease in the molecular layer thickness.

• Poisonous plants Solanum fastigiatum Solanaceae lysosomal storage diseases central nervous system diseases of cattle neuropathology

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Rech R.R., Rissi D.R., Rodrigues A., Pierezan F., Piazer J.V.M., Kommers G.D. & Barros C.S.L. 2006. [Poisoning by Solanum fastigiatum (Solanaceae) in cattle: epidemiology, clinical signs and morphometry of cerebellar lesions.] Intoxicação por Solanum fastigiatum (Solanaceae) em bovinos: epidemiologia, sinais clínicos e morfometria das lesões cerebelares. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(3):183-189. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br Nineteen cases of Solanum fastigiatum (Solanaceae) poisoning in cattle from three municipalites in the State of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, occurring from 2003 to 2005, are described. Morbidity and mortality rates were respectively 6.7% and 3.4%. Average age of affected cattle was five-year-old (2 to 8-year-old) and duration of clinical courses was 3-18 months. Clinical signs observed in all affected cattle were cerebellar deficits characterized by hypermetry, incoordination, falls, muscle tremors, transitory seizures and wide base stance. One affected bovine had encephalic traumatic subdural hemorrhage and another had gross atrophy of the cerebellum. Histologically, lesions were restricted to the cerebellum and consisted of partial or complete vacuolation of the perikaria of Purkinje neurons with occasional axonal spheroids in the granular cell layer and in the white matter of the cerebellum. In advanced cases there were extensive loss of cerebellar Purkinje neurons and proliferation of the Bergmann’s glia. The morphometric evaluation of the numbers of Purkinje neurons and of the thickness of the cerebellar molecular layer indicated decreased numbers of Purkinje neurons with consequent decrease in the molecular layer thickness.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Almeida A.P.M.G., Kommers G.D., Nogueira A.P.A., Júnior L.G.B., Marques B.M.F.P. & Lemos R.A.A. 2006. [Evaluation of the toxicity of Leucaena leucocephala (Leg. Mimosoi-deae) in sheep.] Avaliação do efeito tóxico de Leucaena leucocephala (Leg.Mimosoideae) em ovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(3):190-194. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Faculdade de Medicina Vetetinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul, Av. Senador Filinto Müller 2443, Cx.Postal 549, Campo Grande, MS 79070-900, Brazil. E-mail: eqrural@nin.ufms.br An experiment was performed to evaluate the toxicity of Leucaena leucocephala for sheep. Two ewes and six lambs were divided into seven treatments and fed the plant. The adult ewes did not show clinical signs of poisoning. The 4 to 5-month-old lambs presented partial wool loss 6 days after beginning of the administration of the plant and total wool loss after 12 or 20 days. The age of the sheep in this experiment suggests resistance of adult ewes and susceptibility of young lambs to L. leucocaephala poisoning.

• Poisonous plants Leucaena leucocephala Leguminosae Mimosoideae plant poisoning sheep diseases pathology

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Almeida A.P.M.G., Kommers G.D., Nogueira A.P.A., Júnior L.G.B., Marques B.M.F.P. & Lemos R.A.A. 2006. [Evaluation of the toxicity of Leucaena leucocephala (Leg. Mimosoi-deae) in sheep.] Avaliação do efeito tóxico de Leucaena leucocephala (Leg.Mimosoideae) em ovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(3):190-194. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Faculdade de Medicina Vetetinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul, Av. Senador Filinto Müller 2443, Cx.Postal 549, Campo Grande, MS 79070-900, Brazil. E-mail: eqrural@nin.ufms.br An experiment was performed to evaluate the toxicity of Leucaena leucocephala for sheep. Two ewes and six lambs were divided into seven treatments and fed the plant. The adult ewes did not show clinical signs of poisoning. The 4 to 5-month-old lambs presented partial wool loss 6 days after beginning of the administration of the plant and total wool loss after 12 or 20 days. The age of the sheep in this experiment suggests resistance of adult ewes and susceptibility of young lambs to L. leucocaephala poisoning.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Barros R.R., Irigoyen L.F., Kommers G.D., Rech R.R., Fighera R.A. & Barros C.S.L. 2006. [Poisoning by Ramaria flavo-brunnescens (Clavariaceae) in cattle.] Intoxicação por Ramaria flavo-brunnescens (Clavariaceae) em bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(2):87-96. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br Two oubreaks of poisoning by the mushroom Ramaria flavo-brunnescens are reported in cattle from two farms located in the municipalities of Santa Maria and São Gabriel, state of Rio Grande do Sul, during April-May 2005. Out of a total of 180 yearling calves that had access to a pasture with eucalyptus woods, 19 were affected and 10 died. The clinical courses were 8-15 days and clinical signs included depression, weight loss, dehydration, drooling, loosening and loss of the long hairs of the tip of the tail, smoothening of the dorsal surface of the tongue with occasional ulceration, loosening of the corneal encasement of horns, hard and ball-shaped feces covered with a film of mucous, hypopion, hyphema and corneal opacity. Two calves had leucocytosis due to mild regenerative left shift. Nine calves were necropsied. Necropsy findings confirmed the clinical observation and additionaly included fibrinonecrotic esophagitis, mainly in the distal third of the esophageal mucosa. Histopathological changes in the skin of the tail included orthokeratotic hyperkeratosis; hair folicles with irregular contours, thickening of the tricolemmal keratin layer with occasional formation of keratin plugs, and degeneration and necrosis of the outer root sheath. At the laminar region of the hooves, there was hyperplasia of the top of epidermal laminae with irregular keratinization and retention of nuclei; several epidermal laminae were shortened and fused. There was hemorrhage, fibrin and neutrophilic infiltrate in the dermal laminae. In the mucosa of the tongue there was thinning of the covering epithelium, atrophy and loss of filiform papillae, multifocal areas of dyskeratosis, and spongiosis of the basal cell layer. In some parts the epithelium was lost and the surface consisted of granulation tissue and mixed inflammatory cell infiltrate. The esophageal mucosae of six calves had varying degree of epithelial necrosis and inflammation. The loss of the covering epithelium revealed an underneath area of granulation tissue with heavy inflammatory infiltrate composed predominantly of neutrophils and macrophages. In six calves there were focal symmetric bilateral areas of malacia observed at the level of obex in the medulla oblongata and affecting the white matter and parts of the dorsal nucleus of the vagus and of the hypoglossal nucleus. The epidemiology, clinical signs, pathology, and pathogenesis of poisoning by R. flavo-brunnescens in cattle are discussed.

• Poisonous plants Ramaria flavo-brunnescens Clavariaceae plant poisoning mushroom poisoning keratinization defect focal symmetric encephalomalacia diseases of cattle pathology.

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Barros R.R., Irigoyen L.F., Kommers G.D., Rech R.R., Fighera R.A. & Barros C.S.L. 2006. [Poisoning by Ramaria flavo-brunnescens (Clavariaceae) in cattle.] Intoxicação por Ramaria flavo-brunnescens (Clavariaceae) em bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(2):87-96. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br Two oubreaks of poisoning by the mushroom Ramaria flavo-brunnescens are reported in cattle from two farms located in the municipalities of Santa Maria and São Gabriel, state of Rio Grande do Sul, during April-May 2005. Out of a total of 180 yearling calves that had access to a pasture with eucalyptus woods, 19 were affected and 10 died. The clinical courses were 8-15 days and clinical signs included depression, weight loss, dehydration, drooling, loosening and loss of the long hairs of the tip of the tail, smoothening of the dorsal surface of the tongue with occasional ulceration, loosening of the corneal encasement of horns, hard and ball-shaped feces covered with a film of mucous, hypopion, hyphema and corneal opacity. Two calves had leucocytosis due to mild regenerative left shift. Nine calves were necropsied. Necropsy findings confirmed the clinical observation and additionaly included fibrinonecrotic esophagitis, mainly in the distal third of the esophageal mucosa. Histopathological changes in the skin of the tail included orthokeratotic hyperkeratosis; hair folicles with irregular contours, thickening of the tricolemmal keratin layer with occasional formation of keratin plugs, and degeneration and necrosis of the outer root sheath. At the laminar region of the hooves, there was hyperplasia of the top of epidermal laminae with irregular keratinization and retention of nuclei; several epidermal laminae were shortened and fused. There was hemorrhage, fibrin and neutrophilic infiltrate in the dermal laminae. In the mucosa of the tongue there was thinning of the covering epithelium, atrophy and loss of filiform papillae, multifocal areas of dyskeratosis, and spongiosis of the basal cell layer. In some parts the epithelium was lost and the surface consisted of granulation tissue and mixed inflammatory cell infiltrate. The esophageal mucosae of six calves had varying degree of epithelial necrosis and inflammation. The loss of the covering epithelium revealed an underneath area of granulation tissue with heavy inflammatory infiltrate composed predominantly of neutrophils and macrophages. In six calves there were focal symmetric bilateral areas of malacia observed at the level of obex in the medulla oblongata and affecting the white matter and parts of the dorsal nucleus of the vagus and of the hypoglossal nucleus. The epidemiology, clinical signs, pathology, and pathogenesis of poisoning by R. flavo-brunnescens in cattle are discussed.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Moreira Souto M.A., Kommers G.D., Barros C.S.L., Piazer J.V.M., Rech R.R., Riet-Correa F. & Schild A.L. 2006. [Neoplasms of the upper digestive tract of cattle associated with spontaneous ingestion of bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum).] Neoplasias do trato alimentar superior de bovinos associadas ao consumo espontâneo de samambaia (Pteridium aquilinum). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(2):112-122. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: glaukommers@yahoo.com Thirty bovine with neoplasms of the upper digestive tract (UDT) associated with spontaneous ingestion of bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum) were studied. They were from 27 farms, located in the municipalities of Jaguari (23) and Nova Esperança do Sul (4), Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. The total cattle population in those farms was 1,090 and large amounts of bracken fern were found in the pastures. Twenty-six of the affected cattle were cows and four were castrated males, 3-13 years of age; most of them were 7-8 years old (46,6%). Clinical signs observed in the affected animals were progressive weight loss, absence of ruminal movements, cough, dysphagia, regurgitation, halitosis, diarrhea, and bloat. Less frequent signs were selective appetite, dyspnea, and salivation. Two bovine died and 28 were submitted to euthanasia in advanced stage of disease and necropsied. The main gross and microscopic alterations were found in identical areas of the UDT. They consisted of papillomas, transforming papillomas, and squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs). Metastases of SCCs to regional lymph nodes and other organs, such as liver and lungs, were also observed (18/30). Twenty-nine bovine had papillomas of various sizes in several areas of the UDT. The digestive papillomatosis ranged from mild (45%), to moderate (38%), to severe (17%). Three developing phases were observed microscopically in the examined papillomas: an early growing phase, a developing phase, and a regressing phase. In 16 cases, there was malignant transformation of papillomas into SCCs. The SCCs were solitary (12/30) or multiple (18/30) and were histologically well, moderately, or poorly differentiated. Grouping the distribution of SCCs of larger extension in the UDT into cranial region (base of the tongue, pharynx/oropharynx, and epiglottis), medial region (esophagus), and caudal region (cardia and rumen), the distribution was cranial in 39%, middle in 16%, and caudal in 45% of the cases. By the same grouping criteria, but considering the total number of times SCCs of varied extensions were diagnosed in the cranial, middle, and caudal regions, the percentages changed to 34%, 26%, and 40%, respectively. The epidemiological and histomorphological evidences found in this study are in agreement with the observations that point out the co-carcinogenesis between bovine papillomavirus type 4 infection and chemicals of bracken fern in the pathogenesis of the SCCs in the UDT of cattle. However, the presence of pre-neoplastic changes and SCCs in situ or in early stages of development, independently of the presence of papillomas, clearly indicates the possibility of development of SCCs from normal epithelium, probably due to the direct action of the chemical carcinogens contained in bracken fern.

• Poisonous plants Pteridium aquilinum plant poisoning bovine papillomavirus type 4 squamous cell carcinoma diseases of cattle pathology.

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Moreira Souto M.A., Kommers G.D., Barros C.S.L., Piazer J.V.M., Rech R.R., Riet-Correa F. & Schild A.L. 2006. [Neoplasms of the upper digestive tract of cattle associated with spontaneous ingestion of bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum).] Neoplasias do trato alimentar superior de bovinos associadas ao consumo espontâneo de samambaia (Pteridium aquilinum). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(2):112-122. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: glaukommers@yahoo.com Thirty bovine with neoplasms of the upper digestive tract (UDT) associated with spontaneous ingestion of bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum) were studied. They were from 27 farms, located in the municipalities of Jaguari (23) and Nova Esperança do Sul (4), Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. The total cattle population in those farms was 1,090 and large amounts of bracken fern were found in the pastures. Twenty-six of the affected cattle were cows and four were castrated males, 3-13 years of age; most of them were 7-8 years old (46,6%). Clinical signs observed in the affected animals were progressive weight loss, absence of ruminal movements, cough, dysphagia, regurgitation, halitosis, diarrhea, and bloat. Less frequent signs were selective appetite, dyspnea, and salivation. Two bovine died and 28 were submitted to euthanasia in advanced stage of disease and necropsied. The main gross and microscopic alterations were found in identical areas of the UDT. They consisted of papillomas, transforming papillomas, and squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs). Metastases of SCCs to regional lymph nodes and other organs, such as liver and lungs, were also observed (18/30). Twenty-nine bovine had papillomas of various sizes in several areas of the UDT. The digestive papillomatosis ranged from mild (45%), to moderate (38%), to severe (17%). Three developing phases were observed microscopically in the examined papillomas: an early growing phase, a developing phase, and a regressing phase. In 16 cases, there was malignant transformation of papillomas into SCCs. The SCCs were solitary (12/30) or multiple (18/30) and were histologically well, moderately, or poorly differentiated. Grouping the distribution of SCCs of larger extension in the UDT into cranial region (base of the tongue, pharynx/oropharynx, and epiglottis), medial region (esophagus), and caudal region (cardia and rumen), the distribution was cranial in 39%, middle in 16%, and caudal in 45% of the cases. By the same grouping criteria, but considering the total number of times SCCs of varied extensions were diagnosed in the cranial, middle, and caudal regions, the percentages changed to 34%, 26%, and 40%, respectively. The epidemiological and histomorphological evidences found in this study are in agreement with the observations that point out the co-carcinogenesis between bovine papillomavirus type 4 infection and chemicals of bracken fern in the pathogenesis of the SCCs in the UDT of cattle. However, the presence of pre-neoplastic changes and SCCs in situ or in early stages of development, independently of the presence of papillomas, clearly indicates the possibility of development of SCCs from normal epithelium, probably due to the direct action of the chemical carcinogens contained in bracken fern.

Abstract in English:

Rozza D.B., Raymundo D.L., Corrêa A.M.R., Seitz A.L., Driemeier D. & Colodel E.M. 2006. [Spontaneous Baccharis coridifolia (Compositae) poisoning in sheep.] Intoxicação espontânea por Baccharis coridifolia (Compositae) em ovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(1):21-25. Departamento de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Cx. Postal 15094, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: moleta@terra.com.br An outbreak of Baccharis coridifolia (Compositae) poisoning in sheep is reported, which occurred in November 2004 in the county of Caxias do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul (RS), southern Brazil. From a herd of 212 sheep, coming from a Baccharis coridifolia free area, in the county of Jaguarão, RS, 35 sheep died until 5 days after the arrival in the new area where the plant was found with abundance. The clinical signs began 8 hours after introduction of the animals into the new pasture and included apathy, anorexia, abdominal retraction or mild distension, weakness of hind limbs, dry feces, sternal ou lateral decumbency, struggling movements, coma and death. Clinical evolution was from 5 to 48 hours. Other sheep that were already before on the pasture were not affected. Main necropsy findings were in the gastrointestinal tube, with wall and serosal oedema, mainly in the reticulo-ruminal fold and of the abomasum, reddening and detachment of the mucosa of forestomachs, and intense hemorrhage in the submucosa. Histopathological findings were degeneration and necrosis of the epithelium of the forestomachs with polymorphonuclear infiltration associated with bacterial colonies, congestion, hemorrhage and oedema, and lymphoid tissue necrosis.

• Poisonous plants Baccharis coridifolia Compositae plant poisoning diseases of sheep pathology.

Abstract in Portuguese:

Rozza D.B., Raymundo D.L., Corrêa A.M.R., Seitz A.L., Driemeier D. & Colodel E.M. 2006. [Spontaneous Baccharis coridifolia (Compositae) poisoning in sheep.] Intoxicação espontânea por Baccharis coridifolia (Compositae) em ovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(1):21-25. Departamento de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Cx. Postal 15094, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: moleta@terra.com.br An outbreak of Baccharis coridifolia (Compositae) poisoning in sheep is reported, which occurred in November 2004 in the county of Caxias do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul (RS), southern Brazil. From a herd of 212 sheep, coming from a Baccharis coridifolia free area, in the county of Jaguarão, RS, 35 sheep died until 5 days after the arrival in the new area where the plant was found with abundance. The clinical signs began 8 hours after introduction of the animals into the new pasture and included apathy, anorexia, abdominal retraction or mild distension, weakness of hind limbs, dry feces, sternal ou lateral decumbency, struggling movements, coma and death. Clinical evolution was from 5 to 48 hours. Other sheep that were already before on the pasture were not affected. Main necropsy findings were in the gastrointestinal tube, with wall and serosal oedema, mainly in the reticulo-ruminal fold and of the abomasum, reddening and detachment of the mucosa of forestomachs, and intense hemorrhage in the submucosa. Histopathological findings were degeneration and necrosis of the epithelium of the forestomachs with polymorphonuclear infiltration associated with bacterial colonies, congestion, hemorrhage and oedema, and lymphoid tissue necrosis.

Abstract in English:

Méndez M.C., Elias F., Riet-Correa F., Gimeno E.J. & Portiansky E. 2006. [Experimental poisoning by fruits of Melia azedarach (Meliaceae) in pigs.] Intoxicação experimental com frutos de Melia azedarach (Meliaceae) em suínos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(1):26-30. Departamento de Clínicas Veterinárias, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, 96010-900 Pelotas, RS, Brazil. E-mail: nane@ufpel.tche.br Mature ground fruits of Melia azedarach were administered mixed with the food to 8 pigs at single doses of 5-20g/kg. Transient diarrhea was the only sign observed in the 2 pigs that ingested 5g/kg. Clinical signs observed in the pigs that ingested 10, 15 and 20 g/kg were incoordination, muscular tremors, difficulty to stand or to get up, sternal decubitus and hypothermia. The 2 pigs that ingested 20g/kg died. The gross lesions were congestion and necrosis of the small intestine and the stomach mucosa. The microscopic alterations were characterised by necrosis of the lymphatic tissues and skeletal muscles, congestion and necrosis of the stomach and small intestine, and moderate degenerative alterations of liver and kidneys. The serum levels of AST and CPK increased after the ingestion of the toxic fruits. High values of CPK were observed in the succumbing animals due to the muscle necrosis.These results demonstrate that the ingestion of high doses of Melia azedarach fruits by pigs may induce clinical signs of poisoning and cause lesions in several organs and even death.

• Poisonous plants plant poisoning Melia azedarach Meliaceae swine.

Abstract in Portuguese:

Méndez M.C., Elias F., Riet-Correa F., Gimeno E.J. & Portiansky E. 2006. [Experimental poisoning by fruits of Melia azedarach (Meliaceae) in pigs.] Intoxicação experimental com frutos de Melia azedarach (Meliaceae) em suínos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(1):26-30. Departamento de Clínicas Veterinárias, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, 96010-900 Pelotas, RS, Brazil. E-mail: nane@ufpel.tche.br Mature ground fruits of Melia azedarach were administered mixed with the food to 8 pigs at single doses of 5-20g/kg. Transient diarrhea was the only sign observed in the 2 pigs that ingested 5g/kg. Clinical signs observed in the pigs that ingested 10, 15 and 20 g/kg were incoordination, muscular tremors, difficulty to stand or to get up, sternal decubitus and hypothermia. The 2 pigs that ingested 20g/kg died. The gross lesions were congestion and necrosis of the small intestine and the stomach mucosa. The microscopic alterations were characterised by necrosis of the lymphatic tissues and skeletal muscles, congestion and necrosis of the stomach and small intestine, and moderate degenerative alterations of liver and kidneys. The serum levels of AST and CPK increased after the ingestion of the toxic fruits. High values of CPK were observed in the succumbing animals due to the muscle necrosis.These results demonstrate that the ingestion of high doses of Melia azedarach fruits by pigs may induce clinical signs of poisoning and cause lesions in several organs and even death.

Abstract in English:

Langohr I.M., Gava A. & Barros C.S.L. 2005. [Poisoning in cattle by Baccharidastrum triplinervium (Asteraceae).] Intoxicação por Baccharidastrum triplinervium (Asteraceae) em bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(4):235-238. Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory, Purdue University, 406 South University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, Estados Unidos. E-mail: ilangohr@purdue.edu An outbreak of poisoning by Baccharidastrum triplinervium in cattle from Paraná, Brazil, is described. The disease occurred during a severe drought in early summer. The onset of clinical signs was two days after 50 cows and 8 heifers had been introduced into a pasture with high density of B. triplinervium that showed signs of having been consumed by the animals. Fifteen animals (9 cows and 6 heifers) got sick. Of these 15, two cows and four heifers died after a clinical course of 12-60 hours. Clinical signs included depression, ruminal atony, moderate bloat, marked dehydration, mild diarrhea and anorexia. The animals were restless, laying down and getting up constantly, remaining progressively longer periods in sternal recumbency. Once in that position, the animals had an extended head or the head turned to one of the sides of the body, and were groaning. Additionally, the cows had an abrupt fall in milk yield. The remaining affected cattle presented milder clinical signs and were partially back to their feed on the day following the onset of the clinical signs. The milk production was back to normal values within one week. The main gross lesions observed in two necropsied cows were in the forestomachs and abomasum, consisting of edema of the ruminal wall, as well as of diffuse reddening of the mucosae of the rumen, reticulum, abomasum and of some of the omasal folds. The main histological lesions included multifocal ballooning degeneration and necrosis of the lining epithelium of the rumen, associated with neutrophilic infiltrate. The diagnosis was based on the epidemiological data and on the experimental reproduction of the disease by force-feeding 3 bovine with the aeral fresh parts (20 and 30g/kg) of B. triplinervium. Chemical analysis of dried material from B. triplinervium harvested at the site of the outbreak was negative for macrocyclic trichothecenes.

• Poisonous plants Baccharidastrum triplinervium Asteraceae plant poisoning diseases of cattle pathology.

Abstract in Portuguese:

Langohr I.M., Gava A. & Barros C.S.L. 2005. [Poisoning in cattle by Baccharidastrum triplinervium (Asteraceae).] Intoxicação por Baccharidastrum triplinervium (Asteraceae) em bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(4):235-238. Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory, Purdue University, 406 South University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, Estados Unidos. E-mail: ilangohr@purdue.edu An outbreak of poisoning by Baccharidastrum triplinervium in cattle from Paraná, Brazil, is described. The disease occurred during a severe drought in early summer. The onset of clinical signs was two days after 50 cows and 8 heifers had been introduced into a pasture with high density of B. triplinervium that showed signs of having been consumed by the animals. Fifteen animals (9 cows and 6 heifers) got sick. Of these 15, two cows and four heifers died after a clinical course of 12-60 hours. Clinical signs included depression, ruminal atony, moderate bloat, marked dehydration, mild diarrhea and anorexia. The animals were restless, laying down and getting up constantly, remaining progressively longer periods in sternal recumbency. Once in that position, the animals had an extended head or the head turned to one of the sides of the body, and were groaning. Additionally, the cows had an abrupt fall in milk yield. The remaining affected cattle presented milder clinical signs and were partially back to their feed on the day following the onset of the clinical signs. The milk production was back to normal values within one week. The main gross lesions observed in two necropsied cows were in the forestomachs and abomasum, consisting of edema of the ruminal wall, as well as of diffuse reddening of the mucosae of the rumen, reticulum, abomasum and of some of the omasal folds. The main histological lesions included multifocal ballooning degeneration and necrosis of the lining epithelium of the rumen, associated with neutrophilic infiltrate. The diagnosis was based on the epidemiological data and on the experimental reproduction of the disease by force-feeding 3 bovine with the aeral fresh parts (20 and 30g/kg) of B. triplinervium. Chemical analysis of dried material from B. triplinervium harvested at the site of the outbreak was negative for macrocyclic trichothecenes.

Abstract in English:

Barbosa J.D., Oliveira C.M.C., Duarte M.D., Peixoto P.V. & Tokarnia C.H. 2005. [Experimental and natural poisoning by Ipomoea asarifolia (Convolvulaceae) in buffaloes and other ruminants.] Intoxicações experimental e natural por Ipomoea asarifolia (Convolvulaceae) em búfalos e outros ruminantes. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(4):231-234. Escola de Medicina Veterinária, Campus Castanhal, Universidade Federal do Pará, Rua Maximino Porpino 1000, Castanhal, PA 68743-080, Brazil. E-mail: tokarnia@ufrrj.br Ipomoea asarifolia R. et Schult. is a plant responsible for occasional outbreaks of poisoning in cattle, sheep and goats. Its oral administration to cattle and buffalos showed that the buffalo is as susceptible as cattle. One to 4 daily doses of 10-20g/kg caused similar symptoms in both species, as incoordination, muscular twiching and swaying of the head and anterior part of the body (pendular movement). In buffaloes the signs of incoordination were observed to a smaller extent. There is no report yet on natural poisoning by I. asarifolia in buffaloes, possibly because cases are not being noticed.

• Poisonous plants Ipomoea asarifolia Convolvulaceae plant poisoning buffaloes bovines sheep goats.

Abstract in Portuguese:

Barbosa J.D., Oliveira C.M.C., Duarte M.D., Peixoto P.V. & Tokarnia C.H. 2005. [Experimental and natural poisoning by Ipomoea asarifolia (Convolvulaceae) in buffaloes and other ruminants.] Intoxicações experimental e natural por Ipomoea asarifolia (Convolvulaceae) em búfalos e outros ruminantes. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(4):231-234. Escola de Medicina Veterinária, Campus Castanhal, Universidade Federal do Pará, Rua Maximino Porpino 1000, Castanhal, PA 68743-080, Brazil. E-mail: tokarnia@ufrrj.br Ipomoea asarifolia R. et Schult. is a plant responsible for occasional outbreaks of poisoning in cattle, sheep and goats. Its oral administration to cattle and buffalos showed that the buffalo is as susceptible as cattle. One to 4 daily doses of 10-20g/kg caused similar symptoms in both species, as incoordination, muscular twiching and swaying of the head and anterior part of the body (pendular movement). In buffaloes the signs of incoordination were observed to a smaller extent. There is no report yet on natural poisoning by I. asarifolia in buffaloes, possibly because cases are not being noticed.

Abstract in English:

Amorim S.L., Medeiros R.M.T. & Riet-Correa F. 2005. [Experimental poisoning by Manihot glaziovii (Euphorbiaceae) in goats.] Intoxicação experimental por Manihot glaziovii (Euphorbiaceae) em caprinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(3):179-187. Centro de Saúde e Tecnologia Rural, UFCG, Campus de Patos, 58700-000 Patos, PB, Brazil. E-mail: rmtmed@cstr.ufcg.edu.br Samples of fresh, dried and partially dried leaves of Manihot glaziovii Muell. Arg. were administered orally to Moxotó goats in single doses up to 12g/kg body weight (bw). The cyanide content of the plant samples was determined by the picrosodic paper test. The plant was collected from January to June 2004. When the goats with clinical signs were in lateral recumbency, they were treated intravenously with 50ml/100kg/bw of a 20% aqueous solution of sodium tiosulfate. Three experiments were performed. In Experiment 1, the plant was given immediately after collection to six goats; two ingested the plant after been ground and four ingested the plant without having been ground. In Experiment 2, the plant was maintained in the shade, in open air or inside plastic bags. The plastic bags were changed daily. The plant kept in plastic bags was given to 18 goats, 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 48, 72, 96 and 120 hours after collection. The plant kept in the open air was given to 13 goats, 4, 24, 48, 72 and 96 hours and 9, 10, 23 and 30 days after collection. In Experiment 3, the previously ground plant kept in the open air or inside plastic bags was administered 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 48, 72 and 96 hours after collection. Seventeen goats received the plant kept in plastic bags, and 16 goats the plant left in the open air. In Experiments 2 and 3, two or three goats were used for each period after collection, and the plant was given until the loss of its toxicity. Forty goats were used as controls for evaluation of the cardiac and respiratory frequencies. In Experiment 1, the ground and not ground plant had similar toxicity. In Experiment 2, the plant kept in the open air maintained its toxicity during the whole experiment (30 days), and the plant kept inside the plastic bags was toxic until 96 hours after collection. In Experiment 3, the ground plant, left in the open air or kept inside plastic bags, was toxic for 72 hours after collection. In all experiments clinical signs were characteristic of cyanide poisoning. All poisoned goats were treated successfully. In conclusion, Manihot glaziovii, which is used as forage in northeastern Brazil, should be ground and left for at least 96 hours in the open air before feeding to animals. The plant for preparing hay should be previously ground, and the hay should be given to animals also only 96 hours after its preparation.

• Poisonous plants plant poisoning Manihot glaziovii Euphorbiaceae cyanogenic plants hydrocyanic acid goats.

Abstract in Portuguese:

Amorim S.L., Medeiros R.M.T. & Riet-Correa F. 2005. [Experimental poisoning by Manihot glaziovii (Euphorbiaceae) in goats.] Intoxicação experimental por Manihot glaziovii (Euphorbiaceae) em caprinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(3):179-187. Centro de Saúde e Tecnologia Rural, UFCG, Campus de Patos, 58700-000 Patos, PB, Brazil. E-mail: rmtmed@cstr.ufcg.edu.br Samples of fresh, dried and partially dried leaves of Manihot glaziovii Muell. Arg. were administered orally to Moxotó goats in single doses up to 12g/kg body weight (bw). The cyanide content of the plant samples was determined by the picrosodic paper test. The plant was collected from January to June 2004. When the goats with clinical signs were in lateral recumbency, they were treated intravenously with 50ml/100kg/bw of a 20% aqueous solution of sodium tiosulfate. Three experiments were performed. In Experiment 1, the plant was given immediately after collection to six goats; two ingested the plant after been ground and four ingested the plant without having been ground. In Experiment 2, the plant was maintained in the shade, in open air or inside plastic bags. The plastic bags were changed daily. The plant kept in plastic bags was given to 18 goats, 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 48, 72, 96 and 120 hours after collection. The plant kept in the open air was given to 13 goats, 4, 24, 48, 72 and 96 hours and 9, 10, 23 and 30 days after collection. In Experiment 3, the previously ground plant kept in the open air or inside plastic bags was administered 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 48, 72 and 96 hours after collection. Seventeen goats received the plant kept in plastic bags, and 16 goats the plant left in the open air. In Experiments 2 and 3, two or three goats were used for each period after collection, and the plant was given until the loss of its toxicity. Forty goats were used as controls for evaluation of the cardiac and respiratory frequencies. In Experiment 1, the ground and not ground plant had similar toxicity. In Experiment 2, the plant kept in the open air maintained its toxicity during the whole experiment (30 days), and the plant kept inside the plastic bags was toxic until 96 hours after collection. In Experiment 3, the ground plant, left in the open air or kept inside plastic bags, was toxic for 72 hours after collection. In all experiments clinical signs were characteristic of cyanide poisoning. All poisoned goats were treated successfully. In conclusion, Manihot glaziovii, which is used as forage in northeastern Brazil, should be ground and left for at least 96 hours in the open air before feeding to animals. The plant for preparing hay should be previously ground, and the hay should be given to animals also only 96 hours after its preparation.

Abstract in English:

Oliveira F.N., Rech R.R., Rissi D.R., Barros R.R. & Barros C.S.L. 2005. [Poisoning in swine from the ingestion of Aeschynomene indica (Leg.Papilionoideae) seeds.] Intoxica-ção em suínos pela ingestão de sementes de Aeschynomene indica (Leg. Papilionoideae). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(3):135-142. Depto Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br A spontaneous outbreak of a neurological disease in swine caused by the ingestion of Aeschynomene indica seeds and the reproduction of the disease in the same animal species are reported. The natural outbreak occurred in a pig-raising facility in the central region of the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. On the premises there were 100 pigs (20 breeding sows and 80 young weaned pigs from several categories) that were fed a ration made by mixing 50% of corn bran, 25% of soybean bran, 5% of a commercial mix of vitamins and minerals, and 20% of broken rice contaminated with 40% of A. indica seeds. Although all pigs apparently ingested the same ration, only 45-day-old pigs were affected; morbidity, mortality and lethality rates were respectively 25%-40%, 8.5%-20%; and 25%-66%. Clinical signs appeared 24 hours after the beginning of feeding of A. indica seeds contaminated ration and included variable degrees of incoordinated gait, falls, sternal recumbency with the hind limbs in a wide base stance, lateral recumbency and death. It was not possible to ascertain how many pigs recovered nor the time frame of recovery. One pig was euthanatized and necropsied in the premises. The poisoning was reproduced in 5 young pigs (A-E) which were fed a ration containing 10% (Pig A), 15% (Pig B) and 20% (Pigs C-E) of A. indica seeds, and in one older pig (Pig F) which was fed a ration with 16.5% of A. indica seeds. Pigs A, B and F were euthanatized and Pigs C-E died of an acute disease respectively 16, 21 and 24 hours after the beginning of the experiment. Clinical signs were similar to those observed in pigs of the spontaneous outbreak. Necropsy findings included marked hyperemia of the encephalic leptomeninges of all pigs; there were large amounts of A. indica seeds in the stomach and reddening of the intestinal wall and bloody intestinal content in Pigs C-E. A hematoma was observed in the lungs of Pig C. The histopathological findings in the brain of pigs fed rations with larger concentrations (20%) of A. indica seeds (C-E) included congestion, edema and hemorrhage and swollen vascular endothelia with focal symmetrical distribution in several brain nuclei and in the telencephalic cortex. In Pigs A and B, and in Pig F, the case which received the lower dosage of the seeds of A. indica, and in the pig from the spontaneous outbreak, histopathological changes in the brain consisted of discrete focal symmetrical areas of malacia in which closely packed Gitter cells and astrocytosis, and capillaries with swollen endothelium obliterated the normal neuropil. The symmetrical malacic foci caused by the ingestion of A. indica seeds in swine affected cerebellar and vestibular nuclei, putamen, and the mesencephalic oculomotor and red nuclei. This indicates that the A. indica seeds ingestion was responsible for the neurological condition, that it may be fatal and seems to affect equally young and older swine. The clinical outcome and pathological changes were dose-dependent, and the brain lesions progressed from damaged blood vessels to vasogenic edema, hemorrhage and malacia.

• Poisonous plants plant poisoning Aeschynomene indica Leguminosae Papilionoideae pathology diseases of the central nervous system diseases of swine.

Abstract in Portuguese:

Oliveira F.N., Rech R.R., Rissi D.R., Barros R.R. & Barros C.S.L. 2005. [Poisoning in swine from the ingestion of Aeschynomene indica (Leg.Papilionoideae) seeds.] Intoxica-ção em suínos pela ingestão de sementes de Aeschynomene indica (Leg. Papilionoideae). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(3):135-142. Depto Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br A spontaneous outbreak of a neurological disease in swine caused by the ingestion of Aeschynomene indica seeds and the reproduction of the disease in the same animal species are reported. The natural outbreak occurred in a pig-raising facility in the central region of the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. On the premises there were 100 pigs (20 breeding sows and 80 young weaned pigs from several categories) that were fed a ration made by mixing 50% of corn bran, 25% of soybean bran, 5% of a commercial mix of vitamins and minerals, and 20% of broken rice contaminated with 40% of A. indica seeds. Although all pigs apparently ingested the same ration, only 45-day-old pigs were affected; morbidity, mortality and lethality rates were respectively 25%-40%, 8.5%-20%; and 25%-66%. Clinical signs appeared 24 hours after the beginning of feeding of A. indica seeds contaminated ration and included variable degrees of incoordinated gait, falls, sternal recumbency with the hind limbs in a wide base stance, lateral recumbency and death. It was not possible to ascertain how many pigs recovered nor the time frame of recovery. One pig was euthanatized and necropsied in the premises. The poisoning was reproduced in 5 young pigs (A-E) which were fed a ration containing 10% (Pig A), 15% (Pig B) and 20% (Pigs C-E) of A. indica seeds, and in one older pig (Pig F) which was fed a ration with 16.5% of A. indica seeds. Pigs A, B and F were euthanatized and Pigs C-E died of an acute disease respectively 16, 21 and 24 hours after the beginning of the experiment. Clinical signs were similar to those observed in pigs of the spontaneous outbreak. Necropsy findings included marked hyperemia of the encephalic leptomeninges of all pigs; there were large amounts of A. indica seeds in the stomach and reddening of the intestinal wall and bloody intestinal content in Pigs C-E. A hematoma was observed in the lungs of Pig C. The histopathological findings in the brain of pigs fed rations with larger concentrations (20%) of A. indica seeds (C-E) included congestion, edema and hemorrhage and swollen vascular endothelia with focal symmetrical distribution in several brain nuclei and in the telencephalic cortex. In Pigs A and B, and in Pig F, the case which received the lower dosage of the seeds of A. indica, and in the pig from the spontaneous outbreak, histopathological changes in the brain consisted of discrete focal symmetrical areas of malacia in which closely packed Gitter cells and astrocytosis, and capillaries with swollen endothelium obliterated the normal neuropil. The symmetrical malacic foci caused by the ingestion of A. indica seeds in swine affected cerebellar and vestibular nuclei, putamen, and the mesencephalic oculomotor and red nuclei. This indicates that the A. indica seeds ingestion was responsible for the neurological condition, that it may be fatal and seems to affect equally young and older swine. The clinical outcome and pathological changes were dose-dependent, and the brain lesions progressed from damaged blood vessels to vasogenic edema, hemorrhage and malacia.