PESQUISA VETERINÁRIA BRASILEIRA

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.

Abstract in English:

Assis R.A., Lobato F.C.F., Serakides R., Santos R.L., Dias G.R.C., Nascimento R.A.P., Abreu V.L.V, Parreiras P.M. & Uzal F.A. 2005. Immunohistochemical detection of Clostridia species in paraffin-embedded tissues of experimentally inoculated guinea pigs. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(1):4-8. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Av. Presidente Antônio Carlos 6627, Cx. Postal 567, Belo Horizonte, MG 30123-970, Brazil. E-mail: assisra@rwnet.com.br Blackleg is caused by Clostridium chauvoei, whereas malignant oedema is caused by C. chauvoei, C. septicum, C. sordellii, C. perfringens type A, and/or C. novyi type A. Anti-C. chauvoei, anti-C. septicum, anti-C. sordellii and anti-C. novyi type A polyclonal antibodies were produced in rabbits and purified in a column of DEAE-cellulose. Aliquots of the antisera were conjugated with fluorescein isothiocyanate and the remaining was used for the streptavidin biotin peroxidase technique (SBPT). SBPT was standardized to detect C. chauvoei, C. septicum, C. sordellii and C. novyi type A in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues of guinea pigs. SBPT was compared to a fluorescent antibody technique (FAT). Sections and smears of muscle from inoculation area (MIA), heart, liver, spleen and kidney, were obtained for both SBPT and FAT. Cross-reactions between the different Clostridial species were not observed. C. chauvoei and C. septicum were detected in all specimens from the animals inoculated with these microorganisms, while only sections of muscle obtained from all the animals inoculated with C. sordellii and C. novyi type A were positive. The same results observed by the SBPT, were obtained on tissue smears of these microorganisms stained by the FAT. The results indicate that SBPT is suitable for detection of C. chauvoei, C. septicum, C. sordellii and C. novyi type A in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues of guinea pigs.

• Blackleg malignant oedema Clostridia guinea pigs fluorescent antibody technique streptavidin biotin peroxidase technique.

Abstract in Portuguese:

Assis R.A., Lobato F.C.F., Serakides R., Santos R.L., Dias G.R.C., Nascimento R.A.P., Abreu V.L.V, Parreiras P.M. & Uzal F.A. 2005. Immunohistochemical detection of Clostridia species in paraffin-embedded tissues of experimentally inoculated guinea pigs. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(1):4-8. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Av. Presidente Antônio Carlos 6627, Cx. Postal 567, Belo Horizonte, MG 30123-970, Brazil. E-mail: assisra@rwnet.com.br Blackleg is caused by Clostridium chauvoei, whereas malignant oedema is caused by C. chauvoei, C. septicum, C. sordellii, C. perfringens type A, and/or C. novyi type A. Anti-C. chauvoei, anti-C. septicum, anti-C. sordellii and anti-C. novyi type A polyclonal antibodies were produced in rabbits and purified in a column of DEAE-cellulose. Aliquots of the antisera were conjugated with fluorescein isothiocyanate and the remaining was used for the streptavidin biotin peroxidase technique (SBPT). SBPT was standardized to detect C. chauvoei, C. septicum, C. sordellii and C. novyi type A in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues of guinea pigs. SBPT was compared to a fluorescent antibody technique (FAT). Sections and smears of muscle from inoculation area (MIA), heart, liver, spleen and kidney, were obtained for both SBPT and FAT. Cross-reactions between the different Clostridial species were not observed. C. chauvoei and C. septicum were detected in all specimens from the animals inoculated with these microorganisms, while only sections of muscle obtained from all the animals inoculated with C. sordellii and C. novyi type A were positive. The same results observed by the SBPT, were obtained on tissue smears of these microorganisms stained by the FAT. The results indicate that SBPT is suitable for detection of C. chauvoei, C. septicum, C. sordellii and C. novyi type A in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues of guinea pigs.

Abstract in English:

García y Santos M.C., Schild A.L., Barros S.S., Riet-Correa F., Elias F. & Ramos A.T. 2004. [Perinatal lesions in cattle experimentally poisoned by Ateleia glazioviana (Leg. Papilionoideae).] Lesões perinatais em bovinos na intoxicação experimental por Ateleia glazio-viana (Leg.Papilionoideae). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 24(3):178-184. Laboratório Regional de Diagnóstico, Faculdade de Veterinária, UFPel, Cx.Postal 354, Pelotas, RS 96010-900, Brazil. E-mail: alschild@terra.com.br Leaves of Ateleia glaziovian Baill., dried in a 100o C oven for 16-20 hours, were given to seven crossbred cows, always as bolus. Two of them received 9 g/kg at 4 months of pregnancy. Three cows in the 8th month of pregnancy received daily doses of 1-2 g/kg of the leaves, until a total amount of 10, 21 and 28 g/kg/bw was reached. Two 8-month-pregnant cows were fed 15.5 and 18 g/kg of the dried leaves. Two 4-month-pregnant cows were fed 35 g/kg of green leaves of A. glazioviana. The cow treated with 21 g/kg of the dry plant material showed clinical signs of poisoning and delivered a stillborn calf. No clinical signs were observed in the other cows. The calves from cows that received 9, 15.5 and 28 g/kg of the dried leaves showed weakness and suckling difficulties, and were killed. Whitish areas and thickening of the right ventricle wall of the heart were observed in the stillborn calf. Thickening of the wall of the right ventricle was also observed in the calf delivered by the cow treated with 28g/kg of dry plant. The other calves had no gross lesions. The histological changes in all necropsied calves were characterized by tumefaction and vacuolization of muscle fibers and proliferation of fibrous tissue, similar as occurred in spontaneous cases of fibrosis of the heart muscle in cattle poisoned by A. glazioviana. PAS stained slides revealed positive granules in the cardiomyocytes more evident than those of the control calf. The stillborn calf had mild spongiosis of the white matter of the cerebellum, thalamus and rostral colliculi. The ultrastructural pathology revealed cardiac fibers with large glycogen storage within myofibril bundles, which showed loss of bundles and disappearance of whole sarcomers. Mild glycogen storage was observed in a control calf.

• Poisonous plants plant poisoning Ateleia glazioviana Leguminosae Papilionoideae abortion cardiac fibrosis glycogenosis.

Abstract in Portuguese:

García y Santos M.C., Schild A.L., Barros S.S., Riet-Correa F., Elias F. & Ramos A.T. 2004. [Perinatal lesions in cattle experimentally poisoned by Ateleia glazioviana (Leg. Papilionoideae).] Lesões perinatais em bovinos na intoxicação experimental por Ateleia glazio-viana (Leg.Papilionoideae). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 24(3):178-184. Laboratório Regional de Diagnóstico, Faculdade de Veterinária, UFPel, Cx.Postal 354, Pelotas, RS 96010-900, Brazil. E-mail: alschild@terra.com.br Leaves of Ateleia glaziovian Baill., dried in a 100o C oven for 16-20 hours, were given to seven crossbred cows, always as bolus. Two of them received 9 g/kg at 4 months of pregnancy. Three cows in the 8th month of pregnancy received daily doses of 1-2 g/kg of the leaves, until a total amount of 10, 21 and 28 g/kg/bw was reached. Two 8-month-pregnant cows were fed 15.5 and 18 g/kg of the dried leaves. Two 4-month-pregnant cows were fed 35 g/kg of green leaves of A. glazioviana. The cow treated with 21 g/kg of the dry plant material showed clinical signs of poisoning and delivered a stillborn calf. No clinical signs were observed in the other cows. The calves from cows that received 9, 15.5 and 28 g/kg of the dried leaves showed weakness and suckling difficulties, and were killed. Whitish areas and thickening of the right ventricle wall of the heart were observed in the stillborn calf. Thickening of the wall of the right ventricle was also observed in the calf delivered by the cow treated with 28g/kg of dry plant. The other calves had no gross lesions. The histological changes in all necropsied calves were characterized by tumefaction and vacuolization of muscle fibers and proliferation of fibrous tissue, similar as occurred in spontaneous cases of fibrosis of the heart muscle in cattle poisoned by A. glazioviana. PAS stained slides revealed positive granules in the cardiomyocytes more evident than those of the control calf. The stillborn calf had mild spongiosis of the white matter of the cerebellum, thalamus and rostral colliculi. The ultrastructural pathology revealed cardiac fibers with large glycogen storage within myofibril bundles, which showed loss of bundles and disappearance of whole sarcomers. Mild glycogen storage was observed in a control calf.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Leite L.G., Riet-Correa F., Medeiros R.M.T., Piacenti A., Aragão M. & Schons S.V. 2002. Susceptibility of laboratory animals to the intoxication by Ateleia glazioviana (Leg. Papilionoideae).] Susceptibilidade de animais de laboratório à intoxicação por Ateleia glazioviana (Leg. Papilionoideae). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 22(2):73-78. Laboratório Regional de Diagnóstico, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, 96010-900 Pelotas, RS, Brazil. E-mail: lgmv@alternet.com.br Rabbits, guinea pigs, rats and mice were used to reproduce the cardiac lesions observed in ruminants in the intoxication by Ateleia glazioviana. Four animals of each species were fed during four months with a ration containing 10% of dry A glazioviana. The pellets were made by mixing 700 g of commercial ration, 200 g of cornstarch, 1000 mi of distilled water and 100g of the dry plant. Later this mixture was dried at 100ºC during 16-20 hours. Four control animals of each species were given similar food, but containing dry ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum) instead of A glaziovidna. Water was offered ad libitum and a daily amount of green oats (Avena sativa) was given to rabbits and guinea pigs. No clinical signs of disease were observed during the experiment. Ali animals were weighted weekly in the last 5 weeks of the experiment and no differences were observed in weight gains between treated and control groups. At the end of dosing ali animals were euthanatized and necropsied. No macroscopic or histologic lesions were observed in the heart or other organs. The abortive properties of A glazioviana were studied in rats. One group of 11 pregnant rats was fed, from day 7 to day 21 of gestation, ration containing 10% of A. glazioviana, prepared in the sarne way than in the previous experiment. A control group received the ration with 10% ryegrass. Ali rats delivered normal litters. To determine a possible loss of toxicity of the plant during the pellet preparation, dry A. glazioviana was heated for 16-20 hours at 100ºC and administered orally to one ewe. This sheep ingested daily 2.65 g/kg bw of dry A. glazioviana for 26 days. During the experimental period the animal had tachycardia and cardiac arrhythmia. At the end of the experiment bradycardia and severe depression were observed. It was euthanatized 7 days after the last plant administration. The sheep was 2.5-3 months pregnant and the fetus was apparently normal with no autolysis. Ascites and hydrothorax were observed at necropsy. Whitish areas were observed in the myocardium and the liver was pale. Degeneration and necrosis of cardiac fibers and proliferation of fibrous tissue were observed histologically in the heart. The liver had centrilobular degeneration of hepatocytes and congestion. These experiments indicate that A. glazioviana is not cardiotoxic for laboratory animals and suggest that the plant has a heat-stable active principie similar to the active principie of plants causing cardiac fibrosis (gousiekte) in Southern Africa.

• Ateleia glazioviana toxic plants abortion cardiac failure plantas tóxicas aborto insuficiência cardíaca.

Abstract in Portuguese:

RESUMO.- Leite L.G., Riet-Correa F., Medeiros R.M.T., Piacenti A., Aragão M. & Schons S.V. 2002. Susceptibility of laboratory animals to the intoxication by Ateleia glazioviana (Leg. Papilionoideae).] Susceptibilidade de animais de laboratório à intoxicação por Ateleia glazioviana (Leg. Papilionoideae). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 22(2):73-78. Laboratório Regional de Diagnóstico, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, 96010-900 Pelotas, RS, Brazil. E-mail: lgmv@alternet.com.br Coelhos, cobaias, ratos e camundongos foram utilizados com a finalidade de reproduzir a forma cardíaca da intoxicação por Ateleia glazioviana. Quatro animais de cada espécie receberam por 4 meses a planta, secada à sombra, na concentração de 10% na ração, fornecida na forma de pelets. Os pelets foram preparados misturando 700 g de ração comercial, 200 g de amido de milho, 1000 mi de água destilada e 100g de planta seca e, posteriormente, secados em estufa a 100°C, durante 16 a 20 horas. Quatro animais de cada espécie serviram como testemunhas, recebendo a ração preparada da mesma forma, porém com a utilização de azevém (Lolium multijlorum) em lugar de A glazioviana. Era fornecida água à vontade e, para os coelhos e cobaias, também aveia (Avena sativa) verde diariamente. Esses animais não apresentaram nenhuma alteração clínica, e foram pesados semanalmente nas últimas 5 semanas do período experimental, não apresentando diferença significativa no ganho de peso. À necropsia não foram observadas alterações macroscópicas e pelo exame histológico também não foram detectadas lesões significativas no coração e em outros órgãos. Para testar a atividade abortiva de A glazioviana, ração contendo 10% de planta seca, preparada da mesma forma que no experimento anterior, foi administrada a 11 outros ratos, fêmeas, prenhes, nos dois últimos terços da gestação. Um grupo controle de 11 fêmeas recebeu a ração com azevém a 10%, durante o mesmo período. Esses animais tiveram filhotes normais e no prazo correto. Para determinar a possível perda de toxidez da planta durante a preparação dos pelets, A glazioviana foi aquecida por 16 a 20 horas a 100ºC e, posteriormente, administrada a um ovino em 26 doses diárias de 2,65 g/kg de planta seca. Durante o período experimental, a ovelha apresentou batimentos cardíacos mais fortes, taquicardia e arritmia cardíacas, depois bradicardia e, no período final, apatia acentuada. Foi sacrificada 7 dias após a última administração da planta. Esse animal apresentava gestação de 2,5 a 3 meses e o feto não apresentava sinais de autólise. As alterações macroscópicas mais evidentes à necropsia foram ascite, hidrotórax, áreas esbranquiçadas no músculo cardíaco e fígado de coloração clara. Na histologia do coração foram observadas degeneração e necrose de fibras cardíacas e proliferação de tecido conjuntivo fibroso. O fígado apresentava congestão e degeneração de hepatócitos nas áreas centrolobulares. Os resultados indicam que esses animais de laboratório não foram susceptíveis à ação cardiotóxica de A. glazioviana, por via oral, e sugerem a possibilidade de que o princípio ativo da planta, que é resistente ao calor, seja semelhante ao princípio ativo das plantas do sul da África que causam fibrose cardíaca.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Stigger A.L., Barros C.S.L., Langohr I.M. & Barros S.S. 2001. [Experimental poisoning by Ateleia glazioviana (Leg.Papilibnoideae) in sheep] Intoxicação experimental por Ateleia glazioviarya (Leg.Papilionoideae) em ovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 21(3):98-108. Depto Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: cslb@sm.conex.com.br The leaves of Ateleia glazioviana were fed daily to seven sheep. Another sheep was used as côil(rol,. Total amounts (g/kg/body weight) o(;the plant consumed by each animal were 75 during 60 days (Sheep 6), 125 during-25 days (Sheep 4), 13,0 during 13 days (Sheep 7), 150 during 60 days (Sheep 5), 180 during 18 days (Sheep 3), 330 during 33 days (Sheep 2), and 375 during 25 days (Sheep 1 ). Six sheep were fed the green leaves while Sheep 7 was fed dried A. glazioviana leaves. Five sheep (Sheep 1-4 and 7) developed clinical signs 8 to 16, days after the first administration of the plant. The clinical course varied from 6 to 50 days and clinical signs included apathy, loss of appetite, and increased heart and respiratory rates; affected sheep were ·reluctant to move and showed a low carriage of the head, instability of the hind limbs, and staggering gait. Some sheep supported their weight against the wall of the stable. Sheep 1, 3, and 4 died spontaneously; paddling movements preceded death. Sheep 2 and 7 were euthanatized when presenting marked clinical signs of the toxicosis. Sheep 5 and 6 did not get clinically ill and were euthanatized along with the control sheep 103 days after the first administration of the plant. All sheep were necropsied and several of their organs, including heart and brain, were evaluated histologically. Additionally, fragments of the myocardium of Sheep 3 and 4 were evaluated by transmission electron microscopy. To provide more controls for the myocardial changes, the hearts were collected from six animals at an abattoir known to slaughter sheep from regions free of A. glazioviana. These hearts were processed for histology and examined in the same way as the other eight. All seven treated (plant fed) sheep had gross changes at necropsy. There were firm, irregular white or yellow areas in the myocardium of all treated sheep. These pale areas were more evident on the cut surface of the heart. Hydrothorax and/or hydropericardium were observed in five animals (Sheep 1-4 and 7). Nutmeg livers were seen in Sheep 1 and 7. This latter sheep also had ascites. The main histopathological findings in treated sheep were degenerative/necrotic changes in the myocardium. The early changes consisted of acute swollen myocardial fibers associated with bizarre nuclei. Apparently this change progressed until the sarcoplasm disappeared and an empty collapsed sarcolemmal tube remained surrounded by interstitial connective tissue and fibrosis. Overt necrosis (hyaline and floccular) associated with mono nuclear infiltration and phagocytosis of fiber fragments were also observed. Varying degrees of spongy degeneration were seen in the white matter of the brain of Sheep 1, 3, 4 and 7. Mitochondrial swelling and loss of density of the mitochondrial matrix were the earliest ultrastructural changes observed. In advanced lesions cardiac cells had vacuoles in the sarcoplasm, rupture of the sarcolemma and necrosis with intervening macrophages and fibroblasts associated with increased collagen.

• Poisonous plants Ateleia glazioviana diseases of sheep myocardial necrosis myocardial fibrosis toxic cardiomyopathy status spongiosus Plantas tóxicas doenças de ovinos necrose do miocárdio fibrose tio miocárdio cardiomiopatia tóxica.

Abstract in Portuguese:

Stigger A.L., Barros C.S.L., Langohr I.M. & Barros S.S. 2001. [Experimental poisoning by Ateleia glazioviana (Leg.Papilibnoideae) in sheep] Intoxicação experimental por Ateleia glazioviarya (Leg.Papilionoideae) em ovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 21(3):98-108. Depto Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: cslb@sm.conex.com.br Sete ovelhas receberam as folhas de Ateleia glazioviana em doses predeterminadas. Um outro ovino serviu de controle. As quantidades totais (g/kg/peso corporal) de planta consumidas pelos ovinos foram 75 por 60 dias (Ovino 6), 125 por 25 dias (Ovino 4), 130 por 13 dias (Ovino 7), 150 por 60 dias (Ovino 5), 180 por 18 dias (Ovino 3), 330 por 33 dias (Ovino 2) e 375 por 25 dias (Ovino 1). Seis ovinos recéberam folhas verdes e o Ovino 7 recebeu folhas dessecadas. Cinco ovinos (Ovinos 1-4 e 7) desenvolveram sinais clínicos. 8 a 16 dias após a primeira administração da planta. A evolução do quadro clínico foi de 6 a 50 dias e os sinais clínicos. incluíram apatia, perda do apetite, taquicardia e taquipnéia. Os ovinos afetados apresentavam relutância em mover-se, cabeça baixa, instabilidade dos membros pélvicos e andar cambaleante. Alguns dos ovinos afetados apoiavam o corpo contra a parede da baia. Os Ovinos 1, 3 e 4 morreram espontaneamente; movimentos de pedalagem precederam a morte. Os Ovinos 2 e 7 foram submetidos à eutanásia com sinais clínicos avançados da toxicose. Os Ovinos 5 e 6 não adoeceram e foram sacrificados junto com o controle 103 dias após a primeira administração da planta. Todos os ovinos foram necropsiados e vários órgãos, incluindo coração e encéfalo, foram avaliados histologicamente. Além disso, fragmentos de miocárdio dos Ovinos 3 e 4 foram avaliados por microscopia eletrônica de transmissão. A fim de se obter mais controles para a avaliação das lesões do miocárdio, coletaram-se os corações de seis ovinos abatidos para consumo em um abatedouro que sabidamente recebe ovinos originários de uma região livre de A. glazioviana. Esses corações foram processados para histologia e examinados da mesma maneira que os outros oito. Todos os ovinos tratados (que receberam a planta) apresentaram lesões macroscópicas. Havia áreas firmes, irregulares, branco-amareladas no miocárdio de todos os ovinos tratados. Essas áreas pálidas eram mais bem vistas na superfície de corte do coração. Hidrotórax e/ou hidropericárdio foram observados em cinco animais (Ovinos 1-4 e 7). O fígado dos Ovinos 1 e 7 tinha aspecto de nozmoscada. O Ovino 7 apresentava ascite. Os principais achados histopatológicos nos ovinos tratados foram alterações degenerativas/necróticas no miocárdio. As alterações iniciais consistiam de tumefação aguda das fibras cardíacas, associada a núcleos com formas bizarras. Essa alteração aparentemente progredia até o desaparecimento do sarcoplasma, resultando num tubo sarcolemal vazio e colapsado envolto por tecido conjuntivo intersticial e fibrose. Necrose franca (hialina e flocular) associada à infiltração mononuclear e fagocitose de fragmentos de fibras foi também observada. Graus variáveis de degeneração esponjosa foram observados na substância branca do encéfalo dos Ovinos 1, 3, 4 e 7. Tumefação de mitocôndrias e perda da densidade da matriz das mitocôndrias foram as alterações ultra-estruturais mais precoces. Em lesões avançadas os cardiomiócitos apresentavam vacúolos no sarcoplasma, ruptura do sarcolema e necrose com aparecimento de macrófagos e fibroblastos associados a aumento de colágeno.

Abstract in English:

RESUMO.- Gava A., Barros C.S.L., Pilati C., Barros S.S. & Mori A.M. 2001. [Poisoning by Ateleia glazioviana (Leg. Papilionoideae) in cattle] Intoxicação por Ateleia glazioviana (Leg. Papilionoideae) em bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 21(2):49-59. Depto Clínica e Patologia, Centro de Ciências Agroveterinárias, Universidade Estadual de Santa Catarina, Av. Luiz de Camões 2090, Lages, SC 88520-000, Brazil. E-mail: a2ag@cav.udesc.br É descrita uma enfermidade caracterizada por manifestações relacionadas aos sistemas nervoso e cardiovasculai; que afeta bovinos no oeste de Santa Catarina e noroeste do Rio Grande do Sul. Os animais apresentam "morte súbita" ou edemas de declive, veias jugulares ingurgitadas e pulso venoso positivo, precedida ou não de apatia, letargia e cegueira. A doença atinge bovinos com mais de um ano, principalmente no outono e inverno, com morbidade de 10 a 60% e mortalidade chegando a 95%. As lesões macroscópicas consistem de áreas esbranquiçadas e firmes no miocárdio, principalmente nas proximidades dos vasos coronários e no septo interventricular. Em parte dos animais, o fígado apresenta-se aumentado de volume e com aspecto de noz-moscada. Alterações histológicas incluem tumefação e necrose de miofibras cardíacas, fibrose e infiltrado de macrófagos no interstício do músculo cardíaco e marcada congestão centrolobular e leve fibrose no fígado. No encéfalo dos bovinos com quadro clínico de letargia, a substância branca apresenta degeneração esponjosa (status spongiosus). A doença com manifestações de letargia e cegueira foi reproduzida em bovinos com o fornecimento de folhas de Ateleia. glazioviana no cocho, na dose única de 40 e 50 g/kg e em doses fracionadas de 2,5, 5,0, 7,5 e 10 g/kg. Lesões cardíacas crônicas foram reproduzidas com doses fracionadas de 2,5, 5,0 e 7,5 g/kg por longo período e com dose inicial de 1 g/kg, acrescida de lg/kg/dia até atingir 15 g/kg, num total de 120 g/kg.

• Poisonous plants Ateleia glaziovana degenerative cardiopathy "sudden death" brain edema (status spongiosus) cattle pathology Intoxicação por plantas cardiomiopatia "morte súbita" edema encefálico (status spongiosus) bovinos patologia.

Abstract in Portuguese:

RESUMO.- Gava A., Barros C.S.L., Pilati C., Barros S.S. & Mori A.M. 2001. [Poisoning by Ateleia glazioviana (Leg. Papilionoideae) in cattle] Intoxicação por Ateleia glazioviana (Leg. Papilionoideae) em bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 21(2):49-59. Depto Clínica e Patologia, Centro de Ciências Agroveterinárias, Universidade Estadual de Santa Catarina, Av. Luiz de Camões 2090, Lages, SC 88520-000, Brazil. E-mail: a2ag@cav.udesc.br É descrita uma enfermidade caracterizada por manifestações relacionadas aos sistemas nervoso e cardiovasculai; que afeta bovinos no oeste de Santa Catarina e noroeste do Rio Grande do Sul. Os animais apresentam "morte súbita" ou edemas de declive, veias jugulares ingurgitadas e pulso venoso positivo, precedida ou não de apatia, letargia e cegueira. A doença atinge bovinos com mais de um ano, principalmente no outono e inverno, com morbidade de 10 a 60% e mortalidade chegando a 95%. As lesões macroscópicas consistem de áreas esbranquiçadas e firmes no miocárdio, principalmente nas proximidades dos vasos coronários e no septo interventricular. Em parte dos animais, o fígado apresenta-se aumentado de volume e com aspecto de noz-moscada. Alterações histológicas incluem tumefação e necrose de miofibras cardíacas, fibrose e infiltrado de macrófagos no interstício do músculo cardíaco e marcada congestão centrolobular e leve fibrose no fígado. No encéfalo dos bovinos com quadro clínico de letargia, a substância branca apresenta degeneração esponjosa (status spongiosus). A doença com manifestações de letargia e cegueira foi reproduzida em bovinos com o fornecimento de folhas de Ateleia. glazioviana no cocho, na dose única de 40 e 50 g/kg e em doses fracionadas de 2,5, 5,0, 7,5 e 10 g/kg. Lesões cardíacas crônicas foram reproduzidas com doses fracionadas de 2,5, 5,0 e 7,5 g/kg por longo período e com dose inicial de 1 g/kg, acrescida de lg/kg/dia até atingir 15 g/kg, num total de 120 g/kg.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Brito M.F, Tokarnia C.H. & Peixoto P.V. 2001. [Pathology of experimental poisoning by the pods of Stryphnodendron obovatum (Leg. Mimosoideae) in cattle] Intoxicação experimental pelas favas de Stryphnodendron obovatum (Leg. Mimosoideae) em bovinos. 2. Achados anátomo e histopatólogicos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 21(2):61-71. Projeto Sanidade Animal Embrapa/UFRRJ, Km 47, Seropédica, RJ 23851-970, Brazil. e-mail: marilene@ufnj.br With the objective to characterize the gross and histopathological changes of poisoning by the tree Stryplmodendron obovatum Benth., of the Leguminosae Mimosoideae family, its pods were given orally to 17 young bovines. Five of the animals died from the poisoning. One of them received one dose of 60g/kg, and four animals repeated doses(10g/kg for 8 days, 20g/ kg for 3 days, 30g/kg for 2 days, and 40g/kg also during 2 days). At post-mortem examination there was reddening and adherence of the mucosal papillae, breaking up of the epithelium and congestion of the propria, mainly in the rumen and with less intensity in the reticulum and omasum. In the abomasum, focal and diffuse congestion of the mucosa, Iarge areas of erosion and ulceration were observed. In the small intestine there was congestion of the mucosa, and the Peyer's plaques were red and well defined. In the large intestine slight to moderate congestion was seen. The mesenteric lymph nodes were reddend on the cut surface. Histological examination showed in the epithelium, from the oral cavity on up to the omasum, areas of acanthosis, spongiosis, parakeratosis, hyperkeratosis, necrosis and hydropic-vacuolar degeneration, with formation of intraepithelial vesicles or pustules, sometimes containing acantholytic keratocytes, and splitting of the epithelial layer in these areas. In the entire digestive tract, focal congestion and hemorrhages were observed, more severely in the abomasum and small intestine.

• Poisonous plants experimental plant poisoning Stryphnodendron obovatum cattle Pathology Plantas tóxicas intoxicação experimental por plantas bovinos patologia.

Abstract in Portuguese:

RESUMO.- Brito M.F, Tokarnia C.H. & Peixoto P.V. 2001. [Pathology of experimental poisoning by the pods of Stryphnodendron obovatum (Leg. Mimosoideae) in cattle] Intoxicação experimental pelas favas de Stryphnodendron obovatum (Leg. Mimosoideae) em bovinos. 2. Achados anátomo e histopatólogicos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 21(2):61-71. Projeto Sanidade Animal Embrapa/UFRRJ, Km 47, Seropédica, RJ 23851-970, Brazil. e-mail: marilene@ufnj.br Com o objetivo de caracterizar as alterações anátomo e histopatológicas da intoxicação experimental por Stryphnodendron obovatum Benth. (fam. Leg. Mimosoideae), as favas desta árvore foram administradas, por via oral, a 17 bovinos jovens. Destes, cinco morreram, sendo que apenas um deles recebeu 60g/kg das favas, em dose única, e quatro as receberam em doses repetidas (10g/kg durante 8 dias, 20g/kg durante 3 dias, 30g/kg durante 2 dias e 40g/kg durante 2 dias). Macroscopicamente, as lesões se caracterizaram por avermelhamento e aderência das papilas, desprendimento do epitélio e congestão da própria, sobretudo no rúmen e com menor intensidade no retículo e no omaso. No abomaso havia congestão difusa ou focal e grandes áreas com erosões/ulcerações. No intestino delgado observaram-se congestão da mucosa e placas de Peyer muito vermelhas e bem delimitadas e no intestino grosso leve a moderada congestão. Os linfonodos mesentéricos apresentavam-se avermelhados, ao corte. Histologicamente verificaram-se, desde a cavidade oral até o omaso, áreas de acantose, espongiose, paraqueratose, hiperqueratose, necrose e degeneração hidrópico-vacuolar, com formação de vesículas ou pústulas intra-epiteliais, por vezes contendo queratinócitos acantolíticos, e desprendimento epitelial nestas áreas. Congestão e hemorragias focais foram observadas em todo trato digestivo, porém eram mais acentuadas no abomaso e no intestino delgado.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Riet-Correa F., Górniak S.L., Haraguchi M. & Dagli M.L.Z. 2001. Histological changes caused by experimental Riedeliella gracili.flora (Leg. Papilionoideae) poisoning in cattle and laboratory animals. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 21 (1):5-7. [Alterações histológicas na intoxicação experimental por Riedeliella graciliflora (Leg. Papilionoideae) em bovinos e animais de laboratório.] Laboratório Regional de Diagnóstico, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, 96010-900 Pelotas, RS, Brazil. Tissues from cattle, mice, rats and guinea pigs experimentally intoxicated by Riedeliella graciliflora were studied histologically. Cattle lymph nodes, spleen, Peyer patches and peribronchial lymphoid tissues had diffuse necrosis of lymphocytes, mainly in the germinal centers of the follicles. This lesion was less severe in laboratory animals. All species had severe enteritis with infiltration of the lamina propria by mononuclear cells. Some cells in this infiltrate were necrotic. Degeneration and necrosis of the epithelial cells, mainly in the tip of the villi, and detachment of the epithelial lining from the lamina propria were also observed. In the liver the trabecular structure was disrupted and the hepatocytes had some degree of individual necrosis and degeneration. A tubular nephrosis was observed in the kidneys. Liver, lung, kidney, intestine and lymph nodes had different degrees of congestion. Those lesions are similar than those caused by Polygala klotzscllii, a plant that contains 5-metoxi-podophyllotoxin.

• Toxic plants Riedeliella graciliflora lymphatic necrosis nephrosis enteritis cattle Plantas tóxicas necrose linfática nefrose enterite bovinos.

Abstract in Portuguese:

RESUMO.- Riet-Correa F., Górniak S.L., Haraguchi M. & Dagli M.L.Z. 2001. Histological changes caused by experimental Riedeliella gracili.flora (Leg. Papilionoideae) poisoning in cattle and laboratory animals. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 21 (1):5-7. [Alterações histológicas na intoxicação experimental por Riedeliella graciliflora (Leg. Papilionoideae) em bovinos e animais de laboratório.] Laboratório Regional de Diagnóstico, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, 96010-900 Pelotas, RS, Brazil. Foi realizado um estudo histológico de bovinos, camundongos, ratos e coelhos intoxicados experimentalmente por Riedeliella graciliflora. Em bovinos os gânglios linfáticos, baço, placas de Peyer e tecido peribronquial apresentavam necrose do tecido linfático, afetando, principalmente, os centros germinativos dos folículos. Esta lesão foi menos severa em animais de laboratório. Em todas as espécies havia severa enterite e infiltração da lâmina propria do intestino por células mononucleares. Algumas destas células estavam necróticas. Degeneração e necrose do epitélio, principalmente na superfície das vilosidades, e descamação das células epiteliais foram, também, observadas. No fígado havia desorganização da estrutura trabecular e alguns hepatócitos apresentavam-se degenerados ou necróticos. Os rins apresentavam nefrose tubular. Diferentes graus de congestão foram observados no fígado, pulmão, rins, intestinos e linfonodos. As lesões observadas são similares às causadas por Polygala klotzschii, uma planta que contém 5-metoxi-podofilotoxina.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Brito M.F., Tokarnia C.H., Peixoto P.V., Silva H.K. & Nogueira M. 2001. [Experimental poisoning by the burs of Stryphnodendron obovatum (Leg. Mimosoideae) in cattle. 1. Clinical aspects] Intoxicação experimental pelas favas de Stryphnodendron obovatum (Leg. Mimosoideae) em bovinos. 1. Caracterização do quadro clínico. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 21 (1):9-17. Projeto Sanidade Animal Embrapa/UFRRJ, Km 47, Seropédica, RJ 23851-970, Brazil. In order to contribute to the characterization of the clinical-pathological picture of poisoning by Stryphnodendron obovatwn Benth. (Leg. Mimosoideae), the pods of the tree were given orally to 17 young bovines. Six animals received the pods only once: Those which received doses of 10 and 20 g/kg, did not show any symptoms of poisoning. Those which receiveel 30, 40 and 40 g/kg of pods, showeel respectively moelerate, severe anel slight symptoms of poisoning, but all recovereel. The animal that was feel 60 g/kg, elieel. Eleven bovines receiveel repeateel doses of the pods: Two of them, which received 2,5 g/kg during 30 days, showed discrete to slight symptoms. Two animals received 5 g/kg during 13 anel 14 days anel showed moderate to severe poisoning. Three animals received 10 g/kg during 20, 8 anel 6 days; the first of them showed slight symptoms, the second died anel the third showed moderate to severe symptoms. Two animals received 20 g/kg during 2 anel 3 days; the first showed slight symptoms, the second died. The two bovines which were fed 30 anel 40 g/kg during 2 days, elieel. First symptoms of poisoning were observed from the first day of the experiments on, anel the clinical course varied from 3 to 63 days. Digestive disorders preelominateel in the clinical-pathological picture. Symptoms were mainly loss of appetite up to anorexia, faeces slightly elry to liquid, elistention of the abdomen without tympanism, loss of ruminal tluid during rumination, decrease in ruminal activity up to atonia, ruminal acidosis, gastro-intestinal colics, sialorrhoea, apathy, loss of weight, elebility, erosions anel ulcers of the oral mucosa. There was congestion of the visible mucous membranes (without icterus) anel of the interdigital parts of the hoofs, areas of focal alopecia anel/or hypotrichia in the axillary regions, the lateral parts of the tighs anel members, loss of hair on the tip of the tail, alterations which can be interpreted as slight photosensitization. In two bovines aspiration pneumonia was verifiecl. In three animals intermittent prolapse of the prepuce was seen, as well as polacuria; sometimes these animals sighed during urination. In all experimental animals the urine was generally turbiel, aciel, dark ambar, with a sweat smell anel high elensity, anel there was proteinuria; in a few animals glicosuria was eliagnoseel. Bilirubine values were normal. Thus, the severe photosensitization reporteei in the literature could not be reproeluceel. Loss of weight, slight photosensitization anel absence of icterus, observed in our experiments, are in accordance with the symptoms reporteei by farmers of the Cerrado-regions (Savanna) where S. obovatum occurs.

• Poisonous plants experimental plant poisoning Stryplmodendron obovatum cattle Plantas tóxicas intoxicação experimental por plantas bovinos.

Abstract in Portuguese:

RESUMO.- Brito M.F., Tokarnia C.H., Peixoto P.V., Silva H.K. & Nogueira M. 2001. [Experimental poisoning by the burs of Stryphnodendron obovatum (Leg. Mimosoideae) in cattle. 1. Clinical aspects] Intoxicação experimental pelas favas de Stryphnodendron obovatum (Leg. Mimosoideae) em bovinos. 1. Caracterização do quadro clínico. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 21 (1):9-17. Projeto Sanidade Animal Embrapa/UFRRJ, Km 47, Seropédica, RJ 23851-970, Brazil. Com o objetivo de melhor caracterizar o quadro clínico na intoxicação experimental por Stryphnodendron obovatum Benth., procedeu-se a administração das favas, por via oral, a seis bovinos, em doses únicas e a 11 outros, em doses repetidas. Doses únicas de 10 e 20g/kg não provocaram sintomas. Doses únicas de 30 e 40g/kg provocaram quadros clínicos desde leves até graves, porém só morreu o animal que ingeriu 60g/kg. Os animais que ingeriram doses repetidas de 2,5g/kg por 30 dias adoeceram levemente, já os que receberam 5g/kg durante 13 e 14 dias mostraram sintomatologia moderada e grave, respectivamente. Um bovino que recebeu 10g/kg por 8 dias, outro que ingeriu 20g/kg por 3 dias e dois outros que receberam 30 e 40g/kg por 2 dias morreram ela intoxicação. Os outros três bovinos que receberam doses repetidas (dois com doses de 10g/kg por 20 e 6 dias, outro com dose de 20 g/kg por 2 dias) adoeceram, mas se recuperaram. Os primeiros sintomas de intoxicação, em ambos os grupos, foram observados a partir do primeiro dia do experimento e a evolução variou de 3 a 63 dias. Os sintomas consistiram em anorexia, fezes levemente ressecadas a líquidas, distensão do abdômen, sem timpanismo, perda de fluido ruminal durante a ruminação, atonia e acidose ruminal, cólica, sialorréia, apatia, emagrecimento, fraqueza, erosões e úlceras na cavidade oral. Em alguns animais foram observadas congestão de mucosas visíveis (sem icterícia) e de partes despigmentadas da pele, do córion laminar e ela região interdigital cios quatro membros, áreas ele alopecia focal e/ou hipotricose nas regiões axilares, na face lateral elas coxas e membros e perda dos pêlos ela ponta ela cauda, alterações estas que podem ser interpretadas como as ele leve fotossensibilização. Em três bovinos se observaram relaxamento intermitente cio prepúcio, micção freqüente e em gotejamento e, por vezes, gemidos ao eliminar a urina que, em geral, se apresentava turva, ácida, ele cor âmbar-escura, com odor adocicado e com a densidade elevada; os níveis ele bilirrubina na urina foram normais.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- .- Barbosa Neto J.D., Oliveira C.M.C., Peixoto P.V., Barbosa I.B.P., Ávila S.C. & Tokamia C.H. 2001. [Hemolytic anemia caused by Indigofera suffruticosa (Leg. Papilionoideae) in cattle] Anemia hemolítica causada por Indigofera suffruticosa (Leg. Papilíonoideae) em bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 21(1):18-22. Central de Diagnóstico Veterirnírio, Universidade Federal do Pará, Castanhal, Pará 68740-080, Brazil. The aereal parts of Indigofera suffruticosa Mill. (family Leg. Papilionoideae) were force-fed fresh to 6 bovines in daily doses of 10 to 40 g/kg. Cattle breeclers of various parts of the Northeast of Brazil accuse this plant as the cause of a non-fatal disease characterized by hemoglobinuria. The disease occurs only in years when the plant proliferates well invading the native pastures. All experimental animals had hemoglobinuria, which was transitory, inspite continuation of the administration of the plant. Two animals had no further manifestations, a third animal showed only slight other manifestations, anel the other three had additional symptoms of moderate intensity. These were apathy, whitish visible mucous membranes, rough hair coat, anorexia, descrease in frequency anel intensity of the ruminal movements, tachycardia, positive venous pulse anel dispnoea. Before the ocrnrrence of the hemolytic crisis the urine had a bluish-green colom: None of the experimental animals diecl, but one was euthanized whilst showing hemoglobinuria. Post-mortem finclings were anemia, the bladder containing wine-red urine, swollen dark-brown kidneys, liver on the outsicle anel on the cutsurface bluish anel with perceptible lobular design. The main histological changes were found in liver anel kiclney. ln the liver there was coagulative necrosis and cloudy swelling and/or cytoplasmatic microvacuolization of the hepatocytes; in the kidney there was severe nephrosis, associatecl with large amounts of filtrate ancl/or hemoglobine in the Bowman spaces, in the tu bules anel also in the cytoplasm of the epithelial cells.

• Poisonous plants plant poisoning Indigofera suffruticosa cattle pathology hemolytic anemia Plantas tóxicas. intoxicação por planta. bovino patologia anemia hemolítica

Abstract in Portuguese:

RESUMO.- Barbosa Neto J.D., Oliveira C.M.C., Peixoto P.V., Barbosa I.B.P., Ávila S.C. & Tokamia C.H. 2001. [Hemolytic anemia caused by Indigofera suffruticosa (Leg. Papilionoideae) in cattle] Anemia hemolítica causada por Indigofera suffruticosa (Leg. Papilíonoideae) em bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 21(1):18-22. Central de Diagnóstico Veterirnírio, Universidade Federal do Pará, Castanhal, Pará 68740-080, Brazil. As partes aéreas ele lndigofera suffruticosa Mill. (família Leg. Papilionoicleae), planta incriminada pelos criadores ele diversas áreas do Nordeste por doença caracterizada por hemoglobinúria em bovinos, foram administradas por via oral a seis bovinos, em doses diárias repetidas ele 10 a 40 g/kg, Todos os animais experimentais apresentaram hemoglobinúria, porém passageira; apesar continuidade da administração da planta. Dois desses bovinos não apresentaram manifestações adicionais, um terceiro animal evidenciou manifestações leves, e os três outros, sintomas adicionais de intensidade moderada: apatia, mucosas visíveis ele coloração esbranquiçada, pêlos arrepiados, anorexia, diminuição da frequência e intensidade dos movimentos ruminais, taquicardia, pulso venoso positivo e dispnéia. Antes da crise hemolítica a urina apresentava coloração verde azulada. Nenhum animal experimental morreu, porém um foi sacrificado durante a fase hemoglobinúrica. À necropsia observaram-se anemia, bexiga contendo urina cor ele vinho tinto, rins aumentados ele volume com coloração marrom-escura, fígado, na superfície e ao corte, de coloração azulada com lobulação perceptível. As principais alterações histológicas foram verificadas no fígado, sob forma de necrose coagulativa e tumefação e/ou microvacuolização citoplasmática dos hepatócitos, e no rim representadas por acentuada nefrose, associada a grande quantidade de filtrado e/ou hemoglobina nos espaços de Bowman dentro de túbulos e do citoplasma das células epiteliais.