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Mushroom toxicity in a horse with meningioangiomatosis
K Frazier1, A Liggett, M Hines
1Veterinary Diagnostic and Investigational Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Tifton 31793, USA.
Abstract:
We describe a fatal case of mushroom intoxication in an 18-y-o horse presumably due to Amanita verna. Horses are normally regarded as too fastidious to eat the ill-flavored toadstools. In this case, the horse had a rare benign brain tumor, meningioangiomatosis, which may have altered the horse's normal eating behavior resulting in consumption of the mushrooms.
Insights
A horse died from mushroom poisoning, likely from Amanita verna. A rare brain tumor may have caused the horse to eat toxic mushrooms, altering its typical eating behavior.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Toxicology
- Equine Pathology
Background:
- Horses are generally considered selective eaters, avoiding toxic or ill-flavored plants.
- Mushroom poisoning (mycotoxicosis) is uncommon in horses due to their dietary preferences.
Observation:
- An 18-year-old horse presented with a fatal case of suspected mushroom intoxication.
- The horse had a history of meningioangiomatosis, a rare benign brain tumor.
Findings:
- The intoxication was presumed to be caused by the ingestion of Amanita verna mushrooms.
- The brain tumor may have influenced the horse's behavior, leading to the consumption of toxic fungi.
Implications:
- This case highlights a potential link between neurological conditions and atypical foraging behavior in horses.
- It underscores the importance of considering unusual causes for toxic ingestions in equine cases.
- Further research into behavioral changes associated with equine brain tumors could be beneficial.