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Metal toxicosis in horses
1Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA. CasteelS@missouri.edu
The Veterinary Clinics of North America. Equine Practice
|January 10, 2002
Summary
Metals are environmental pollutants causing health issues in horses, including gastrointestinal, musculoskeletal, and kidney problems. Arsenic, mercury, cadmium, lead, iron, and zinc toxicosis present unique clinical signs and target organs in equine health.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Veterinary Toxicology
- Equine Health
Background:
- Metals are ubiquitous environmental contaminants and essential nutrients.
- Environmental redistribution of metals leads to adverse health effects in biologic systems, including horses.
- Metal toxicosis in horses manifests in various ways, from gastrointestinal upset to systemic diseases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the diverse toxic effects of common environmental metals on horses.
- To highlight the specific clinical signs and target organs associated with different metal poisonings in equine species.
- To underscore the importance of environmental metal monitoring for equine health.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of metal toxicosis in horses.
- Analysis of clinical presentations and pathological findings.
- Correlation of environmental metal exposure with specific equine diseases.
Main Results:
- Arsenic and inorganic mercury cause severe gastrointestinal damage.
- Cadmium toxicosis affects the musculoskeletal system and kidneys.
- Lead poisoning results in peripheral neuropathy and colic; iron and zinc excess cause hepatopathy and cartilage disease, respectively.
Conclusions:
- Different metals cause distinct pathologies in horses, requiring targeted diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.
- Understanding metal toxicity is crucial for preventing and managing equine health issues.
- Environmental metal contamination poses a significant risk to equine populations.