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Polymyxin E-1 (colistin sulphate) (neuro-)intoxication in young ostriches ( Struthio camelus spp.)

W J Landman, R M Dwars, H J Keukens

    Avian Pathology : Journal of the W.V.P.A
    |February 3, 2009
    PubMed

    Insights

    Colistin (polymyxin E) is toxic to young ostriches, causing rapid mortality and neurotoxicity even at moderate doses. Parenteral administration of polymyxin E exceeding 5mg/kg is unsafe for ostriches.

    Area of Science:

    • Veterinary Toxicology
    • Pharmacology
    • Avian Medicine

    Background:

    • Colistin (polymyxin E) is a potent bactericidal antibiotic against Gram-negative bacilli.
    • Parenteral administration of polymyxins carries a narrow safety margin, risking neurotoxicity and nephrotoxicity.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To evaluate the safety and toxicity of colistin sulphate in young ostriches.
    • To determine a safe dosage for parenteral administration of polymyxin E in ostriches.

    Main Methods:

    • Subcutaneous injection of 39.5mg/kg body weight colistin sulphate in young ostriches.
    • Observation of clinical signs, mortality, and postmortem/histological examination.

    Main Results:

    • Rapid mortality (1-3 hours) observed after subcutaneous injection.
    • Clinical signs included apathy, lethargy, and hypotonia, indicative of neurotoxicity.
    • Histological findings revealed severe acute edema in the epicardium and intestinal serosa, brain vessel congestion, and cardiac abnormalities.

    Conclusions:

    • A subcutaneous dose of 39.5mg/kg colistin sulphate is lethal to young ostriches.
    • Parenteral administration of polymyxin E at doses greater than 5mg/kg is considered unsafe for ostriches.
    • Neurotoxicity and cardiotoxicity are significant concerns with parenteral colistin use in this species.

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