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Updated: Jun 24, 2026
17:15
Catheterization of Intestinal Loops in Ruminants
Published on: June 11, 2009
Poisoning by Centratherum brachylepis in ruminants.
Rosane M T Medeiros1, Juliana K M Yassaki, José A S de Araujo
1Hospital Veterinário, CSTR, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Campus de Patos, Patos, PB 58700-000, Paraíba, Brazil.
Summary
Centratherum brachylepis ingestion causes anorexia and indigestion in cattle and goats. The plant loses its toxicity after harvesting, indicating its seasonal or temporal impact on livestock health.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Toxicology
- Ruminant Health
Background:
- A novel disease affecting cattle and goats, characterized by anorexia and ruminal indigestion, has been observed.
- Clinical signs in goats include edema of the lips, tongue, and face.
- The disease is linked to the consumption of Centratherum brachylepis in pastures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify the causative agent of the observed disease in cattle and goats.
- To experimentally confirm the toxicity of Centratherum brachylepis.
- To investigate the factors influencing the plant's toxicity.
Main Methods:
- Field investigation on three farms involving 217 cattle and 140 goats.
- Histopathological examination of rumen lesions in a deceased cow.
- Oral administration of fresh and aged Centratherum brachylepis to sheep and goats.
Main Results:
- Outbreaks affected 26% of cattle and 40% of goats, with mortality rates of 5% and 24%, respectively.
- Histology revealed severe rumen lesions, including vacuolation, ballooning degeneration of keratinocytes, and pustule formation.
- Experimental administration of fresh plant (30-50 g/kg) reproduced clinical signs in susceptible animals, while aged plant (up to 13 days post-collection) was non-toxic at higher doses (30-300 g/kg).
Conclusions:
- Centratherum brachylepis is confirmed as the causative agent of the disease in cattle and goats.
- The plant's toxicity is transient, diminishing significantly after harvesting.
- This finding is crucial for managing livestock health in areas where Centratherum brachylepis is prevalent.
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