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Molds, mycotoxins, and mycotoxicosis
1Department of Animal Science, New York State College of Agriculture, Cornell University, Ithaca.
Abstract:
Interest in mycotoxins and mycotoxicosis in humans and animals has greatly increased in recent years. Horses have long been considered very susceptible to molds. The signs, treatment, and prevention of several conditions, such as leukoencephalomalacia, aflatoxicosis, ergotism, fescue toxicity, slobbering disease, ryegrass staggers, and moldy sweet clover disease, are discussed.
Insights
Horses are highly susceptible to mycotoxins produced by molds, leading to various health issues. This review discusses the signs, treatment, and prevention of common equine mycotoxicoses.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Toxicology
- Animal Health
Background:
- Mycotoxins and mycotoxicosis are increasingly recognized health concerns in both humans and animals.
- Horses are particularly vulnerable to toxicosis from ingested molds.
- Several mold-related diseases affect horses, impacting their health and welfare.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the clinical signs associated with various equine mycotoxicoses.
- To outline current treatment strategies for horses affected by mycotoxins.
- To discuss preventative measures to mitigate mold exposure in equine diets.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of scientific articles and veterinary case studies.
- Compilation of information on mycotoxin-producing fungi relevant to equine health.
- Synthesis of data on clinical presentations, diagnostics, and therapeutic interventions.
Main Results:
- Identified key mycotoxicoses in horses including leukoencephalomalacia, aflatoxicosis, ergotism, fescue toxicity, slobbering disease, ryegrass staggers, and moldy sweet clover disease.
- Detailed the characteristic clinical signs for each condition.
- Summarized effective treatment and management protocols.
Conclusions:
- Early recognition of clinical signs is crucial for timely intervention in equine mycotoxicoses.
- Effective prevention strategies focus on minimizing mold contamination in horse feed.
- Understanding the risks associated with mycotoxins is essential for equine health management.