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Cantharidin toxicosis in horses
1Texas Veterinary Medical Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Texas A&M University, College Station 77843.
Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine
|October 1, 1989
Summary
Cantharidin toxicosis in horses is a growing concern due to contaminated alfalfa hay. Early, aggressive treatment and preventative hay harvesting are crucial for horse survival.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Toxicology
- Equine Medicine
Background:
- Cantharidin toxicosis is an increasing problem in horses, particularly in the United States.
- Ingestion of alfalfa hay contaminated with blister beetles is the primary cause.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline the clinical signs, laboratory findings, and treatment strategies for cantharidin toxicosis in horses.
- To emphasize the importance of early intervention and preventative measures.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical signs, including depression, abdominal pain, anorexia, and oral irritation.
- Analysis of laboratory abnormalities such as hypocalcemia, hypomagnesemia, and hypoproteinemia.
- Discussion of diagnostic methods including chemical analysis of urine and stomach contents.
Main Results:
- Clinical signs range from mild depression to severe shock and death.
- Key laboratory findings include persistent hypocalcemia, hypomagnesemia, and hypoproteinemia.
- Treatment is symptomatic and supportive, focusing on toxin removal and managing clinical signs.
Conclusions:
- Prompt and aggressive treatment is vital for a successful outcome in horses with cantharidin toxicosis.
- Prevention strategies include timely alfalfa hay harvesting and field inspection for blister beetles.
- Monitoring vital signs and serum creatine kinase levels can indicate a deteriorating condition.