Dermatopathy caused by Tephrosia noctiflora intoxication in cattle

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Dermatology
• Toxicology
• Ruminant Health

Background:

• An unexplained dermatitis outbreak caused significant morbidity in cattle in Alagoas, Brazil.
• Clinical signs included emaciation, severe skin lesions, and limb edema.
• The grazing areas were noted to be infested with the plant Tephrosia noctiflora.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify the causative agent of the dermatitis outbreak in cattle.
• To investigate the toxicological effects of Tephrosia noctiflora in a controlled animal model.

Main Methods:

• Cattle in Alagoas, Brazil, were clinically and microscopically examined.
• Tephrosia noctiflora was collected and administered to guinea pigs at a 50% concentration in food.
• Guinea pigs were monitored for clinical signs and underwent microscopic examination of skin lesions.

Main Results:

• Cattle presented with diffuse dermatitis, characterized by erythema, alopecia, crusting, and edema.
• Guinea pigs experimentally exposed to T. noctiflora developed weight loss, alopecia, erythema, and edema.
• Microscopic examination revealed similar dermatological changes in both cattle and guinea pigs, including lymphocytic/histiocytic dermatitis and hyperkeratosis.

Conclusions:

• Tephrosia noctiflora is confirmed as the etiological agent responsible for the observed dermatitis outbreak in cattle.
• The study highlights the significant toxicological impact of T. noctiflora on livestock.
• Preventive measures should focus on managing T. noctiflora in cattle grazing areas.