The nephrotoxicity of Isotropis forrestii in sheep

Sheep were drenched with a single toxic dose of dried and milled Isotropis forrestii in water. Intoxication resulted in early onset of glycosuria, enzymuria and proteinuria. Terminal gross lesions included pale kidneys and perirenal oedema. Histologically and ultrastructurally the renal lesions were typical of primary nephrotoxicosis, with extensive proximal tubular epithelial necrosis. The tubular damage was sufficient to cause acute primary renal failure, characterised by oliguria, azotemia and failure of urinary concentrating mechanisms.