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Chronic lead poisoning in horses.
American Journal of Veterinary Research
|June 1, 1978
Summary
Chronic lead acetate exposure in horses revealed elevated blood lead and serum iron levels. Higher doses led to decreased hematocrit and hemoglobin, with lead accumulating in organs, indicating significant toxicity.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Toxicology
- Equine Health
- Environmental Contaminants
Background:
- Lead poisoning is a significant concern in livestock.
- Understanding dose-response relationships is crucial for diagnosing and preventing lead intoxication in horses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the chronic effects of lead acetate administration in horses.
- To determine the dose-response relationship for lead intoxication in equine species.
Main Methods:
- Four groups of horses received escalating doses of lead acetate for 105 days (Phase 1), followed by increased doses for an additional 190 days (Phase 2).
- A control group was maintained for comparison.
- Blood lead, serum iron, hematocrit, hemoglobin, and tissue lead concentrations were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Horses administered lead acetate showed increased blood lead and serum iron concentrations.
- During Phase 2, hematocrit and hemoglobin levels were depressed in treated horses.
- Lead accumulated in various organs, including the kidney, liver, and brain.
- Dose-related responses were not evident above 15.3 mg/kg/day, and intoxication levels were higher than reported for cattle.
Conclusions:
- Chronic exposure to lead acetate causes significant physiological changes in horses.
- The threshold for lead intoxication in horses appears higher than in cattle.
- Monitoring blood lead and hematological parameters is essential for diagnosing lead exposure in horses.