Phototoxic effect of Thamnosma texana (Dutchman's breeches) in sheep

Oral exposure of sheep to the airdried, aerial portions of Thamnosma texana (Dutchman's breeches) resulted in severe photosensitization. Sheep fed the plant at 9 or 12 g/kg of body weight/day and held in direct sunlight exhibited signs of phototoxicosis within 24 to 48 hours. The clinical signs manifested were increased body temperature; photophobia; edema of the muzzle, ears, and vulva; keratoconjunctivitis with edema of the cornea; and exudative dermatitis of the skin of the ears, muzzle, and vulva. Lesser dosages of the plant produced similar effects after several days, except that corneal edema and opacity were not seen. Histopathologic studies indicated no hepatic lesions, consistent with primary photosensitization. The photosensitizing effects of T texana can be attributed to the presence of photosensitizing linear furocoumarins (psoralens) in the plant.