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Extrapulmonary silicosis in two water buffaloes
F Roperto1, A Troncone, A Tranquillo
1Department of Veterinary Pathology, Naples University Federico II, Italy.
Journal of Comparative Pathology
|January 1, 1995
Summary
Extrathoracic silicosis in buffaloes near a quartz quarry showed nodules in tonsils, lymph nodes, and spleen. Mineral analysis confirmed silicon and other elements, highlighting animal health risks from environmental pollution.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Environmental Toxicology
- Mineralogy
Background:
- Silicosis is a lung disease caused by inhaling silica dust.
- Extrathoracic manifestations of silicosis are rare, especially in domestic animals.
- Animals near industrial sites may be exposed to environmental pollutants.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe extrathoracic silicosis in buffaloes.
- To identify the mineral composition of silicotic lesions in buffaloes.
- To assess the potential of domestic animals as bioindicators for environmental health risks.
Main Methods:
- Case study of two buffaloes with severe clinical signs.
- Necropsy and histopathological examination of extrapulmonary tissues.
- Energy dispersive X-ray microanalysis and scanning electron microscopy for mineral identification.
Main Results:
- Silicotic nodules were found in the tonsils, mesenteric lymph nodes, and spleen of affected buffaloes.
- Mineral analysis revealed the presence of silicon, aluminum, iron, calcium, magnesium, zinc, sulfur, and potassium in the lesions.
- These findings confirm extrathoracic dissemination of silica particles.
Conclusions:
- Domestic animals exposed to environmental pollution can develop extrathoracic silicosis.
- These animals serve as valuable bioindicators for assessing human health risks associated with silica exposure.
- Understanding pathogenetic mechanisms in animals provides insights into human silicosis.