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Experimental intoxication by Myoporum laetum in sheep
J B Raposo1, M C Mendez, F Riet-Correa
1Laboratorio Regional de Diagnostico, Faculdade de Veterinaria, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, RS, Brazil.
Veterinary and Human Toxicology
|June 4, 1998
Summary
Myoporum laetum (M. laetum) ingestion caused toxicity in sheep, leading to clinical signs and liver damage. Plant toxicity varied by region, with Uruguayan M. laetum showing reduced toxicity.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Toxicology
- Plant Toxicology
- Animal Science
Background:
- Myoporum laetum is a plant known to cause poisoning in livestock.
- Understanding regional variations in plant toxicity is crucial for animal health management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the toxicity of Myoporum laetum in sheep.
- To identify clinical signs and pathological lesions associated with M. laetum poisoning.
- To assess potential regional differences in the toxicity of M. laetum.
Main Methods:
- Sheep were experimentally dosed with varying amounts of fresh Myoporum laetum.
- Clinical signs, mortality, and gross and microscopic lesions were recorded.
- Serum biochemical parameters (AST, GGT, bilirubin) were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Sheep dosed with M. laetum exhibited anorexia, restlessness, ruminal stasis, jaundice, and photodermatitis.
- Periportal liver necrosis was the characteristic histologic lesion.
- Serum enzyme and bilirubin levels were elevated, indicating liver damage.
- Plants from Uruguay appeared less toxic than those from Brazil.
Conclusions:
- Myoporum laetum is toxic to sheep, causing significant liver damage and clinical manifestations.
- Photodermatitis is a common clinical sign in surviving sheep.
- Regional variations in M. laetum toxicity exist, necessitating further investigation.