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The '''rumen''' can perform some detoxification.
The '''rumen''' can perform some detoxification.
The cause of the poisoning cannot always be adequately defined, and a common [[Toxicology Overview#Clinical approach to a suspected poisoning case|clinical approach]] can be used.
==Plant poisons==
==Plant poisons==
<u>Sources</u>: occur worldwide in peanuts, cottonseed, maize, silage, wheat, barley.
<u>Sources</u>: occur worldwide in peanuts, cottonseed, maize, silage, wheat, barley.
<u>Species affected</u>: Pigs, poultry, cattle and dogs are most commonly affected.
<u>Species affected</u>: Pigs, poultry, cattle and dogs are most commonly affected. Sheep and horses are more resistant.
<u>Mechanism</u>: The toxins interact with liver structures and enzymes, are potent teratogens, carcinogens, and immuno-suppressors. Formation of blood clotting proteins is decreased.
<u>Clinical signs</u>: anorexia, depression, dyspnoea, anaemia, epistaxis, jaundice, melena, convulsions, abortion, death.
<u>PM findings</u>: Raised liver enzymes, lowered TP and BUN, jaundice, anaemia, widespread haemorrhages, hepatic necrosis, cirrhosis, yellow kidneys and oedematous fat, hepatic neplasms.
<u>Treatment</u>: Remove source, ensure adequate protein in diet. Oxytetracylcine to interfere with the cytotoxic mechanisms. Vitamin E and Selenium as antioxydants.
===Nephrotoxins===
===Nephrotoxins===
These are also produced by various species of Aspergillus and Penicillin. Mainly recognised in Europe, especially Denmark.
Found in wheat, barley, maize, peanuts and beans.
<u>Species affected</u>: Mainly poultry and pigs
<u>Clinical signs</u>: Poulty are listless, have a depressed growth rate, have low quality and quantity eggs and may die.
Pigs show polyuria, polydipsia, anorexia, vomiting, dehydration, weight loss and diarrhoea.
<u>PM findings</u>: glycosuria, casts and protein in urine, pale kidneys with cortical necrosis, tubular degeneration and fibrosis.
Gastric ulcers.
<u>Treatment</u>: Symptomatic and supportive.
===Neurotoxins===
===Neurotoxins===
There are many toxins in this group which cause staggers syndromes.
Examples include: Ergot, Lolitrem A and B from ryegrass.
<u>Clinical signs</u>: Signs are neurological and renal. Tremors get worse with excitement or exercise. There is swaying, ataxia, nystagmus, lateral recumbency and death.
<u>Treatment</u>: Diazepam/barbiturates. Removal from grass may result in recovery with no lasting effects.
{{Learning
|flashcards = [[Avian Medicine Q&A 07]]
}}
==References==
Ayliffe, T. (2008) '''Plant Toxicology''' ''Student Notes from St George's Veterinary School''
Merck and Co (2008) '''Merck Veterinary Manual''' ''Merial''
[[Category:To Do - Helen]]