Hepatogenous photosensitization in steer by Brachiaria decumbens

Background: Although the etiology of hepatogenous photosensitization has not yet been fully elucidated, it is known that hepatotoxic substances (saponins) present in grasses of the genus Brachiaria spp. are responsible for intoxication of ruminants and horses, causing great economic losses in the whole world. Since this grass is the source of food for the herd in Brazil, and other countries of the world, the aim of this paper is to describe the epidemiological, clinical, laboratory and anatomopathological aspects of a steer with this disease. Case: A 3-year-old Nellore steer was referred to veterinary care at a property in Bahia, with a 3-week history of swelling, loss of cutaneous tissue in the ear and scrotum region, and dry faeces. The animal was raised in pasture with Brachiaria decumbens along with five animals of different age and sex; however, it was the only one to present symptoms. Although the animal had been treated at the farm, there was no clinical improvement. On clinical examination, the steer was apathetic with jaundiced mucous membranes, nasal and ocular discharge, epiphora, and ulcers on the labial and gum commissure. The steer had leukocytosis with neutrophilia, anemia, and hyperfibrinogemia. The body condition score (BCS) was 2 (BCS ranges from 1 to 5), and the skin lesions observed were bedsores, necrosis and scabs in several regions. The increase in liver enzymes (GGT, AST) indicated hepatic impairment, suggesting a case of hepatogenous photosensitization. The therapeutic protocol instituted was enteral hydration, electrolyte replacement, topical application of ointment in the injured areas. In addition, it was recommended to maintain the animal in the shade, supply of good quality grass, and a new clinical evaluation in seven days. On new examination, it was observed that there was no satisfactory clinical improvement of the animal, and persistence of laboratory changes. Despite the poor prognosis, treatment was continued for another month with the same recommendations. However, in view of the severe clinical condition and unfavorable prognosis, the animal was submitted euthanasia. Necropsy revealed extensive areas of bedsores, erythema, severe jaundice in the mucous membranes, eyeballs and opaque corneas. The liver had an enlarged volume with bulging edges and a greenish color. The kidneys had a pale brownish color, with an irregular and mottled subcapsular surface, with blackened and depressed spots. Histologically, the cytoplasm of the hepatocytes was finely vacuolated, sometimes refringent and with an abundant presence of bile pigment. It was also observed in the middle of the liver parenchyma, multiple foci of accumulation of macrophages filled with vacuoles of different sizes containing saponins and crystals of saponins inside bile ducts. Furthermore, it was possible to observe hypertrophy and hyperplasia of Kupffer cells, disarrangement of hepatocytes with individual necrosis of hepatocytes. Discussion: The diagnosis of hepatogenous photosensitization was based on history, clinical, laboratory and anatomopathological findings. Serum biochemistry was important to measure hepatic impairment and possible secondary lesions, which were confirmed by the necropsy. Although hepatogenous photosensitization is less common in adult cattle, it must be considered in the differential diagnosis of skin lesions, reduced appetite, and jaundice. Since it was a sporadic case, individual predisposition is probably a preponderant factor.

Poisonous plants for ruminants in the dairy region of Pernambuco, Northeastern Brazil / Plantas tóxicas para ruminantes na bacia leiteira de Pernambuco, Nordeste do Brasil

A survey carried out in the dairy region of Pernambuco was conducted to determine the most important poisonous plants for ruminants in the region. A total of 95 farmers from 19 municipalities were interviewed and the grazing areas of ruminants were inspected. According to the survey, the most important poisonous plants for ruminants were Manihot esculenta, Palicourea aeneofusca, Brachiaria decumbens, Indigofera suffruticosa, Ricinus communis and Cestrum axillare. Less reported classes of poisonous plants included nephrotoxic plants and plants that cause abortions or congenic malformations. Psychotria hoffmannseggiana, Psychotria colorata and Psychotria capitata were reported by farmers as the cause of sudden death in cattle. These plants should be better investigated to evaluate their importance as the cause of cattle deaths.(AU)

Neste estudo prospectivo, realizou-se um levantamento sobre a ocorrência das principais plantas tóxicas e a ocorrência de intoxicações por plantas em ruminantes na bacia leiteira de Pernambuco. Para isso, foram entrevistados 95 produtores rurais de 19 municípios e as áreas de pastagem de ruminantes foram inspecionadas. De acordo com o levantamento, as plantas tóxicas mais importantes para ruminantes foram Manihot esculenta, Palicourea aeneofusca, Brachiaria decumbens, Indigofera suffruticosa e Ricinus communis. As classes menos importantes de plantas tóxicas incluíram plantas nefrotóxicas e plantas que causam abortos e malformações congênitas. Psychotria hoffmannseggiana, Psychotria colorata e Psychotria capitata foram relatadas por produtores rurais como a causa de mortes súbitas em bovinos. Essas plantas devem ser investigadas melhor para avaliar sua importância como a causa de mortes de bovinos.(AU)

Poisonous plants for ruminants in the dairy region of Pernambuco, Northeastern Brazil / Plantas tóxicas para ruminantes na bacia leiteira de Pernambuco, Nordeste do Brasil

A survey carried out in the dairy region of Pernambuco was conducted to determine the most important poisonous plants for ruminants in the region. A total of 95 farmers from 19 municipalities were interviewed and the grazing areas of ruminants were inspected. According to the survey, the most important poisonous plants for ruminants were Manihot esculenta, Palicourea aeneofusca, Brachiaria decumbens, Indigofera suffruticosa, Ricinus communis and Cestrum axillare. Less reported classes of poisonous plants included nephrotoxic plants and plants that cause abortions or congenic malformations. Psychotria hoffmannseggiana, Psychotria colorata and Psychotria capitata were reported by farmers as the cause of sudden death in cattle. These plants should be better investigated to evaluate their importance as the cause of cattle deaths.(AU)

Neste estudo prospectivo, realizou-se um levantamento sobre a ocorrência das principais plantas tóxicas e a ocorrência de intoxicações por plantas em ruminantes na bacia leiteira de Pernambuco. Para isso, foram entrevistados 95 produtores rurais de 19 municípios e as áreas de pastagem de ruminantes foram inspecionadas. De acordo com o levantamento, as plantas tóxicas mais importantes para ruminantes foram Manihot esculenta, Palicourea aeneofusca, Brachiaria decumbens, Indigofera suffruticosa e Ricinus communis. As classes menos importantes de plantas tóxicas incluíram plantas nefrotóxicas e plantas que causam abortos e malformações congênitas. Psychotria hoffmannseggiana, Psychotria colorata e Psychotria capitata foram relatadas por produtores rurais como a causa de mortes súbitas em bovinos. Essas plantas devem ser investigadas melhor para avaliar sua importância como a causa de mortes de bovinos.(AU)

Poisoning by Brachiaria spp. in various lamb breeds at increasing levels of supplementation during growth / Intoxicação por Brachiaria spp. em várias raças de cordeiros com incremento nos níveis de suplementação durante o crescimento

The study evaluate the frequency of poisoning by Brachiaria spp. at the rearing, growth and termination stages in various lamb breeds at increasing supplementation levels. Forty-five lambs were used in the growth phase in pastures of Brachiaria spp. with a history of having induced poisoning. The lambs were distributed in nutritional treatments: lambs receiving mineral supplementation (MS), energy/protein supplementation (EPS) at 0.8% of body weight (bw), EPS at 1.6% bw and EPS at 2.4% bw. The lambs were allotted two flocks (F1 and F2) of 21 and 24 lambs each. Clinical signs of poisoning were observed in all treatments. All MS lambs died. The frequency of poisoning were highest in the 0.8% EPS and 1.6% EPS treatments. All lambs in the 2.4% EPS treatment recovered. F1 lambs had a higher frequency of poisoning than F2 lambs regardless of nutritional treatment. Morbidity rates for the F1 and F2 lambs were 52.3 and 16.7%, respectively. Supplementation was not sufficient to decrease the frequency of poisoning in lambs at the termination stage, which was dependent on the genetic origin of the lambs. EPS of 2.4% bw treatment, was an efficient nutritional strategy to minimize the effects of poisoning in lambs fed on Brachiaria spp.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a frequência da intoxicação por Brachiaria spp. nas fases de recria, crescimento e terminação em várias raças de cordeiros em níveis crescentes de suplementação. Quarenta e cinco cordeiros foram utilizados na fase de crescimento em pastagens de Brachiaria spp. com história de intoxicação, distribuídos em diferents tratamentos nutricionais: cordeiros recebendo suplementação mineral (SM), suplementação energética/protéica (SEP) a 0,8% do peso vivo (pv), SEP a 1,6% pv e SEP a 2,4% pv. Vinte e um cordeiros vieram do lote F1 e 24 cordeiros foram do lote F2. Sinais clínicos de intoxicação foram observados em todos os tratamentos. Todos os cordeiros com MS morreram. As frequências de intoxicação foram maiores nos tratamentos com 0,8% e 1,6% de SEP. Todos os cordeiros no tratamento com 2,4% de SEP se recuperaram. Cordeiros F1 apresentaram maior frequência de intoxicação que os cordeiros F2, independentemente do tratamento nutricional. As taxas de morbidade para os cordeiros F1 e F2 foram de 52,3 e 16,7%, respectivamente. A suplementação não foi suficiente para diminuir a freqüência de intoxicação em cordeiros na fase de terminação, dependente da origem genética dos cordeiros. O SEP de 2,4% pv, no entanto, foi eficiente para minimizar os efeitos da intoxicação em cordeiros alimentados com Brachiaria spp.(AU)

Poisoning by Brachiaria spp. in various lamb breeds at increasing levels of supplementation during growth / Intoxicação por Brachiaria spp. em várias raças de cordeiros com incremento nos níveis de suplementação durante o crescimento

The study evaluate the frequency of poisoning by Brachiaria spp. at the rearing, growth and termination stages in various lamb breeds at increasing supplementation levels. Forty-five lambs were used in the growth phase in pastures of Brachiaria spp. with a history of having induced poisoning. The lambs were distributed in nutritional treatments: lambs receiving mineral supplementation (MS), energy/protein supplementation (EPS) at 0.8% of body weight (bw), EPS at 1.6% bw and EPS at 2.4% bw. The lambs were allotted two flocks (F1 and F2) of 21 and 24 lambs each. Clinical signs of poisoning were observed in all treatments. All MS lambs died. The frequency of poisoning were highest in the 0.8% EPS and 1.6% EPS treatments. All lambs in the 2.4% EPS treatment recovered. F1 lambs had a higher frequency of poisoning than F2 lambs regardless of nutritional treatment. Morbidity rates for the F1 and F2 lambs were 52.3 and 16.7%, respectively. Supplementation was not sufficient to decrease the frequency of poisoning in lambs at the termination stage, which was dependent on the genetic origin of the lambs. EPS of 2.4% bw treatment, was an efficient nutritional strategy to minimize the effects of poisoning in lambs fed on Brachiaria spp.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a frequência da intoxicação por Brachiaria spp. nas fases de recria, crescimento e terminação em várias raças de cordeiros em níveis crescentes de suplementação. Quarenta e cinco cordeiros foram utilizados na fase de crescimento em pastagens de Brachiaria spp. com história de intoxicação, distribuídos em diferents tratamentos nutricionais: cordeiros recebendo suplementação mineral (SM), suplementação energética/protéica (SEP) a 0,8% do peso vivo (pv), SEP a 1,6% pv e SEP a 2,4% pv. Vinte e um cordeiros vieram do lote F1 e 24 cordeiros foram do lote F2. Sinais clínicos de intoxicação foram observados em todos os tratamentos. Todos os cordeiros com MS morreram. As frequências de intoxicação foram maiores nos tratamentos com 0,8% e 1,6% de SEP. Todos os cordeiros no tratamento com 2,4% de SEP se recuperaram. Cordeiros F1 apresentaram maior frequência de intoxicação que os cordeiros F2, independentemente do tratamento nutricional. As taxas de morbidade para os cordeiros F1 e F2 foram de 52,3 e 16,7%, respectivamente. A suplementação não foi suficiente para diminuir a freqüência de intoxicação em cordeiros na fase de terminação, dependente da origem genética dos cordeiros. O SEP de 2,4% pv, no entanto, foi eficiente para minimizar os efeitos da intoxicação em cordeiros alimentados com Brachiaria spp.(AU)

Hepatogenous photosensitization by Brachiaria spp. in sheep: first report in Mexico

Ruminants are highly susceptible to photosensitization caused by the ingestion of hepatotoxic plants. In two adjacent farms in Colima, Mexico, several sheep exhibited signs of depression and crusting dermatitis involving the ears, periorbital skin, eyelids, nostrils, and axillary regions. Results of serum biochemistry were indicative of liver injury. Post mortem examination revealed jaundice, craniofacial edema as well as an enlarged liver having an orange-brown discoloration; on the cut surface, the hepatic parenchyma had a subtle zonal pattern. Histopathological findings were those of severe necrotizing dermatitis, lymphoplasmacytic cholangiohepatitis, and renal tubular necrosis. Acicular crystals were microscopically and ultrastructurally evident in hepatocytes, Kupffer cells, biliary ducts, renal tubules and interstitium. The clinical, gross and microscopic findings were consistent with hepatogenous photosensitization. A field investigation revealed that affected sheep had been grazing Brachiaria spp., a potentially toxic grass originated from Africa and commonly cultivated in Australia and South America. This grass contains hepatotoxic saponins that cause liver injury and secondary hepatogenous photosensitization. Although frequently reported in South America, to our knowledge, this is the first report of Brachiaria spp. toxicity in Mexico.(AU)

Hepatogenous photosensitization by Brachiaria spp. in sheep: first report in Mexico

Ruminants are highly susceptible to photosensitization caused by the ingestion of hepatotoxic plants. In two adjacent farms in Colima, Mexico, several sheep exhibited signs of depression and crusting dermatitis involving the ears, periorbital skin, eyelids, nostrils, and axillary regions. Results of serum biochemistry were indicative of liver injury. Post mortem examination revealed jaundice, craniofacial edema as well as an enlarged liver having an orange-brown discoloration; on the cut surface, the hepatic parenchyma had a subtle zonal pattern. Histopathological findings were those of severe necrotizing dermatitis, lymphoplasmacytic cholangiohepatitis, and renal tubular necrosis. Acicular crystals were microscopically and ultrastructurally evident in hepatocytes, Kupffer cells, biliary ducts, renal tubules and interstitium. The clinical, gross and microscopic findings were consistent with hepatogenous photosensitization. A field investigation revealed that affected sheep had been grazing Brachiaria spp., a potentially toxic grass originated from Africa and commonly cultivated in Australia and South America. This grass contains hepatotoxic saponins that cause liver injury and secondary hepatogenous photosensitization. Although frequently reported in South America, to our knowledge, this is the first report of Brachiaria spp. toxicity in Mexico.

Comparison of two collection methods to determine protodioscin concentrations in Brachiaria spp. and to monitor Brachiaria spp. poisoning / Comparação entre dois métodos de coleta para determinar as concentrações de protodioscina em Brachiaria spp. e monitorar a intoxicação por Brachiaria spp

The objective of this study was to evaluate the methods of collecting Brachiaria spp. (Simulated Grazing vs. Total Collection) for the determination of protodioscin concentrations and to monitor the intoxication in sheep susceptible and resistant to poisoning by Brachiaria spp. The collection of Brachiaria spp. was done through two different methods. The first one consisted in throwing a metallic square at 10 random picket points. The second was performed simulating, with the hands, the grazing behavior of sheep. The leaf blades obtained by the two methods were conditioned in a forced ventilation oven. The extraction and quantification of protodioscin from the dry milled plant material was done by reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The collections were carried out at three stages of the life of experimental lamb (suckling, rearing, and finishing). The lambs were divided into resistant and susceptible to intoxication by Brachiaria spp. The criterion for a lamb to be considered sensitive was to present some clinical signs at some stage of its life. No significant differences were observed between the general averages of the two collections when the evaluation was done in the whole period. However, a significant difference was found at the onset of the clinical signs. The concentrations of protodioscin in this period were higher in Brachiaria spp. collected by the simulating grazing method. Both methodologies were efficient to determine the level of protodioscin in the pastures of Brachiaria spp. However, during the periods when the outbreaks occurred, the simulated grazing method was more reliable.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar dois métodos de coleta de Brachiaria spp. (Pastejo Simulado vs Coleta Total) para determinação das concentrações de protodioscina e efetuar o monitoramento da intoxicação em rebanhos sensíveis e resistentes à intoxicação por Brachiaria spp. Foram realizadas coletas de Brachiaria spp. através de duas metodologias. A primeira consistiu em fazer o lançamento de um quadrado metálico em 10 pontos aleatórios do piquete. A segunda foi realizada simulando com as mãos o comportamento de pastejo dos ovinos. As lâminas foliares obtidas pelas duas metodologias foram acondicionadas em estufa de ventilação forçada. O material seco e moído foi encaminhado para extração e quantificação da protodioscina por cromatografia líquida de alto desempenho (HPLC) de fase reversa. As coletas foram realizadas em três fases de vida dos cordeiros (cria, recria e terminação). Os cordeiros foram divididos em resistentes e sensíveis a intoxicação por Brachiaria spp. O critério para o ovino ser considerado sensível foi apresentar algum sinal clínico da intoxicação em alguma fase de sua vida. Não foram observadas diferenças significativas entre a média geral das duas coletas quando a avaliação foi feita no período total. Porém, foi observada diferença significativa no período de aparecimento dos casos. As concentrações de protodioscina neste período foram superiores pelo método do pastejo simulado. Ambas as metodologias mostraram-se eficientes para determinação da concentração da protodioscina nas pastagens de Brachiaria spp. No entanto, nos períodos em que ocorreram os surtos, o método do pastejo simulado foi mais fidedigno.(AU)

Comparison of two collection methods to determine protodioscin concentrations in Brachiaria spp. and to monitor Brachiaria spp. poisoning / Comparação entre dois métodos de coleta para determinar as concentrações de protodioscina em Brachiaria spp. e monitorar a intoxicação por Brachiaria spp

The objective of this study was to evaluate the methods of collecting Brachiaria spp. (Simulated Grazing vs. Total Collection) for the determination of protodioscin concentrations and to monitor the intoxication in sheep susceptible and resistant to poisoning by Brachiaria spp. The collection of Brachiaria spp. was done through two different methods. The first one consisted in throwing a metallic square at 10 random picket points. The second was performed simulating, with the hands, the grazing behavior of sheep. The leaf blades obtained by the two methods were conditioned in a forced ventilation oven. The extraction and quantification of protodioscin from the dry milled plant material was done by reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The collections were carried out at three stages of the life of experimental lamb (suckling, rearing, and finishing). The lambs were divided into resistant and susceptible to intoxication by Brachiaria spp. The criterion for a lamb to be considered sensitive was to present some clinical signs at some stage of its life. No significant differences were observed between the general averages of the two collections when the evaluation was done in the whole period. However, a significant difference was found at the onset of the clinical signs. The concentrations of protodioscin in this period were higher in Brachiaria spp. collected by the simulating grazing method. Both methodologies were efficient to determine the level of protodioscin in the pastures of Brachiaria spp. However, during the periods when the outbreaks occurred, the simulated grazing method was more reliable.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar dois métodos de coleta de Brachiaria spp. (Pastejo Simulado vs Coleta Total) para determinação das concentrações de protodioscina e efetuar o monitoramento da intoxicação em rebanhos sensíveis e resistentes à intoxicação por Brachiaria spp. Foram realizadas coletas de Brachiaria spp. através de duas metodologias. A primeira consistiu em fazer o lançamento de um quadrado metálico em 10 pontos aleatórios do piquete. A segunda foi realizada simulando com as mãos o comportamento de pastejo dos ovinos. As lâminas foliares obtidas pelas duas metodologias foram acondicionadas em estufa de ventilação forçada. O material seco e moído foi encaminhado para extração e quantificação da protodioscina por cromatografia líquida de alto desempenho (HPLC) de fase reversa. As coletas foram realizadas em três fases de vida dos cordeiros (cria, recria e terminação). Os cordeiros foram divididos em resistentes e sensíveis a intoxicação por Brachiaria spp. O critério para o ovino ser considerado sensível foi apresentar algum sinal clínico da intoxicação em alguma fase de sua vida. Não foram observadas diferenças significativas entre a média geral das duas coletas quando a avaliação foi feita no período total. Porém, foi observada diferença significativa no período de aparecimento dos casos. As concentrações de protodioscina neste período foram superiores pelo método do pastejo simulado. Ambas as metodologias mostraram-se eficientes para determinação da concentração da protodioscina nas pastagens de Brachiaria spp. No entanto, nos períodos em que ocorreram os surtos, o método do pastejo simulado foi mais fidedigno.(AU)

Intoxicação espontânea por Brachiaria híbrida cv mulato I em ovinos e caprinos e experimental por Brachiaria híbrida cv mulato II em ovinos / Spontaneous poisoning by Brachiaria hybrid cv. mulato I in goats and sheep and experimental poisoning of Brachiaria hybrid cv. mulato II in sheep

Descreve-se a epidemiologia, sinais clínicos e lesões de uma enfermidade em ovinos e caprinos que cursa com fotossensibilização e morte. A doença espontânea ocorreu no município de Abelardo Luz, SC. De um rebanho de 350 ovinos e 278 caprinos, de corte, mantidos em pastagem de Brachiaria híbrida cv mulato I, adoeceram 27 animais, dos quais, 17 morreram e 10 recuperaram-se após terem sido removidos do local. A enfermidade caracterizou-se por lacrimejamento, hiperemia, edema das faces, das orelhas e das pálpebras seguidas de formação de crostas, corrimento nasal seroso, ulcerações na córnea e esclera e conjuntiva levemente amarelada. Seis ovinos e onze caprinos foram necropsiados na propriedade. As lesões macroscópicas observadas foram fígado de coloração castanha, vesícula biliar com conteúdo aumentado e bile grumosa, rins acastanhados com pontos vermelhos na superfície. Na avaliação microscopia foram observadas no fígado, lesões de intensidade leve a moderada caracterizadas principalmente por tumefação e ou, vacuolização de hepatócitos, megalocitose, fibrose periportal, proliferação biliar, pequenos aglomerados de macrófagos, aleatórios e infiltrado de eosinófilos, neutrófilos e macrófagos na periferia do lóbulo. Na luz de ductos biliares encontravam-se imagens negativas de cristais. Nos rins havia dilatação de túbulos variando de leve a acentuada, contração de tufo glomerular e distensão do espaço de Bowman. Quatro ovinos receberam experimentalmente Brachiaria híbrida cv mulato II ad libitum pelo período de 90 dias e não manifestaram alterações clinicas.(AU)

Described is the epidemiology, clinical signs and lesions of a disease that leads to photosensitization and death in sheep and goats. Spontaneous disease occurred in the municipality of Abelardo Luz, SC. From a flock of 350 sheep and 278 goats grazing Brachiaria hybrid cv. mulato I, 27 animals got sick, which 17 died and 10 recovered after being removed from the pasture. The disease was characterized by tearing, hyperemia, swelling of face, ears and eyelid followed by crusting, serous nasal discharge, ulcers on the cornea and sclera, and conjunctiva slightly yellowish. Six sheep and eleven goats were necropsied on the farm. The macroscopic lesions were brownish liver, distended gallbladder and lumpy bile, brownish kidneys with red dots on surface. Through microscopy was observed mild to moderate lesions in liver mainly characterized by swelling and vacuolation of hepatocytes, megalocytosis, periportal fibrosis, biliary hyperplasia; small clusters of macrophages and infiltration of eosinophils, neutrophils and macrophages were present in the periportal area. Crystal negative images were detected within bile ducts. Kidney tubules were dilated ranging from mild to severe with glomerular tuff contraction and distension of Bowman space. Four sheep experimentally fed Brachiaria hybrid cv. mulato II ad libitum for 90 days showed no clinical changes.(AU)

Intoxicação espontânea por Brachiaria híbrida cv mulato I em ovinos e caprinos e experimental por Brachiaria híbrida cv mulato II em ovinos / Spontaneous poisoning by Brachiaria hybrid cv. mulato I in goats and sheep and experimental poisoning of Brachiaria hybrid cv. mulato II in sheep

Descreve-se a epidemiologia, sinais clínicos e lesões de uma enfermidade em ovinos e caprinos que cursa com fotossensibilização e morte. A doença espontânea ocorreu no município de Abelardo Luz, SC. De um rebanho de 350 ovinos e 278 caprinos, de corte, mantidos em pastagem de Brachiaria híbrida cv mulato I, adoeceram 27 animais, dos quais, 17 morreram e 10 recuperaram-se após terem sido removidos do local. A enfermidade caracterizou-se por lacrimejamento, hiperemia, edema das faces, das orelhas e das pálpebras seguidas de formação de crostas, corrimento nasal seroso, ulcerações na córnea e esclera e conjuntiva levemente amarelada. Seis ovinos e onze caprinos foram necropsiados na propriedade. As lesões macroscópicas observadas foram fígado de coloração castanha, vesícula biliar com conteúdo aumentado e bile grumosa, rins acastanhados com pontos vermelhos na superfície. Na avaliação microscopia foram observadas no fígado, lesões de intensidade leve a moderada caracterizadas principalmente por tumefação e ou, vacuolização de hepatócitos, megalocitose, fibrose periportal, proliferação biliar, pequenos aglomerados de macrófagos, aleatórios e infiltrado de eosinófilos, neutrófilos e macrófagos na periferia do lóbulo. Na luz de ductos biliares encontravam-se imagens negativas de cristais. Nos rins havia dilatação de túbulos variando de leve a acentuada, contração de tufo glomerular e distensão do espaço de Bowman. Quatro ovinos receberam experimentalmente Brachiaria híbrida cv mulato II ad libitum pelo período de 90 dias e não manifestaram alterações clinicas.(AU)

Described is the epidemiology, clinical signs and lesions of a disease that leads to photosensitization and death in sheep and goats. Spontaneous disease occurred in the municipality of Abelardo Luz, SC. From a flock of 350 sheep and 278 goats grazing Brachiaria hybrid cv. mulato I, 27 animals got sick, which 17 died and 10 recovered after being removed from the pasture. The disease was characterized by tearing, hyperemia, swelling of face, ears and eyelid followed by crusting, serous nasal discharge, ulcers on the cornea and sclera, and conjunctiva slightly yellowish. Six sheep and eleven goats were necropsied on the farm. The macroscopic lesions were brownish liver, distended gallbladder and lumpy bile, brownish kidneys with red dots on surface. Through microscopy was observed mild to moderate lesions in liver mainly characterized by swelling and vacuolation of hepatocytes, megalocytosis, periportal fibrosis, biliary hyperplasia; small clusters of macrophages and infiltration of eosinophils, neutrophils and macrophages were present in the periportal area. Crystal negative images were detected within bile ducts. Kidney tubules were dilated ranging from mild to severe with glomerular tuff contraction and distension of Bowman space. Four sheep experimentally fed Brachiaria hybrid cv. mulato II ad libitum for 90 days showed no clinical changes.(AU)

Characterization and frequency of histological changes in bovine livers from slaughterhouses in Brazil kept on Brachiaria spp / Caracterização e frequência das alterações histológicas nos fígados de bovinos mantidos em pastagens de Brachiaria spp. provenientes de abatedouros no Brasil

Background: Brachiaria spp. is the main pasture for ruminant productions in Brazil, but the limiting factor for its use is the toxicity due to the presence of steroidal saponins. Chronic ingestion of Brachiaria spp. by cattle may cause liver changes such as fibrosis, bile duct proliferation and clusters of foamy macrophages in the hepatic parenchyma. The main objective of the present study was to evaluate the most frequent histological changes and their frequencies in livers collected in abattoirs in Brazil from beef cattle raised exclusively on Brachiaria spp. and compare them with those observed in animals kept in Andropogon spp. grass and native pastures in Rio Grande do Sul.Materials, Methods & Results: Liver samples without macroscopic changes were collected in abattoirs from 561 healthy Nelore and Nelore crossbred cattle raised in Brachiaria spp. pastures from Mato Grosso (MT), Mato Grosso do Sul (MS), Minas Gerais (MG) and Pará (PA) States. Liver samples from 84 Angus cattle (Bos taurus) kept on native pastures in Rio Grande do Sul (RS) and from 60 Nelore and Nelore crossbreed cattle raised in Andropogon spp. pastures in Tocantins State (TO) were collected as control. Semi-quantitative analysis of the histopathological changes were proceeded: (-) = no change; (+) = slight or discreet change; (++) = moderate change and (+++) = marked change. The main histopathological [...]

Characterization and frequency of histological changes in bovine livers from slaughterhouses in Brazil kept on Brachiaria spp / Caracterização e frequência das alterações histológicas nos fígados de bovinos mantidos em pastagens de Brachiaria spp. provenientes de abatedouros no Brasil

Background: Brachiaria spp. is the main pasture for ruminant productions in Brazil, but the limiting factor for its use is the toxicity due to the presence of steroidal saponins. Chronic ingestion of Brachiaria spp. by cattle may cause liver changes such as fibrosis, bile duct proliferation and clusters of foamy macrophages in the hepatic parenchyma. The main objective of the present study was to evaluate the most frequent histological changes and their frequencies in livers collected in abattoirs in Brazil from beef cattle raised exclusively on Brachiaria spp. and compare them with those observed in animals kept in Andropogon spp. grass and native pastures in Rio Grande do Sul.Materials, Methods & Results: Liver samples without macroscopic changes were collected in abattoirs from 561 healthy Nelore and Nelore crossbred cattle raised in Brachiaria spp. pastures from Mato Grosso (MT), Mato Grosso do Sul (MS), Minas Gerais (MG) and Pará (PA) States. Liver samples from 84 Angus cattle (Bos taurus) kept on native pastures in Rio Grande do Sul (RS) and from 60 Nelore and Nelore crossbreed cattle raised in Andropogon spp. pastures in Tocantins State (TO) were collected as control. Semi-quantitative analysis of the histopathological changes were proceeded: (-) = no change; (+) = slight or discreet change; (++) = moderate change and (+++) = marked change. The main histopathological [...](AU)

Fotosensibilización hepatogena en cabrito - reporte de un caso / Photosensitization in a kid goat - case report / Fotossensibilização hepatógena em cabrito - relato de caso

La sensibilidad de la piel a la luz solar que resulta en dermatitis es conocida como fotosensibilidad. Este estudio tuvo como objetivo informar de un caso de envenenamiento por Brachiaria decumbens en uno cabrito el Hospital Veterinario de la Universidad AnhangueraUniderp. Asistieron Una cabra, de la ciudad de Bandeirantes, Mato Grosso do Sul, mantenida en pastos de Brachiaria decumbens. El animal tenía una historia de aislamiento manada durante 15 días, se presenta con dolor abdominal. El examen físico reveló severa ictericia, postración y hinchazo de las articulaciones de las extremidades anteriores. En el examen de ultrasonido fue percibido aumentó la vesícula biliar y que se presentó su contenido asentado. En el quinto dia de post-hospitalización, el empeoramiento del cuadro clínico que llevo el animal a óbito. En la necropsia se observó ictericia, hígado con una consistencia crujiente y aspecto nuez moscada, la vesícula biliar se incrementó en volumen con contenido muy viscoso. En la histología se observó retención de bilis aguda y múltiples células gigantes con citoplasma espumoso y gránulos de pigmento de color amarillento. Los conductos biliares se proliferaron, y en algunos se observo en la luz cristales refringentes. En los macrófagos se observaron imágenes negativas de cristales. Estos resultados son consistentes con la muerte por envenenamiento por Brachiaria spp. [...](AU)

This paper is a case report of poisoning by Brachiaria decumbens in a goat treated in the Veterinary Hospital of the University Anhanguera-Uniderp. The animal coming from Bandeirantes city, Mato Grosso do Sul State, where was maintained in Brachiaria decumbens pastures. It had a history of herd isolation for 15 days, presenting abdominal pain with sifose. Physical examination revealed severe jaundice, prostration and swelling of the joints of the forelimbs. On examination of ultrasonography was perceived increase in gallbladder and its contents are presented sedmentation. On the fifth day after admission, there was deterioration in the clinical picture leading the animal to death. At necropsy could observe jaundice, friable liver with nutmeg aspect, the gallbladder had increased volume with very viscous content. Histologically were observed marked biliary retention and multiple giant cells with foamy cytoplasm and yellowish pigment granules. The bile ducts were proliferated, and some have light refringent crystal. Macrophages containing negative images of crystals were observed. These findings are consistent with death from poisoning by Brachiaria spp. We conclude that, depending on the clinical picture, necropsy and histopathology, it is a case of poisoning by Brachiaria decumbens.(AU)

A sensibilidade da pele à luz solar acarretando em dermatite é conhecida por fotossensibilização. Objetivou-se relatar um caso de intoxicação por Brachiaria decumbens em um cabrito, atendido no Hospital Veterinário da Universidade Anhanguera-Uniderp. Foi atendido um caprino, proveniente do município de Bandeirantes, Mato Grosso do Sul, mantido em pastagens de Brachiaria decumbens. O animal tinha histórico de isolamento do rebanho há 15 dias, apresentando dor abdominal com sifose. Ao exame físico observou-se icterícia severa, prostração e aumento de volume das articulações dos membros anteriores. Ao exame de ultrassonografia foi percebido aumento da vesícula biliar sendo que seu conteúdo se apresentava sedimentado. No quinto dia, pós-internação, houve piora no quadro clínico levando o animal a óbito. À necropsia pôde-se observar icterícia, fígado com consistência friável e aspecto de noz moscada, a vesícula biliar estava aumentada de volume com conteúdo muito viscoso. À histologia se observaram acentuada retenção biliar e múltiplas células gigantes multinucleadas com citoplasma espumoso e grânulos de pigmento amarelado. Os ductos biliares estavam proliferados e, em alguns, observa-se na luz, cristais refringentes. Nos macrófagos foram observadas imagens negativas de cristais. Esses achados são compatíveis com morte causada por intoxicação por Brachiaria spp. [...](AU)

Fotosensibilización hepatogena en cabrito - reporte de un caso / Photosensitization in a kid goat - case report / Fotossensibilização hepatógena em cabrito - relato de caso

La sensibilidad de la piel a la luz solar que resulta en dermatitis es conocida como fotosensibilidad. Este estudio tuvo como objetivo informar de un caso de envenenamiento por Brachiaria decumbens en uno cabrito el Hospital Veterinario de la Universidad AnhangueraUniderp. Asistieron Una cabra, de la ciudad de Bandeirantes, Mato Grosso do Sul, mantenida en pastos de Brachiaria decumbens. El animal tenía una historia de aislamiento manada durante 15 días, se presenta con dolor abdominal. El examen físico reveló severa ictericia, postración y hinchazo de las articulaciones de las extremidades anteriores. En el examen de ultrasonido fue percibido aumentó la vesícula biliar y que se presentó su contenido asentado. En el quinto dia de post-hospitalización, el empeoramiento del cuadro clínico que llevo el animal a óbito. En la necropsia se observó ictericia, hígado con una consistencia crujiente y aspecto nuez moscada, la vesícula biliar se incrementó en volumen con contenido muy viscoso. En la histología se observó retención de bilis aguda y múltiples células gigantes con citoplasma espumoso y gránulos de pigmento de color amarillento. Los conductos biliares se proliferaron, y en algunos se observo en la luz cristales refringentes. En los macrófagos se observaron imágenes negativas de cristales. Estos resultados son consistentes con la muerte por envenenamiento por Brachiaria spp. [...]

This paper is a case report of poisoning by Brachiaria decumbens in a goat treated in the Veterinary Hospital of the University Anhanguera-Uniderp. The animal coming from Bandeirantes city, Mato Grosso do Sul State, where was maintained in Brachiaria decumbens pastures. It had a history of herd isolation for 15 days, presenting abdominal pain with sifose. Physical examination revealed severe jaundice, prostration and swelling of the joints of the forelimbs. On examination of ultrasonography was perceived increase in gallbladder and its contents are presented sedmentation. On the fifth day after admission, there was deterioration in the clinical picture leading the animal to death. At necropsy could observe jaundice, friable liver with nutmeg aspect, the gallbladder had increased volume with very viscous content. Histologically were observed marked biliary retention and multiple giant cells with foamy cytoplasm and yellowish pigment granules. The bile ducts were proliferated, and some have light refringent crystal. Macrophages containing negative images of crystals were observed. These findings are consistent with death from poisoning by Brachiaria spp. We conclude that, depending on the clinical picture, necropsy and histopathology, it is a case of poisoning by Brachiaria decumbens.

A sensibilidade da pele à luz solar acarretando em dermatite é conhecida por fotossensibilização. Objetivou-se relatar um caso de intoxicação por Brachiaria decumbens em um cabrito, atendido no Hospital Veterinário da Universidade Anhanguera-Uniderp. Foi atendido um caprino, proveniente do município de Bandeirantes, Mato Grosso do Sul, mantido em pastagens de Brachiaria decumbens. O animal tinha histórico de isolamento do rebanho há 15 dias, apresentando dor abdominal com sifose. Ao exame físico observou-se icterícia severa, prostração e aumento de volume das articulações dos membros anteriores. Ao exame de ultrassonografia foi percebido aumento da vesícula biliar sendo que seu conteúdo se apresentava sedimentado. No quinto dia, pós-internação, houve piora no quadro clínico levando o animal a óbito. À necropsia pôde-se observar icterícia, fígado com consistência friável e aspecto de noz moscada, a vesícula biliar estava aumentada de volume com conteúdo muito viscoso. À histologia se observaram acentuada retenção biliar e múltiplas células gigantes multinucleadas com citoplasma espumoso e grânulos de pigmento amarelado. Os ductos biliares estavam proliferados e, em alguns, observa-se na luz, cristais refringentes. Nos macrófagos foram observadas imagens negativas de cristais. Esses achados são compatíveis com morte causada por intoxicação por Brachiaria spp. [...]

Hepatogenous chronic copper toxicosis associated with grazing Brachiaria decumbens in a goat

A case of hepatogenous chronic copper toxicosis associated with ingestion of Brachiaria decumbens in a 4-year-old female is reported in a goat from a herd of approximately 1,000 goats of different categories, all grazing in a pasture consisting exclusively of B. decumbens. The goat had chronic weight loss, dehydration, and apathy. Just prior to death it developed anemia, icterus and hemoglobinuria. Necropsy findings included marked icterus, enhanced lobular pattern and orange discoloration of the liver, pulmonary edema, distention of the gall bladder and hemoblobinuric nephrosis. Histopathological examination of the liver revealed marked random degeneration and necrosis of individual hepatocytes, marked bilestasis, intracytoplasmic hemosiderin in hepatocytes and Kupffer cells, birefringent crystals with bile staining in the lumen of bile ducts, and sparse, randomly distributed foamy macrophages. Severe multifocal tubular degeneration and necrosis associated with multiple hyaline and coarsely granular hemoglobin casts were observed in the kidneys. Copper levels determined in liver and kidney samples by atomic absorption spectrophotometry were 410 ppm of liver dry matter and 34.4 ppm (kidney, dry matter). The gross, histopathological findings and copper analysis in the tissues of this goat led to a final diagnosis of hepatogenous chronic copper toxicosis associated with grazing of B. decumbens.(AU)

Hepatogenous chronic copper toxicosis associated with grazing Brachiaria decumbens in a goat

A case of hepatogenous chronic copper toxicosis associated with ingestion of Brachiaria decumbens in a 4-year-old female is reported in a goat from a herd of approximately 1,000 goats of different categories, all grazing in a pasture consisting exclusively of B. decumbens. The goat had chronic weight loss, dehydration, and apathy. Just prior to death it developed anemia, icterus and hemoglobinuria. Necropsy findings included marked icterus, enhanced lobular pattern and orange discoloration of the liver, pulmonary edema, distention of the gall bladder and hemoblobinuric nephrosis. Histopathological examination of the liver revealed marked random degeneration and necrosis of individual hepatocytes, marked bilestasis, intracytoplasmic hemosiderin in hepatocytes and Kupffer cells, birefringent crystals with bile staining in the lumen of bile ducts, and sparse, randomly distributed foamy macrophages. Severe multifocal tubular degeneration and necrosis associated with multiple hyaline and coarsely granular hemoglobin casts were observed in the kidneys. Copper levels determined in liver and kidney samples by atomic absorption spectrophotometry were 410 ppm of liver dry matter and 34.4 ppm (kidney, dry matter). The gross, histopathological findings and copper analysis in the tissues of this goat led to a final diagnosis of hepatogenous chronic copper toxicosis associated with grazing of B. decumbens.

Ultrahigh-Performance Liquid Chromatography-High-Resolution Quadrupole Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry Based Metabolomics Reveals Key Differences between Brachiaria decumbens and B. brizantha, Two Similar Pastures with Different Toxicities.

Several species of Brachiaria (Poaceae) currently cover extensive grazing areas in Brazil, providing valuable source of feed for a large cattle population. However, numerous cases of toxicity outbreaks in livestock have raised concerns on safety of using these plants, especially B. decumbens. In this study, chemometric analysis of ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography-high-resolution quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-HR-QTOF-MS) data has for the first time uncovered qualitative and quantitative differences between metabolomes of toxic B. decumbens and nontoxic B. brizantha. The steroidal saponin protoneodioscin was established as the main biomarker for B. decumbens when compared to B. brizantha, and therefore the key explanation for their phytochemical differentiation. Quantification of protodioscin in both plants showed no significant differences; consequently, the idea that this compound is solely responsible for toxicity outbreaks must be discarded. Instead, we propose that the added occurrence of its stereoisomer, protoneodioscin, in B. decumbens, can be considered as the probable cause of these events. Interestingly, the greatest concentrations of saponins for both species were reached during winter (B. decumbens = 53.6 ± 5.1 mg·g(-1) dry weight (D.W.); B. brizantha = 25.0 ± 1.9 mg·g(-1) D.W.) and spring (B. decumbens = 49.4 ± 5.0 mg·g(-1) D.W.; B. brizantha = 27.9 ± 1.4 mg·g(-1) D.W.), although in the case of B. decumbens these values do not vary significantly among seasons.

Identification of lamb flocks susceptible and resistant against Brachiaria poisoning / Identificação de rebanhos de cordeiros suscetíveis e resistentes a intoxicação por braquiária

This study was designed to assess the influence of genetic resistance against brachiaria poisoning in sheep. Two groups of sheep, one identified as susceptible (formed by two ewes and one ram) and the other as resistant against brachiaria poisoning (formed by three ewes and one ram) were selected. Sheep considered susceptible were those that presented clinical signs of brachiaria poisoning at any time of their life; resistant sheep were those that even raised on Brachiaria spp. pastures, did not developed any sign of the poisoning during their life. The offspring of the two flocks (15 lambs from the sensitive flock and 9 lambs from the resistant flock) were placed into brachiaria pasture (initially Brachiaria decumbens and B. brizantha,and only B. decumbens after weaning) and followed up during two years (2013-2014). The determination of protodioscin levels in B. decumbens pasture was performed only in 2014 and revealed significant amounts of the toxic principle. Eleven lambs of the susceptible group were affected to some degree of brachiaria poisoning and six died; no lamb of the resistant group was affected. Clinical signs consisted of varying degrees of subcutaneous edema of the face and, erythema and loss of hair of the ears, crusts on the skin of ears, around the eyes and on planum nasale, scar deformation of the ears, and bilateral ocular discharge; affected lambs also sought for shadowy shelters and they were poor doers. Several sheep recovered from the condition and then relapsed. Necropsy findings in six lambs included pale mucous membranes, emaciation, dermatitis, scar deformation of the ears, large yellow livers with marked lobular pattern, and moderate infestation by Haemonchus contortus...

Este estudo avaliou a resistência genética na ocorrência de intoxicação por braquiária em ovinos. Foram selecionados dois grupos de ovinos, um identificado como suscetível (formado por duas ovelhas e um carneiro) e o outro como resistente (formado por três ovelhas e um carneiro). Foram considerados suscetíveis ovinos que apresentaram sinais de intoxicação por Brachiaria spp. em algum ponto de suas vidas e resistentes aqueles ovinos que, mesmo criados em pastagem de braquiária, nunca desenvolveram qualquer sinal da intoxicação. A progênie desses dois grupos (15 cordeiros do grupo suscetível e 9 no grupo resistente) foi colocada numa pastagem de braquiária (inicialmente Brachiaria decumbens e B. brizantha e, após o desmame, apenas B. decumbens) e acompanhada durante dois anos (2013-2014). A determinação dos níveis de protodioscina em B. decumbens foi realizada apenas em 2014 e foram encontradas quantidades significativas do princípio tóxico. Onze cordeiros do grupo suscetível foram afetados por algum grau de intoxicação por braquiária; nenhum cordeiro do grupo resistente foi afetado. Os sinais clínicos consistiam de graus variáveis de edema subcutâneo da face e eritema e alopecia da pele das orelhas, crostas na pele das orelhas e ao redor dos olhos e no plano nasal, retração cicatricial das orelhas, fotofobia e corrimento ocular bilateral. Três cordeiros apresentaram desenvolvimento retardado. Vários cordeiros se recuperaram da condição, mas posteriormente quando foram colocados na pastagem apresentaram recidivas. Achados de necropsia em seis cordeiros incluíam mucosas pálidas, pobre condição corporal, dermatite, deformação cicatricial das orelhas, fígado aumentado de volume, amarelo e com padrão lobular evidenciado e graus moderados de infestação por Haemonchus contortus...

Spontaneous poisoning by brachiaria decumbens in goats / Intoxicação espontânea por brachiaria decumbens em caprinos

An outbreak of Brachiaria decumbens poisoning in goats in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil, is described. Out of a herd of about 1,000 goats, seven goats died after showing photosensitivity (3 out 7 goats) and icterus (4/7). Other clinical signs included lethargy, dehydration and weight loss (7/7). At necropsy there was either hepatomegaly or liver atrophy; orange, yellow or gray discoloration - were observed in the liver of six goats. Two had accentuation of lobular pattern and punctate, linear or stellar fibrous depressions were randomly distributedover the capsular surface. Macroscopic changesattributedto liver failure consisting of hydropericardium (2/7) and ascites (2/7) were observed. Histologically, there was accumulation of refringent crystals in the bile ducts and infiltration of foamy macrophages in the liver of all goats. Foamy macrophages were also present in the hepatic and mesenteric lymph nodes of two goats. The diagnosis of B. decumbens poisoning was based on epidemiology, clinical signs, necropsy findings and histopathology.

Relata-se um surto de intoxicação por Brachiaria decumbens em caprinos no estado do Mato Grosso do Sul. De um rebanho de aproximadamente 1.000 caprinos, sete cabras morreram após apresentar fotossensibilização (3 de 7 cabras) e icterícia (4/7). Outros sinais clínicos incluíam apatia, desidratação e emagrecimento (7/7). Todas as cabras tinham alteração no tamanho do fígado - cinco estavam aumentados de volume e dois, diminuídos; o fígado de 6 cabras tinha alteração na cor - dois eram alaranjados, dois amarelados e dois, acinzentados; o fígado de duas cabras tinha acentuação do padrão lobular e outros dois apresentavam depressões fibrosas puntiformes, lineares ou estreladas, brancacentas distribuídas aleatoriamente pela superfície capsular. Adicionalmente, foram observadas alterações macroscópicas atribuídas à insuficiência hepática como hidropericárdio (2/7) e ascite (2/7). Alterações histopatológicas incluíam cristais refringentes nos ductos biliares e infiltrado de macrófagos espumosos no parênquima hepático de todas as cabras. Macrófagos espumosos também foram observados nos linfonodos mesentéricos e hepáticos em duas cabras. O diagnóstico de intoxicação por braquiária foi baseado na epidemiologia, achados clínicos, de necropsia e histopatológicos.