Aflatoxin Toxicosis

Aflatoxin Toxicosis



Basic Information image



Definition


Aflatoxins are hepatotoxic mycotoxins (mold toxins) produced by various Aspergillus spp. and other fungi, most commonly A. flavus and A. parasiticus. Aflatoxin can contaminate a wide variety of nutritious feedstuffs, including but not limited to corn, peanuts, sorghum, wheat, rice, cottonseed, sweet potatoes, and potatoes. The four major forms of aflatoxin in feedstuffs are aflatoxin B1, B2, G1, and G2. Aflatoxicosis has been reported in numerous species, including humans, dogs, cattle, swine, poultry, and fish, but there have been relatively few cases reported in horses.



Synonym(s)


Synonyms for aflatoxin poisoning are aflatoxicosis, hepatitis X (dogs), and X disease (turkeys).



Epidemiology



Species, Age, Sex


Neonates may be more sensitive.



Risk Factors


A protein-deficient diet may enhance the hepatotoxic effects of aflatoxins. Dietary vitamin A, carotene, selenium, and antioxidants decrease the effects.



Geography and Seasonality


Preharvest contamination occurs in tropical and temperate climates. Contamination of stored grain occurs worldwide.



Clinical Presentation



Disease Forms/Subtypes




• Chronic aflatoxin poisoning is the most common form in large animals.


• Acute aflatoxicosis may occur if high concentrations of aflatoxins are present in the feed.



History, Chief Complaint




• Affected horses usually have a history of grain in the diet, most commonly corn.


• Clinical signs of chronic aflatoxicosis may be subtle at first, including decreased weight gain or weight loss and poor haircoat. Signs may progress to anorexia, depression, icterus, and hepatic encephalopathy.


• Acute clinical aflatoxicosis is associated with anorexia, depression, diarrhea, gastrointestinal hemorrhage, and icterus.



Physical Exam Findings




• Chronic


image General unthriftiness

image Icterus

• Acute


• Coagulopathy

• Icterus


Etiology and Pathophysiology


Aflatoxin is metabolized in the liver to an active compound that binds with cellular components such as nucleic acids, proteins, and subcellular organelles, disrupting cellular function.



Diagnosis image



Differential Diagnosis




• Other hepatotoxins cause similar clinical signs and lesions


• Pyrrolizidine alkaloids

• Carboxyatractyloside from Xanthium spp. (cockleburs)
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Jul 24, 2016 | Posted by in SMALL ANIMAL | Comments Off on Aflatoxin Toxicosis

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