Clover Toxicosis

Clover Toxicosis



Basic Information image



Definition


Clover toxicity is caused by ingestion of alsike clover (Trifolium hybridum) or red clover (Trifolium pratense), resulting in signs of photosensitivity and liver failure.



Synonym(s)




• Dew poisoning


• Trifoliosis


• Big liver disease



Epidemiology



Risk Factors


Consumption of pasture or hay containing alsike or red clover



Geography and Seasonality




• Found mainly in Canada and the northwestern United States


• Most cases occur from April to November


• Associated with a wet spring



Clinical Presentation



Disease Forms/Subtypes




• Photosensitization


• Chronic hepatic disease


• Chronic wasting and failure to thrive



History, Chief Complaint




• Owners may observe a necrotizing dermatitis primarily affecting white skin, weakness, weight loss, anorexia, ataxia, and behavior changes.


• History of consumption of alsike or red clover hay or pasture.



Physical Exam Findings


Icterus, photosensitivity dermatitis, ulceration of mucous membranes, hepatic encephalopathy, weight loss



Etiology and Pathophysiology




• Alsike or red clover ingestion resulting in bile duct proliferation and perilobular (periportal) fibrosis.


• Photosensitization is the result of systemic accumulation of the chlorophyll metabolite phylloerythrin that is not removed by the diseased liver. Phylloerythrin is a photodynamic agent that absorbs ultraviolent radiation, particularly in unpigmented skin, leading to skin necrosis.


• Signs develop 2 to 4 weeks after ingestion.


• The exact toxin(s) are not known, although fungal infection of the clover with Cymodothea trifolii increases the risk of liver disease.

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Jul 24, 2016 | Posted by in SMALL ANIMAL | Comments Off on Clover Toxicosis

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