Hepatopathy, Chronic Megalocytic

Hepatopathy, Chronic Megalocytic



Basic Information image



Definition


Chronic megalocytic hepatopathy is caused by ingestion of pyrrolizidine alkaloid–containing plants (Senecio jacobaea, S. vulgaris, S. longilobus, S. riddellii, S. spartioides, S. integerrimus, Amsinckia intermedia, Crotalaria sagittalis, C. spetabilis, Heliotropium europaeum, Echium plantagineum), resulting in the delayed onset of chronic progressive liver failure.



Synonym(s)


Pyrrolizidine alkaloid toxicity



Epidemiology



Risk Factors




• Overgrazed pasture


• Hay harvested with pyrrolizidine alkaloid–containing plants



Geography and Seasonality




• The disease occurs worldwide and is the most common cause of hepatic failure in horses in certain parts of the United States.


image S. jacobaea, S. vulgaris: Pacific Coast

image A. intermedia: West

image C. sagittalis, C. spetabilis, H. europaeum: Southeast


Associated Conditions and Disorders


Clinical signs of chronic megalocytic hepatopathy may be indistinguishable from other chronic liver disorders.



Clinical Presentation



Disease Forms/Subtypes




• Chronic (most common): Insidious onset of signs that is usually delayed 1 to 3 months after ingestion of plants containing pyrrolizidine alkaloids.


• Despite a delay in development of signs from time of exposure, the onset of signs may be acute.


• If consumption of toxic plants is excessive, the onset of signs may be acute.



History, Chief Complaint


Owners may observe weakness, weight loss, lethargy, anorexia, head pressing, yawning, or depression. The horse may have a history of being fed pyrrolizidine alkaloid–contaminated hay or exposure to an overgrazed pasture.



Physical Exam Findings




• Icterus, photosensitivity dermatitis, weight loss, hepatic encephalopathy, petechiae (rarely).


• Diarrhea, edema, polydipsia, polyuria, hemolysis, and laryngeal hemiplegia may occur late in the disease.

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Jul 24, 2016 | Posted by in SMALL ANIMAL | Comments Off on Hepatopathy, Chronic Megalocytic

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