Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Dog with liver poisoning and jaundice from contaminated food
By M.D. Furquim et al.·Published in Arquivo Brasileiro de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia·2025·View original on DOAJ →
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Original publication title: Aflatoxicosis in a canine associated with consumption of contaminated food - case report
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A male mongrel dog developed severe jaundice and lethargy after eating contaminated dog food, leading to his death within three days. A necropsy revealed significant liver damage and high levels of aflatoxin, a harmful toxin produced by mold that can contaminate food. Unfortunately, despite the veterinary care provided, the dog did not survive due to the severity of the liver damage caused by the toxins. This case highlights the dangers of aflatoxicosis in dogs and the importance of ensuring pet food is safe and properly stored.
People also search for: dog jaundice causes · aflatoxicosis in dogs · contaminated dog food symptoms · liver problems in dogs · dog food safety concerns
Abstract
ABSTRACT Aflatoxins are mycotoxins produced by fungi that cause severe poisoning, mainly affecting the liver. Aflatoxicosis is rarely reported in dogs, but this species is extremely sensitive. The objective of this study was to report anatomopathological aspects of a case of aflatoxicosis in a male mongrel dog associated with ingestion of contaminated feed. The animal was treated at UNICRUZ Veterinary Hospital with a history of jaundice and apathy, which led to death within three days. At necropsy, marked jaundice of mucous membranes, subcutaneous tissue and intima of arteries, and a friable liver with accentuated lobular pattern were observed. Histopathological evaluation revealed intense vacuolization of hepatocytes, megalocytosis, fibrosis, proliferation of bile ducts and bilestasis. Samples of feed ingested by the animal were sent to Mycotoxicological Analysis Laboratory of UFSM, confirming high levels of aflatoxin. These poisonings occur due to ingestion of contaminated ingredients used in manufacture of dog food. The production of mycotoxins results from storage failures and poor quality of ingredients, which are often undetectable. The necropsy and histopathological findings, associated with clinical condition, were compatible with aflatoxicosis. The diagnosis was confirmed by assessing the aflatoxin levels in commercial food ingested by the animal.
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Search related cases →Original publication on DOAJ: https://doi.org/10.1590/1678-4162-13367