Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Presumptive Iatrogenic Microcystin-Associated Liver Failure and Encephalopathy in a Holsteiner Gelding.
- Journal:
- Journal of veterinary internal medicine
- Year:
- 2016
- Authors:
- Mittelman, N S et al.
- Affiliation:
- Department of Clinical Studies New Bolton Center · United States
- Species:
- horse
Plain-English summary
An 8-year-old Holsteiner gelding was taken to the vet because he had stopped eating, seemed very tired, had yellowing of the skin and eyes, and showed mild signs of belly pain for the past two days. After examining him and running some tests, the vet suspected he had liver disease and brain issues, likely caused by a toxin from a cyanobacteria supplement he had been given. It turned out that the supplement was contaminated with microcystin, a harmful substance. Unfortunately, his liver failure and brain problems worsened, leading to the difficult decision to euthanize him. The examination after his passing confirmed that his liver failure was indeed caused by the microcystin.
Abstract
An 8-year-old Holsteiner gelding was presented for evaluation of anorexia, obtundation, icterus, and mild colic signs of 48 hours duration. History, physical examination, and initial diagnostics were suggestive of hepatic disease and encephalopathy. Microcystin toxicosis was suspected based on historical administration of a cyanobacteria supplement, associated serum biochemistry abnormalities, and characteristic histopathological changes. Microcystin contamination was confirmed in both supplement containers fed to the horse. Fulminant hepatic failure and encephalopathy progressed resulting in euthanasia. Necropsy findings were consistent with microcystin induced liver failure.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27611818/