Spontaneous poisoning by Myoporum laetum in cattle in Uruguay

Abstract

In the present work we describe toxic outbreaks caused by Myoporum laetum in bovines. The intoxications took place in the southeast and southern regions of Uruguay, specifically in the counties of Canelones, Lavalleja, Rocha and San José, during the winter of 2005. The disease affected cows and young steers Holland, Hereford, Aberdeen Angus and cross breed, which had access to fallen branches of trees after a big tempest. Clinical signs were observed 4 to 6 days after the storm, and were characterized by colic, edema of the mammary gland, serous ocular discharge, generalized jaundice, severe dermatitis in white areas of the skin exposed to the sun, abortion in heifers, and death 24 to 48 hours after the beginning of clinical signs.