Toxic tubular necrosis and perirenal edema in cattle associated with ingestion of Amaranthus quitensis

Abstract

An outbreak of Amaranthus quitensis poisoning in beef cattle is described. Forty seven yearlings, heifers and adult cows out of 105, died after several days of weakness, haemorrhagic diarrhea and ascitis. The cattle became recumbent and died. At necropsy, perirenal edema and toxic tubular nephrosis were seen. Pertinent clinical laboratory findings included incresed urea nitrogen and creatinin content. The confirmation of the toxicity of Amaranthus quitensis was done by a calf-feeding trial. The serum levels of urea, creatinin, calcium and Gamma GT were also studied in this trial. The possibility of a nephrotoxin in the plant as the cause of poisoning is discussed.