Acute liver failure in two dogs following ingestion of cheese tree (Glochidion ferdinandi) roots

Abstract

Objective: To describe the management and resolution of acute liver failure (ALF) in two dogs following ingestion of cheese tree (Glochidion ferdinandi) roots. Case Summaries:A 2-year-old male entire Bullmastiff and a 5-year-old female neutered German Shepherd dog were presented for acute-onset lethargy and vomiting after chewing on tree roots of a cheese tree. Both dogs developed clinical abnormalities consistent with ALF, including hepatic encephalopathy, marked increase in alanine aminotransferase activity and bilirubin concentration, and prolonged coagulation times. Treatment included administration of intravenous fluids, hepatoprotectants, vitamin K 1 , antibiotics, lactulose, antacids, antiemetics, and multiple fresh frozen plasma transfusions. Follow-up examinations performed 30 days after initial presentation revealed the dogs to be clinically healthy with serum biochemical and coagulation profiles within reference intervals.New or Unique Information: This is the first report describing ALF in two dogs following ingestion of cheese tree (G. ferdinandi) roots. In this clinical setting, despite a poor prognosis, survival and recovery of adequate liver function were possible with medical management.

Toxic Effect of Aflatoxins in Dogs Fed Contaminated Commercial Dry Feed: A Review

“…The latter are used to protect against systemic infection caused by AFmediated immunosuppression. [38,77,[88][89][90].…”

“…The use of silymarin is also proposed [84]; this flavonoid derived from milk thistle could increase GST activity and promote GSH's synthesis [88]. When the rate of elimination of reactive AF metabolites is increased, the attack of subcellular structures is reduced or inhibited and therefore, cellular integrity is protected, especially of the liver and kidney as targeted organs of attack by AF [89]. Vitamin E is another liver protector used in CDF to prevent lipid peroxidation by AF epoxides and to prevent damage to cell membranes.…”