Osteolathyrism in calves in Uruguay.

Abstract

This chapter reports spontaneous outbreaks of intoxication by Lathyrus hirsutus in calves in Uruguay and its experimental reproduction in the same species. Seven outbreaks during the years 2004-2008 were studied. Cases occurred in November in the Departments of San José and Canelones. Farms where outbreaks occurred were visited and plants collected for botanic identification. The most prevalent weed was identified as L. hirsutus. Seeds of the plant were found in faeces and microhistological analysis of leaf epidermis showed evidence of the weed. Diagnosis was based on epidemiological data, presence of the plant, and clinical signs.

Plants causing poisoning outbreaks of livestock in South America: A review

“…The poisoning was reproduced experimentally by the administration of L. hirsutus pods. No macroscopic or histologic lesions were observed ( García y Santos et al, 2011 ).…”