Hepatoencephalopathy caused by Senecio jacobaea intoxication in five horses

Abstract

Acute hepatoencephalopathy due to ingestion of Senecio jacobaea is described in five horses. Diagnosis was based on history, clinical findings, ultrasonography, laboratory results and postmortem examination. Blood analysis revealed decreased levels of urea and increased levels of ammonia, gamma-glutamyl transferase, bile acids and total bilirubin. As no specific treatment for pyrrolizidine alkaloid intoxication exists, therapy was mainly supportive. None of the five horses survived. Because of the poor prognosis, prevention of the disease, by means of pasture management and exclusion of these plants from hay or silage, is mandatory.