VPT 421: Veterinary Toxicology (2+0)

ENVIRONMENT RELATED FACTORS

• Environmental factors, such as temperature, humidity, and barometric pressure, affect rates of consumption and even the occurrence of some toxic agents. Many mycotoxins and poisonous plants are correlated with seasonal or climatic changes, e.g., the ischemic effects of ergot poisoning are more often observed during the winter cold, and plant nitrate levels are affected by rainfall amounts.
• Air circulation also affects toxicity. Silo gases accumulate in confined spaces and settle to low spots.
• Light also plays a role in modifying toxicity. Some toxicants undergo degradation readily after exposure to bright sunlight.