VPT 421: Veterinary Toxicology (2+0)

CLINICAL SYMPTOMS AND PM LESIONS

• Clinical symptoms
  • The symptoms are often associated with vigorous insecticide treatment of the animal. It is also possibly due in part to larger amounts of synergist(s) in the formulation.
  • Effects on rodents classified into two syndromes: type I and type II syndromes which correlate with the chemical structures.
    • Type I syndrome caused by classical pyrethrins and type I pyrethroids (no alpha cyano group) - There is increased sensitivity to stimuli, fine muscle tremors, whole body tremors and prostration.
    • Type II syndrome caused by alpha-cyano pyrethroids – There is salivation; rodents paw, burrow, writhe and may display clonic seizures; possible paresthesia of skin.
  • In cats and dogs, clinical signs associated with toxicosis from pyrethrins and type I or type II pyrethroids may include tremors, increased salivation, ataxia, vomiting, depression, increased body temperature, hyperexcitability or hyperactivity, seizures, dyspnea and death.
  • Clinical signs generally develop within hours of exposure, but may be delayed as a result of prolonged exposure from dermal absorption or grooming. Generally, sublethally exposed animals recover within 72 hours.
• Lesions
• No specific gross lesions noted and death is generally rare .