Fescue Toxicosis

Overview

Journal Vet Clin North Am Equine Pract

Specialty Veterinary Medicine

Date 2002 Jan 10

PMID 11780287

Citations 5

Authors

D J Blodgett

Affiliations

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Abstract

Most of the tall fescue pastures in the United States are infected by an endophyte, N. coenophialum. The fungus derives nutrients from the plant while supplying the plant with toxins for defense. The most detrimental toxins for animals in tall fescue are ergopeptine alkaloids, especially ergovaline. Ergovaline functions as a dopamine D2 agonist and alters prolactin and several other hormones in the body. Pregnant mares are most susceptible during their last month of gestation. Clinical signs include prolonged gestation, dystocia, retained placentas, agalactia, and dysmature foals that are either stillborn or weak.

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