Hepatogenous photosensitization associated with liver copper accumulation in buffalos

Author(s)

Minervino, Antonio H. H. ^[1] ; Barreto Junior, Raimundo A. ^[1] ; Rodrigues, Frederico A. M. L. ^[1] ; Ferreira, Rodrigo N. F. ^[1] ; Reis, Leonardo F. ^[1] ; Headley, Selwyn A. ; Ortolani, Enrico L. ^[1]

Affiliation

^[1] Univ Sao Paulo, Coll Vet Med, Dept Clin Sci, BR-05508270 Sao Paulo - Brazil

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: Research in Veterinary Science; v. 88, n. 3, p. 519-522, JUN 2010.
• Web of Science Citations: 5

Abstract

Four 1.5-year-old, male, Murrah buffalos were maintained during eight months without direct solar exposure during a study of copper toxicosis. Four days after solar exposure, all buffalos presented clinical manifestations consistent with acute photosensitization, including anorexia, apathy, loss of body weight, and generalized cutaneous lesions. Gross lesions were characterized by severe erythema, localized edema, fissures, tissue necrosis, gangrene and crust formation with h serous exudation. Liver copper concentration was evaluated, and cutaneous biopsies were taken when clinical signs were evident. The liver copper concentration before solar exposure was increased in all animals. Histopathologic examination of the skin revealed hepatogenous photosensitization characterized by parakeratotic hyperkeratosis, acantholysis, degeneration of squamous epithelial cells, epidermal necrosis with atrophy of sweat glands, and multifocal superficial and deep dermal edema. These findings suggest that asymptomatic accumulation of copper within the liver might have induced hepatic insufficiency thereby resulting in secondary photosensitization when these buffalos were exposed to sunlight. (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 05/03204-0 - Comparative study of the susceptibility of cattle and buffalo to accumulative copper poisoning
• Grantee: Enrico Lippi Ortolani
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants