Chronic toxicity in cattle due to Pteridium aquilinum (bracken fern) in Tarija Department, Bolivia: an interdisciplinary investigation.

Abstract

AbstractThe botanical and phytochemical aspects of P. aquilinum, as well as its toxicity to cattle in Bolivia were studied. Extensive colonization of the mountainous areas by the bracken fern viz. P. aquilinum var. aquilinum and P. aquilinum var. caudatum was recorded. Phytochemical analysis showed the presence of ptaquiloside in the bracken samples. The incidence of bovine enzootic haematuria (BEH) increased in the experimental area over the last 20 years. Cattle as young as 2 years old exhibited BEH. Dysphagia associated with alimentary tract tumours, as well as cachexia among the animals was observed. Pallid mucous membranes associated with urinary tract blood loss was also observed. Neoplasms were present in the bladders of all animals in the upper alimentary tract in 50% of the experimental animals. The bladder wall was thick and the mucosa was rough and hyperaemic, and contained angiomatous and solid tumour masses. Transitional cell carcinomas, angiosarcomas, fibrosarcomas ad squamous cell carcinomas characterized by epithelial plaques and profuse fibrous stroma infiltrated by inflammatory cells were observed.