Metaldehyde poisoning

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Sections available in full article Introduction, Presenting signs, Pathogenesis, Etiology, Pathophysiology, Timecourse (incubation, duration), Diagnosis, Presenting problems, Client history, Clinical signs, Confirmation of diagnosis, Gross autopsy findings, Differential diagnosis, Treatment, Initial symptomatic treatment, Prevention, Control, Sequelae, Prognosis, Expected response to treatment, Reasons for treatment failure, Sources, Publications, Vetstream contributor(s),
Contributors Dr MarkThompson DVM DipABVP
Synonyms Slug pellets, molluscicide

Introduction

  • Molluscicide, rat poison.
  • Signs : similar to organophosphate or carbamate poisoning.
  • Diagnosis : history, clinical signs.
  • Treatment : symptomatic - no specific antidote.
  • Prognosis : good.

Diagnosis

Clinical signs

  • Hyperesthesia.
  • Muscle tremor.
  • Nystagmus.
  • Tachypnea.
  • Tachycardia.
  • Opisthotonus.
  • Hyperthermia (up to 42.5°C).
  • Blindness.
  • Acetaldehyde odor on breath.

Diagnosis

Differential diagnosis

  • Other poisonings:
    • Strychnine Strychnine toxicity.
    • Organophosphates Organophosphorus poisoning.
    • Bromethalin Bromethalin poisoning.

Sequelae

Prognosis

  • Prognosis is good with treatment.
  • If severe, may have delayed renal or hepatic damage (5-14 days).

Expected response to treatment

  • Disappearance of clinical signs.

Reasons for treatment failure

  • Massive overdosage and treatment not sought early enough.
  • Failures are rare.

Sources

Publications

Refereed papers

  • Talcott P A & Dorman D C (1997) Pesticide exposure in companion animals. Vet Med 92 , 167-181.
  • Mayer S (1991) Poisons - metaldehyde. In Pract 13 , 57.

Other sources of information

  • Campbell A and Chapman M (2000) Handbook of poisoning in dogs and cats. Blackwell Science. 181-185.
  • Poppenga R (1999) Toxicological Emergencies. In: Manual of Canine and Feline Emergency and Critical Care. Eds L King and Hammond. BSAVA publication. pp 219-232.
  • Lorgue G, Lechenet J & Reviere, A (1966) Clinical Veterinary Toxicology. Oxford: Blackwell Scientific Publications. pp 132-133.

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