How Would A Horse Get Cantharidin Poisoning?

Cantharidin toxicosis in horses has become an increasing problem in certain regions of the United States. Toxicosis occurs when horses ingest alfalfa hay or products that are contaminated with “blister” beetles.

What causes cantharidin?

Cantharidin is produced by insects in the Meloidae family, commonly known as blister beetles. More than 200 species of these beetles are found throughout the continental US; however, the members of the genus Epicauta are most frequently associated with poisoning (toxicosis) in horses.

What is the antidote for cantharidin poisoning?

Priapism, seizures and cardiac abnormalities are less commonly seen [5]. There is no specific antidote for cantharidin. The management is supportive, including IV fluid at maintenance rate and correction of electrolyte and blood gas abnormalities.

What beetle does cantharidin come from?

Cantharidin is a toxin extracted from coleoptera beetles, commonly known as ‘Spanish fly’, and is used as an aphrodisiac, a vesicant, or as an abortifacient.

What is the name of that medicine chemical which is extracted from blister beetle?

Cantharidin is a substance derived from the blister beetle Cantharis vesicatoria. The Chinese have used this ancient medicine for thousands of years for a number of maladies. In the 1950’s it was used in the US and other westernised countries to treat warts.

What happens if you leave cantharidin on too long?

If you do not remove the tape and chemical at the 8 hour point further blistering will occur which could lead to scaring.

What is blister beetle toxicity in horses?

Blister beetles contain a toxic oily substance called cantharidin, a noxious defense mechanism that offers protection from predators. Cantharidin can severely injure or kill horses when even a small amount is ingested.

How long does cantharidin take to heal?

Topical cantharidin treatment causes formation of blisters within 24 to 48 hours. Healing is complete 4 to 7 days after application. The degree of blistering is controlled by instructing the patient to wash the treated site with soap and water after a specified length of time, usually in the range of 2 to 6 hours.

How do you diagnose blister beetle poisoning?

Signs of exposure and toxicity include dunking their mouth into the water source, reduced eating, abdominal pain (colic), stretching out to urinate, frequent attempts to urinate and overall lethargic attitude.

Is cantharidin toxic to animals?

The toxicity of cantharidin does not decrease in stored hay, and cantharidin is also toxic to people, dogs, cats, rabbits, rats, cattle, sheep, and goats. The severity of signs associated with cantharidin poisoning varies according to dose.

Can I buy cantharidin over the counter?

This medication requires a prescription.

How long do blister beetles live?

three months
Adult blister beetles live for over three months, and populations can expand rapidly in warm areas. Plant damage is common during heavy infestations.

What do blister beetles in hay look like?

Striped blister beetles are about 5/8 inch long and one-fourth as wide. They are gray to brown with yellow stripes running lengthwise of the wing covers. The ash-gray blister beetle is about 1/2 inch long and is completely gray. The black blister is about 1/2 inch long and is solid black.

How do you treat blister beetle poisoning in horses?

Activated charcoal and mineral oil may be administered through a nasogastric tube by your veterinarian to help evacuate toxins from the gastrointestinal tract and delay potential absorption. Gastric protectants may decrease gastrointestinal discomfort and colic. Antibiotics are mainly prophylactic (preventive).

What are the side effects of cantharidin?

Signs of an allergic reaction, like rash; hives; itching; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever; wheezing; tightness in the chest or throat; trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking; unusual hoarseness; or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Should I pop a cantharidin blister?

DO NOT REMOVE THE BLISTER on purpose. If necessary, make a small hole in the blister using a sterile needle (can dip a pin or seeing needle in rubbing alcohol and wipe dry) and squeeze the fluid out by gently pressing on the blister with clean hands.

What happens if you don’t wash cantharidin off?

Remember to wash the cantharidin off. Dr. Khoza will tell you at what time you need to remove the tape and wash your treated areas with soap and water. If you forget, it will keep blistering, don’t wait until you feel a painful reminder.

What happens after beetle juice treatment?

Within a few hours to a couple of days, you can expect the area treated to become red, swollen and moist. It will often form a blister. The blister may be a bloody blister (red to purple in color) and is normal. After a few days (usually around five days) a crust will form over the area that was treated.

How effective is cantharidin on warts?

Topical cantharidin in combination with podophyllotoxin and salicylic acid demonstrated efficacy for plantar warts (pediatric and adult; clearance rate range 81-100%; four studies had 100% clearance), with the majority clearing after a single treatment.

What are the signs of poisoning in a horse?

Symptoms of poisoning in horses may include:

• Abdominal pain.
• Constipation.
• Diarrhoea.
• Straining.
• Rectal prolapse.
• Weight loss.
• Restlessness.
• Unsteadiness.

Are blister beetles found in grass hay?

While it is possible for blister beetles to be present within grass hay, it is much more common for blister beetles to be found in alfalfa hay as alfalfa blossoms can serve as a food source for the adult blister beetles.