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Lead Toxicosis
ToxicologyAll SpeciesNew
Key Points
  • Lead toxicosis is poisoning caused by ingestion of lead or lead-containing products
  • Most commonly seen in cattle due to their indiscriminate eating habits and exposure to lead-containing sources on farm
    • May occur in any species
  • Lead primarily causes neurological and gastrointestinal signs
    • Blindness, weakness, GI stasis, seizures and biliverdinuria in birds
  • Diagnosis in practice is often presumptive and treatments are started before confirmatory results return
  • Chelation is the mainstay of treatment
    • May not be feasible in large animals due to cost, practicality and withdrawal periods
  • Restricting access to potential sources of lead is the key to prevention
Differential Diagnoses
  1. Polioencephalomalacia
  2. Nervous ketosis
  3. Hypomagnesaemia
  4. Salt poisoning / water deprivation
Overview
Aetiology
Clinical Signs
Diagnosis
Treatment
Prevention
Resources
Overview

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Aetiology

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Clinical Signs

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Diagnosis

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Treatment

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Prevention

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Resources

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Educational content only. This factsheet is for general veterinary education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Not for use in an emergency — contact a veterinarian or emergency service. Full disclaimer →