This research focuses on the causes, symptoms, treatment, and prevention of Cantharidin toxicosis in horses. The disease results from horses ingesting alfalfa hay or products contaminated with “blister” beetles. Depending on the toxin level, the effects could range from depression and abdominal pain to severe shock and death. Common laboratory abnormalities associated with this condition include low calcium and magnesium levels, protein deficiency, microscopic blood in urine and mild azotemia. Prompt treatment and removal of the toxin source are crucial, and anticipatory measures include proper harvesting of alfalfa hay, and inspection for beetles in the field before harvesting.

Causes and Symptoms

• This study highlights that the primary cause of Cantharidin toxicosis in horses is the ingestion of alfalfa hay or related products infected with “blister” beetles.
• The disease manifests in many ways depending on the amount of toxin ingested. Symptoms can range from depression and abdominal pain to life-threatening shock and death. Other signs include anorexia, signs of oral irritation, and frequent attempts at urinating. Synchronous diaphragmatic flutter and oral mucosal surface erosions are less common symptoms.

Laboratory Findings

• Cantharidin toxicosis is confirmed with specific clinical laboratory abnormalities, mainly persistent hypocalcemia and hypomagnesemia (low calcium and magnesium levels), protein deficiency, microscopic blood visible in the urine, and an increase in nitrogen content in urine with an inappropriate urine specific gravity.
• Chemical analysis is done on either urine or stomach contents to detect the presence of the toxin.

Treatment of Cantharidin toxicosis

• The key to treating this disease is to eliminate the source of toxin as soon as possible.
• Symptomatic treatment includes the use of gastrointestinal protectants, laxatives, analgesics (painkillers), diuretics (to promote urine production), and calcium gluconate and magnesium injections.
• Early and vigorous therapy is emphasized for successful recovery.
• In horses that survive initial stages, a faster heart rate, increased respiratory rate, and increased serum creatine kinase concentrations hint towards a deteriorating condition.

Prevention Measures

• This study emphasizes the importance of prevention, primarily through proper and timely harvesting of alfalfa hay.
• Hay fields should be inspected for the presence of clusters of blister beetles before harvesting. If found, those areas should be avoided during harvest.