Effect of Astragalus lusitanicus lam in experimental subchronic neurotoxicity of lambs.

A study was made of effect produced in lambs by the administration of Astragalus lusitanicus Lam at a daily dose of 1.25 g dry plant/kg live weight for 28 d. Clinical effects were not seen. No significant modifications were found in hematocrit, red or white blood cell count, differential leukocyte count, hemoglobin, methemoglobin, thiamine, lactate or pyruvate. Significant changes affected plasma LDH, GOT and CPK activity, where a progressive increase (70% for GOT and 113% for CPK) suggested changes in the CNS subsequently confirmed by histological examination (degeneration of neurons in the cerebrocortical grey matter, degeneration and loss of Purkinje cells in the cerebellum, satellitosis, neuronophagia, hyperemia and small hemorrhages throughout the CNS). Thiamine deficiency may play a role in this type of poisoning.