Effects of fusariotoxins in the equine species

Abstract

Fumonisins, trichothecenes and zearalenone are the most commonly occurring Fusarium mycotoxins in cereal grains and animal feed. In this review, the toxicity of these mycotoxins in horses is considered with particular reference to recent data on specific and proposed syndromes. Compared to other animal species, very little information is available on the adverse effects of fusariotoxins in horses. Fumonisin B(1) (FB(1)) is the causative agent of leukoencephalomalacia, which is typified by depression, aimless circling, head pressing, paresis, ataxia, blindness and death. FB(1) has also been shown to cause liver damage and cardiovascular dysfunction. Exposure to deoxynivalenol in conjunction with other fusariotoxins seems to be associated with reduction of feed intake and decrease in bodyweight, whilst the T-2 Fusarium mycotoxin may typically induce oral lesions and zearalenone has been implicated in reproductive disorders. Many questions remain on the synergic effects of fusariotoxins and on a possible relationship between mycotoxins and equine colic.