Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Mercury toxicosis caused by ingestion of a blistering compound in a horse.
- Journal:
- Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
- Year:
- 1995
- Authors:
- Guglick, M A et al.
- Affiliation:
- Department of Medicine and Surgery
- Species:
- horse
Plain-English summary
A 3-year-old Quarter Horse mare was diagnosed with mercury poisoning after she ingested a blistering compound used for treating a hoof condition. She had stopped eating and showed signs of stomach pain, along with being very tired, having swelling in her legs, frequent urination, a cough that didn’t produce anything, and sores in her mouth. Tests revealed high levels of mercury in her blood and urine, indicating severe kidney problems. Despite receiving intensive care, including fluids and medications to help remove the mercury, she developed a serious hoof condition and was euthanized 18 days after the exposure. Unfortunately, the prognosis for mercury poisoning in horses is often poor, though some may recover with proper treatment and ongoing care.
Abstract
Mercury toxicosis by ingestion was diagnosed in a 3-year-old Quarter Horse mare with a history of anorexia and signs of abdominal discomfort. Ten and 9 days prior to admission, an inorganic mercuric blistering agent has been applied for topical treatment of dorsal metacarpal disease. At referral, signs of depression, dependent edema, pollakiuria, nonproductive cough, and oral ulceration were noticed. Laboratory data were consistent with renal dysfunction. Mercury content of blood and urine was high, confirming the diagnosis. The horse responded to intensive care, consisting primarily of IV fluid treatment, and mercury-chelating agents. However, acute laminitis developed, and the owners elected to euthanatize the horse 18 days after mercury exposure. Necropsy findings included renal tubulonephrosis and ulcerative colitis and enteritis. Mercury concentration was highest in kidney and liver tissues. The potential for mercury toxicosis in horses currently exists, and although the prognosis is grave, some horses may recover with appropriate treatment and long-term supportive medical care.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7751224/