Treatment of Azalea Toxicity in Sheep
Supportive care with gastrointestinal decontamination using magnesium hydroxide and activated charcoal, combined with intravenous fluid therapy, is the recommended treatment for azalea (Rhododendron) poisoning in sheep, with expected recovery within 24 hours. 1
Mechanism of Toxicity
Azalea plants (Rhododendron species) contain grayanotoxins that bind to sodium channels in cell membranes, increasing sodium ion permeability in excitable tissues, leading to gastrointestinal, cardiac, and neurologic dysfunction. 1
Clinical Presentation to Recognize
Look specifically for:
- Gastrointestinal signs: Bloat and profuse regurgitation 1
- Neurologic signs: Depression, intermittent head pressing, and fine muscle tremors in the hind limbs 1
- Cardiac manifestations: Arrhythmias may occur due to sodium channel effects 1
Treatment Protocol
Immediate Decontamination
- Administer magnesium hydroxide to neutralize gastric acidity and reduce toxin absorption 1
- Administer activated charcoal to bind remaining toxin in the gastrointestinal tract 1
Supportive Care
- Provide intravenous lactated Ringer's solution for hydration and circulatory support 1
- Monitor cardiac rhythm for arrhythmias given the sodium channel effects 1
- Maintain airway patency if regurgitation is severe to prevent aspiration 1
Expected Recovery Timeline
Recovery typically occurs within 24 hours of initiating treatment in sheep that receive prompt decontamination and supportive care. 1
Diagnostic Confirmation
Definitive diagnosis can be confirmed through liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis of urine and fecal samples to detect grayanotoxins, though treatment should not be delayed pending laboratory confirmation. 1
Critical Pitfall to Avoid
Do not delay treatment waiting for laboratory confirmation—initiate decontamination and supportive care immediately based on clinical presentation and known exposure history, as the toxicity can progress rapidly. 1