Ergot and Fescue Toxicoses

Abstract Ergot alkaloids produced by the fungus Claviceps purpurea in cereal grains and grasses have a long history of affecting man and animals. Animals may also be affected by ergot alkaloids present in endophyte ( Neotyphodium coenophialum ) infected grasses. The risk of exposure to the human and animal population in many countries is reduced because toxic levels of infected grain are kept out of food and feed commerce. Grains that are produced and utilized locally and not subject to regulatory inspection remain a concern, which requires educating farmers and others regarding the recognition of ergotized grain. Clinical syndromes include vasoconstriction leading to gangrene of the extremities of cattle and horses, hyperthermia; production loss in cattle; production loss, agalactia, and abortion in swine; and agalactia and other reproductive effects in mares. Other animals are affected by ergot alkaloids as well and are mentioned in this chapter. Treatment is limited by economic constraints in most animals. This chapter describes ergot and fescue toxicoses in animals.