Student Case Presentation
Silent Exposure: Understanding Organophosphate Toxicity in Goats
| Date/Time: |
8/27/2026 Poster 12
|
| Presenter: |
Alex Schlottman |
| Veterinary School: |
OK |
Abstract:
Organophosphate toxicity is thought to be rare and more common in humans causing neurological signs from exposure to common insecticides.
Two 7-month-old weathers presented after a 5-day history of inappetence and diarrhea. The most affected one was obtunded, had pinpoint pupils, increased bronchovesicular effort and grunting on exhale were present and a fluid wave in the abdomen. There was fecal staining in the perineal area and legs. Diagnostic evaluation consisted of complete blood count, biochemistry, abdominal ultrasound, fecal, and trace mineral panel.
The CBC showed severe hemoconcentration and leukocytosis with severe neutrophilia (toxic change present- dohle bodies). The chemistry showed liver damage. The ultrasound revealed thickened small intestine and colon wall and distended small and large intestine with heterogenous fluid with generalized ileus. There was rumen distension with no gas cap. The fecal had Trichostonglyes and Eimeria but was not excessive. The rDVM could not find a reason for the clinical and diagnostic results.
Looking at the pupils and other clinical signs a toxicity was suspected. The owner revealed a pour-on lice treatment (an organophosphate) was used but no other goats were affected. All other animals were kept in individual pens except these two and it was suspected they licked each other. Initially the goats were treated with antibiotics, thiamine and anti-inflammatories without change. After learning about the organophosphate atropine was used having an immediate positive response. He was treated the next day with pralidoxime (2PAM) along with atropine. With this treatment the weather improved significantly and was able to be discharged 10 days later.
Delayed or acute organophosphate toxicity is an overlooked differential in animals that may die before a proper diagnosis can be found as it is thought to not happen anymore. Although this condition is not common in practice it may be more common than veterinarians think.
