Aspergillus clavatus

Abstract

DISTRIBUTION: • This distinctive species is a common soil fungus with widespread distribution in soils in warmer climates • It also is quite widely distributed in some kinds of foods, especially cereals.

BOTANICAL DESCRIPTION: This distinctive species is a common soil fungus with widespread distribution in soils in warmer climates. It also is quite widely distributed in some kinds of foods, especially cereals. This species is not considered common to indoor environments, however, it has been frequently associated with the brewing industry. This fungus should be considered allergenic.

TOXIC PRINCIPLE: Unknown neurotoxins. • Aspergillus clavatus -intoxication is a highly fatal, tremorgenic mycotoxicoses of cattle resulting in irreversible neuronal damage. • In SA it is caused by the ingestion of mould-infected sorghum beer residue (maroek) or infected sprouting grain. Mechanism of action: Theory: Primarily a neurotoxin destroying neurones and leading to secondary muscular degeneration and damage due to neuronal onduction disturbances.

SYNDROME: Maroek poisoning.

SYSTEMS AFFECTED: Central nervous system.

CLINICAL SYMPTOMS: Severity and progression depends on dose and neurones affected. CNS: 1. Hypersensitivity 2. Severe muscular tremors - start in flanks and spread to whole body 3. Ataxia: • stiff-legged gait, • short steps, • splay-legged stance, • hocks bent, • forelimbs and neck extended, • knuckling over, • staggering. 4. Paresis/paralysis - trembling until death GIT: 1.Salivation 2.Constipation 3.Cannot eat or drink.

NECROPSY: Macroscopical findings: • Rapid rigor mortis• Most obvious lesions in musculature: - degeneration and necrotic changes in whole muscles or focal areas - insertions or origins - grey white appearance • Petechial haemorrhages • Severe myocardial degeneration often seen. • Constipation

HISTOPATHOLOGY: • Degeneration and necrosis of larger neurones (nuclei destroyed) - Motor cells of ventral horns of spinal cord - Larger neurones of nuclei of medulla oblongata, midbrain, thalamus • Hyaline degeneration and necrosis of skeletal muscles • Myocardial damage.

TREATMENT: • No treatment • Prognosis very poor.