Galenia africana

Abstract

DISTRIBUTION: An active invader, often in disturbed areas and over-grazed land. Most common on the western and southern edges of the Karoo.

BOTANICAL DESCRIPTION: General: An erect, woody perennial shrub of ±1m high. Yellowish green to green and aromatic.Stems are light yellow brown and smooth. Leaves: The small linear leaves are opposite, flat and green, turning yellow with age. Flowers:Tiny open inflorescences borne at the ends of branches are 3 - 10 cm long with many small, greenish yellow flowers. Spring - Summer.

TOXIC PRINCIPLE: Unknown liver toxin causes “waterpens”. Toxicity variable – difficult to induce experimentally.

SYNDROMES: Waterpens Hepatotoxic syndrome without photosensitization

SYSTEMS AFFECTED: Liver.

CLINICAL SIGNS: Chronic syndrome. Weight loss. Ascites pronounced – “waterpens”. Splashing may be heard with auscultation.

NECROPSY: Macroscopical findings: • Severe liver cirrhosis - uneven surface, grey blue - yellow brown in colour. • Myocardial lesions on histopathology and CPFI increases. • Althougth primarily hepatotoxic, heart is only affected later.

HISTOPATHOLOGY: • Centrilobular bridging fibrosis.

TREATMENT: Liver supportive therapy for valuable animals. Provide good feed.