Photosensitization due to the ingestion of Japanese millet (Echinochloa crusgalli) in a Holstein calf

Jang, Kwang-ho; Lee, Joo-myoung

Korean Journal of Veterinary Research 1998;38(2):436-440.

Kwang-ho Jang¹, Joo-myoung Lee²

¹Hoam Animal Hospital
²College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University

피삼에 의한 송아지 광과민증 1례

장광호¹, 이주명²

¹호암동물병원
²서울대학교 수의과대학

Abstract

Photosensitization occurred in a 4-month old Holstein calf soon after going onto the pasture lush with green Japanese millet(Echinochloa crusgalli). Skin lesions were restricted to the unpigmented white area of skin. They were most pronounced on the dorsum of the body, diminishing in degree down the sides and were absent from the ventral part. The demarcation between lesions and normal skin was clearcut. There were edema, exudation and sloughing of affected skin on the left gluteal region, and erythema, edema and scab on right scapular region. Interception of the light, discontinuance of Japanese millet ingestion, and the administration of antihistamine and penicillin made the calf rapid recovery. This disease was considered photosensitization due to chlorphyll in ingested Japanese millet.

Key Words: photosensitization, Japanese millet, calf, chlorphyll