Speare, R., Skerratt, L.F., Berger, L., and Johnson, P.M. (2004) Toxic effects of mebendazole at high dose on the haematology of red-legged pademelons (Thylogale stigmatica). Australian Veterinary Journal, 82 (5). pp. 30-33.

PDF (Published Version) Restricted to Repository staff only

 

62

4

Abstract

To investigate the effects of mebendazole at high dose on the haematology of macropods.

Design: Experimental.

Procedure: Five red-legged pademelons (Thylogale stigmatica) were dosed orally with mebendazole at 50 mg/kg/d for 5 to 6 days. Two control pademelons were dosed with water. Regular blood samples were taken for haematology over 20 days.

Results: All four treated pademelons sampled at 5 days developed severe leucopenia and neutropenia, moderate lymphopenia, thrombocytopenia, eosinopenia and monocytopenia, as well as bone marrow aplasia within 5 to 11 days after the first mebendazole dose. Four pademelons died unexpectedly or became ill and were euthanased 5 to 11 days after the first dose while the other animal recovered after 5 days of illness. Necropsy revealed systemic infection with opportunistic enteric bacteria, non-suppurative inflammation in tissues, haemorrhage and ulceration of the gastrointestinal tract.

Conclusions: Red-legged pademelons rapidly develop bone-marrow aplasia and subsequent septicaemia after administration of high doses of mebendazole. Mebendazole at high doses should not be used for macropods.

Actions (Repository Staff Only)

Item Control Page