Arsenic Toxicities in Animals: Mechanisms, Clinical Manifestations and Treatment Strategies

Abstract

Arsenic is a naturally occurring element present in the earth in various forms (arsenate, arsenite) that contaminates soil, water, and causes toxicity to animal as well as human beings. Arsenic in various forms/compounds is released about 7800 metric tons every year, contributing to widespread contamination. Arsenic is found in cattle, sheep, chicken, and ducks, even in fish, due to water contamination, threatening animal food safety, so it is of serious matter that needs to be addressed to get rid of. Arsenic circulates through natural and human activities, causing arsenic contamination of the human and animal habitat. The main routes of exposure of humans and most animals to arsenic are through ingestion and then absorption through the skin. Animals having Arsenic intoxication show various forms per acute, including acute and chronic forms. Dehydration, weakness, diarrhea, and vomiting are the important symptoms that were seen in affected animals. In case of sudden exposure, the first treatment is to removal of contaminants, emesis is the first step (in capable species), followed by activated charcoal with a cathartic, and then oral administration of demulcents. If the diagnosis were confirmed, early treatment should be started with Dimercaprol, even if given within two hours after ingestion of the toxic metal. Intramuscular injection or intravenous injection in peanut oil was the reason because of water insolubility was the reason. Supportive therapy, including fluid therapy, produces an additive effect, and the animal will improve its health condition. Nowadays, various preparations available in the market, including curcumin (Haldi), is herbal compound, can also be given @ 400 mg/kg will be very effective.