Studies on pregnancy failure in rabbits possibly due to aflatoxicosis

ABSTRACT

New Zeal and pregnant rabbit does were used in two trials to investigate the effects possibly due to aflatoxins on the reproductive performance and blood metabolites as well as the accompanying histopathological changes. Criteria of pregnancy and mortalities were recorded. Blood samples were obtained for determination of plasma total protein, albumin, urea, creatinine, glucose, cholesterol, total lipids, activities of ALT and AST as well as plasma progesterone. Hopeless cases were subjected to postmortem examination, and specimens from liver, kidney, ovaries and uterus were collected for histopathological examination. All does that received aflatoxin contaminated ration either after mating or during mid pregnancy failed to complete pregnancy. Plasma concentrations of albumin, urea, and the activities of ALT and AST showed significant variations due to aflatoxin administration. Postmortem examination of rabbits fed aflatoxin diet showed liver shrinkage, enlargement of gallbladder and kidney which showed white necrotic foci. Gross hemorrhages on many parts, especially heart, lungs, and intestine, were seen. Moreover, the presence of implantation sites in the uterine horns indicated early fetal resorption. Histopathology of the liver, kidney, ovaries, and uterus of [AF] rabbits revealed severe pathological changes