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Submitted to: Book Chapter
Publication Type: Book / Chapter Publication Acceptance Date: 4/20/1997 Publication Date: N/A Citation: N/A Interpretive Summary: Technical Abstract: This contains a review of the toxic effects of aflatoxins (AF) and the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of aflatoxicosis and AF problems in food animal production. Because of the toxicity and potential carcinogenicity of AF, the concentration of AF in foods and feeds is regulated by law. Therefore, greater emphasis is placed upon the diagnosis of AF. Residues of AF may enter the human food supply through secretion of AF in milk or through contaminated food products such as peanuts. Diagnostic methodologies for veterinarians include case history and clinical signs, but primarily utilize the presence of AF in feedstuffs. Newer techniques for rapid diagnosis of AF in feedstuffs include the use of field-expedient ELISA-based test kits for AF. Prevention hinges upon the avoidance of AF-contaminated feedstuffs through proper history and analytical testing of animal feeds. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. |
