Sago Palm (Cycad Family) Toxicity Flashcards

Vocabulary-style flashcards covering the clinical progression, diagnosis, treatment components, and prognosis of Sago palm toxicity based on the lecture notes.

Sago palm (Cycad family)

A plant toxic to all species (especially dogs) that targets the gastrointestinal system, the central nervous system (CNS), and the liver.

Early clinical signs of Sago palm toxicity ($1-4\,h$)

Severe gastrointestinal ($GI$) upset and lethargy, which can sometimes resolve completely before further symptoms develop.

Delayed clinical signs of Sago palm toxicity ($2-3\,d$)

Neurological signs (weakness, ataxia, tremors, seizures) and liver failure (icterus, abdominal pain, hemorrhage).

Labwork markers of Sago palm-induced liver failure

Hyperbilirubinemia, hypoalbuminemia, hypoglycemia, and prolonged clotting times ($PT$, $PTT$).

Treatment: Decontamination

Induction of emesis and administration of activated charcoal ($AC$) for $2-3$ doses.

Hepatoprotectants for Sago palm toxicity

Medications including $N\text{-acetylcysteine}$ and $S\text{-adenosylmethionine}$.

Methocarbamol

A treatment used to manage tremors associated with Sago palm poisoning.

Sago palm monitoring protocol

Monitoring liver enzymes $q24h \times 3\,d$, and addressing glucose and clotting times if hepatic necrosis occurs.

Sago palm seeds

The most poisonous part of the plant; just $1-2$ seeds can kill a medium-size dog.

Prognosis for Sago palm liver failure

Poor to grave, with a mortality rate of $67\%$ in dogs and possible long-term liver dysfunction.

Common source of Sago palm exposure

Though native to tropical areas, most exposure occurs from indoor ornamentals.