Lectin histochemistry of foam cells in tissues of cattle grazing Brachiaria spp.

Brachiaria decumbens and B. brizantha (signal grass), which occupy millions of acres in Brazil, are an important source of fodder for ruminants. Sporadic outbreaks of photosensitization in ruminants grazing on signal grass have been reported. Intoxicated animals showed the presence of foamy cells in the liver, spleen, intestinal submucosa and lymph nodes. These foamy cells are macrophages. They are very difficult to distinguish with haematoxylin and eosin stain, especially in the case of isolated cells. The purpose of the present study was to detect specific carbohydrate residues of storage material in the foamy cells in tissues of cattle exposed to Brachiaria spp. The characterization of glycoconjugates provides clues to the pathogenesis of these cells. Besides, the lectin peanut agglutinin was found to be an excellent marker to differentiate and quantify the foam cells, and could be used as a specific marker.