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Updated: Jul 3, 2026

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A Ligated Intestinal Loop Model in Anesthetized Specific Pathogen Free Chickens to Study Clostridium Perfringens Virulence
Published on: October 11, 2018
Clostridium chauvoei in hens.
E Prukner-Radovcic1, L Milakovic-Novak, S Ivesa-Petricevic
1Department of Poultry Pathology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia.
Avian Pathology : Journal of the W.V.P.A
|March 1, 1995
Summary
Clostridium chauvoei, a bacterium typically affecting cattle and sheep, was isolated from diseased hens in two separate cases. This finding suggests a potential role for this bacterium as a poultry pathogen requiring further investigation.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Microbiology
- Avian Pathology
Background:
- Clostridium chauvoei is a known bacterial pathogen primarily affecting ruminants like cattle and sheep.
- Infections in poultry are considered rare, with equines and poultry generally believed to be resistant.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report the isolation of Clostridium chauvoei from diseased chickens in two distinct cases.
- To investigate the potential role of Clostridium chauvoei as a pathogen in avian species.
Main Methods:
- Bacterial isolation and identification of Clostridium chauvoei from affected poultry tissues (combs and livers).
- Clinical case descriptions including age, breed, concurrent diseases, and mortality rates.
Main Results:
- Clostridium chauvoei was successfully isolated from the combs of chickens in Case I, which also suffered from chronic respiratory disease, coccidiosis, and ascariasis.
- In Case II, Clostridium chauvoei was isolated from the livers of broiler breeders affected by coccidiosis, leading to significant production losses.
- Mortality rates of 24% and 60% exclusion from production were observed in the respective cases.
Conclusions:
- These findings demonstrate that Clostridium chauvoei can infect chickens.
- The bacterium's potential role as a poultry pathogen, particularly in cases of complex etiology, warrants further research.

