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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jul 3, 2026

A Ligated Intestinal Loop Model in Anesthetized Specific Pathogen Free Chickens to Study Clostridium Perfringens Virulence

A Ligated Intestinal Loop Model in Anesthetized Specific Pathogen Free Chickens to Study Clostridium Perfringens Virulence

Published on: October 11, 2018

Ascites in poultry.

¹Department of Pathology, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Canada.

Avian Pathology : Journal of the W.V.P.A

|September 1, 1993

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Ascites in meat-type chickens is linked to pulmonary hypertension (PH), a condition exacerbated by rapid growth rates and avian respiratory anatomy. Restricting growth can prevent this disease, which affects broiler production.

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In Ovo Intravascular Injection in Chicken Embryos

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Published on: June 3, 2022

Area of Science:

Avian physiology
Cardiovascular pathology
Poultry science

Background:

Ascites in meat-type chickens shares pathogenesis with high-altitude disease, involving pulmonary hypertension (PH).
PH leads to right ventricular hypertrophy (RVH), valvular insufficiency, and ascites due to the avian heart's structure.
Increased growth rates and feed efficiency in broilers since the 1980s are associated with a rise in pulmonary hypertension syndrome (PHS).

Purpose of the Study:

To investigate the pathogenesis of ascites in meat-type chickens at moderate and low altitudes.
To understand the contributing factors to primary pulmonary hypertension in fast-growing broilers.
To explore the anatomical and physiological predispositions in avian respiratory systems to PHS.

Main Methods:

Comparative analysis of ascites pathogenesis in chickens at different altitudes.
Examination of the relationship between growth rate, feed conversion, and PHS incidence.
Review of avian respiratory and cardiovascular anatomy in relation to PHS.

Main Results:

The pathogenesis of ascites in meat-type chickens at moderate/low altitudes mirrors high-altitude disease, driven by PH.
Fast growth rates, dense feed, and genetic selection contribute to PHS by increasing nutrient intake and growth.
Avian respiratory system's fixed lungs, limited capillary expansion, and abdominal breathing mechanics predispose chickens to PH.

Conclusions:

Ascites in meat-type chickens is a production disease primarily caused by PH, often without prior heart or lung issues.
Factors increasing blood flow or resistance are additive, making fast-growing birds susceptible.
Growth rate restriction is an effective preventive measure; future growth may require anatomical adaptations in chickens.