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Published on: October 12, 2012
A contact dermatitis of broilers -clinical and pathological findings
J A Greene1, R M McCracken, R T Evans
1Department of Agriculture, Veterinary Research Laboratories, Stormont, Belfast, Northern Ireland.
Avian Pathology : Journal of the W.V.P.A
|January 1, 1985
Summary
A new broiler skin condition causes significant carcass downgrades due to brown-black lesions. Poor litter conditions are strongly linked to this contact dermatitis in birds as young as nine days old.
Area of Science:
- Avian pathology
- Dermatology
- Poultry science
Background:
- A novel skin condition in broilers leads to substantial economic losses, with 15-30% of carcasses downgraded weekly.
- Lesions characterized by brown-black erosions and ulcers appear on the breast, hock, and foot skin.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe a new broiler skin condition.
- To investigate the association between lesion development and environmental factors.
- To histopathologically examine affected broiler skin.
Main Methods:
- Clinical observation of broiler flocks.
- Histopathological examination of skin lesions.
- Correlation analysis between lesion incidence and litter conditions.
Main Results:
- Histopathology revealed acute inflammation and necrosis of the epidermis and upper dermis.
- A significant correlation was found between poor litter conditions and the occurrence of skin lesions.
- Affected birds were as young as 9 days old.
Conclusions:
- The condition is likely a form of contact dermatitis.
- Poor litter management is a key risk factor for developing these skin lesions in broilers.
- Early intervention and improved hygiene are crucial for mitigating economic losses.
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