Comparison of tracheal histopathology and scanning electron microscopy of infectious laryngotracheitis

Samples of trachea were examined with light microscope, fluorescent microscope, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Negative controls and infectious laryngotracheitis (ILT) positive samples were compared. Histopathology illustrated lesions characteristic fo ILT. Lesions seen with SEM suggested surface changes including ciliary disruption. luminal debris, epithelial slough, crevices, hemorrhage and exudate. Fluorescence was noted in infected tracheas throughout both trials using fluorescent antibody (FA) technique.