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Sudden death syndrome in turkey hens
1Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Ohio State University, Columbus 43210.
Avian Diseases
|July 1, 1990
Summary
Sudden death syndrome in turkeys caused abrupt mortality following handling stress. Concurrent lung inflammation predisposed hens to this condition, highlighting the impact of stress on flock health.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Avian Medicine
- Poultry Science
Background:
- A large commercial turkey breeder flock experienced unexplained, acute mortality.
- The increased death rate followed routine handling and movement of the birds.
- No pre-existing clinical signs of illness were observed in the flock.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the cause of sudden, increased mortality in a flock of turkeys.
- To correlate pathological findings with the observed mortality event.
- To determine predisposing factors for sudden death syndrome in poultry.
Main Methods:
- Necropsy and histopathological examination of four affected turkey hens.
- Analysis of mortality patterns in relation to recent flock management practices.
- Evaluation of gross and microscopic lesions for diagnostic indicators.
Main Results:
- Consistent histopathological findings included pulmonary hemorrhage, edema, and congestion of visceral vasculature.
- Gross necropsy revealed small spleens, congested lungs, and enlarged livers.
- Hemorrhagic lesions were noted in the oviduct and kidneys of one bird.
Conclusions:
- The clinical presentation and pathological findings are consistent with sudden death syndrome (SDS) in turkeys.
- Concurrent inflammatory lung lesions likely predisposed the hens to SDS following handling stress.
- Stress associated with handling and movement can trigger fatal events in susceptible poultry flocks.