Histologic characterization of the involuting bursa of Fabricius in single-comb white Leghorn chickens

Bursas from specific-pathogen-free white leghorn chickens of both sexes were examined at several intervals from hatching to 28 weeks of age. No histologic alterations other than scattered atrophic or cystic follicles were observed through 20 weeks. Obvious involution, first noted at 24 weeks, was in early stages in females and quite advanced in males. Involution was essentially complete by 26 weeks, and only cicatrized vestiges of bursas were present at 28 weeks of age. Gross manifestations included bursal atrophy, variable yellowish discoloration of the mucosa, and matting or total loss of identity of the mucosal plicae. Histologic characteristics of involution are summarized by the following approximate sequence: atrophy and exfoliation of plica epithelium; subepithelial stromal fibrosis; fusion and ultimate collapse of plicae; liquefactive necrosis of first medullary then cortical elements of follicles, which seemed to progress from basal to apical portions of the plicae; progressive proliferation of stromal connective tissue and infiltration of macrophages into areas occupied by necrotic follicles; and, finally, complete fibrous organization of luminal debris, leaving a firm nodule formed by a contracted muscularis surrounding the cicatrized remains of the mucosa.