Pathomorphological changes caused by T-2 trichothecene fusariotoxin in geese

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Toxicology
• Avian Pathology
• Food Safety

Background:

• Fusariotoxins, particularly T-2 toxin, are mycotoxins found in contaminated feed.
• Poultry are susceptible to mycotoxicoses, impacting health, productivity, and food safety.
• Understanding T-2 toxin's effects on reproductive and organ systems in geese is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the pathomorphological effects of T-2 trichothecene fusariotoxin in laying geese and ganders.
• To assess the impact on reproductive organs (ovaries, oviduct) and systemic organs (spleen, intestine, thyroid, adrenal gland).

Main Methods:

• Administration of T-2 toxin via gavage to 110 laying geese and 33 ganders over 20 days.
• Detailed pathomorphological and histopathological examination of reproductive and systemic organs.
• Dose-dependent evaluation of observed pathological changes.

Main Results:

• T-2 toxin caused cessation of follicle maturation and degeneration in goose ovaries, leading to ovulation and peritonitis.
• Oviduct involution, spleen abnormalities (lymphocyte depletion, necrosis, amyloidosis), enteritis, and thyroid/adrenal gland changes were observed.
• Ganders exhibited similar splenic, intestinal, and endocrine gland alterations, though spermatogenesis remained unaffected.

Conclusions:

• T-2 toxin significantly impairs reproductive function in laying geese.
• Systemic toxic effects occur in both sexes, affecting spleen, intestines, and endocrine glands.
• Findings highlight the detrimental impact of T-2 toxin on avian health and potential food safety concerns.