Cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan)-induced hematologic alterations in specific-pathogen-free chickens

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Avian Medicine
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Heterophils are crucial in avian inflammatory responses.
• Inducing controlled heteropenia is essential for studying heterophil function.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine if cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan) can induce heteropenia in specific-pathogen-free (SPF) chickens.
• To assess the reversibility of Cytoxan-induced hematological changes.
• To establish a heteropenic chicken model for future research.

Main Methods:

• SPF chickens received daily intramuscular injections of cyclophosphamide (75 mg/kg) or phosphate-buffered saline for 4 days.
• Peripheral blood heterophil counts were monitored to establish baseline and track the development of heteropenia.
• Tissue samples (trachea, lung, liver, kidney, bursa of Fabricius, bone marrow, spleen, thymus) were examined microscopically.
• A follow-up study assessed the reversibility of induced heteropenia and other hematological effects.

Main Results:

• Cyclophosphamide induced reversible heteropenia, characterized by a significant decrease in heterophil counts.
• Bone marrow became hypocellular, indicating suppression.
• Lymphocytopenia and regenerative anemia were also observed.
• Bursa of Fabricius and spleen showed reduced lymphoid aggregates.

Conclusions:

• Cyclophosphamide effectively induces a reversible heteropenia in SPF chickens via bone marrow suppression.
• This study establishes a viable avian model for investigating the role of heterophils in inflammatory processes.
• The induced hematological changes, including lymphocytopenia and anemia, are reversible.