Surto de raquitismo em frangos de corte na Paraíba

Abstract

This study aimed to describe the epidemiological, clinical, pathological, radiological and biochemical rickets in broilers diagnosed in the semiarid region of Paraíba. Data related to epidemiological and clinical characteristics were obtained from the responsible by lot and by visiting the property. Clinical signs were stunted growth, muscle weakness, weakness, unsteadiness in walking, could not walk and when stimulated limping.Blood collection was made for conducting biochemical tests. In four animals, radiographic examinations were performed, obtaining nozzle pictures, femur and tibia. Some animals who became ill were euthanized and necropsied. At necropsy eight chickens findings were similar and characterized by bone softening and nozzles. Fragments of all organs were collected, fixed and processed routinely.Technical special histochemical staining were performed to disclosure of collagen fibers and calcium deposits. Histologically the tibia was observed marked, diffuse thickening of the hypertrophic zone of cartilage growth plate. In biochemical analysis of five animals was found to hypocalcaemia and hypophosphatemia. It can be concluded that the rickets was characterized by a marked hypocalcaemia and hypophosphatemia, from supplying feed which has not met the requirements for calcium and phosphorus. It was diagnosed by the formation of rosaries and scrubby failure endochondral ossification with thickening of the hypertrophic cartilage zone.