Molecular Characterization and Hemato Biochemical Studies of Reovirus in Ismailia Farms

Document Type : Scientific and Research

Authors

1 Institute of Animal health research, Dokki, Egypt. Department of Virology

2 Institute of Animal health research, Dokki, Egypt Department of Clinical pathology, Ismailia branch

3 Institute of Animal health research, Dokki, Egypt, Department of Pathology, Tanta Branch

Abstract

The avian reoviruse (AVR) induces various manifestations in chickens. They are associated with disease conditions including malabsorption syndrome and tenosynovitis. RT-PCR is a rapid, sensitive and specific diagnostic test for ARV detection and avoiding economic losses. Three broiler poultry farms in Ismailia with reovirus like symptoms were screened for Reoviruses in SPF embryonated chicken eggs. In these farms, there were 20-25% morbidities at 24th day of age and 3-4% morbidities at 14th day of age, and 5-6% mortalities at 24th day, while 2-3 % is at the 14th day. Three isolates of Reovirus were obtained and characterized and identified by RT-PCR. Electrophoretic pattern showed a specific band at 399 bp positive at lane 1, 3 and negative at lane 2. Results of haematological investigation showed low levels of total erythrocytic count (TEC), haemoglobin (Hb), and packed cell volume (PCV) but significant increase in level of total leukocytic count (TLC), absolute lymphocyte count (ALC) and absolute monocyte count (AMC) in infected chickens compared to apparently healthy. Biochmical estimation revealed marked elevation of total serum proteins, AST; ALT. Pathological changes in internal organs of the infected chicks were also described. The proventriculus revealed marked hyperplasia of lymphoid aggregates and the small intestine revealed marked loss of villi with replacement by fibrin, necrotic debris, high numbers of macrophages and lymphocytes .All these alterations were suggested to interfere with the immunity and normal digestive processes resulting in poor weight gain and stunting of chicks. 

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