Hepatic iron overload in birds: Analytical and morphological studies

Abstract

Summary Hepatic iron content was determined in post mortem specimens from a wide range of avian species collected over a 12‐month period. The majority (> 90%) of these specimens (n = 40) showed high iron content (up to 12 mg Fe/g tissue). The highest concentrations were associated with fibrosis and regenerative nodules. Dietary analysis indicated that the iron intake was not excessive, suggesting that iron‐loading was due to enhanced intestinal absorption.