Field Rickets in Turkey Poults: Plasma and Bone Chemistry, Bone Histology, Intestinal Calcium-Binding Protein

Abstract

Severe rickets were observed in several farms despite an apparent adequacy in dietary minerals and vitamin D. The condition was characterized by a slight hypocalcemia, normal plasma inorganic phosphate and reduced bone ash. Histological examination of bone confirmed the rachitic condition. Calcium-binding protein in the duodenal mucosa of the affected poults was severely reduced. The condition could not be ameliorated by intravenous doses of up to 30,000 I.U. of vitamin D3. A pathological change in the integrity of the intestinal mucosa is suggested as the cause of the rachitic condition.