Induction of fatty liver-hemorrhagic syndrome in laying hens by exogenous beta-estradiol.

Abstract

SUMMARY Intramuscular administration of exogenous fp-estradiol (E2) every 4 or 5 days (5.0 or 7.5 mg E2/kg body weight) induced fatty liver-hemorrhagic syndrome (FLHS) in both Rhode Island Red (RIR) and White Leghorn (WL) hens. RIR hens exhibited ataxia and opisthotonus, and 30% died from hepatic hemorrhage within 14 days. No WL birds similarly treated for 32 days died or showed neurologic disorder, thereby indicating a major breed difference in response to exogenous E2. Liver lipid, incidence of liver hemorrhage, and plasma volume increased as a direct result of Eo injection. Inclusion of 6% oat hulls in the diet significantly (P < .05) reduced the magnitude of these physiological responses.