A Case Report on Ascaridia galli-induced Gizzard Atrophy in Broiler Chicken (Gallus gallus domesticus)

Abstract

Ascaridia galli, a nematode parasite, is the most prevalent nematode that causes gastrointestinal infections in birds. Some reports have  stated that this nematode affects the intestines of birds; however, there is a lack of data on the effects of A. galli on gizzards. This study  aimed to provide information on the presence of this parasite in the gizzards of broiler chickens. Three-months-old chicken (n=2) were purchased from a poultry farm. During evisceration, the gizzard of one bird was smaller in size. Further investigation showed that the  small-sized gizzard was infected with A. galli upon necropsy. Ulcerative lesions were also observed in the mucosal layer. In conclusion, A.  galli can attach to the walls of chicken gizzards to cause gizzard ulcers and atrophy