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Salpingitis

Salpingitis is inflammation of the fallopian tubes and is one of the most common reproductive diseases in laying hens. It is frequently caused by Escherichia coli and Salmonella. Mycoplasma gallisepticum can also cause salpingitis in aged laying hens.

Infection with Gram-negative bacteria results in the increased secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines which occurs when the endotoxin Lipoplysaccharide (LPS) is released during bacterial death and reproduction.

The estrogenic activity involved in the process of egg laying facilitates the migration of infectious pathogens from the cloaca to the oviduct. Once the bacteria gain access to the oviduct, it can penetrate the oviduct wall or travel through the open end of the infundibulum and enter the abdominal cavity, resulting in peritonitis.

Clinical Signs of Salpingitis in Hens


The main clinical signs observed in hens with salpingitis are egg related and include:
  • Decreased egg production
  • Increased frequency of thin, soft and sandy eggshells
  • Poor eggshell quality
  • Little to no maintenance time of peak of laying eggs
Without treatment, salpingitis can lead to oviduct impaction and the presence of ectopic eggs in the abdominal cavity resulting from reverse peristalsis of the oviduct.

Clinical Signs

Decreased egg production
Laying soft shelled, caseous or inspissated eggs
Laying "lash eggs
Decreased egg production
Depression
Weight loss
Reduced appetite
Lethargy
Enlarged abdomen
Standing with a “penguin-like” posture
Difficulty walking or perching

Diagnosis

  • History
  • Exam
  • Ultrasound
  • Radiographs
  • Coeliotomy (surgery)

Treatment

NameSummary
Supportive careIsolate the bird from the flock and place in a safe, comfortable, warm location (your own chicken "intensive care unit") with easy access to water and food. Limit stress. Call your veterinarian.
AntibioticsChosen based on culture and sensitivity results.
Hormone implantsSuprelorin® (deslorelin) to help stop future ovulation.

Support

Prevention

Hormone implants: Suprelorin® (deslorelin implants) to stop ovulation (egg production) in hens.

Scientific References

Good Overviews

Risk Factors

  • Previous bacterial or viral infection
  • Inappropriate treatment for egg binding or cloaca prolapse
  • Hens with high egg production rates

Case Stories