1Virology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Suez Canal University
2Avian and Rabbit Medicine Depatement, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Suez Canal University
Abstract
A total of 18 flocks , 45 day old broiler from Ismailia, Egypt were tested for chicken anemia virus (CAV) using serological evidence and molecular characterization. Tested birds had history of diarrhea, blue wing, depression, and deaths. Necropsy findings were pale liver, severe atrophy of bursa Fabricius and thymus, pale discoloration of the bone marrow and subcutaneous hemorrhages. The viral DNA of the VP1 gene was detected and sequenced. Nucleic acid alignment showed 100% similarities with many CAV viruses. Antibodies against CAV were detected in 73.9% of the tested samples using commercial ELISA kit. Hemoglobin (Hb) revealed low percentage (4.3% to 8.02%), and packed cell volume (PCV) were measured and showed anemic level (22.5 to 34.2). The data strengthen the concept that CAV may have a negative economic impact on the chicken industry in Ismailia.