Avian Visceral Gout: A Clinicopathological Study in Broiler Chickens

¹University of Verona, Italy

²Department of Livestock & Dairy Development Quetta, Pakistan

³Sindh Agriculture University Tandojam, Pakistan

*Corresponding author: Adnan Yousaf, Sindh Agriculture University Tandojam, Pakistan, Phone: +923005662008, E-mail: [email protected]

Received Date: August 11, 2025

Published Date: October 17, 2025

Citation: Yousaf A, et al. (2025). Avian Visceral Gout: A Clinicopathological Study in Broiler Chickens. Mathews J Vet Sci. 9(7):87.

Copyrights: Yousaf A, et al. © (2025).

ABSTRACT

In April 2025, an outbreak of visceral gout occurred in a flock of intensively reared commercial broiler chickens. Affected birds presented with characteristic clinical signs including hyporexia, adipsia, lethargy, ruffled plumage, progressive emaciation, and abnormal fecal output. Postmortem examination revealed pathognomonic white, chalky urate deposits on the serosal surfaces of multiple organs, with particularly severe involvement of the pericardium and liver. Histopathological assessment of renal tissue confirmed extensive tubular necrosis and luminal obstruction with birefringent urate crystals, consistent with advanced urate nephropathy. The therapeutic strategy implemented involved a multi-pronged nutritional approach aimed at reducing nitrogenous waste and supporting renal function. This included immediate dietary protein restriction to decrease endogenous uric acid production, oral supplementation with jaggery (a natural source of readily available carbohydrates) to promote energy intake and reduce protein catabolism, and administration of B-complex vitamins to support metabolic recovery. Additionally, electrolyte therapy was provided to correct fluid imbalances and promote urate excretion. This combined intervention successfully halted disease progression and facilitated flock recovery.

Keywords: Visceral Gout, Broiler Chicks, Urate Crystals, Tubular Degeneration.