Prevalence, epidemiology and histopathology of Ascaridia galli infections in backyard chickens in Gazipur district, Bangladesh

Ascaridia galli is responsible for weight loss, emaciation, anemia, decreased egg production, and in severe cases, intestinal obstruction and death in chickens, resulting in significant economic losses for the poultry industry. This study aimed to assess the present status of Ascaridia galli in backyard chickens in Gazipur district. Additionally, the study examined histopathological changes in the intestines and livers of chickens heavily infested with this nematode. Postmortem examination, helminth collection and identification were conducted on 237 backyard chickens from March 2023 to February 2024. The overall prevalence was found to be 40.51%, with Kaliakair upazila showing the highest prevalence at 55.26%, while Sreepur upazila had the lowest at 27.08%. Factors such as season, sex, and age significantly influenced the incidence of ascariasis in backyard chickens. Adults exhibited the highest occurrence rate at 44.88%, with males (44.19%) showing a greater prevalence than females (36.22%). The highest incidence was recorded in the summer at 57.14%. In cases of severe infection, Ascaridia galli obstructs the small intestine, leading to inflamed, hemorrhagic intestines that produce excess mucus. The livers of the infected chickens appeared swollen, enlarged, and pale, with signs of congestion, hemorrhage, and inflammation. Histopathological analysis revealed hemorrhage and inflammatory cell infiltration in the intestines, along with damaged and lacerated intestinal tissues. The livers showed congestion, ruptured blood vessels, inflammation, hemorrhage, and necrosis. In conclusion, this study identifies potential risk factors associated with Ascaridia galli infection in backyard chickens in Gazipur district, offering insights that could aid in controlling and preventing such infections.