Histopathological alterations of selenium toxicity induced in broiler (Birds)

A study was conducted to determine the pathological toxic effect of selenium (Sodium selenite). A total number 120 one day old White Leghorn (WLH) healthy broiler birds were randomly divided into A, B and C groups. Each group contain 40 birds daily administration of sodium selenite @ 30ppm and @ 15 ppm in group A and B, respectively and group C was given plain drinking water daily for 42 days and kept as control. Macroscopically and microscopically revealed varying degrees of congestion and haemorrhages in lungs, liver, kidneys, heart and intestine in selenium treated birds. The bursa of Fabricius showed depletion of lymphoid cells between the interfollicular spaces. A significant (P<0.05) decrease in the haemoglobin and packed cell volume was noticed in both the selenium fed groups but the total erythrocyte count remain unchanged. Biochemical parameter revealed slight decline in their activity of serum ALT and AST and increased level of BUN and creatinine in group A and B as compared to group C, suggesting some degree of renal dysfunctioning.