Haematological alterations in broilers due to lead acetate and its amelioration by vitamin C

The present study was undertaken to elucidate the effects of lead acetate on haematological alterations in broilers. One hundred and eight (day old) broiler chicks were reared for two weeks and then randomly divided into six groups, viz group I, II, III, IV, V and VI respectively, each comprising of 18 birds. Group I birds were kept as control and given lead free feed and water. Group II & III birds were given lead acetate @ 250 & 500 ppm in feed respectively. Group IV & V were supplemented with vitamin C @ 40 mg/L drinking water in addition to lead acetate @ 250 and 500 ppm respectively. Group VI birds were supplemented with vitamin C @ 40 mg/L drinking water in addition to normal feed. The Hb, PCV, TEC, MCH and MCHC values were lower in lead fed birds as compared to control group birds up to two weeks post exposure and values further reduced from 2^nd week post exposure in group III birds, 4^th week post exposure in group II and group V birds and 6^th week post exposure in group IV birds. The MCV values revealed no significant difference in any of the treatment groups as compared to control group birds. The TLC values also revealed a decrease in lead fed and lead and vitamin C fed groups as compared to control group birds in dose and duration dependent manner. The DLC values revealed an increase in heterophil, monocyte and basophil counts throughout the period of experiment and a significant decrease in lymphocyte count was deserved in lead treated birds at 4^thweek post exposure.