Original Article

Reproductive tract diseases in female backyard chickens

(Gallus gallus domesticus) – diagnostic imaging and final outcome
during a decade
Erkrankungen des Reproduktionstrakts bei Hobbyhühnern
(Gallus gallus domesticus) – bildgebende Diagnostik und Ausgang
im Verlauf eines Jahrzehnts

Authors
Cornelia Konicek1, Michael Pees2, Michaela Gumpenberger3

Institutes Erkrankungen des Reproduktionstrakts von Hennen zu geben,

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1 Clinical Unit of Internal Medicine Small Animals, die Befunde der bildgebenden Diagnostik mit der finalen Di-
Service for Birds and Reptiles, University of Veterinary agnose zu vergleichen und den Ausgang der verschiedenen
Medicine Vienna, Austria Erkrankungskomplexe zusammenzufassen.
2 Clinic for Birds and Reptiles, University of Leipzig, Material und Methode Das digitale medizinische Patienten-
­Germany archiv der Veterinärmedizinischen Universität Wien wurde nach
3 Clinical Unit of Diagnostic Imaging, University of Hühnern durchsucht, die von 1. Mai 2009 bis 31. Mai 2019 vor-
­Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Austria gestellt und bei denen Erkrankungen des Reproduktionstrakts
diagnostiziert wurden. Zur Auswertung wurden relevante Infor-
Schlüsselwörter mationen wie Alter der Patienten, Vorerkrankungen, Befunde
Hobbyhühner, Erkrankungen des Reproduktionstrakts, der bildgebenden Diagnostik, finale Diagnosen, Operations-
­Zölomitis, Salpingitis, Sonografie, Computertomografie protokolle, Ausgang und wenn vorhanden Sektionsprotokolle
extrahiert.
Key words Ergebnisse Bestätigte Erkrankungen des Reproduktionstrakts
Backyard poultry, reproductive tract disorders, coelomitis, fanden sich bei 57 von 315 Hennen. Am häufigsten erkrankten
salpingitis, ultrasonography, computed tomography die Tiere an Ei-/Dotterserositis mit begleitender Salpingitis
oder Eimassen in der Salpinx (25/57), gefolgt von Tumoren
received 29.11.2019 ausgehend von Ovar oder Salpinx (17/57). Die klinische Unter-
accepted 17.03.2020 suchung ergab meist unspezifische Befunde. Am auffälligsten
waren apathische Tiere mit umfangsvermehrtem Abdomen.
Bibliography Bei der Differenzierung verschiedener Krankheitskomplexe er-
DOI https://doi.org/10.1055/a-1128-4520 wiesen sich Sonografie und Computertomografie als hilfreiche
Tierarztl Prax Ausg K Kleintiere Heimtiere 2020; 48: 99–110 bildgebende Verfahren. Eine sichere Unterscheidung zwischen
© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York Tumoren des Reproduktionstrakts und Ei-/Dotterserositis mit
ISSN 1434–1239 begleitender Salpingitis/Eimassen in der Salpinx gelang mit
alleiniger sonografischer Untersuchung in den meisten Fällen
Correspondence address
(10/11) nicht. Die CT zeigte sich hier als das deutlich sensitivere
Cornelia Konicek
Verfahren. Bei 6/6 CT-Scans wurde eine korrekte Diagnose ge-
Klinische Abteilung Interne Medizin Kleintiere
stellt. In vielen Fällen erlaubte aber erst die Laparatomie eine
Service für Vögel und Reptilien
finale Diagnosestellung. Eine chirurgische Intervention war
Veterinärmedizinische Universität Wien
häufig notwendig. Der Ausgang war überwiegend ungünstig:
Veterinärplatz 1
34 der 57 Hühner wurden euthanasiert oder verstarben und nur
1210 Wien, Austria
23 Tiere konnten erfolgreich behandelt werden. Der weitere
cornelia.konicek@vetmeduni.wien.ac.at
Verlauf ließ sich bei einigen Hühnern über bis zu 4 Jahre ver-
folgen, wobei die Besitzer über ein gutes Allgemeinbefinden
ZUSA MME N FA SS U N G
der Tiere berichteten.
Gegenstand und Ziel Erkrankungen des Reproduktionstrakts Schlussfolgerung und klinische Relevanz Diagnostische
sind bei Hobbyhühnern ein häufiger Vorstellungsgrund mit Aufarbeitung und Therapie von Erkrankungen des Reproduk-
steigendem Besitzerwunsch nach adäquater Behandlung. Auf- tionstrakts bei Hobbyhennen können sehr anspruchsvoll sein.
grund der spärlichen Literaturangaben zu dieser Thematik war Das klinische Bild und bildgebende Verfahren bieten wichtige
es Ziel dieser Arbeit, einen Überblick über häufig auftretende Hinweise, doch häufig erfordert die Diagnosestellung eine

Konicek C et al. Reproductive tract diseases ... Tierarztl Prax Ausg K Kleintiere Heimtiere 2020; 48: 99–110 99
 Original Article
Laparotomie. Meist liegen schwere Krankheitsbilder vor. Bei
40 % der Hennen gelang eine erfolgreiche Behandlung. Eine
realistische Einschätzung des jeweiligen Falls und eine ent-
sprechende Aufklärung der Halter sind daher wichtig.
ABS TR AC T
Objective Female reproductive tract disorders are common
conditions of backyard poultry with an increasing demand for
individual veterinary care. However, only limited case reports
are available on diagnostic workup and outcomes of individual
cases. This study aims at giving an overview of usually present-
ed reproductive tract disorders, comparing diagnostic imaging
findings with final diagnoses, and summarizing the outcome of
the respective diseases.
Material and methods The digital medical records archive of
the University for Veterinary Medicine in Vienna was searched
for chickens that were finally diagnosed with diseases of the
reproductive tract, including all patients from May 1st, 2009 to
May 31st, 2019. Information such as patient age, medical histo-
ry, results of diagnostic imaging, final confirmed diagnosis, out-
come, surgical protocol and necropsy findings was extracted.
Results Finally confirmed reproductive tract diseases were
found in 57 of 315 female chickens. The most common con-
ditions were egg-related coelomitis along with salpingitis or
impacted salpinx (25/57), followed by ovarian or oviductal
Introduction
Keeping backyard chickens has become increasingly popular over
the last decade. One reason is the demand for fresh eggs from own
production [1][2] Nevertheless, the majority of these chickens are
additionally considered as valuable pets [2][3][4][5]. As a conse-
quence, owners are increasingly willing to seek adequate veteri-
nary care for the individual animal without economically based fi-
nancial restrictions.
The most common conditions of backyard poultry are reported
to be related to infectious diseases, whereby bacterial infections
are highly associated with reproductive tract diseases like salpin-
gitis and salpingoperitonitis [6][7]. Neoplastic and lymphoprolif-
erative diseases have frequently been observed as well as cause of
death in backyard chickens, the majority being Marek’s diseases
virus-associated lymphoma. However, spontaneous ovarian ade-
nocarcinoma was also a common finding [6][8][9]. In commercial
egg-laying chickens, egg-related coelomitis was reported to be
the most frequent cause of death (26.6 %) [9]. Reproductive dis-
eases of backyard poultry are not only reported on mortality stud-
ies but also in avian medicine practices [3][10], even on emergen-
cy basis (21.8 %) [4].
Common complaints from owners of female birds with repro-
ductive disorders include coelomic cavity swelling, respiratory dis-
tress, abnormal stance, cloacal prolapse, anorexia, depression, pa-
resis or paralysis and behavioural changes [11]. The increasing de-
mand for advanced veterinary medicine for the pet chicken makes
diagnostic imaging important for distinguishing between various
conditions in order to apply adequate treatment. Radiography and
100 Konicek C et al. Reproductive tract diseases ... Tierarztl Prax Ausg K Kleintiere Heimtiere 2020; 48: 99–110
neoplasia (17/57). Clinical findings were unspecific in the ma-
jority of cases, but most conspicuous were chickens presented
with a distended coelomic cavity and apathy. Coelomic ultraso-
nography as well as computed tomography proved to be valu-
able tools for distinguishing between the respective conditions.
However, ultrasonography alone mainly failed (10/11) to differ-
entiate between ovary or oviductal neoplasia and egg-related
coelomitis with salpingitis or impacted salpinx, respectively.
Computed tomography was perceived as a superior tool for
final diagnosis. In total 6/6 CT-scans correctly made a definitive
diagnosis. Nevertheless, accurate diagnosis was only possible
after celiotomy with the necessity of consecutive surgery for
most of the reported cases. As an overall outcome 34 of 57
patients were either euthanised or died, whereas only 23 chick-
ens could be successfully treated and discharged. Several hens
were reported to be doing well at home, according to regular
check-up procedures within 4 years post-surgery.
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Conclusion and clinical relevance Diagnostic work-up and
treatment of hens with reproductive tract diseases can be chal-
lenging. Clinical presentation and diagnostic imaging provide
important information, still celiotomy is often required for fi-
nal diagnosis. The condition of the chickens is usually serious.
Within our study, 40 % of the hens could be treated successfully.
Therefore, a realistic assessment of each individual case and
clarification for the owners are important.
ultrasound as well as computed tomography (CT) provide useful in-
formation to the practitioner. On radiographs calcified eggs can be
easily seen, as well as enlargement of the reproductive tract organs.
However, differentiation is limited in conditions which cause diffuse
opacification of the caudal coelom [12]. In these cases, at least ad-
ditional coelomic ultrasonography will be necessary to draw con-
clusions. Ultrasonographic examination of the reproductive tract
can be challenging in the presence of fully calcified egg shells due
to the reflection of the ultrasound waves [13]. Evaluation of other
coelomic organs may then be hindered. Still it is the method of
choice for diagnosis of egg binding without a calcified shell. It may
even allow to distinguish whether the egg is still located within the
salpinx or loose in the coelomic cavity [13][14]. Common ultraso-
nography findings are egg-related coelomitis, laminated eggs, im-
paction of the salpinx, and salpingitis [13]. Often combined meth-
ods (radiography and sonography) are needed to draw final intra
vitam conclusions.
The aim of this retrospective study was 2-fold: first, to give an
overview of the reproductive tract disorders in chickens over a de-
cade and to summarize the outcome of the respective conditions;
second, to compare sonography and CT and their suitability as di-
agnostic imaging techniques.
Material and methods
The digital medical records of the University for Veterinary Med-
icine in Vienna were searched for chickens (Gallus gallus domesti-
cus) that were presented either for suspected reproductive tract
disorders or with unspecific symptoms as well as chickens that un-
derwent diagnostic imaging. The data were further limited to fe-
male chickens that were finally diagnosed with diseases of the re-
productive tract, either during celiotomy, necropsy or conclusive
diagnostic imaging, over a 10-year period from May 1st, 2009 to
May 31st, 2019. The records were compiled and reviewed thor-
oughly. Information such as patient age, medical history, primary
medical history, results of diagnostic imaging, final confirmed or
working diagnosis, final outcome, surgical protocol and necropsy
findings when available was extracted. Descriptive statistics were
calculated for pathology findings of the reproductive tract, ultra-
sonographic and CT findings and outcome of the respective case.
Diagnostic imaging findings were compared to final diagnosis ob-
tained during celiotomy/histology or gross necropsy if available.
Ultrasonography was performed with a microconvex transducer
(5–8 MHz; iU22 Philips, Bothell, WA). The patients were manually
restrained, with most patients being examined in an upright-po-
sition, standing on the examination table and observing consider-
ate handling. The ventromedian coupling site (with the transduc-
er positioned in the midline immediately caudal to the sternum) as
well as the caudal parasternal approach were used [13].The feath-
ers were parted and moistened by means of an alcoholic spray in
order to avoid interference with the coupling site. Water-soluble
acoustic gel was applied to ensure optimal transducer-skin contact.
CT was performed in fully awake patients with a 16-slice helical
CT, Siemens Somatom Emotion (Siemens, Vienna, Austria) using
80 mAs, 130 kV, rotation time 1.5 s, pitch 0.8, and slice thickness
0.75 mm. The chickens were usually placed in dark carton boxes.
The spare space in the boxes was filled up with paper towels to limit
movement artefacts to a minimum.
Results
Data and case selection
During the observed decade 447 chickens (Gallus gallus domesti-
cus) were admitted to the University of Veterinary Medicine Vien-
na at the Service for Birds and Reptiles. A total of 139 of these birds
were examined ultrasonographically, and 68 animals received CT
scans. The majority (70.5 %) of the chickens admitted at the clinic
were recorded to be female (315/447), whereas roosters (11.2 %)
were presented (50/447) as a minority. The sex of the remaining
82 chickens has not been recorded.
Fifty-seven of 315 female chickens suffered from finally con-
firmed reproductive tract disorders. Confirmation was obtained
either during celiotomy/necropsy or conclusive diagnostic imag-
ing findings. As far as recorded, the age of the chickens diagnosed
with reproductive tract diseases varied from 1 to 5 years, the ma-
jority were 2–3 years old. ▶Fig. 1 gives an overview over the vari-
able patient numbers during the last decade.
Clinical findings and final diagnoses of selected cases
The most common reported clinical signs of the 57 female chickens
with confirmed reproductive disorders were coelomic distension
(32/57) and depression (27/57), followed by emaciation (5/57),
crop stasis (5/57) and dyspnea (5/57). Cloacal prolapse (4/57),
straining (4/57), anorexia (4/57), abnormal shaped eggs (4/57),
Konicek C et al. Reproductive tract diseases ... Tierarztl Prax Ausg K Kleintiere Heimtiere 2020; 48: 99–110
100
90
80
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018
Year
▶Fig. 1 Total numbers of backyard chickens presented annually
at the service for birds and reptiles at the University of Veterinary
Medicine Vienna from 2010 to 2018. Source: © C. Konicek.
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▶Abb. 1 Gesamtzahl der Hobbyhühner, die in den Jahren 2010–
2018 beim Service für Vögel und Reptilien der Veterinärmedizi­
nischen Universität Wien vorgestellt wurden. Quelle: © C. Konicek.
cessation of egg production (3/57) and diarrhea (3/57) were re-
ported. In singular cases chickens were presented in lateral recum-
bency, with a pale comb, unable to stand up, had cloacal discharge
or lack of defecation.
As a final outcome, 25 chickens had egg-related coelomitis with
salpingitis/oviductal impaction (▶ Fig. 2). Neoplasia of the repro-
ductive tract was found in 17 birds during celiotomy or necropsy
(▶ Fig. 3), of those, histopathology revealed adenocarcinoma in
10 cases and an ovarian adenocarcinoma and leiomyoma of the
salpinx has been found in another case. Concerning the remain-
ing neoplastic cases (6/17), diagnosis was made by pathomorpho-
logical findings only, as no histopathology was performed. Six of
57 chickens were presented with egg binding, 5 had salpingitis
(without coelomitis), 3 had oviductal rupture which led to free in-
tracoelomic deposition of an egg/oviductal content, and 1 chick-
en was diagnosed with an oviductal cyst. These results are sum-
marized in ▶Table 1.
Microbiology results of aspirated coelomic fluids were available
in 3 cases. E. coli, Entercococcus faecium and Staphylococcus sciu-
ri were found, respectively. Cytological examination of aspirated
coelomic fluids was done in 3 additional cases. One specimen con-
tained macrophages with phagocytized lipid particles, characteris-
tic for egg-related coelomitis. In 1 salpinx epithelic cells were found
and 1 aspirate contained macrophages without bacteria or lipid
particles.
Imaging results of selected cases
Forty-five out of the 57 chickens underwent coelomic ultrasonog-
raphy. The most common ultrasonographic finding was free coe-
lomic fluid (26/45) (▶ Fig. 4), followed by (egg-related) coelomi-
tis (15/45) (▶ Fig. 4), salpingitis (12/45), poorly/uncalcified egg
(7/45) (▶Fig. 5), egg binding/dystocia (7/45), laminated egg (6/45)
(▶ Fig. 6), deformed egg (5/45) (▶ Fig. 7), impacted salpinx (5/45)
(▶ Fig. 8), soft tissue mass (3/45), and ectopic egg in the coelom-
ic cavity (1/45).
101
 Original Article

a b

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▶Fig. 2 Impacted salpinx. a The salpinx presented swollen and impacted with egg material during surgery. b Removed impacted salpinx follow-
ing salpingohysterectomy. Source: © C. Konicek.

▶Abb. 2 Mit Eimasse gefüllte Salpinx. a Operationssitus: umfangsvermehrte, gefüllte Salpinx. b Entfernte Salpinx nach Salpingohyster­­ektomie.
Quelle: © C. Konicek.

▶Table 1 Diagnoses and outcome of 57 chickens with reproductive tract disorders. Total number of chickens and chickens that underwent
­salpingohysterectomy (se) or celiotomy (ce) is recorded in parenthesis (se/ce). Survival time, assessed by the last follow-up consultation, is given
in months (m).

▶Tab. 1 Finale Diagnosen und Krankheitsverlauf der 57 Hühner mit Erkrankungen des Reproduktionstrakts. Dargestellt ist die Gesamtanzahl der
Tiere sowie in Klammern die Anzahl der Hühner, bei denen eine Salpingohysterektomie (se) oder Laparotomie (ce) erfolgte. Die Überlebenszeit,
bemessen an der letzten Konsultation, ist in Monaten (m) angegeben.

Diagnosis Outcome

Discharged, Euthanised Died Died during surgery/­ Discharged/last

no follow-up celiotomy follow-up

egg-related coelomitis/salpingitis/­oviductal 2 (1 se) 5 6 (2 ce) 3 (2 se/1 ce) 3 (3 se): ≤ 12 m

impaction (n = 25) 2 (1 ce/1 se): 12–24 m
4 (4 se): ≥ 24 m

ovarian/oviductal neoplasia (n = 17)

• adenocarcinoma (n = 10) 5 5
• unknown origin (n = 6) 4 1 1
• adenocarcinoma and leiomyoma (n = 1) 1 (1 ce): 12–24 m
egg binding/dystocia (n = 6) 6
salpingitis (n = 5) 2 2 1
oviductal rupture (n = 3) 1 1 1 (1 ce): 12–24 m
oviductal cyst (n = 1) 1
total (n = 57) 12 16 14 4 11

CT examinations have been performed in 5 patients. The most
common findings were pneumopathy (3/6), impacted salpinx (2/6)
(▶Fig. 9), laminated egg (2/6), splenomegaly (2/6), salpingitis (2/6)
and hepatopathy (2/6). In singular cases free coelomic fluid, heter-
ogenic ovary and mesenteric metastases were found. Four out of
these 6 patients were finally diagnosed with egg-related coelomi-
tis and salpingitis/oviductal impaction (4/6), 1 animal with ovari-
an/oviductal neoplasia (1/6) and 1 patient with egg binding (1/6).
Four chickens underwent coelomic ultrasonography and CT
scan. Two were finally diagnosed with egg-related coelomitis and
impacted salpinx. CT could clearly visualize the impacted salpinx,
whereas ultrasonography demonstrated a soft tissue mass in 1 case
and a suspected egg-related coelomitis with salpingitis in the other
case. In 1 chicken, diagnosed with egg binding, a physiological cal-
cified egg was found using CT and ultrasound. In the last case, fi-
nally diagnosed with adenocarcinoma, ultrasonography suspect-

102 Konicek C et al. Reproductive tract diseases ... Tierarztl Prax Ausg K Kleintiere Heimtiere 2020; 48: 99–110
 a b

▶Fig. 3 Ovarian adenocarcinoma, necropsy findings: multiple white, firm nodules on the ovary (a) and mesenteric metastasis all over the

Downloaded by: University of Massachusetts - Amherst. Copyrighted material.

i­ ntestinal tract and serosa (b). Source: © C. Konicek.

▶Abb. 3 Ovarielles Adenokarzinoms, Sektionsbefund: multiple weiße, derbe Knoten am Ovar (a) sowie auf der gesamten Serosa und dem
­ esenterium des Darmtrakts (b). Quelle: © C. Konicek.
M

▶Fig. 5 Sagittal sonographic image (8 MHz microconvex

▶Fig. 4 Sagittal sonographic image (8 MHz microconvex trans­
ducer) of the coelomic cavity of a hen. Moderate amounts of
anechoic fluid (*) can be seen between the coelomic organs. The
serosal surface of the bowel loops (arrows) is severely hyperechoic
and thickened and therefore most likely represents coelomitis.
Source: © M. Gumpenberger.
▶Abb. 4 Sagittales Sonogramm (8-MHz-Mikrokonvexschallkopf)
der Zölomhöhle eines Huhns. Es stellt sich eine mittelgradige
Menge einer echofreien Flüssigkeit (*) dar. Die seröse Oberfläche
der Darmschlingen (Pfeile) ist auffallend echoreich verdichtet
sowie verdickt und deutet somit auf eine Peritonitis hin. Quelle:
© M. Gumpenberger.
­transducer) of a physiological, soft-shelled egg. Note, how the
pressure of the transducer impinges the surface of the egg.
The anechoic area represents the albumen while the layered
globoid structure in the middle represents the yolk. Source:
© M. Gumpenberger.
▶Abb. 5 Sagittales Sonogramm (8-MHz-Mikrokonvexschall-
kopf) eines physiologischen, weichschaligen Eies. Beachte, wie
bereits der geringe Druck des Schallkopfs die Oberfläche der
Eischale deformiert. Die echofreie Zone entspricht dem Eiweiß,
die geschichtete echoreichere kugelige Struktur im Zentrum dem
Eidotter. Quelle: © M. Gumpenberger.

Egg binding Diagnosed egg binding was initially treated medi-

ed egg-related coelomitis with free coelomic fluid, whereas CT
showed a heterogenic ovary and suspected mesenteric metasta-
sis combined with free coelomic fluid.These results are summa-
rized in ▶Table 2.
Treatment and outcome of selected cases
Treatment included hospitalisation and supportive care with flu-
ids, warmth, nutritional support and pain management when in-
dicated.
cally with fluids, calcium, warmth and privacy. Four of 6 chickens
released the egg within 24 hours. The remaining 2 chickens were
anesthetized, and the egg could be reached via the cloaca manu-
ally in both cases. Oviposition could be achieved manually with ap-
plication of lubricants and careful digital pressure.
Oviductal rupture It was treated surgically in 2 of 3 cases. The
coelomic cavity was opened under general anaesthesia. The egg/
oviductal content could be removed and the defect in the salpinx

Konicek C et al. Reproductive tract diseases ... Tierarztl Prax Ausg K Kleintiere Heimtiere 2020; 48: 99–110 103
 Original Article
▶Fig. 6 Transverse sonographic images (8 MHz microconvex
­transducer) of multi-layered yolks (a) and an unphysiological egg
without a calcified shell (b). Source: © M. Gumpenberger.
▶Abb. 6 Transversale Sonogramme (8-MHz-Mikrokonvex­
schallkopf) von mehrfach geschichteten Dottern (a) und einem
unphysiologischen Ei mit fehlender Kalkschale (b). Quelle:
© M. Gumpenberger.
▶Fig. 7 Sagittal sonographic image (8 MHz microconvex trans-
ducer) of a fully calcified egg shell with multiple shell fractures. The
surrounding uterine wall of moderate echogenicity seems to be
thickened. Source: © M. Gumpenberger.
▶Abb. 7 Sagittales Sonogramm (8-MHz-Mikrokonvexschallkopf)
einer auskalzifizierten, aber mehrfach zerbrochenen Eischale. Die
umgebende Wand des Legedarms ist auffallend echoreich und ver-
dickt. Quelle: © M. Gumpenberger.
104 Konicek C et al. Reproductive tract diseases ... Tierarztl Prax Ausg K Kleintiere Heimtiere 2020; 48: 99–110
▶Fig. 8 Sagittal sonographic image (8 MHz microconvex trans­
ducer) of a heterogenous fragment of yolk (*). The salpinx
seems to be thickened and tightly packed (arrows). Source:
Downloaded by: University of Massachusetts - Amherst. Copyrighted material.
© M. Gumpenberger.
▶Abb. 8 Sagittales Sonogramm (8-MHz-Mikrokonvexschallkopf)
eines heterogenen Dotterfragments (*). Der Salpinx stellt
sich verdickt und als eng gepackte tubuläre Struktur dar (Pfeile).
Quelle: © M. Gumpenberger.
▶Fig. 9 Sagittal CT image (multiplanar reconstruction) in modified
soft tissue window of a hen (head points to the left) suffering from
multiple oversized multilayered yolks. The ventriculus is displaced
cranially. Source: © M. Gumpenberger.
▶Abb. 9 Sagittales CT Bild (multiplanare Rekonstruktion) im
Weichteilfenster eines Huhns (Kopf zeigt nach links), das multiple,
absolut zu große mehrschichtige Dotterkugeln angebildet hat.
Der Muskelmagen ist nach kranial verlagert. Quelle: © M. Gumpen-
berger.
repaired. Both chickens were discharged from the clinic, unfor-
tunately without any further follow-up information available. The
third chicken died prior to surgery.
Salpingitis Birds diagnosed with salpingitis were either treated
medically with supportive care, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory
drugs and systemic antibiosis and discharged (2/3), euthanised
(2/3) or died prior to treatment (1/5).
Egg-related coelomitis Of the 25 chickens diagnosed with
egg-related coelomitis and salpingitis/impacted salpinx 15 under-
went surgical management. Salpingohysterectomy, as described
before (15), has been successfully performed on 11 (11/25) chick-
ens, 2 (2/15) died during recovery, and 9 (9/15) recovered and were
 ▶Table 2 Recorded diagnostic findings with association to the reproductive system.

▶Tab. 2 Den Reproduktionstrakt betreffende erhobene Befunde der bildgebenden Diagnostik.

No. Ultrasonography findings CT findings Final diagnosis

free egg in coelomic cavity

poorly or uncalcified egg

mesenteric metastases
egg-related coelomitis
free coelomic fluid

free coelomic fluid

heterogenic ovary

physiological egg
impacted salpinx

impacted salpinx
soft tissue mass

laminated eggs
laminated egg

deformed egg

egg binding
salpingitis

salpingitis
1 X X egg-related coelomitis with
salpingitis/impacted salpinx
2 X
3 X X

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4 X X

5 X
6 X X X
7 X X
8 X X X
9 X X X
10 X X X
11 X X
12 X X X X
13 X
14
15 X X X
16 X X X
17 X X
18 X X
19 X X X
20 X X
21 X X X
22 X oviductal rupture
23 X X
24 X

25 X X egg binding
26 X
27 X
28 X X
29 X
30 X
31 X salpingitis
32 X X
33 X X
34 X X
35 X X
36 X salpinx cyst

Konicek C et al. Reproductive tract diseases ... Tierarztl Prax Ausg K Kleintiere Heimtiere 2020; 48: 99–110 105
 Original Article

▶Table 2 Continuation.

▶Tab. 2 Fortsetzung.

No. Ultrasonography findings CT findings Final diagnosis

free egg in coelomic cavity

poorly or uncalcified egg

mesenteric metastases
egg-related coelomitis
free coelomic fluid

free coelomic fluid

heterogenic ovary

physiological egg
impacted salpinx

impacted salpinx
soft tissue mass

laminated eggs
laminated egg

deformed egg

egg binding
salpingitis

salpingitis
37 X X X neoplasia, adenocarcinoma

38 X X

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39 X X X X X
40 X X X X
41 X X
42 X X
43 X X
44 X
45 X X neoplasia, undifferentiated
46 X X
47 X X X

discharged. Follow-up consultations existed for 8 (8/15) of the hens doing well up to 4 years after being dismissed from the clinic. These
that underwent salpingohysterectomy for up to 3 years. The chick- results are summarized in ▶Table 1.
ens were reported to be doing well at home. Three chickens (3/25)
had severe adhesions that salpingohysterectomy could not resolve Discussion
and salpingotomy only was used to remove the caseated materi-
al. Two (2/25) died within 1 month, 1 (1/25) survived 13 months From January 1st, 2010 to December 31th, 2018 a clear rise in
with regular coeleomocentesis, and medical treatment leading to the numbers of backyard chickens presented at the Service for
good quality of life. Five chickens (5/25) were euthanized as the Birds and Reptiles at the University of Veterinary Medicine in Vien-
owner refused further handling, and 4 chickens (4/25) died prior na could be seen (▶Fig. 1). There was a peak in 2015, followed by
to treatment. a drop in 2016/2017. This may be explained by the occurrence of
highly pathogenic avian influenza virus in Austria in autumn and
Neoplasia The majority of the chickens diagnosed with ovarian/ winter 2016/2017, where poultry was not admitted at the clinic.
oviductal neoplasia were either euthanised (9/17) or died (7/17). The observed increased consultation for backyard chickens rein-
One hen was discharged after celiotomy, salpingohysterectomy force recent reports from other authors [3][8][13]. The sense of an-
and biopsy sampling. It is still alive, 19 months after initial diag- imal welfare against livestock farming may play an important role
nosis. in the rise of keeping backyard chickens.
Confirmed reproductive tract diseases of female chickens could
Oviductal cyst The chicken diagnosed with an oviductal cyst was be found in 57 birds (from 315 reported female patients). The total
discharged after ultrasound guided aspiration of the cyst. Salping- number of chickens with reproductive tract diseases was likely high-
ohysterectomy was intended by the referring veterinarian, but no er than the number of cases detected as part of our study but con-
follow-up information has been recorded. clusive or sufficient data were missing in most cases. Therefore, ex-
To summarize the final outcome, the majority of the chickens cept for the general importance of the disease complex, no con-
(n = 34) presented with reproductive tract diseases were either eu- clusion can be drawn of overall prevalence of reproductive tract
thanised (16/57) or died (18/57). However, 23 chickens could be diseases of the admitted female chickens in this study in the re-
discharged from the clinic following successful treatment of the re- spective years. In general, female reproductive tract diseases of
spective diseases. No further follow-up information was available backyard chickens are commonly seen in avian speciality practices
for 12 birds after being discharged from the clinic. Eleven birds were [16]. Egg-related coelomitis seems to be a frequent cause of death
in commercial egg laying chicken, evenly distributed across all ages

106 Konicek C et al. Reproductive tract diseases ... Tierarztl Prax Ausg K Kleintiere Heimtiere 2020; 48: 99–110
[17]. In addition, a high proportion (25–40 %) of egg-type chicken
develop ovarian cancer at the age of 2–4 years [18]. Still reports
on clinical and diagnostic imaging findings as well as outcomes of
those conditions are limited.
In our study, similar to prior reports, the most common repro-
ductive condition was egg-related coelomitis accompanied by sal-
pingitis/impacted salpinx (25/57) in the last decade. The age of the
chickens was evenly distributed from 1 to 5 years. The combined
presentation of egg-related coelomitis with an underlaying repro-
ductive condition, frequently with oviductal disorders, has been
observed previously by other authors [3]. The condition is sup-
posed to be a common sequela to chronic laying, oviductal infec-
tion or oviductal trauma [15]. Still, the true cause of egg-related
coelomitis is difficult to determine [17], but it is most commonly
associated with E. coli infection, by either the translocation of in-
testinal E. coli into the peritoneal cavity or by the movement of clo-
acal E. coli into the oviduct followed by ascension of these bacteria
up the oviduct, through the infundibulum, and into the coelomic
cavity [19][20][21][22]. Regarding our records only 3 aspirates of
coelomic fluids were examined microbiologically. Two examined
specimens originated from hens with egg-related coelomitis, only
one was positive for E. coli, the other one was positive for Enterococ-
cus faecium. One sample, obtained from a chicken with adenocar-
cinoma, was positive for Staphylococcus sciuri. Based on the small
numbers, no conclusion can be drawn. According to the records,
reason for the low numbers of microbiological investigations were
financial restrictions.
Most common clinical signs of the chickens presented with
egg-related coelomitis were distended caudal coelom (16/25) and
apathy (12/25). However, diarrhea, dyspnoea, cessation of egg pro-
duction, paresis of the hind legs, emaciation, crop stasis, cyanosis
and cloacal discharge could be observed as well. Similar symptoms
have already been described in literature [3][14][15].
Egg-related coelomitis with salpingitis/impacted
salpinx
Coelomic ultrasonography was performed in 18 (18/25) patients
with egg-related coelomitis and salpingitis/impacted salpinx. The
procedure provided a clear diagnosis in 72 % (15/18) of the cases,
which could be confirmed either via celiotomy or necropsy. A typi-
cal ultrasonographic finding was free coelomic fluid containing mul-
tiple hyperechoic particles. Further documentation of the cases re-
vealed that this fluid appeared very viscous. Aspirated fluid showed
different colours (from yellowish to orange, brown and dark red)
and qualities, and often correlated with fibrinous exudate. Addi-
tionally, follicles and deformed or laminated eggs were detected,
as described before [13]. In 3 cases (3/18) ultrasonography sup-
ported other conditions, namely impacted salpinx, egg binding
and egg retention. However, these diagnoses were correctly relat-
ed to the reproductive tract. In one of those 3 cases neoplasia was
mentioned as an additional differential diagnosis.
In total 4 (4/25) of the chickens with finally confirmed egg-re-
lated coelomitis and salpingitis/impacted salpinx underwent a CT
scan, CT model and settings used as described above. In all of those
cases CT scan results were confirmed via celiotomy or necropsy. In
these 4 cases, CT was found to be a sensitive tool to give a defini-
tive diagnosis with reproductive tract diseases. CT is not hindered
Konicek C et al. Reproductive tract diseases ... Tierarztl Prax Ausg K Kleintiere Heimtiere 2020; 48: 99–110
by gas or calcified egg shells or superimposition of organs, which
makes it the superior tool for complete evaluation of the reproduc-
tive tract in chicken. Moreover, with one full body scan all organs
can be investigated to rule out additional disease [23]. No patient
needed any sedation to undergo a CT examination. There were no
movement artefacts that influenced or hindered the proper read-
ing of the images. This may be explained by the quick performance
of the multislice helical CT as well as by the tameness and some-
times even poor condition of the patients.
The general prognosis of hens suffering from egg-related coelo-
mitis with salpingitis or impacted salpinx was guarded. After medi-
cal treatment salpingohysterectomy was the treatment of choice.
Surgical management of reproductive tract diseases in female
chickens has been described previously [24], still reports on the
general outcome/the success rate of the treatment are scarce. In
summary, 9 of 25 hens with egg-related coelomitis together with
salpingitis or impacted salpinx were successfully treated and dis-
Downloaded by: University of Massachusetts - Amherst. Copyrighted material.
charged. Given that the prognosis of egg-related coelomitis is re-
ported to be very poor [25], the outcome in our study was gener-
ally satisfactory.
Salpingitis and salpinx cyst
Five hens were finally diagnosed with salpingitis without egg-relat-
ed coelomitis, based on clinical presentation, diagnostic imaging
and in 3 cases additional celiotomy. Diagnoses were not validat-
ed by histopathology. We included 4 cases with conclusive sono-
graphic findings (⅘). The salpinx presented with increased thick-
ness, swollen mucosa and slightly fluid filled, as described in litera-
ture [26]. These findings were confirmed during necropsy in 2 (2/4)
hens. In one chicken (⅕) the salpinx could not be seen because of
reflection of ultrasound waves by a calcified egg. Diagnosis was
then made via celiotomy, after subsequent salpingohysterectomy.
Limitations of ultrasonography due to a calcified egg have been
commonly reported [12][13]. Two hens were euthanised as the
owner refused any further treatment and 2 animals were treated
medically and were discharged with improvement of clinical con-
ditions but without any follow-up information. According to liter-
ature recommended diagnostic work-up should include celiotomy
or endoscopy with aspiration of oviductal fluid, cytology or oviduc-
tal biopsy and microbiological analyses [3]. As soon as there is free
cloudy fluid and debris in the coelomic cavity endoscopy will be
difficult. In those cases coelomocentesis facilitates breathing for
the patient, while further cytological and microbiological investi-
gations are used to verify infections. Regarding our records coelo-
mocentesis, cytologic fluid analyses and culture were occasional-
ly applied, if free fluid was present, which was not the case in any
of the chickens diagnosed with salpingitis. Additionally, more in-
vasive diagnostic work-up as described above was refused by the
owners in the respective cases. In general salpingohysterectomy
is likely to be required for long-term treatment because this con-
dition is likely to reoccur [3]. Due to the lack of follow-up informa-
tion, long-term outcome of most of our cases after medical treat-
ment remains uncertain.
In one (1/57) of the chickens an oviductal cyst was found, which
could be clearly seen using ultrasonography. Cytological investi-
gation of the aspirate found corresponding salpinx epithelial cells.
Still, if the cyst originated from the left or from the obliterated right
107
 Original Article
salpinx remains unclear. The chicken’s condition improved after
aspiration of the cyst. Recommended treatment includes surgi-
cal removal of the cyst and fluid [14] which could not be applied
in this case as the owner refused further treatment or work-up. In
general the prognosis for treatment resolution is stated to be fair
to poor [14].
Oviductal rupture
Ultrasonographic examinations of chickens with suspected repro-
ductive tract diseases may allow differentiation of an egg within the
uterus versus loose in the coelomic cavity. During our research we
found 3 (3/57) chickens with ruptured oviduct, but only one had
conclusive findings during ultrasonography. Interestingly 2 of those
3 animals were examined by 2 different veterinarians with little ex-
perience in avian ultrasonography. In general we must presume
that gaining an assured diagnosis during sonography strongly de-
pends on the expertise of the investigating veterinarian. However,
the need for celiotomy for final diagnosis has been reported from
other authors [27]. Two of these hens underwent successful surgi-
cal treatment, while one died prior to treatment.
Neoplasia
Neoplasia was the second common condition (17/57) found in
2–4 years old chickens in this study. Spontaneous tumors of the
reproductive tract of hens older than 2 years have been frequent-
ly observed in previous studies with incidences from 9 % up to 45 %
[6][7][18][28]. The incidence rate seems to increase with age [8]
[28]. Supposed to their higher lifespan and due to high rate of ovu-
lation within 3 years of age backyard poultry are most common-
ly affected [9][18].
The majority of these tumors are reported to be malignant ovar-
ian adenocarcinomas and carcinomatosis [6][7][9][28][29]. Carci-
nomatosis is referred to as malignant reproductive neoplasia, char-
acterized by multifocal metastatic masses throughout the coelomic
organs, that may be accompanied by free coelomic fluid [8]. Most
chickens are reported to show nonspecific clinical signs during the
early disease stage [8]. In our study the vast majority presented
with distended coelomic cavity and apathy.
Coelomic ultrasonography of 11/17 of these chickens support-
ed egg-related coelomitis in the majority of the cases (8/11), one
(1/11) was supposed to have enteritis and one was diagnosed with
coelomitis and free coelomic fluid (without involvement of the sal-
pinx). An ovarian mass was found only in one (1/11) patient. CT
scan of one chicken (1/17) revealed the final diagnosis of ovarian
neoplasia with metastasis in the mesenteries. These findings were
confirmed with necropsy.
Ante mortem diagnosis of tumors of the reproductive tract
seems to be challenging, as the symptoms are unspecific. The
condition is often accompanied with coelomitis and free coelomic
fluid – as seen in egg-related coelomitis and salpingitis. Small neo-
plastic nodules may easily be misinterpreted as yolk fragments or
fibrin clots during sonography. Additionally, in cases of severe ac-
cumulation of free coelomic fluid it was often impossible to evalu-
ate the whole coelomic cavity or the weak condition of the patient
led to interruption of the examination. Aspirating larger amounts
of free fluid made sonography easier, as well as breathing in dys-
pnoeic hens due to gaining tidal volume. In conclusion, whenever
108 Konicek C et al. Reproductive tract diseases ... Tierarztl Prax Ausg K Kleintiere Heimtiere 2020; 48: 99–110
hyperechoic multifocal nodes or masses can be determined by coe-
lomic ultrasonography throughout the organs, especially on the in-
testine, neoplasia associated with the reproductive tract is the most
important differential diagnosis. Altogether, coelomic ultrasonog-
raphy alone seems to be inadequate for final diagnosis or needs to
be supported by sample collection or other diagnostic tools. More
invasive techniques like celiotomy or endoscopy are necessary to
gain a final diagnosis in the majority of cases. CT scans revealed
more promising results, but only 2 chickens with confirmed repro-
ductive tract tumors were investigated. Nevertheless, further re-
search would be indicated.
Up to date there is no treatment available for reproductive neo-
plasia [14]. The hens presented in our clinic are usually seen at
late-terminal stages of the diseases. Therefore, nearly all of them
had to be euthanised or died. Only one chicken was diagnosed at
an early stage. Celiotomy found firm, greyish-white fleshy growths
attached to the salpinx and the surrounding serosal surface. Salp-
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ingohysterectomy was performed and histopathology found ade-
nocarcinoma as well as a leiomyoma of the salpinx. Follow-up infor-
mation are available until now, 19 months after diagnosis and sur-
gery. The hen is reported to have a good quality of life, with regular
aspiration of free coelomic fluid in the past 6 months.
Virally induced neoplasms are most commonly reported in
backyard poultry, especially associated with Marek’s disease virus
(MDV) [6][7][9]. Pathohistological investigations existed of 17/57
chickens in our study. In 2 of those additionally to ovarian adeno-
carcinoma, retrovirus associated lymphoma and MDV-associated
lymphoma were found.
Egg binding/dystocia
All chickens presented with egg binding/dystocia (6/57) were med-
ically treated and discharged in good clinical condition. Diagno-
sis was made by combined coelomic ultrasonography, clinical pre-
sentation and successful resolution of the symptoms after ovipo-
sition. Radiographic examinations are recommended in cases of
egg binding/dystocia [12]. Our chickens underwent ultrasonog-
raphy as first modality of choice as the handling in upright posi-
tion seemed less stressful for the bird compared to radiographs.
In regard to our reports coelomic ultrasonography gave adequate
information without any further needs for radiographic examina-
tions in all egg binding and dystocia cases. Symptoms were either
unspecific (3/6) or patients presented with cloacal prolapse (2/6).
One hen showed coelomic straining, which has also been report-
ed by other authors [15].
Limitations
Limitations of the study are mainly due to the retrospective study
design, as records can be incomplete and missing comprehensible
data. Therefore, several cases had to be excluded.
The study data are based on the diagnostics used in one clin-
ic specialized in avian medicine. The choice of diagnostic means
depends on the availability, experience and personal preferences.
This is why CT instead of radiography was sometimes applied ad-
ditionally or even alone. Only few cases [4] were available for di-
rect comparison of ultrasonography and CT. The study is therefore
not meant to compare all imaging techniques. Although the total
number of backyard poultry presented was high, as we filtered the
cases to those with definite diagnoses, the overall number includ-
ed here does not allow statistical evaluation of the prevalence of
specific disease conditions.
CON CLUS I ON FOR PR AC TI CE
Reproductive tract diseases are common in pet chickens, and
nowadays many owners are seeking for advanced medical
care as they see their chicken as valuable pets.
Clinical presentation often gives a hint on reproductive tract
disorders, especially when coelomic masses or coelomic
fluids are present, but some hens show rather unspecific
signs. Diagnostic imaging performed by radiologists being
familiar with avian anatomy and diseases is a valuable tool
to gain additional information and treatment arrangements.
Nevertheless, in a some cases celiotomy is required for
definitive diagnosis. Ultrasonography is usually well tolerated
and has many diagnostic advantages. CT scans seem to be a
promising and non-invasive tool. In the authors’ experience,
anaesthesia is not required in the majority of the CT cases,
providing more sensitive information regarding reproductive
tract pathologies. However, if CT is not available or accept-
ed by the owner, conventional radiography might also give
additional information. It has to be admitted, that CT is more
expensive. Additionally, in selected cases moving artefacts
from agile or dyspnoeic patients may result in limited inter-
pretation capacity or may even require anaesthesia.
The general outcome was guarded, which was not surprising
given the complexity and severity of the respective diseases.
Prognosis of egg binding can be considered to be good. Hens
with egg-related coelomitis together with salpingitis/impact-
ed salpinx had a good outcome when surgery (salpingohys-
terectomy) was successfully performed. Prognosis of ovarian
or oviductal neoplasia was poor.
Conflict of interest
The authors confirm that they do not have any conflict of interest.
Acknowledgement
We thank the team from the Institute of Pathology as well as
­University Clinic for Poultry and Fish Medicine of the University of
Veterinary Medicine in Vienna for providing the necropsy results
of the respective cases.
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