FP is encountered in either cutaneous or diphtheritic form or in both. In most outbreaks, the cutaneous form is prevailing. The lesions vary according to the stage of development: papules (Image 1), vesicles, pustules or crusts (Image 2). The lesions are usually in the region of the head.

Image 1: Papules in head of chicken

Image 2: Vesicles, pustules or crusts

FP lesions on the skin of the legs (Image 3).

Image 3: FP lesions on the skin of the legs

FP is caused by an epitheliotropic DNA virus from the Avipox genus, the Poxviridae family. Some virus types (strains) exist: fowl pox virus, turkey pox virus, pigeon pox virus, canary pox virus, etc., different in pathogenic and immunogenic aspects. The viruses are very resistant to environmental factors and could persist for several months. Some mosquitoes and bood suckling arthropods could also distribute the virus. The mosquitoes remain infective for several weeks. The incubation period is from 4 to 10 days.

Frequently, the conjunctival mucosa, injured by the pox virus, is an entrance door for additional contamination (E. coli, Staphylococcus spp., etc.) and development of complications (Image 4). The infection is mechanically spread by dissemination of the virus through desquamation of crusts that contain it.

Image 4: Conjunctival mucosa, injured by the pox virus

Diphtheritic lesions look like whitish or yellowish plaques that are deposited and grown on the mucous coats of the buccal and nasal cavities, the sinuses, the larynx, the pharynx, the trachea or the oesophagus (Image 5). The disease is spread slowly and many weeks could pass between its emergence and severe outbreaks occurrence.

Image 5: Diphtheritic lesions

The diagnosis is made upon the typical cutaneous and diphtheritic lesions. The prevention is performed by vaccinations that could be made at any age, if necessary.

 

(Source: "Diseases of poultry - A colour atlas" - Ivan Dinev & CEVA Santé Animal, 2010)

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