An avian model for the study of acute hemolytic anemia in the domestic fowl (Gallus domesticus).
Acute hemolytic anemia was experimentally induced in chickens with the oxidant chemical phenylhydrazine. From results of the graded doses trial, subcutaneously injected 6 mg/100 g body weight single dose was designated as standardised. The anemic response, characterized by marked reductions in hemoglobin, packed cell volume and total erythrocyte count, was perceptible on day 1 post-injection. Peak anemia was observed on day 3. Compensatory erythropoiesis was discernible on day 5. The hematological profile indicated near complete recovery on day 11 post-injection. This avian model is proposed for study of the basic mechanisms of hemolytic anemia in chickens.