Necrotic enteritis is an acute bacterial infection of chickens and turkeys caused by Clostridium perfringens types A and C. It is characterized by sudden death and severe necrosis of the intestinal mucosa, resulting in distended intestines filled with foul-smelling fluid. Clinical signs include depressed and ruffled birds that rapidly progress to death, with mortality rates between 5-50%. Lesions are typically found in the mid-small intestines and include a friable and diphtheritic membrane covering the mucosa.

1. Necrotic Enteritis
PREPARED BY :
MUBIN FAISAL AHMED
PH # +923327592192

2. Definition
An acute bacterial infection primarily of chickens and turkeys, although other
avian species can be affected.
Characterized by sudden death, friable and distended intestines, and severe
necrosis of the intestinal mucosal.

3. Etiology
Clostridium perfringens (types A or C) and their toxins (parti. Alpha toxin and
sialidase)
Anaerobic, spore forming, Non-motile, Gram-positive rods ;double-zoned
hemolysis on blood-agar plates.
Alpha toxin is produced by C. perfringens type A and C and beta toxin is
produced by C. perfringens type C and is responsible for the mucosal necrosis.
C. perfringens are ubiquitous and are normal inhabitants of the intestinal
tract.
Intestinal mucosal damage is necessary for the Clostridia to proliferate and
produce sufficient toxin.

4. Clinical Signs
The acute onset of depressed, ruffled birds occurs; these birds rapidly
progress to death.
There is a rapid increase in mortality (5-50%).
No specific clinical signs are seen

5. Lesions
Lesions are usually found in the mid-small intestines, which are
distended and friable.
Intestinal contents consist of foul-smelling brown fluid and the mucosa
is covered by a brownish diphtheritic membrane.
Severe dehydration with darkening of the breast muscle and swelling
and congestion of the liver may also be present.

6. Lesions

11. Refrences
 Diseases of Poultry Sixth edition 2008
 Color Manual Diseases of Birds(Japan International Agricultural Council
March, 2000)