BLOOD SERUM AND SKELETAL CHANGES IN TWO BREEDS OF DUCKS RECEIVING ESTROGENS1

Abstract

Hyperossification of long bones and extensive rise in serum Ca followed adm. of estrogen to Mallard and Pekin drakes. The extent of new bone formation decreased proximo-distadly from the femur to the tarsometatarsus. Serum Ca in the controls ranged from 8.64 mg.%-10.40 mg.%, after daily doses of 2 mg. estradiol benzoate they rose to between 54.56 mg.% and 68.00 mg.%. Blood lipids, inorganic P and phosphatase values also increased during estrogen treatment. The Pekin drakes showed more extensive hyperossification than the Mallards. The serum Ca values were only slightly lower for the treated Mallards than for the treated Pekins. The blood fat varied according to breed and probably to season as well as in response to estrogen treatment. The testes of both breeds of ducks were suppressed by the estrogen unless they were of maximal breeding season size or in the minimal nonbreeding condition. The adrenals and parathyroids were possibly somewhat enlarged* The liver enlarged and became yellowish in color. Acetone bodies were increased in the blood.