Some Observations on “Swollen Head” in Turkeys

Abstract

In experimentally infected birds a clear viscid discharge from the nostril is sometimes the first symptom noticed, and may occasionally be the only one for a long time (turkey E). This is followed by a soft fluctuating swelling under one or both eyes. After the development of a well-marked swelling, the course of the disease may vary both in naturally and experimentally infected birds. In some cases the swelling gradually diminishes and finally disappears (turkeys 3, C, D, F, and G), in other cases the soft fluctuating swelling persists for considerable periods (turkeys 1, E and H), and in others the swellings become hard and the gelatinous contents are replaced by cheesy, foulsmelling material (turkeys 2, A and B). The latter condition may be due to secondary infection. Sometimes the disease only attacks one side leaving the other quite normal. Death occurred in some instances, but could not be definitely attributed to the disease.