Cutaneous Basophil Hypersensitivity Reaction in Immunomodulated Broiler Chicks

A skin test to assess cutaneous basophil hypersensitivity (CBH) was evaluated in the interdigital skin of chickens grouped according to age. A total of 45 broiler Shaver hybrid chicks were used. Cutaneous basophil hypersensitivity was determined in the interdigital skin of 10- and 30- day-old chicks by a single intradermal injection of phytohemagglutinin-P (200 μg). In order to induce immunosuppersion, dexamethason dosed 3mg/kg body weight was injected IM for 3 days; to stimulate the immune system of the animals, levamisole was applied at 3 mg/kg body weight in the drinking water for 3 days. The effect of immunomodulation on the progress of the skin reaction for CBH was evaluated 12, 24 and 24 hours after injection. The skin reaction, as indicated by a significant (P<0.05) increase in the mean interdigital skin thickness, was detectable the day after injection in both groups. In conclusion, the test can be recommended to assess in vivo cell-mediated immunity even in 10-day-old broiler chicks.