320 ANEMIA 



occur following distemper in dogs, presence of parasites in 

 large numbers, or other diseases affecting the mucous mem- 

 branes in a similar manner. Large numbers of chickens are 

 sometimes found with anemia from infectious asthenia, and 

 other diseases of the digestive tract. Parasites of the blood 

 are occasionally the cause. Young chicks are frequently 

 affected with white diarrhea resulting in a severe form of 

 anemia. Many of the general diseases are accompanied by 

 anemia. 



Pathology.— The most characteristic feature of acute 

 anemia is the paleness of all the tissues and the absence of 

 blood. The respiratory passages show evidence of lack of 

 blood by their pale, pink color. The heart and bloodvessels 

 are only partially filled with a loose coagulated blood. In 

 chronic anemia the membranes are found pale and colorless, 

 the blood present in the vessels and tissues low in coloring 

 matter, and usually reduced in total volume. Fatty degen- 

 eration of the heart, liver, kidneys and other organs is often 

 observed. Owing to the general weakness and emaciation, 

 transudation of serum takes place and is found present in 

 the thoracic and abdominal cavities in varying quantities. 

 Lesions of the primary condition producing anemia are often 

 apparent. 



Symptoms. — (a) Acute Anemia.— The symptoms of acute 

 anemia, when due to hemorrhage, come on suddenly, and 

 depend upon the amount of blood lost. The patient becomes 

 very weak, may be unable to stand, or if standing does so 

 with difficulty. In attempts at walking the animal will show 

 muscular incoordination and frequently falls down. Depres- 

 sion, subnormal temperature and increased respirations are 

 prominent symptoms. The mucous membranes are pale or 

 colorless and the heart action may be very weak or imper- 

 ceptible. In some instances evidence of the hemorrhage will 

 be present by the discharge of blood either from the nasal 

 passages, mouth or wound. Many cases terminate fatally 

 in a few minutes, or hours, when the hemorrhage is severe. 



(b) Chronic Anemia.— In chronic anemia the symptoms 

 come on more slowly and gradually with more or less emacia- 

 tion and general debility. The hair coat or plumage becomes 



