Viral arthritis (poultry)

For other viral arthritis, see Viral arthritis.

Viral arthritis is an infectious disease in poultry, such as chickens and turkeys, caused by Avian reovirus.^[1] Arthritis and tenosynovitis are the main signs of Avian reovirus infection in chickens, although the virus can cause other signs.^[2]

Right hock enlargement in viral arthritis in a parent-stock pullet

The prominent sign is swelling of the digital flexor and metatarsal extensor tendons. The hock joint itself is not so sharply affected, showing just a small amount of synovial exsudate when opened.^[3]

Vaccination is the primary method used to control this disease.^[2]