Biochemical and haematological values for mute swans (Cygnus olor): effects of acute lead poisoning.
Reference levels of some biochemical and haematological variables were determined for mute swans (Cygnus olor Gmelin). Immaturity was identified as a factor which broadened the references ranges. Blood variables of six acutely lead-poisoned swans were determined and compared with the reference distribution. Protoporphyrin IX, cholesterol and two serum enzymes, lactate dehydrogenase and aspartate amino-transferase, were increased; concentrations of haemoglobin and mean cell haemoglobin concentration indicated hypochromic anaemia in birds with acute lead poisoning. The interpretation and diagnostic value of reference values is discussed.
O'halloran
J
J
Department of Zoology, University College, Cork, Ireland.
Duggan
P F
PF
Myers
A A
AA