Deep Pectoral Myopathy in Broiler Chickens

The aim of the study was to conduct an analysis of the main symptoms of deep pectoral myopathy (DPM) in broiler chickens, which is manifested by changes in colour and texture of the affected muscle. The research was conducted on Ross508 chicken broilers, at an age of 35-42 d. The lesions were assessed through macroscopic inspection, using colour parameters as well as texture analysis. Furthermore, the factors affecting the occurrence of DPM were registered. Significant differences in the colour and texture of the breast fillets at various stages of the myopathy were demonstrated. The colour of the muscle turned from pink to red or green, depending on the progression of the disease; the tissue affected with the DPM syndrome was three times as tough as normal, and much more fibrous. Degenerative changes in the musculus pectoralis major were observed in 64% of DPM chickens. It was concluded that the weight and age of the bird influences the frequency of the occurrence of DPM (a positive linear correlation).