Localization of viral protein in avian-encephalomyelitis-virus-infected hens.

Eighteen 2-year-old hens were infected orally with wild avian encephalomyelitis virus and examined using the immunofluorescent-antibody technique for 30 days. Viral antigen was detected in 10 organ tissues (liver, spleen, kidney, pancreas, and ovary) in 7 birds during the first half of the observation period and sporadically in alimentary tracts of 12 birds throughout this period, especially the lower parts of the intestines, but it was not detected in other organ tissues. Thirteen test-positive hens showed more localization of the antigen than baby chicks of other studies did.