The Ameliorative Effects of Vitamin C on Histopathological Changes Associated With Acute Acetaminophen Toxicity in Broiler Chickens

Acetaminophen is a widely used analgesic and antipyretic drug, but at high doses, it induces hepatic and renal toxicity due to the accumulation of its toxic metabolite, N-acetyl-p-benzoquinoneimine (NAPQI). This study aimed to investigate the ameliorative effects of vitamin C onacetaminophen-induced histopathological changes in broiler chickens. A total of 15 broiler chickens were randomly assigned into three groups (n = 5 per group). Group A (Control) birds received no treatment, Group B birds were administered acetaminophen at 1000 mg/kg intramuscularly, and Group C birds were pre-treated with vitamin C at 30 mg/kg orally for seven days before acetaminophen intoxication. Post-mortem examination revealed severe hepatomegaly, congestion, hemorrhages, and friability in Group B, while Group C exhibited reduced liver lesions. The kidneys in Group B were enlarged and showed petechial hemorrhages, whereas Group C had less severe renal damage. Histopathological analysis confirmed extensive hepatocellular and renal tubular necrosis in Group B, along with neuropil vacuolation in the brain, which were less severe in Group C. Statistical analysis showed a significant reduction (p < 0.05) in hepatocellular necrosis and renal tubular degeneration in Group C, although overall lesion severity remained unchanged (p > 0.05). From the results of this study, vitamin C provides partial protection against acetaminophen induced oxidative damage in poultry. However, it does not completely prevent toxicity, highlighting the need for further research on optimal dosing, combination therapies, and long-term effects of vitamin C in poultry health management.