Further observations on functional deletion of paraocular glands in the fowl (Gallus domesticus)

Abstract

Methods are described for inoculation of the fowl Harderian gland with sclerosing reagent and for its surgical excision. Though very destructive the former procedure proved the less reliable in achieving the gland's complete functional deletion. Three weeks after surgical removal of the Harderian glands the lachrymal glands of 10-week-old fowls were heavier and contained more immunocompetent cells than the glands of intact and sham operated birds. When adult birds deprived of both paraocular glands were given sheep erythrocytes or Newcastle disease virus by eye drop they developed slightly higher than normal titres of serum antibody but failed to produce lachrymal antibody.