In these hens, partially or fully formed eggs are found in the abdominal cavity. Such eggs reach the cavity by reverse peristalsis of the oviduct. If they have no shell, they are often misshapen due to partial or complete absorption of the contents. Frequently, only empty shell membranes are present. No control or treatment is known. This condition is related to erratic ovulation and defective egg syndrome (see Disorders of the Reproductive System: Defective or Abnormal Eggs in Poultry).

Last full review/revision March 2012 by A. Gregorio Rosales, DVM, MS, PhD, DACPV