Biotin deficiency as a possible cause of swelling and ulceration of foot pads.

A high incidence of foot pad lesions and breast blisters were observed in broilers. Histological examination of foot pads indicated changes similar to those previously found when broilers were fed a biotin deficient diet. It is suggested that a marginal biotin deficiency in practical diets may be responsible for enlarged foot pads causing birds to rest on their breast resulting in increased breast blisters.