Affected caged layer hens become obese and anemic. Some birds exhibit a vent inflammation that resembles a diarrhea induced condition having whitish incrustations of the feathers and skin around the area. Feed consumption may increase by ten to twenty percent. Gross lesions are mostly confined to the crop, proventriculus and gizzard. Erosion of the lining of the proventriculus and gizzard is commonly observed, as well as an inflammation of the intestines.
Diagnosis is based on history and typical lesions in the flock.
Confirmation of the condition is by isolation and laboratory identification of the C. albicans organism. Treatment of the flock with an antimycotic drug will control the infection. Once introduced into the flock, moniliasis is perpetuated by suboptimal management conditions.