Enlarged liver in dead pullet

[paisley]

This afternoon, I got my first egg from this flock, and found a dead bird. No signs of trouble, and she was still warm.
Took her inside and tried to revive her, but no use.
So, I butchered her. Upon cleaning out the gut - I was surprised by a huge liver. This thing was bigger than my hand - and must have been taking up most of the birds cavity.
Any idea what would cause this? I am worried for the rest of my flock. Also, I am wondering if it is safe to cook and eat the meat?
Any one ever have a sudden death with a huge liver?
Thanks for your help.
paisley

 

[speckledhen]

There are several things that would cause an enlarged liver. Here is a link for you to a page in Diseases of Poultry, on the GoogleBooks preview. There is a great picture of a liver like you described, too.

http://books.google.com/books?id=oB...=PA572-IA1#v=onepage&q=Enlarged liver&f=false