Psittacosis overview
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Overview
Psittacosis zoonotic infectious disease caused by a bacterium called Chlamydophila psittaci (formerly Chlamydia psittaci) and contracted not only from parrots, such as macaws, cockatiels and budgerigars, but also from pigeons, sparrows, ducks, hens, sea gulls and many other species of bird. The incidence of infection in canaries and finches is believed to be lower than in psittacine birds. As a systemic zoonotic infection with protean clinical features, the major risk factor is exposure to birds. Hence, bird owners, veterinarians, those involved with breeding and selling birds, and commercial poultry processors are most at risk. Patients typically present with 1 week of fevers, headache, myalgias, and a nonproductive cough. Although pneumonia is the most common manifestation, all organ systems can be involved. Serology remains the mainstay of diagnosis; however, polymerase chain reaction techniques offer a rapid and specific alternative. Doxycycline is the treatment of choice.
Historical perspective
The word psittacosis is derived from the Greek work 'Psittakos', which means parrot. Psittacosis infects psittacines (parrots, parakeets, cockatoos). 'Ornithosis' is a term used if it infects other types of birds. It is assumed that the origin of psittacosis is in South America, where the rain forests are populated with many species of psittacine birds. Aboriginal tribes were fond of these birds and used their feathers as parts of their ceremonial clothing. Other psittacine birds were kept as pets in aboriginal villages. [1]
Classification
C psittaci may be classified into eight serovars according to variation in the major outer membrane protein (MOMP): serovar A to F, WC and M56.[2]
Pathophysiology
The major risk factor for acquiring psittacosis is exposure to birds. Transmission can occur either by inhalation of aerosolized organisms in form of dried feces or respiratory secretions or by direct contact with birds.
Causes
Differential diagnosis
Epidemiology and demographics
Risk factors
Screening
Natural history, complications and prognosis
Diagnosis
History and Symptoms
Physical Examination
Laboratory Findings
Electrocardiogram
Chest X Ray
MRI
Echocardiography or ultrasound
Other imaging findings
Other diagnostic studies
Treatment
Medical therapy
Surgery
Primary prevention
Secondary prevention
References
- ↑ Wehrle B, Chiquet M (1990). "Tenascin is accumulated along developing peripheral nerves and allows neurite outgrowth in vitro". Development. 110 (2): 401–15. PMID 1723942.
- ↑ Vanrompay D, Butaye P, Sayada C, Ducatelle R, Haesebrouck F (1997). "Characterization of avian Chlamydia psittaci strains using omp1 restriction mapping and serovar-specific monoclonal antibodies". Res Microbiol. 148 (4): 327–33. doi:10.1016/S0923-2508(97)81588-4. PMID 9765811.