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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.


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