CASE REPORT: PSITTACINE POX VIRUS INFECTION IN AGAPORNIS ROSEICOLLIS

Abstract

This case report describes the outbreak of a combined diphtheritic and cutaneous form of psittacine pox in Agapornis roseicollis in Tainan, Taiwan in June, 2015. Scabs were observed on the legs and eyelids, the bases of beaks, and diphtheritic mucous membranes were observed on the upper digestive and respiratory tracts, too. In histopathological examinations, epitheliums and osteoblasts in nasal bone contained eosinophilic intracytoplasmic inclusion bodies in stratum spinosum. The infected bird beak tissue exhibited brick-shaped virions with biconcave dumbbell-shaped core by transmission electron microscopy. From the previous reports, psittacine pox virus in Taiwan may be more virulent than other reported strains and still occurs as a sporadic disease in Taiwan. This is the first report in the world discussed about the infection of osteoblast by poxvirus.

First report of Psittacid Avipoxvirus in Agapornis in Mexico

“…Outbreaks of avian pox in psittacine birds occur frequently in breeding place and aviaries where the elimination or excretion of the virus through scabs, skin scales and feathers can favor transmission through small skin wounds. Mosquitoes also participate in transmission as mechanical vectors; therefore, it is important to establish programs for the control of these insects, particularly during rainy seasons and in hot and humid climates, as was a factor in this case (7,14). Cases of avian pox that were self-limited to cutaneous presentation have been reported in African gray parrots (Psittacus erithacus) and roselas (Platycercus elegans) and this may be influenced by age, immunological status, the virulence of the virus, secondary infections, route of exposure, nutritional deficiencies, and aviaries with a high population density, poor air quality and poor cleaning and disinfection of facilities (31,29).…”