The diagnosis of aspergillosis in birds

Serological monitoring of antibodies for an early diagnosis ofaspergillosis in captive penguins

“…Aspergillosis is an infectious, non-contagious disease caused by fungi of the genus Aspergillus, especially those belonging to the section Fumigati (Ainsworth & Rewell 1949, Abarca 2000, Jones & Orosz 2000, Carrasco et al 2001, Arné et al 2011, Xavier et al 2011. Although it has a low prevalence in free-living penguins (Hocken 2000, Garcia--Borboroglu et al 2006), this mycosis is extremely important at captivity sites (zoos, aquariums and rehabilitation centers), where it is considered a major cause of mortality of these seabirds and other species (Khan et al 1977, Flach et al 1990, Diebold et al 1999, Xavier et al 2007).…”

“…Alterations in radiological exams such as thickening and opacity of air sacs may be evidenced only in late frames of the disease, and the alterations as heterophilia and eosinophilia on hemogram are unspecific, which does not allow a definitive diagnosis of this mycosis (Jones & Orosz 2000, Ivey 2000, Beernaert et al 2010. In addition, classical methods in mycology, as direct examination and cultive have a limited value due to the low sensitivity and specificity, and, in addition, the respiratory tract endoscopy is an invasive method and requires the animal anesthesia.…”

“…In addition, classical methods in mycology, as direct examination and cultive have a limited value due to the low sensitivity and specificity, and, in addition, the respiratory tract endoscopy is an invasive method and requires the animal anesthesia. Regarding it, there is no test considered the gold standard for definitive diagnosis of aspergillosis in birds, being the confirmation of the disease often performed only by post-mortem examinations (Redig 1994, Graczyk & Cockrem 1995, Cray & Zielezienski-Roberts 1997, Jones & Orosz 2000, Beernaert et al 2010, Cray 2011. This data gives to aspergillosis a crucial role as a limitation to penguin rehabilitation or in the ongoing maintenance of these animals in places like zoos and aquariums, causing immeasurable ecological and economic losses (Khan et al 1977, Flach et al 1990, Graczyk et al 1998, Diebold et al 1999, Carrasco et al 2001, Sanchez et al 2005, Xavier et al 2007.…”

Susceptibility of adult pigeons and hybrid falcons to experimental aspergillosis

“…In the genus Aspergillus, especially Aspergillus fumigatus and to a lesser extent Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus terreus and Aspergillus nidulans are causative agents of aspergillosis (Jones & Orosz, 2000). A. fumigatus is a ubiquitous saprophytic fungus that sporulates abundantly and releases a huge number of conidia into the air.…”

Aspergillosis in Birds: An Overview of Treatment Options and Regimens

“…4 Antigen and antibody evaluations via serological essays are not sensitive nor specific for aspergillosis, and even healthy birds are constantly exposed to these fungi. However, this method may be valuable as an adjunctive assessment regarding the patient's treatment response.…”