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Hollwarth AJ, Esmans MC, Herrmann A, Dutton TAG. Heterotopic Ossification Bone Formation in the Frontal Bones of an African Grey Parrot ( Psittacus erithacus). J Avian Med Surg 2023; 36:388-393. [PMID: 36935210 DOI: 10.1647/22-00002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
Abstract
A 5-year-old, male African grey parrot (Psittacus erithacus) was presented with multiple, slow-growing, firm, bilateral masses around the dorsal orbital rims. Computer tomographic imaging revealed mild, incomplete bridging bone formation on the rostrodorsal aspects of the head. A moderate amount of smooth bone formation was identified at the rostrodorsal aspect to the left orbit, with minimal associated soft tissue swelling. Surgical biopsies were collected from the masses and histopathological analysis of the most rostral right mass showed well-differentiated bone, surrounded by dense fibrous connective tissue. Scattered, well-differentiated osteocytes were present within the bone. No evidence of neoplastic changes or infectious agents were identified. The histopathological changes were consistent with metaplastic bone formation. History obtained from the owner revealed recent head trauma, which likely induced the cranial heterotopic ossification in the African grey parrot.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maya C Esmans
- VetCT Consultants in Telemedicine PTY LTD, Fremantle, Western Australia, 6160
| | - Annika Herrmann
- SYNLAB UK & Ireland, Horfield, Bristol, United Kingdom, BS7 0BJ
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Silva C, Juan-Sallés C, Mendes J, Mendes A, Ruivo M, Abad JL, Hagen F, Colom MF. Cryptococcus bacillisporus causing cryptococcoma of the beak of an African grey parrot ( Psittacus erithacus), Portugal. Med Mycol Case Rep 2021; 34:8-12. [PMID: 34522600 PMCID: PMC8427220 DOI: 10.1016/j.mmcr.2021.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Revised: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
We report a severe case of rhinothecal cryptococcoma in a 13-year-old female African Grey Parrot (Psittacus erithacus). The bird was born and bred in captivity in Portugal. The beak was deformed and showed several round soft masses, and microscopic examination revealed the presence of cells suggestive for Cryptococcus. Phenotypic and molecular analyses identified the obtained yeast culture as C. bacillisporus (AFLP5/VGIII). By phylogenetic analysis the parrot strain clustered with clinical C. bacillisporus strains from Mexico.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Carles Juan-Sallés
- Noah's Path. Veterinary Pathology Laboratory Specialising in Wildlife and Exotic Species, Elche, Spain
| | - Joana Mendes
- VetExóticos, Clínica Veterinaria, Almada, Portugal
| | - Ana Mendes
- VetExóticos, Clínica Veterinaria, Almada, Portugal
| | | | - Juan L Abad
- Medical Mycology Laboratory, University Miguel Hernández, Sant Joan D'Alacant, Spain
| | - Ferry Hagen
- Westerdijk Fungal Biodiversity Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Department of Medical Microbiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Maria F Colom
- Medical Mycology Laboratory, University Miguel Hernández, Sant Joan D'Alacant, Spain.,Institute for Healthcare and Biomedical Research of Alicante, ISABIAL, Alicante, Spain
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Lin Y, Ma J, Zhao J, Liu Q, Pei E, Zhang E, Chen M. Mirror responses in the common hill myna (Gracula religiosa) and the African grey parrot (Psittacus erithacus). ZOOLOGY 2021; 147:125942. [PMID: 34198203 DOI: 10.1016/j.zool.2021.125942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Revised: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Scientists have spent great efforts exploring self-recognition in non-human animals using the mirror test. In avian species, some of the passerines have passed the test, although the findings are still under debate. The present study aimed at investigating mirror self-recognition ability and making a comparative study of mirror responses in two avian species, the common hill myna from the Passeriformes and the African grey parrot from the Psittaciformes. The subjects underwent four stages of experiment: habituation, baseline, mirror exposure and mark test. Our subjects spent significantly longer time in gazing into the mirror than the plexiglass as control. We also found they significantly increased the durations of grooming behaviour when presented with the mirror. No species difference was detected in the above two behaviours. However, the African grey parrots were more likely to approach the mirror than the common hill mynas, indicating their different ways of mirror exploration. All subjects failed to pass the mark test. In this study, we found no evidence of mirror self-recognition in the common hill myna and the African grey parrot.
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Zaheer O, Beaufrère H, Jajou S, Gardhouse S. Asymmetrical Cloacoplasty for the Treatment of Chronic Cloacal Prolapse in Psittaciformes: A Case Series. J Avian Med Surg 2021; 34:172-180. [PMID: 32702957 DOI: 10.1647/1082-6742-34.2.172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Chronic cloacal prolapse is a common condition in psittacine birds, particularly in cockatoos and African grey parrots (Psittacus erithacus). Techniques to permanently reduce the prolapse have been developed and include cloacal sutures, percutaneous cloacopexy, and open circumcostal or rib cloacopexy. Several complications, some of which are life-threatening, have been reported with these tissue reduction techniques. Cloacoplasty surgeries have also been advocated, but most often as an adjunct therapy. Recurrence of cloacal prolapse may occur in traditional symmetrical cloacoplasty techniques since straining pressure remains. In this case series, 5 psittacine birds (2 male and 2 female umbrella cockatoos [Cacatua alba] and 1 male African grey parrot) with chronic recurrent cloacal prolapses were treated with a novel asymmetrical cloacoplasty technique. A semicircular excision at the mucocutaneous junction from the right side with a 2-layer closure reduced the cloacal opening by 50%-75%. A tension-relieving suture was applied to aid in healing of the incision. All 5 cases had successful outcomes with no recurrent prolapses (6 months to 3 years of follow-up), except for 1 case, due to incisional dehiscence. This animal underwent a second surgical procedure that incorporated the tension-relieving suture and has not had a recurrent prolapse in over a year. This asymmetrical cloacoplasty technique provides a simple but effective method of cloacal prolapse treatment and prevention in cases of recurrent and chronic cloacal prolapses, and creates a midline physical barrier not present in symmetrical cloacoplasties. Long-term complications may include cloacolith formation or dystocia in females, and therefore reproductive management of female birds is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omar Zaheer
- Health Sciences Centre, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, N1G 2W1, ON, Canada
| | - Hugues Beaufrère
- Department of Clinical Studies, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, N1G 2W1, ON, Canada,
| | - Sarah Jajou
- Veterinary School, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, N1G 2W1, ON, Canada
| | - Sara Gardhouse
- Health Sciences Centre, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, N1G 2W1, ON, Canada
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5
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Sailler A, Vanel M, Larrat S, Risi E. Brain Ependymoma in an African Grey Parrot ( Psittacus erithacus erithacus). J Avian Med Surg 2021; 35:75-79. [PMID: 33892592 DOI: 10.1647/1082-6742-35.1.75] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
A 14-year-old unsexed African grey parrot (Psittacus erithacus erithacus) was presented with a 12-hour history of neurological signs and vomiting. The external physical examination of the patient revealed lethargy, moderate hypothermia, a head tilt, and horizontal nystagmus. Whole-body radiographic imaging and blood biochemistry parameters were unremarkable, and a serological test to detect bornavirus was negative. A computed tomography scan of the bird revealed a large cystic lesion located on the fourth ventricle of the brain. In spite of treatment (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and antibiotic and antiparasitic therapy), the parrot's health continued to decline, and it was euthanatized 12 days after presentation. A complete postmortem examination was performed on the patient's brain. Histopathological interpretation of tissues submitted described a large neoformation composed of cells arranged in perivascular pseudorosettes. Hyperchromatic nuclei and marked anisokaryosis were suggestive of a malignant tumor. The tissue mass was associated with significant dilation of the fourth ventricle and a severe peripheral gliosis. The histopathological diagnosis of the neoformation was an ependymoma. Ependymomas are glial tumors of the ependymal cells that line the central canal and the ventricles of the brain and are rarely described in mammals. In birds, ependymomas were only described in budgerigars (Melopsittacus undulatus). In human medicine, the recommended treatment is surgical removal of the tumor when possible, followed by radiotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anaïs Sailler
- FauneVET, 22 rue René Viviani 44200 Nantes, France, .,Centre Hospitalier vétérinaire Atlantia, 22 rue René Viviani 44200 Nantes, France
| | - Maïa Vanel
- Centre Hospitalier vétérinaire Atlantia, 22 rue René Viviani 44200 Nantes, France
| | - Sylvain Larrat
- Clinique vétérinaire Benjamin Franklin, 38 rue du Danemark 56400 Brec'h, France
| | - Emmanuel Risi
- FauneVET, 22 rue René Viviani 44200 Nantes, France.,Centre Hospitalier vétérinaire Atlantia, 22 rue René Viviani 44200 Nantes, France
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Abstract
A 19-year-old female Congo African grey parrot (Psittacus erithacus) presented for an oval, solid, pigmented, suspected intraocular mass with extrascleral extension through the inferior cornea of the left eye. The eye was nonvisual, and intraocular portions of the mass significantly altered the posterior chamber. Neoplasia was confirmed by biopsy, and enucleation was performed because of the severity of ocular disease, loss of vision, enhancement of patient comfort, and potential metastasis. Histopathologic examination of the entire globe revealed a pigmented iridociliary adenoma. Iridociliary adenomas have been rarely reported in birds, and this case report details diagnosis and treatment. Iridociliary adenomas in other species are often benign, indicating this neoplasia can be successfully treated with no reoccurrence by complete excision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren E Thielen
- Veterinary Center for Birds & Exotics, Bedford Hills, NY 10507, USA
| | - Dodd G Sledge
- Michigan State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, Lansing, MI 48910, USA
| | - Laurie Hess
- Veterinary Center for Birds & Exotics, Bedford Hills, NY 10507, USA
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Zoller G, Chassang L, Steyvoort OV, Huynh M. Comparison of Dorsoventral Erect and Ventrodorsal Supine Radiographic Views for the Evaluation of Intracoelomic Organs in Clinically Normal African Grey Parrots ( Psittacus erithacus). J Avian Med Surg 2020; 33:218-228. [PMID: 31893616 DOI: 10.1647/2018-361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Standard positioning for radiographic evaluation may require sedation and can be deleterious in critically ill birds. A prospective crossover study was performed in 15 clinically normal African grey parrots (Psittacus erithacus) to describe an alternative, unrestrained radiographic view. Whole-body radiographs were obtained in unrestrained dorsoventral erect (DVE) views and in anesthetized ventrodorsal supine (VDS) views. Visualization of various anatomic items in each view was scored by 3 observers. The surface area of the air sacs and the width of the heart, liver, thorax, and cardiohepatic waist were measured in DVE and VDS views. Measurements were obtained by 3 observers, and 1 observer repeated the measurements twice. Intraobserver and interobserver agreement were assessed. Major rotation of the coelom and superimposition of the limbs over the coelom were, respectively, observed in 4 of 15 (27%) and 15 of 15 (100%) of the DVE views and not observed in VDS views. The evaluation of the respiratory tract structures was considered limited in DVE views compared with VDS views, and the surface areas of the air sacs were significantly smaller. The proventriculus and ventriculus were more visible in the DVE view. The visualization of the heart was not significantly different between the 2 views. The absolute measures of heart, liver, and cardiohepatic waist width were significantly larger in the DVE view compared with the VDS view. Moderate intraobserver and interobserver agreement was observed in the evaluation of the 2 views. In conclusion, the DVE view could be adequate to assess the heart and the upper digestive tract. This positioning is likely to provide clinically relevant information for cases in which general anesthesia or dorsal recumbency is contraindicated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Graham Zoller
- Exotic Pet Department, Centre Hospitalier Vétérinaire Frégis, Aristide Briand 94110, Arcueil, France
| | - Lucile Chassang
- Exotic Pet Department, Centre Hospitalier Vétérinaire Frégis, Aristide Briand 94110, Arcueil, France
| | - Olivia van Steyvoort
- Exotic Pet Department, Centre Hospitalier Vétérinaire Frégis, Aristide Briand 94110, Arcueil, France
| | - Minh Huynh
- Exotic Pet Department, Centre Hospitalier Vétérinaire Frégis, Aristide Briand 94110, Arcueil, France
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Cotton RJ, Divers SJ. Endoscopic Removal of Gastrointestinal Foreign Bodies in Two African Grey Parrots ( Psittacus erithacus) and a Hyacinth Macaw ( Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus). J Avian Med Surg 2018; 31:335-343. [PMID: 29327964 DOI: 10.1647/2016-235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Two African grey parrots ( Psittacus erithacus) and one hyacinth macaw ( Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus) were examined because of varying clinical signs ranging from general lethargy to seizure-like episodes and regurgitation. Radiography and fluoroscopy in the 3 birds demonstrated variable degrees of gastric abnormalities, suggesting the presence of foreign material or stricture-like defects. Upper gastrointestinal rigid endoscopy by ingluviotomy revealed foreign bodies that were removed endoscopically. Minor postoperative complications were pulmonary congestion or mild aspiration and cardiac arrhythmia, both of which resolved, and no serious deleterious effects were associated with endoscopy in the short or long term. Endoscopy is recommended for examination and removal of foreign bodies from the upper gastrointestinal tract because it is less invasive and traumatic than traditional surgical approaches.
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Slunsky P, Halter L, Florczak S, Haake A, Brunnberg L, Müller K. REPAIR OF A FEMORAL FRACTURE IN A CONGO AFRICAN GREY PARROT ( PSITTACUS ERITHACUS ERITHACUS) WITH A PARACORTICAL-CLAMP-CERCLAGE TECHNIQUE. J Zoo Wildl Med 2017; 48:1204-9. [PMID: 29297838 DOI: 10.1638/2016-0295R1.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
A 1-yr-old female Congo African grey parrot ( Psittacus erithacus erithacus) was admitted with a lameness of the right pelvic limb. On the radiographs a closed, caudolaterally displaced, comminuted, diaphyseal fracture of the femur was diagnosed. Surgery under general anesthesia was performed in order to repair the fracture with a paracortical-clamp-cerclage technique. This straightforward and effective technique has been developed as a low-cost treatment for simple and comminuted diaphyseal fractures in dogs and cats. Fixation is obtained with clamps, shaped during surgery, and attached to the bone shaft with cerclage wire. This technique led to immediate weight-bearing, appropriate bone healing, and permanent fixation of the implants in the patient. To the best of the authors' knowledge, this case represents the first report of a surgical repair of a femoral fracture with a paracortical-clamp-cerclage technique in a bird.
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Swisher SD, Phillips KL, Tobias JR, Cullen JM, Gieger TL, Grunkemeyer VL. External Beam Radiation Therapy of Squamous Cell Carcinoma in the Beak of an African Grey Parrot (Psittacus timneh). J Avian Med Surg 2017; 30:250-256. [PMID: 27736222 DOI: 10.1647/2015-106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Squamous cell carcinoma has been reported in a variety of bird species, most commonly psittacine and gallinaceous birds. The long-term prognosis in nongallinaceous birds is generally poor if complete surgical excision is not possible. Squamous cell carcinoma of the rhinotheca was diagnosed in a 34-year-old timneh African grey parrot (Psittacus timneh) with a 2-year history of beak abnormalities. No evidence of metastasis or local invasion were found on results of radiographs or computed tomography scan. The bird was treated with surgical debulking and palliative megavoltage radiation therapy. After 4 radiation treatments, the affected tissue was necrotic and was debrided to reveal healthy granulation tissue. The bird died approximately 7 months after diagnosis and 4 months after cessation of radiation treatment. At the time of death, a small scab lesion remained at the left oral commissure, but no visible tumor regrowth was evident. A postmortem examination was not performed, however, and tumor recurrence could not be ruled out in this bird.
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Houck EL, Keller KA, Hawkins MG, Burton AG, Casey KM, Keel K, Tong N, Guzman DSM. Bilateral Aural Adenocarcinoma in a Congo African Grey Parrot ( Psittacus erithacus erithacus). J Avian Med Surg 2016; 30:257-262. [PMID: 27736232 DOI: 10.1647/2015-112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
A 28-year-old female Congo African grey parrot ( Psittacus erithacus erithacus) was evaluated because of a mass in the left external auditory meatus. Results of a computed tomography scan revealed an osteolytic left hemimandibular mass with irregular bone production and a soft tissue mass in the left external auditory meatus. Results of cytologic examination of fine needle aspirates of the hemimandible were interpreted as adenocarcinoma with reactive osteoblasts. The owner chose palliative treatment, and a debulking procedure was performed on the left external auditory meatus mass 52 days after initial presentation to control self-trauma. Euthanasia was elected 67 days after initial presentation because of poor prognosis associated with the development of bilateral masses of the external auditory meatus and lateral deviation of the mandible, findings that were confirmed by postmortem examination. Histopathologic results confirmed the diagnosis of bilateral aural adenocarcinoma with invasion of both temporal bones and hemimandibles.
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Costa P, Macchi E, Valle E, De Marco M, Nucera DM, Gasco L, Schiavone A. An association between feather damaging behavior and corticosterone metabolite excretion in captive African grey parrots (Psittacus erithacus). PeerJ 2016; 4:e2462. [PMID: 27672512 PMCID: PMC5028759 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.2462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2016] [Accepted: 08/18/2016] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Background African grey parrots (Psittacus erithacus) are kept as pets and are frequently hand-reared. It has been observed that hand-reared African grey parrots may develop behavioral disorders such as feather damaging behavior (FDB). It is well known that chronic stress is involved in behavioral disorders in captive parrots. The main glucocorticoid in birds is corticosterone; its quantification provides information about adrenocortical activity and is considered to be a reliable indicator of stress levels in birds. We analyzed the differences in the excretion of corticosterone metabolites (CM) in the droppings of African grey parrots characterized by: 1. different rearing histories (parent rearing vs. hand rearing); and 2. the presence or absence of FDB in hand-reared parrots. Methods A total of 82 African grey parrots that were kept in captivity were considered. According to breeding methods, three groups of birds were defined: 1. The parent-reared (PR) parrots included birds kept in pairs (n = 30 pairs) with a conspecific partner of the opposite sex. All of these birds were healthy and never showed FDB signs; 2. The healthy hand-reared parrots (H-HR) included pet parrots individually kept, that were hand-reared and did not display any sign of FDB (n = 11, 7 males and 4 females); 3. The FDB hand-reared parrot (FDB-HR) included pet parrots individually kept, that were hand-reared and displayed FDB (n = 11, 7 males and 4 females). Droppings were collected in the morning over three alternating days in autumn 2014 and spring 2015. The CM were determined using a multi-species corticosterone enzyme immunoassay kit. Split-plot repeated-measure ANOVA was used to examine any differences using group, season and group × season as the main factors. Results Different quantities of CM in droppings were found for the three groups. The mean CM value was 587 ng/g in the PR parrots, 494 ng/g in the H-HR parrots and 1,744 ng/g in the FDB-HR parrots, irrespective of the season. The excretion of CM in FDB-HR was significantly higher than in PR or H-HR parrots. CM in droppings were not influenced by the season (autumn vs. spring); furthermore, the interaction between group and sampling season was not significant. Limited to the H-HR and FDB-HR groups, a trend in the significance of the difference in the mean CM excreted by male and female birds was observed, with the levels excreted by males being higher than those excreted by females. When the effect of age was considered (in the two separate groups), there was a statistically significant positive correlation only for H-HR. Conclusions The highest amount of CM excretion was found in FDB-HR parrots, and a positive correlation between age and CM excretion was found in H-HR. Given that the CM excretion of both PR and H-HR parrots was similar in our study, future research is recommended to investigate the specific aspects of hand-rearing to improve parrot welfare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierluca Costa
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Turin, Grugliasco (TO), Italy
| | - Elisabetta Macchi
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Turin, Grugliasco (TO), Italy
| | - Emanuela Valle
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Turin, Grugliasco (TO), Italy
| | - Michele De Marco
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Turin, Grugliasco (TO), Italy
| | - Daniele M Nucera
- Department of Agricultural, Forest and Food Sciences, University of Turin, Grugliasco (TO), Italy
| | - Laura Gasco
- Department of Agricultural, Forest and Food Sciences, University of Turin, Grugliasco (TO), Italy
| | - Achille Schiavone
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Turin, Grugliasco (TO), Italy
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Veladiano IA, Banzato T, Bellini L, Montani A, Catania S, Zotti A. Normal computed tomographic features and reference values for the coelomic cavity in pet parrots. BMC Vet Res 2016; 12:182. [PMID: 27596377 PMCID: PMC5011859 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-016-0821-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2016] [Accepted: 09/01/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The increasing popularity gained by pet birds over recent decades has highlighted the role of avian medicine and surgery in the global veterinary scenario; such a need for speciality avian medical practice reflects the rising expectation for high-standard diagnostic imaging procedures. The aim of this study is to provide an atlas of matched anatomical cross-sections and contrast-enhanced CT images of the coelomic cavity in three highly diffused psittacine species. Results Contrast-enhanced computed tomographic studies of the coelomic cavity were performed in 5 blue-and-gold macaws, 4 African grey parrots and 6 monk parakeets by means of a 4-multidetector-row CT scanner. Both pre- and post-contrast scans were acquired. Anatomical reference cross-sections were obtained from 5 blue-and-gold macaw, 7 African grey parrot, and 9 monk parakeet cadavers. The specimens were stored in a −20 °C freezer until completely frozen and then sliced at 5-mm intervals by means of a band saw. All the slices were photographed on both sides. Individual anatomical structures were identified by means of the available literature. Pre- and post-contrast attenuation reference values for the main coelomic organs are reported in Hounsfield units (HU). Conclusions The results provide an atlas of matched anatomical cross-sections and contrast-enhanced CT images of the coelomic cavity in three highly diffused psittacine species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene A Veladiano
- Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padua, Viale dell'Università 16, Legnaro (PD), 35020, Italy
| | - Tommaso Banzato
- Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padua, Viale dell'Università 16, Legnaro (PD), 35020, Italy
| | - Luca Bellini
- Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padua, Viale dell'Università 16, Legnaro (PD), 35020, Italy
| | | | - Salvatore Catania
- Avian Medicine Laboratory, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Legnaro, 35020, Italy
| | - Alessandro Zotti
- Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padua, Viale dell'Università 16, Legnaro (PD), 35020, Italy.
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Shrader TC, Carpenter JW, Cino-Ozuna AG, Andrews GA. Malignant Melanoma of the Syrinx and Liver in an African Grey Parrot ( Psittacus erithacus erithacus). J Avian Med Surg 2016; 30:165-71. [PMID: 27315385 DOI: 10.1647/2014-071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
A 20-year-old, female African grey parrot ( Psittacus erithacus erithacus) was examined because of ataxia and weakness. Radiographs were unremarkable, and results of a complete blood cell count revealed leukocytosis and heterophilia. Because of poor response to therapy with meloxicam, doxycycline, and enrofloxacin; deteriorating condition; and poor prognosis, the parrot was euthanatized. Postmortem examination revealed 2 dark red nodules in the liver. No grossly visible mass was observed in the syrinx. Histologic examination of the liver and syrinx revealed similar foci of round, oval, and polygonal cells exhibiting severe pleomorphism, with poorly demarcated cytoplasmic borders and moderate amounts of eosinophilic cytoplasm containing brown to black granules (melanin). The mitotic index was 15. The presence of melanin pigment is consistent with a diagnosis of melanoma at both sites. The multifocal distribution and intravascular invasion indicate metastasis; however, the site of origin was unknown. To our knowledge, this is the first recorded case of melanoma in an avian syrinx.
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Blasco E, Martorell J, De la Fuente C, Pumarola M. Immunohistochemical Study of Aquaporins in an African Grey Parrot (Psittacus erithacus) With Hydrocephalus. J Avian Med Surg 2014; 28:309-15. [PMID: 25843469 DOI: 10.1647/2013-059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
A 5-month-old African grey parrot (Psittacus erithacus) was examined after 3 weeks of weakness, ataxia, mental depression, and seizures. Results of a complete blood cell count and plasma biochemical analysis were unremarkable. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a severe bilateral hydrocephalus. The bird failed to improve with supportive care, and the owner requested euthanasia. Necropsy findings were severe bilateral hydrocephalus with no evidence of cerebrospinal fluid obstruction. Histologic examination of the brain revealed microspongiosis, edema, gliosis, and neuronal chromatolysis of surrounding periventricular tissue. Aquaporins (AQP) and astrocytes were examined to elucidate the participation of these water channel proteins and glial cells in the pathophysiology and resolution of hydrocephalus. Results showed AQP4 and glial fibrillary acidic protein were overexpressed, especially near the ventricles, but expression of AQP1 was decreased. This is the first report, to our knowledge, of AQP immunolabeling in hydrocephalus in avain species.
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