Psittacosis:
Clinical:
Psittacosis pneumonia occurs following infection with Chlamydia psittaci- parrots, parakeets, cockatiels, and canaries are among the avian reservoirs for this organism. C. psittaci is an obligate intracellular bacteria which cannot synthesize its own adenosine triphosphate. Infection occurs from inhlation of the organism which establishes infection in the epithelial cells of the lower respiratory tract. Tracheo-bronchitis, interstitial and alveolar pneumonia, hilar adenopathy, and hepatosplenomegaly (due to hematogenous dissemination) are common features of the infection.
Infection can range from a mild influenza-like illness to a fulminant infection. Patients often complain of a non-productive cough, headache, and splenomegaly is found in up to one-third of cases. Radiographic abnormalities may be more extensive than anticipated by the clinical appearance and physical exam. Treatment is with tetracycline or doxycycline.
REFERENCES:
(1) Seminars in Respiratory Infections 1997; Psittacosis. 12 (1): 7-11
