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21 June 2023 Determining the Prevalence of Avian Chlamydiosis in Wild Amazona Species From Brazil Using Molecular Testing and Clinical Signs
Bernardo Mirabal Santos, Edma Santos de Antonio, Douglas Campos Pereira, Ana Tereza Teixeira Silva Dourado, Márcio Borba da Silva, Ricardo Evangelista Fraga, Laize Tomazi
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Abstract

Avian chlamydiosis is a disease that occurs in birds, especially parrots, and is caused by the Gram-negative bacterium Chlamydia psittaci. Wild Animal Screening Centers in Brazil receive, maintain, treat, and place (preferably to nature) wild animals recovered from illegal trafficking. We performed molecular testing for avian chlamydiosis in parrots from the genus Amazona that were presented to these centers. Cloacal swab samples were collected from 59 parrots (Amazona species) and transported in aqueous or culture medium. The samples were subsequently submitted for DNA extraction by the boiling method, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification using CPF/CPR primers, and agarose gel electrophoresis. Conjunctivitis, nasal discharge, and poor body condition were the clinical signs associated with a differential disease diagnosis of avian chlamydiosis. Transport medium did not have an effect on the test results. The prevalence of C psittaci in the samples was 37% (22/59, 95% confidence interval: 25–49). There was a significant (P = 0.009) association between the PCR test results and clinical signs. Follow-up testing was conducted on a subgroup of 14 individuals that initially tested negative on PCR; 50% (7/14) of these birds were found to be positive within 24 days of the first test. The results of this study confirm the feasibility of using the CPF/CFP primer–based PCR to detect C psittaci in Amazona species, describe a less costly method of transporting biological material for DNA extraction, and evaluate the temporal aspect for obtaining positive results through molecular testing for C psittaci in Amazona species.

Bernardo Mirabal Santos, Edma Santos de Antonio, Douglas Campos Pereira, Ana Tereza Teixeira Silva Dourado, Márcio Borba da Silva, Ricardo Evangelista Fraga, and Laize Tomazi "Determining the Prevalence of Avian Chlamydiosis in Wild Amazona Species From Brazil Using Molecular Testing and Clinical Signs," Journal of Avian Medicine and Surgery 37(1), 32-40, (21 June 2023). https://doi.org/10.1647/21-00075
Published: 21 June 2023
KEYWORDS
Amazona species
Avian
avian chlamydiosis
Chlamydia psittaci
molecular detection
parrot
Psittacidae
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