Psittacosis: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

What are the symptoms of psittacosis?

Psittacosis, also known as parrot fever, is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Chlamydia psittaci. The symptoms can vary from mild to severe and typically include:

• Fever: A high fever is common.
• Chills: Patients often experience chills along with fever.
• Headache: Headaches can be severe.
• Muscle Aches: Generalized muscle pain or discomfort is frequent.
• Cough: A dry cough is common, which can progress to a more severe cough.
• Chest Pain: Some individuals may experience chest discomfort or pain.
• Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath can occur.
• Fatigue: Extreme tiredness or fatigue is common.
• Sore Throat: A sore throat can accompany the illness.
• Nausea and Vomiting: Gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea and vomiting may occur.

The disease can sometimes present with more severe respiratory symptoms or lead to complications like pneumonia.

What are the causes of psittacosis?

Psittacosis is caused by the bacterium Chlamydia psittaci. This bacterium primarily infects birds, particularly psittacine birds like parrots, cockatiels, and budgerigars. Humans can contract psittacosis through inhalation of dust or aerosols contaminated with the bacteria from the droppings, feathers, or secretions of infected birds.

The bacteria can also be spread by direct contact with infected birds or through contact with contaminated environments, such as bird cages or bird droppings. In rare cases, human-to-human transmission may occur, but this is not well-documented.

How is the diagnosis of psittacosis made?

The diagnosis of psittacosis involves several steps:

1. Clinical Evaluation: Physicians start with a detailed medical history and physical examination. Information about recent contact with birds or symptoms that align with psittacosis is crucial.
2. Laboratory Tests: Diagnostic tests include serological assays to detect antibodies against Chlamydia psittaci in the blood. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing can also identify bacterial DNA in clinical samples, such as sputum or blood.
3. Imaging: Chest X-rays may be performed to assess lung involvement, as psittacosis often presents with pneumonia.
4. Culture: Culturing Chlamydia psittaci from respiratory secretions or other samples is less commonly used due to the bacterium’s specific growth requirements and biosafety concerns.
5. Histopathology: In rare cases, tissue biopsy may be used to identify the bacteria, particularly if other methods are inconclusive.

Early and accurate diagnosis is important for effective treatment and to prevent further spread of the disease.

What is the treatment for psittacosis?

The treatment for psittacosis typically involves antibiotics. The main options include:

• Doxycycline: This is the first-line treatment and is effective in treating psittacosis. It is usually prescribed for a duration of 7 to 14 days.
• Tetracycline: An alternative to doxycycline, especially in cases where doxycycline cannot be used. It is also taken for about 7 to 14 days.
• Azithromycin or Erythromycin: These macrolide antibiotics may be used as alternatives, particularly for patients who cannot tolerate tetracyclines.

The choice of antibiotic may depend on factors such as patient age, pregnancy status, and any existing medical conditions. It’s essential for patients to complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed to ensure the infection is fully eradicated.