A114 - Trichomonas gallinae

Description:

Protozoan parasite, Trichomonas gallinae, causes the disease trichomoniasis in birds. It can infect pigeons, doves, turkeys, chickens, quail, hawks, eagles, falcons, canaries, parrots, sparrows, swallows, goldfinches and cardinals. The protozoan exists in a trophozoite stage only and moves by means of hair-like structures known as flagella. Baby pigeons or squabs become infected when they ingest trophozoites in pigeon milk produced in the crop. In pigeons, the disease is called canker and they may be infected by ingesting contaminated food or water. Raptors may become infected by eating infected birds and in raptors, the disease is often called frounce. Other types of birds may become infected by ingesting the parasite in contaminated water. Nestlings of many species may become infected with an umbilical form which occurs when trophozoites pass from an infected nestbox through the navel. The parasite lives in the mouth, esophagus, crop and tracheae, but may also spread to other organs. Trichomonas gallinae may cause white plaques and inflammation in the oral cavity. An infected bird may have a loss of appetite, vomiting, ruffled feathers, diarrhea, dysphagia (difficulty in swallowing), dyspnea (difficulty in breathing), weight loss, and increased thirst. Droppings may have a yellow discoloration that is most commonly visible in the white portion. Young birds are most frequently infected and can die from the parasite. Some birds may be carriers and show no sign of the disease.

Diagnosis:

Diagnosis of trichomonas gallinae may not be easy. The disease may resemble poxvirus, candidiasis, or vitamin A deficiency. The parasite DNA can be detected in oral fluids and in scrapings taken from the crop or from oral lesions by PCR test. Positive result confirms active infection.

Sample:

Oral fluids or oral swabs.

Special Handling:

Store samples at 4°C until pick up or shipment.

Test Code:

A112

1. Garner MM and Sturtevant FC (1992) Trichomoniasis in a blue-fronted amazon parrot (Amazona aestiva). J. Assoc. Avian Vet. 6:17-20.
2. Murphy J (1992) Psittacine trichomoniasis. Proc. Assoc. Avian Vet. Lake Worth, FL. pp. 21-24.