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Fungal diseases of birds of prey

Sharon L Deem1

  • 1Department of Animal Health, Smithsonian Institute, National Zoological Park, 3001 Connecticut Avenue, Washington, DC 20008, USA. deems@nzp.si.edu

The Veterinary Clinics of North America. Exotic Animal Practice
|June 28, 2003
PubMed

Insights

Preventing fungal infections like aspergillosis and candidiasis in birds of prey is key. Early diagnosis and improved antifungal treatments are vital for managing these common avian diseases.

Area of Science:

  • Avian Medicine
  • Mycology
  • Wildlife Health

Background:

  • Aspergillosis and candidiasis are prevalent infectious fungal diseases in birds of prey.
  • Prevention strategies are often more effective than treatment for these conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight the importance of prevention and early diagnosis of fungal infections in birds of prey.
  • To discuss diagnostic challenges and current treatment modalities for avian aspergillosis and candidiasis.

Main Methods:

  • Review of common fungal pathogens affecting birds of prey.
  • Analysis of diagnostic criteria and potential pitfalls.
  • Evaluation of preventive measures and treatment options.

Main Results:

  • Minimizing stress, maintaining a healthy environment, and judicious use of antibiotics/corticosteroids are crucial for prevention.
  • High incidence in wild populations suggests underlying immunocompromising factors.
  • Accurate diagnosis requires more than agent identification due to ubiquitous nature of fungi.

Conclusions:

  • Proactive prevention is paramount in managing aspergillosis and candidiasis in birds of prey.
  • Clinicians must consider environmental and host factors contributing to infection.
  • Antifungal drugs remain the primary treatment, with ongoing advancements in drug availability and delivery.

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