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[Two familial cases of psittacosis]

Shintaro Kanda1, Hiroshi Yamamoto, Toshimichi Horiuchi

  • 1Department of Internal Medicine, Komoro General Hospital.

Nihon Kokyuki Gakkai Zasshi = the Journal of the Japanese Respiratory Society
|April 11, 2007
PubMed

Insights

This study details two family members diagnosed with psittacosis, a bacterial infection. The source was identified as pet parrots, highlighting zoonotic disease transmission risks.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Zoonotic Infections
  • Respiratory Medicine

Background:

  • Psittacosis is an infection caused by Chlamydophila psittaci, a bacterium often transmitted from birds to humans.
  • Human cases of psittacosis can present with pneumonia-like symptoms, requiring accurate diagnosis and prompt treatment.

Observation:

  • Two family members presented with distinct respiratory symptoms and radiographic findings suggestive of pneumonia.
  • Initial treatment for atypical pneumonia showed partial improvement, but serological tests confirmed Chlamydophila psittaci infection.

Findings:

  • Elevated serum titers (complement fixation and ELISA) against Chlamydophila psittaci were confirmed in both patients.
  • The causative agent, Chlamydophila psittaci antigen, was identified in the family's pet parrots.
  • The clinical presentation and diagnostic findings strongly indicated a zoonotic transmission from the parrots to the family.

Implications:

  • This case series underscores the importance of considering psittacosis in patients with pneumonia, especially those with avian contact.
  • Identifying the source of infection, in this case pet parrots, is crucial for effective treatment and preventing further transmission.
  • Awareness of zoonotic diseases like psittacosis is vital for public health, particularly for individuals in close contact with birds.

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