Histopathology and morphology of the tissue stages of Haemoproteus columbae causing mortality in Columbiformes

Two doves from the same aviary died following heavy infections with Haemoproteus columbae. Histopathological examination of various organs revealed numerous schizonts and megaloschizonts. There seemed to be two cycles of schizogony, one within the muscles and another in a wide range of tissues. The shape and size of the schizonts appeared to be a function of the site of formation. The rupture of megaloschizonts, especially in the striated muscles caused extensive fibre necrosis and the resultant muscle damage, is believed to be the major cause of mortality.