Concurrent infection with Clostridium and Plasmodium in a captive king penguin Aptenodytes patagonicus
M L Penrith1, F W Huchzermeyer, S C De Wet
1Onderstepoort Veterinary Institute, Republic of South Africa.
Avian Pathology : Journal of the W.V.P.A
|June 1, 1994
Abstract:
Concurrent infection with Plasmodium relictum and Clostridium perfringens Type B was diagnosed in a king penguin (Aptenodytes patagonicus) that died in the National Zoological Gardens, Pretoria. Macro- and microscopic pathological changes were mainly due to C. perfringens. The relative significance of the two pathogens is discussed.
Insights
A king penguin died from a concurrent infection with Plasmodium relictum and Clostridium perfringens Type B. Clostridium perfringens caused the most severe pathological changes, indicating its primary role in the mortality of this avian species.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Avian Medicine
- Parasitology
Background:
- Concurrent infections pose diagnostic challenges in wildlife.
- King penguins (Aptenodytes patagonicus) are susceptible to various pathogens.
- Understanding pathogen interactions is crucial for conservation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To diagnose and characterize a concurrent infection in a king penguin.
- To determine the primary etiological agent responsible for mortality.
- To discuss the relative significance of Plasmodium relictum and Clostridium perfringens Type B.
Main Methods:
- Necropsy and histopathological examination of the deceased king penguin.
- Microbiological culture for bacterial identification.
- Identification of Plasmodium parasites.
Main Results:
- Concurrent infection with Plasmodium relictum and Clostridium perfringens Type B was confirmed.
- Significant macro- and microscopic pathological changes were attributed to Clostridium perfringens Type B.
- Plasmodium relictum was present but appeared to be a secondary or less significant contributor to the observed pathology.
Conclusions:
- Clostridium perfringens Type B was the main cause of death in this king penguin.
- The interaction between Plasmodium relictum and Clostridium perfringens Type B warrants further investigation in avian populations.
- This case highlights the importance of considering multiple pathogens in wildlife mortality events.
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