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Zoonotic atypical pneumonia due to Chlamydophila psittaci: first reported psittacosis case in Taiwan

Yu-Jen Cheng1, Kun-Yen Lin, Chun-Chen Chen

  • 1Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Changhua Christian Hospital, Taiwan.

Journal of the Formosan Medical Association = Taiwan Yi Zhi
|August 10, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Human psittacosis, a zoonotic pneumonia from Chlamydophila psittaci, can cause severe illness. This case highlights avian contact as a key risk factor, confirmed by serological testing and successful antibiotic treatment.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Zoonotic Diseases
  • Pulmonology

Background:

  • Psittacosis, caused by Chlamydophila psittaci, is a significant zoonotic disease.
  • It commonly presents as atypical pneumonia with potential extrapulmonary manifestations.
  • Avian contact, particularly with psittacine birds, is a frequent risk factor.

Observation:

  • A 44-year-old male presented with symptoms including fever, cough, chest pain, dyspnea, hepatitis, and hyponatremia.
  • The patient reported contact with two sick cockatiels, one deceased.
  • Clinical presentation was consistent with atypical pneumonia.

Findings:

  • Microimmunofluorescence testing revealed positive serum IgM titers against Chlamydophila psittaci (1:256, 1:256, 1:128).
  • The patient showed clinical improvement and fever resolution after minocycline administration.
  • Diagnosis was confirmed by avian contact history, clinical signs, serology, and treatment response.

Implications:

  • This case represents the first documented instance of psittacosis in Taiwan.
  • It underscores the importance of considering psittacosis in patients with atypical pneumonia and avian exposure.
  • Early diagnosis and treatment with antibiotics like minocycline are crucial for favorable outcomes.
Keywords:
Chlamydophila psittaciatypical pneumoniachlamydia infectionscommunity-acquired pneumoniamicroimmunofluorescence testpsittacosiszoonoses

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