Molecular identification of clinical and environmental avian Aspergillus isolates

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Mycology
• Avian Pathology
• Molecular Diagnostics

Background:

• Aspergillosis poses significant health risks to avian populations, leading to high rates of illness and death.
• Accurate identification of Aspergillus species is crucial for understanding and managing avian mycoses.

Purpose of the Study:

• To molecularly identify Aspergillus species implicated in avian aspergillosis.
• To assess the susceptibility of these isolates to the antifungal drug itraconazole.

Main Methods:

• Clinical and environmental samples were collected from birds and their habitats over two years.
• Molecular techniques were employed to identify Aspergillus isolates.
• Antifungal susceptibility testing was performed on a subset of isolates for itraconazole resistance.

Main Results:

• Seventy-seven Aspergillus isolates were identified, predominantly Aspergillus fumigatus sensu stricto (43 clinical, 34 environmental).
• No cryptic species within the Fumigati section were detected.
• Two environmental isolates were identified as Aspergillus nidulans var. dentatus and Aspergillus spinulosporus.
• All tested Aspergillus isolates were susceptible to itraconazole.

Conclusions:

• Aspergillus fumigatus sensu stricto is the dominant species associated with avian aspergillosis.
• The studied avian Aspergillus isolates exhibit no resistance to itraconazole, suggesting its continued efficacy.