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Psittacosis--a review of 135 cases
1Fairfield Hospital, VIC.
Abstract:
We reviewed retrospectively 135 cases of serologically-confirmed psittacosis that were admitted to Fairfield Hospital between January 1, 1972 and March 31, 1986. The average age of the patients was 46 years. The majority (85%) of patients described a history of recent exposure to birds. The clinical features, investigations, treatment and subsequent response were analysed in 129 patients. Psittacosis was a well-defined illness that was characterized by an abrupt onset of fever, rigors, sweats, and prominent headache, and a mild dry cough which appeared late frequently. However, respiratory symptoms were absent in 18% of patients. Diarrhoea and sore throat were occasional complaints. Over 90% of cases had an abnormal chest x-ray film, or abnormal chest signs, or a combination of both. Most patients had a normal leukocyte count. Tetracycline drugs were used for treatment in 87% of the patients. Defervescence occurred in 92% of patients after 48 h of tetracycline treatment. There were no recrudescences of psittacosis and no fatalities. The clinical diagnosis of psittacosis can be made early usually, particularly in the presence of pneumonitis on a chest x-ray film and a positive history of bird contact. Treatment with doxycycline (100 mg twice a day for 14 days) is recommended.
Insights
Psittacosis, a bird-borne illness, presents with fever and headache, often with lung abnormalities. Early diagnosis and tetracycline treatment lead to rapid recovery without fatalities.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Pulmonology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Psittacosis is an infectious disease caused by Chlamydia psittaci, typically transmitted from birds to humans.
- Understanding the clinical presentation and treatment outcomes is crucial for managing this zoonotic illness.
Purpose of the Study:
- To retrospectively analyze the clinical features, diagnostic methods, and treatment responses in psittacosis patients.
- To evaluate the efficacy of tetracycline-based treatment for psittacosis.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 135 serologically-confirmed psittacosis cases admitted between 1972 and 1986.
- Analysis of clinical data, including symptoms, physical examination findings, chest X-rays, and treatment outcomes for 129 patients.
Main Results:
- The majority of patients (85%) had a history of bird exposure.
- Common symptoms included abrupt fever, headache, and rigors, with a late-onset dry cough in most patients; 18% had no respiratory symptoms.
- Over 90% showed abnormal chest X-rays or signs, and 92% responded to tetracycline treatment within 48 hours, with no fatalities.
Conclusions:
- Psittacosis diagnosis is often facilitated by pneumonitis on chest X-ray and bird contact history.
- Tetracycline therapy, specifically doxycycline (100 mg twice daily for 14 days), is highly effective, leading to rapid defervescence and recovery.