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Tuberculosis in farmed rheas (Rhea americana)
S E Sanford1, A J Rehmtulla, G K Josephson
1Veterinary Laboratory Services Branch, Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Food, Canada.
Avian Diseases
|January 1, 1994
Summary
Avian tuberculosis was diagnosed in two rheas exhibiting progressive weight loss. Lesions revealed acid-fast bacilli and granulomas, with Mycobacterium avium complex confirmed in one case.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Avian Medicine
- Microbiology
Background:
- Avian tuberculosis is a chronic infectious disease affecting various bird species.
- Ratites, including rheas, can be susceptible to mycobacterial infections.
- Understanding disease presentation in rheas is crucial for diagnosis and management.
Observation:
- Two mature rheas from different farms presented with progressive body condition loss and eventual death.
- Necropsy revealed disseminated caseonecrotic granulomas in the liver, spleen, and other organs.
- Acid-fast bacilli were identified in granuloma smears and confirmed histologically.
Findings:
- Histopathology showed granulomas with caseonecrotic centers and giant cells, indicative of mycobacterial infection.
- Amyloidosis was observed in the liver and spleen of one affected rhea.
- Mycobacterium avium complex was isolated from hepatic granulomas, confirming the causative agent.
Implications:
- This report highlights avian tuberculosis as a differential diagnosis in rheas with wasting disease.
- Early detection and control measures are essential to prevent spread on ratite farms.
- Further research into rhea susceptibility and disease pathogenesis is warranted.