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A case of relapsing psittacosis associated with a stroke
1Department of Medicine, King's Mill Centre, Sutton-in-Ashfield, Notts, UK.
Abstract:
Psittacosis, caused by Chlamydia psittaci, is mainly associated with an atypical pneumonia. We report a case of psittacosis where onset of respiratory symptoms was soon followed by the onset of focal neurological signs, a very uncommon feature. Despite adequate treatment with erythromycin, the patient relapsed when re-exposed to a sick pet bird. A prolonged course of doxycycline led to resolution of the pneumonia, but it is important to recall that successful management must also include the elimination of the precipitating cause of the infection.
Insights
Psittacosis, a pneumonia caused by Chlamydia psittaci, can present with rare neurological symptoms. Successful treatment requires antibiotics and eliminating the source of infection, such as pet birds.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Neurology
- Pulmonology
Background:
- Psittacosis, caused by Chlamydia psittaci, is primarily recognized as an atypical pneumonia.
- Neurological manifestations are exceptionally rare in psittacosis cases.
Observation:
- This case details a patient experiencing respiratory symptoms followed by focal neurological signs.
- The patient relapsed after re-exposure to a pet bird, despite initial erythromycin treatment.
Findings:
- A prolonged course of doxycycline resolved the pneumonia.
- Neurological symptoms were noted as an uncommon feature in this psittacosis case.
Implications:
- Effective psittacosis management necessitates not only antibiotic therapy but also the identification and removal of the infection's source.
- This case highlights the importance of considering neurological involvement in psittacosis and addressing environmental exposures.