[Detection of Chlamydia psittaci infections in amphibians using an immunofluorescence test]

In amphibians, Chlamydia psittaci infections are known since 1982 as a fatal disease. Only documented in two amphibian species, the pathogen seems to be widespread in these coldblooded vertebrates. The detection of intracytoplasmatic inclusion bodies and following examinations (electronmicroscopy) were necessary for the postmortal diagnosis. In 26 amphibians (3 species) a specific immunological testkit (immunofluerescence test) have been used. In 18 cases a positive result was found. This is the first report about using an IFT for the detection of Chlamydia psittaci in amphibians. Two new host species for this pathogen were found, one bufonid anuran (Bufo maculatum) and the new Pachytriton sp.