Aspergillosis (lung fungus) in parrots
Other names: Lung fungus، Aspergillus
Symptoms
- Change in or loss of voice
- Difficulty breathing, tail bobbing with breathing
- Exercise intolerance
- Weight loss
- Neurological signs if it reaches the brain
How it spreads
Not contagious from bird to bird; fungal spores in damp bedding and moldy grain; increases with poor ventilation, humidity, heat, cortisone, prolonged antibiotics, vitamin A deficiency, and stress. Khamsin storms and dust in Egypt are an additional factor (editorial opinion).
Diagnosis
Blood count (elevated white cells), radiographs/CT, Aspergillus DNA PCR; endoscopy with biopsy and culture is the most accurate; antibodies have limited value.
Treatment
Long treatment (weeks to months) with oral and nebulized antifungals ± surgical removal of fungal masses; oxygen and nutritional support; continue 2–4 weeks after signs disappear, with liver monitoring every 4 weeks.
Prevention
Dry, non-moldy bedding, clean grain stored well, excellent ventilation, a diet rich in vitamin A, avoid smoke.
Treatment and doses are decided by an avian vet after an exam; Zajel does not publish doses.