Determining the Prevalence of Avian Chlamydiosis in WildSpecies From Brazil Using Molecular Testing and Clinical Signs.

Abstract

Avian chlamydiosis is a disease that occurs in birds, especially parrots, and is caused by the Gram-negative bacterium. Wild Animal Screening Centers in Brazil receive, maintain, treat, and place (preferably to nature) wild animals recovered from illegal trafficking. We performed molecular testing for avian chlamydiosis in parrots from the genusthat were presented to these centers. Cloacal swab samples were collected from 59 parrots (species) and transported in aqueous or culture medium. The samples were subsequently submitted for DNA extraction by the boiling method, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification using CPF/CPR primers, and agarose gel electrophoresis. Conjunctivitis, nasal discharge, and poor body condition were the clinical signs associated with a differential disease diagnosis of avian chlamydiosis. Transport medium did not have an effect on the test results. The prevalence ofin the samples was 37% (22/59, 95% confidence interval: 25-49). There was a significant (= 0.009) association between the PCR test results and clinical signs. Follow-up testing was conducted on a subgroup of 14 individuals that initially tested negative on PCR; 50% (7/14) of these birds were found to be positive within 24 days of the first test. The results of this study confirm the feasibility of using the CPF/CFP primer-based PCR to detectinspecies, describe a less costly method of transporting biological material for DNA extraction, and evaluate the temporal aspect for obtaining positive results through molecular testing forinspecies.