Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Iron storage disease in African grey parrots fed meat diet
By O'Connor, Matthew R & Garner, Michael M·Published in Journal of zoo and wildlife medicine : official publication of the American Association of Zoo Veterinarians·2018·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: IRON STORAGE DISEASE IN AFRICAN GREY PARROTS ( PSITTACUS ERITHACUS) EXPOSED TO A CARNIVOROUS DIET.
- Species:
- bird
Plain-English summary
Three African grey parrots were brought in for emergency care after showing signs of depression, weight loss, and inability to fly. Blood tests revealed low protein levels and high liver enzymes, indicating liver damage. Unfortunately, two of the parrots did not survive, and tests showed they had dangerously high levels of iron stored in their livers, likely due to a diet meant for carnivorous birds or too much fruit and vegetables. The surviving parrot was switched to a low-iron diet to prevent further issues.
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Abstract
Within a 2-wk period, three African grey parrots ( Psittacus erithacus) presented for emergency treatment. All three parrots had depressed behavior, an inability to fly, and significant weight loss. Plasma chemistry abnormalities included severe hypoproteinemia and elevated liver enzymes in all parrots. Two of the parrots died, and histologic examination with hematoxylin and eosin and Prussian blue stains revealed severe hepatic iron storage. Quantitative analysis confirmed high hepatic iron concentrations. Iron accumulation was attributed to ingestion of a carnivorous bird diet or selectively eating too much fruit and vegetables high in ascorbic acid. Management entailed husbandry changes including switching the remaining parrots to a low-iron diet. Psittacine species exposed to carnivorous bird diets are at risk of developing iron storage disease.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29517436/