Psittacosis is an infection caused by Chlamydophila psittaci, a type of bacteria found in the droppings of birds. Birds spread the infection to humans.
Alternative NamesOrnithosis; Chlamydophila psittaci
Causes, incidence, and risk factorsPsittacosis is a rare disease: 100 - 200 cases are reported each year in the United States.
Bird owners, pet shop employees, persons who work in poultry processing plants, and veterinarians are at increased risk for this infection. Typical birds involved are parrots, parakeets, and budgerigars, although other birds have also caused the disease.
SymptomsThe health care provider will hear abnormal lung sounds such as crackles and decreased breath sounds when listening to the chest with a stethoscope.
Tests include:
The infection is treated with antibiotics. Doxycycline is the first line treatment. Other antibiotics that may be prescribed include:
Note: Tetracycline by mouth is usually not prescribed for children until after all their permanent teeth have started to grow in. The medicine can permanently discolor teeth that are still forming.
Expectations (prognosis)Full recovery is expected.
ComplicationsAntibiotics are needed to treat this infection. If you develop symptoms of psittacosis, call your health care provider.
PreventionAvoid exposure to birds that may carry this bacteria, such as imported parakeets. Medical problems that lead to a weak immune system increase your risk for this disease and should be treated appropriately.
ReferencesBrunham RC. Diseases caused by chlamydiae. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 339.