engleski

Long-term study of chlamydophilosis birds in Slovenia

Immune reactivity for Chlamydophila psittaci in Slovenia was monitored in parrots, canaries, finches and some free-living birds for the period 1991 to 2001. Using immunofluorescence, specific IgG antibodies were found in 6.2% of parrots, 0.8% of canaries, 0.9% of finches and in 5.1% of free-living birds (Eurasian goldfinches). In experimental infections with Chlamydophila psittaci clinical signs and pathological changes of canaries and finches were studied. Infection of canaries (Serinus domesticus) and finches (Poephila guttata and Lonchura striata, domestica) was proven by direct immunofluorescence, rapid immunoassay and modified method of Gimenez using organ smears and imprints. Serological methods as indirect immunofluorescence and complement fixation were also applied. Chlamydophila psittaci strains used for experimental infection were isolated from cockatiel (Nymphicus hollandicus). Chlamydial DNA was extracted from original material followed by RFLP-PCR. Furthermore, the present study includes results of serological survey of breeders of canaries and finches exposed to infection with Chlamydophila psittaci. The results of microimmunofluorescence identifying the presence of specific antibodies and correlation between appearance of infection in birds and their breeders are presented. Among the breeders of canaries and finches we found one person who was immunologically reactive. Testing of two successive samples was used to demonstrate an increase of IgG and IgA. However, IgM characteristic for acute infection has not been detected.

antigen detection; cage bird; schallenge expreriment; chlamydial infections; Chlamydophila psittaci; free-living birds; immunology; parrots; risik grops

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