Rare case of chronic pulmonary aspergillosis in emu chicks (Dromaius novaehollandiae) Kumar M. Asok1, Palanivelu M.1,*, Singh S.D.1, Barathidasan R.1, Varghese Berin P.1, Dhama K.1 1Division of Pathology, Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI), Izatnagar *Corresponding author: e-mail: drpalvet@gmail.com
Abstract Aspergillus spp. are opportunistic pathogens which cause pulmonary aspergillosis in human, animals and birds that are immunocompromised. Seven emu chicks of different ages ranging from 2 weeks to 7 weeks were presented for postmortem examination and diagnosis. Necropsy revealed granulomatous pneumonia in all the chicks. Multiple granulomas of varying sizes (1–4 mm) were also seen in the serosa of proventriculus, gizzard and kidneys. Direct microscopic examination of 10% KOH treated, lactophenol cotton blue stained smears from crushed nodules showed segments of branching fungal hyphae and conidia characteristic of aspergillus. Tease mounts wet smear preparation from the culture revealed conidiophores and conidia characteristic for Aspergillus fumigatus. Histopathologically, multifocal granulomas were seen in the lungs with central area of necrosis, numerous giant cells, mononuclear infiltration and sparse hyphae in the periphery. The frequent reports on aspergillosis in different avian species require a special attention to undertake necessary prophylactic and therapeutic measures to minimize economic losses. Top Keywords Aspergillosis, Conidia, Emu chicks, Fungal hyphae, Granulomas. Top |