Psittacosis
Overview
Psittacosis is an infection caused by Chlamydia psittaci, a type of bacteria found in the droppings of birds. Birds spread the infection to humans.
Symptoms
* Fever and chills * Muscle aches * Headache * Fatigue * Dry cough * Shortness of breath * Blood-tinged sputum
Causes
Psittacosis is a rare disease-- fewer than 50 cases have been reported in the United States in the past 5 years. Bird owners, pet shop employees, workers in poultry processing plants, and veterinarians are at increased risk for this infection.
Prevention
Avoid exposure to birds that may carry this bacteria, such as imported parakeets. Treat any medical problems that lead to a weak immune system, which increases your risk for this disease.
Diagnosis
Abnormal lung sounds such as rales and decreased breath sounds are heard when listening to the chest with a stethoscope. Tests include: * X-ray of the chest * CT scan of the chest * Blood gas * Sputum culture * Blood culture (grows chlamydia) * Antibody titer
Prognosis
Full recovery is expected.
Treatment
The infection is treated with antibiotics, including: * Tetracycline * Doxycycline * Erythromycin * Azithromycin * Rifampin 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.
Resources
Alternative Names : Ornithosis; Chlamydia psittaci