Psittacosis - a problem for bird breeders and how to prevent

Abstract

Psittacosis is a zoonotic infection caused by Chlamydia psittaci, primarily transmitted through contact with infected birds or inhalation of contaminated aerosols. Although recognized as a rare cause of atypical pneumonia, increasing evidence suggests that psittacosis is underdiagnosed because of its nonspecific clinical presentation and limited diagnostic awareness.

The aim of this review was to summarize current evidence regarding the epidemiology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, treatment, and public health importance of psittacosis.

A narrative literature review was performed using scientific databases, including PubMed, with emphasis on peer-reviewed studies, outbreak investigations, and recent reports on human psittacosis. Special attention was given to advances in molecular diagnostic methods and atypical clinical presentations.

The reviewed studies demonstrated that psittacosis has a broad clinical spectrum, ranging from mild influenza-like illness to severe atypical pneumonia and systemic involvement. Diagnosis remains challenging due to the absence of specific symptoms and the limited sensitivity of conventional serological tests. Recent developments in polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based diagnostics have improved detection and suggest a higher prevalence than previously estimated. Doxycycline remains the treatment of choice, particularly when initiated early, while delayed diagnosis may lead to severe complications, including respiratory failure and multi-organ dysfunction.

In conclusion, psittacosis remains an underestimated infectious disease requiring improved clinical awareness, expanded molecular testing, and enhanced surveillance strategies to ensure timely diagnosis and effective prevention.