A comparison of three serological assays, protein gel electrophoresis and the polymerase chain reaction for the detection of Chlomydia psittici infections in pet birds

Abstract

Three serological assays, protein gel electrophoresis hics. and the polymerase chain reaction assays were evaluated in psittacine birds. Birds suspected of Chlamydia psittaci infections were identified and tested with the following assays: complement fixation (CF), elementary body agglutination (EBA), immunofluorescent antibodies (IFA), polymerase chain reaction (PCR), protein gel electrophoresis. Comparison of the results obtained showed a strong statistical association between EBA to CF, PCR to CF, and PCR to EBA, establishing PCR as a sensitive and specific assay when used in cockatiels (Nymphacus hollandicus). Protein gel electrophoresis and IFA did not show a statistically significant association with either EBA or CF. An ejectable antibiotic specifically formulated for intramuscular use in birds was used to treat the infected cockatiels. The antibiotic treatment was interrupted after nearly half the birds developed tissue lesions at the site of injection. Lovebirds suspected of Chlamydia psittaci infection were tested with PCK EBA, CF, and culture. The data obtained from the lovebirds showed high agreement among the different tests. White Carneaux pigeons suspected of Chlamydia psittaci infections were tested With PCK EBA CF, and antigen detection. None of the assays employed were established as sensitive or specific when used in white Chateaux pigeons.