What is Microbiology -​Chlamydophila psittaci infection

​Chlamydophila psittaci infection

Chlamydophila psittaci is an obligate intracellular parasites. Serological testing is useful in identifying the present of chlamydophila psittaci. 

Chlamydophila psittaci infection may present with fever, chills, myalgia, malaise and headache. Patient may suffer from bilateral interstitial pneumonia. 

Severe manifestation of chlamydophila psittaci may include encephalitis, endocarditis, hepatomegaly, splenomegaly, myocarditis and gastrointestinal disturbance which can be life threatening. 

Chamydophila psittaci consists of reticular bodies which are the metabolic active forms and elementary body which is the extracellular infectious forms. 

The infection may spread to the reticuloendothelial system which may affect other organs and may lead to focal necrosis due to entry to respiratory tract. 

The common mode of transmission is via inhalation of the dried bird dropping. Veterinarians and bird handlers as well as pet shop workers are exposed to infection from chlamydophila psittaci. 

Chlamydophila psittaci is a gram negative bacteria with peptidoglycan lacking cell wall. 

The treatment for chlamydophila psittaci may include antibiotic such as tetracycline and erythromycin.