A Case of PDD Associated to ESBL Escherichia Coli Infection in an African Grey Parrot (Psittacus E. Erithacus)

ESBLs are bacteria that commonly express plasmid encoded lactamases conferring resistance to penicillins and expanded-spectrum cephalosporins, and have increased dramatically causing severe antibiotic resistance1. This case report describes an ESBL producing Escherichia coli infection in an African grey parrot affected by PDD. A 14 years old African Grey parrot was hospitalized for severe nervous symptoms and vomiting. Hematologic evaluations, X-ray contrast studies, ELISA test for antigangliosides antibodies; PCR test for Chlamydia psittaci and Avian bornavirus and microbiological analysis on fecal material were performed. Radiological studies revealed hepatomegaly and proventricular dilatation. Biochemistry showed a severe hepatitis, while PCR was negative for C. psittaci and ABV research. Culture revealed an ESBL E. coli and PCR evidenced blaCTXM and blaCMY2 genes. The ELISA test for antigangliosides antibodies was positive. This case of PDD is a prototype of post-infectious autoimmune disease, with high titers of IgG antibodies. As Guillain-Barré Syndrome in man, PDD may be related to Campylobacter or, rarely, E.coli infection. In our knowledge this is the first report of CTXMtype ESBL E. coli in parrots.