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Outbreaks of philophthalmiasis in ostriches (Struthio camelus) in Northeast Brazil

Authors :
Raquel A.F. Silva
Rodrigo C. Alves
Yanca G.S. Soares
Jefferson S. Ferreira
Robério G. Olinda
Lucas J.M. Santos
Glauco J.N. Galiza
Antônio F.M. Dantas
Source :
Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira, Vol 43 (2023)
Publication Year :
2023
Publisher :
Colégio Brasileiro de Patologia Animal (CBPA), 2023.

Abstract

ABSTRACT: This study discusses the epidemiological, clinical, and pathological characteristics of two outbreaks of ocular infection in ostriches (Struthio camelus) caused by the trematode Philophthalmus sp. The outbreaks occurred in the states of Ceará and Rio Grande do Norte in Northeast Brazil. Ostrich farming was categorized as semi-intensive farming with free access to the weir and river. The clinical symptoms for infection included nictitating membrane inflammation, epiphora (tearing), eyelid edema, ocular congestion, eyeball destruction, emaciation, and death, and the infection period ranged from 8 to 16 months. Macroscopically, thickening of the eyelids and conjunctiva were observed, with orange parasites infestation. Histologically, the lesions were characterized as lymphoplasmacytic and heterophilic, multifocal to coalescing, moderate, chronic conjunctivitis associated with hyperplasia and ectasia of the Harderian gland, and numerous parasites. The parasites were oval and flattened with an oral suction cup, acetabulum, and thick cuticle containing spicules. The diagnosis of philophthalmiasis was based on epidemiological, clinical, and pathological findings associated with the morphological characteristics of the parasites present in the conjunctival sacs which were similar to the trematode Philophthalmus sp. Philophthalmiasis can occur in ostriches raised on urban and rural properties in Northeastern Brazil, probably associated with the contact of birds with contaminated water, and is characterized by severe conjunctivitis that can result in the loss of the eyeball and death of the animals.

Details

Language :
English, Portuguese
ISSN :
16785150
Volume :
43
Database :
Directory of Open Access Journals
Journal :
Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
edsdoj.2b38be4ac12f4b8290eba11411ba1ac7
Document Type :
article
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1590/1678-5150-pvb-7146