Avian Pathogens

Birds and bats carry many organisms, some of which are communicable to humans and may cause diseases including histoplamosis, cryptococcosis and psittacosis. The Avian Pathogen Screen includes PCR analysis of three important avian pathogens: Cryptococcus neoformans, Histoplasma capsulatum, and Clamydia (Chlamydophila) psittaci.

Cryptococcus neoformans is a pathogenic fungus (encapsulated yeast) with worldwide distribution that can cause cryptococcosis. In particular individuals with weakened immune system are at risk to contract infections of C. neoformans or the less common C. gattii. Infections typically occur in the lung or brain (cryptococcal meningitis). Cryptococcus is commonly associated with bird droppings (e.g. pigeon) but can also be found on plant material or in soil. The qPCR test allows for quantitative detection of C. neoformans in soil, dust, swab or air samples.

Histoplasma capsulatum is a fungus that can cause histoplasmosis especially in individuals with weakened immune system. H. capsulatum is typically associated with bird and bat droppings and causes infections when individuals inhale spores of the fungus. H. capsulatum is present throughout the world, but is commonly found in the Mississippi and Ohio River Valleys. The PCR test allows for qualitative detection of H. capsulatum in soil, dust, swab or air samples.

Clamydia (Clamydophila) psittaci is a bacterium that can cause psittacosis when individual breath in dried secretions from infected birds. Although many bird species are capable of being infected with C. psittaci, infections are most often associated with pet birds and poultry. The qPCR test allows for quantitative detection of C. psittaci in soil, dust, swab or air samples.

The Avian Pathogen Screen includes analysis for three important avian pathogens communicable to humans: Cryptococcus neoformans, Histoplasma capsulatum, and Chlamydophila psittaci.