Archive Case #100: Avian Proventricular Dilatation Disease

Clinical Clues

1. A companion parrot is evaluated for gradual weight loss despite a reasonable appetite.
2. The owner reports intermittent regurgitation and undigested seeds in the droppings.
3. The bird has also become weak and occasionally uncoordinated on the perch.
4. Imaging shows marked dilation of the proventriculus.
5. The disease process affects both the gastrointestinal tract and nervous system.
6. A viral neuropathic disorder of parrots is classically associated with proventricular dilatation disease.

Diagnosis

Avian Proventricular Dilatation Disease

This case is most consistent with Avian Proventricular Dilatation Disease because the parrot has wasting, undigested food, neurologic signs, and proventricular enlargement. The combined gastrointestinal and neurologic presentation is typical of PDD, a clinical syndrome associated with avian bornavirus infection, and is less consistent with a simple crop disorder.

Educational Use

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