Update on the diagnosis and management of Macrorhabdus ornithogaster (formerly megabacteria) in avian patients.
Macrorhabdus ornithogaster, a yeast found only at the junction between the ventriculus and proventriculus, can infect a wide range of birds. Infection is often subclinical but can also result in gastrointestinal signs. Direct observation of the organism in the feces is a specific but somewhat insensitive means of diagnosis. At least three antifungal drugs are reported to be effective for treatment but resistance to one or more of these drugs may occur.
Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, 425 Werombi Road, Camden, New South Wales 2570, Australia. Electronic address: david.phalen@sydney.edu.au.
David N
DN
Phalen
D000818:Animals; D001715:Bird Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000382:microbiology*; D005243:Feces / Q000382:microbiology; D011531:Proventriculus / Q000382:microbiology; D004718:Saccharomycetales / Q000302:isolation & purification*
Bird; Diagnosis; Macrorhabdus ornithogaster; Treatment