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Usefulness of combining computed tomography and air sac fluid examination to rule out aspergillosis: case study in two gentoo penguins (Pygoscelis papua) with respiratory clinical signs

Summary

Two penguins at an aquarium showed respiratory problems and were suspected of having a serious fungal infection called aspergillosis. Doctors used CT scans to identify fluid in their air sacs and collected samples for testing. The tests showed the penguins did not have the fungal infection, so they did not need antifungal medications. Both penguins recovered naturally, demonstrating that combining imaging with fluid analysis can help identify the real cause of respiratory problems and avoid unnecessary medication.

Background

Pulmonary aspergillosis is a fatal disease in captive penguins with high mortality rates. Distinguishing aspergillosis from other diseases is difficult due to nonspecific clinical signs, leading to empirical antifungal treatment. Early and accurate diagnosis is critical to prevent unnecessary medication and potential fungal resistance.

Objective

To assess the usefulness of combining computed tomography (CT) and air sac fluid examination to rule out aspergillosis in penguins with respiratory clinical signs. The study aimed to enable definitive pathogen identification to guide appropriate treatment decisions.

Results

Both penguins had fluid in interclavicular air sacs on CT. Bacterial and fungal cultures were negative in Case 1, and genetic analysis ruled out Aspergillus in Case 2 (environmental basidiomycetes detected instead). Both penguins recovered without antifungal treatment, with air sac fluid resolution on follow-up CT.

Conclusion

The combination of CT imaging and air sac fluid examination was useful for ruling out aspergillosis and other infections in penguins with respiratory signs, allowing informed treatment decisions and avoiding unnecessary antimicrobial therapy. This approach enabled successful recovery without antifungal administration.
  • Published in:Journal of Veterinary Medical Science,
  • Study Type:Case Study,
  • Source: PMID: 38233131, DOI: 10.1292/jvms.23-0368
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