Known also as ornithosis, parrot fever, chlamydiosis
Caused by Chlamydophila psittaci, which is present in 40% of birds.
Humans are accidental hosts.
Unlike C. pneumoniae, C. psittaci is not transmitted from human to human.
Atypical pneumonia: the most common presentation. The symptoms typically begin 7-14 days after exposure with fever, chills, prominent headaches, photophobia, and cough. Hepatosplenomegaly is clinically detectable in 10-70% of patients. Uncommon serious diseases: pericarditis, myocarditis, culture-negative endocarditis, MS changes.
The combination of pneumonitis and hepatosplenomegaly should prompt the diagnosis!
Diagnosis: Serology. Reportable disease.
Treatment: usually self limited. If treatment is needed: doxycycline, azithromycin, or Clarithromycin
