Aspergillus fumigatusin Poultry

Abstract

Aspergillus fumigatusremains a major respiratory pathogen in birds. In poultry, infection byA. fumigatusmay induce significant economic losses particularly in turkey production.A. fumigatusdevelops and sporulates easily in poor quality bedding or contaminated feedstuffs in indoor farm environments. Inadequate ventilation and dusty conditions increase the risk of bird exposure to aerosolized spores. Acute cases are seen in young animals following inhalation of spores, causing high morbidity and mortality. The chronic form affects older birds and looks more sporadic. The respiratory tract is the primary site ofA. fumigatusdevelopment leading to severe respiratory distress and associated granulomatous airsacculitis and pneumonia. Treatments for infected poultry are nonexistent; therefore, prevention is the only way to protect poultry. Development of avian models of aspergillosis may improve our understanding of its pathogenesis, which remains poorly understood.