Serratospiculosis in a New Zealand Falcon (Falco novaeseelandiae)

Authors: Gartrell BD, Green CH, Charleston WAG
Publication: New Zealand Veterinary Journal, Volume 54, Issue 4, pp 198-201, Aug 2006
Publisher: Taylor and Francis

Animal type: Avian, Wildlife
Subject Terms: Alimentary system/gastroenterology, Biosecurity, Diagnostic procedures, Nematode, New hosts/new diseases, Parasites - internal, Pathology, Respiratory system
Article class: Clinical Communication

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Abstract: CASE HISTORY: An adult New Zealand falcon was presented with metacarpal fractures in the left wing.
CLINICAL FINDINGS: In addition to the fractures, radiographs revealed an area of opacity in the air sacs. A few days after hospitalisation and initiation of treatment of the fractures, the bird developed signs of respiratory disease; the area of opacity was found to have increased in size and density. Treatment with antibiotics and nebulisation was commenced; the bird initially responded but respiratory signs subsequently worsened and the bird died. At necropsy, air sacculitis and bronchopneumonia were associated with numerous nematodes in the air sacs, which were morphologically consistent with Serratospiculum guttatum.
DIAGNOSIS: Serratospiculosis
CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The discovery of this parasite and the associated disease for the first time in New Zealand indicates that it should be considered in the differential diagnosis of respiratory disease in falcons and possibly other raptors in New Zealand.
KEY WORDS: Serratospiculum guttatum, New Zealand falcon, respiratory disease, air sacculitis

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