Lymphoproliferative disorder in a Cockatiel (Nymphicus hollandicus)

Case Report

Authors

  • Julia Welter Nascimento Universidade Federal do Paraná https://orcid.org/0009-0006-7415-8910
  • Juliana Bresciani Universidade Federal do Paraná
  • Talita Valmorbida Universidade Federal do Paraná
  • Vitória Maria Albano Pasqual Universidade Federal do Paraná
  • João Vitor Janesko Zaions Universidade Federal do Paraná
  • Rogério Ribas Lange Universidade Federal do Paraná

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.31533/pubvet.v19n01e1715

Keywords:

Birds, diagnosis, histopathology, lymphocytosis, neoplasia, blood

Abstract

The cockatiel (Nymphicus hollandicus) is a popular pet bird that can also suffer from complex diseases, including lymphoproliferative disorders characterized by abnormal proliferation of lymphoid cells, such as lymphomas and leukemias. These conditions affect organs, such as the liver, spleen, and kidneys and may have genetic, environmental, or viral causes. Diagnosis requires blood tests, imaging, and sometimes biopsies, but it is challenging due to the diversity of symptoms, including weight loss, apathy, and organ dysfunction. In the reported case, a male cockatiel presented with symptoms such as lethargy, regurgitation, diarrhea, and dehydration. Tests revealed severe lymphocytosis, suggesting a neoplastic disease. Treatment  included fluid therapy, antibiotics, and anti-inflammatory drugs, but the bird's condition worsened, leading to death. Necropsy revealed neoplastic lymphocyte proliferation in the liver, spleen, and kidneys, suggesting lymphoma. The involvement of viral agents, such as Marek’s Disease Virus or Avian Leukosis Virus, could not be confirmed due to diagnostic limitations. This case highlights the complexity of neoplasms in birds and the challenges of diagnosis, especially in severe cases. Therapeutic management depends on the specific condition and may involve chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or surgery, though it is often palliative. 

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Published

2025-01-01

Issue

Section

Medicina veterinária

How to Cite

1.
Nascimento JW, Bresciani J, Valmorbida T, Albano Pasqual VM, Janesko Zaions JV, Lange RR. Lymphoproliferative disorder in a Cockatiel (Nymphicus hollandicus): Case Report. Pubvet [Internet]. 2025 Jan. 1 [cited 2025 Jan. 10];19(01):e1715. Available from: https://ojs.pubvet.com.br/index.php/revista/article/view/3907