Author:

Chute HL

Date: 4 September 2000

Abstract:

Advances in the past decade in the control of bacterial and viral diseases of birds have been outstanding. Although much experimental work has been done on the growth of fungi in the chicken egg embryo, very little or no progress has been made in the control of fungous diseases of birds. Fungous diseases are not the most common diseases of birds, yet they are prevalent enough to warrant economic attention.

In addition to the three fungal diseases of poultry (aspergillosis, favus and thrush), two other fungal infections (histoplasmosis and cryptococcosis) are discussed. While not apparent pathogens of poultry, these are of significance from the public health standpoint because of their occurrence in poultry or the environments of birds.

A bibliography of avian mycosis by Chute et al. (1962) lists 709 references to fungi in birds. This bibliography brings out rare cases of reported fungous infections as well as experimental studies relating to birds and chicken egg embryos.

Aspergillosis has been observed in many birds and mammals. Frequent reference is made to the relationship of the disease in man to occupation, particularly in the so-called gaveurs des pigeons (pigeon feeders).

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