Cryptosporidiosis in psittacines

Abstract

Cryptosporidiosis has been described in various animal species, including 152 mammalian species and more than 30 species of birds. The infection in humans has been reported in more than 90 countries located on six continents. Although there is no consensus for final classification of species for Cryptosporidium, some authors suggest the existence of at least 27 species of this parasite. Many pet birds are parrots, and because of this, it is important to know their pathogens and the possible diseases spread by them. This section is intended to elucidate aspects of the infection by species of Cryptosporidium spp. which often affect parrots, with an emphasis on epidemiological, clinical signs, diagnostic methods and treatment.