Hepatopathy Associated with Excessive Iron Storage in Mynah Birds

Abstract

SUMMARY Hepatic disease was diagnosed in 11 mynah birds. The most common clinical signs were dyspnea, weight loss, and abdominal swelling, usually accompanied by ascites. Radiography (9 birds) revealed hepatomegaly and ascites in most cases, and laboratory testing (6 birds) revealed hypoproteinemia and high activity of liver enzymes in all cases. Histologic examination (6 birds) revealed variable amounts of iron granule accumulation in hepatocytes, indicating hemochromatosis. Therapy consisted of administration of diuretics and abdominocentesis in dyspneic birds. All birds died, with survival time ranging from 1 day to 1 year.