Avian Pox in a Rock Pigeon (Columba livia): A Case Report
A. Shanmugasundaram *
Madras Veterinary College, Chennai, T.N – 600 007, India.
R. Saahithya
Madras Veterinary College, Chennai, T.N – 600 007, India.
A. Elamurugan
Madras Veterinary College, Chennai, T.N – 600 007, India.
S. Rajagunalan
Madras Veterinary College, Chennai, T.N – 600 007, India.
B. Nishanth
Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (TANUVAS) Head Quarters, Chennai, T.N - 600 051, India.
K. Rajkumar
Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (TANUVAS) Head Quarters, Chennai, T.N - 600 051, India.
T. Muthuramalingam
Livestock Farm Complex, VCRI, Theni – 625 534, India.
C. Sreekumar
WLS, Madras Veterinary College, Chennai, T.N – 600 007, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Pigeon pox is a contagious viral disease of pigeons caused by avipoxvirus, characterized by proliferative cutaneous lesions and diphtheritic plaques affecting unfeathered areas and mucous membranes. The disease can result in debility, reduced productivity and secondary infections in affected birds. The rock pigeon (Columba livia) is highly susceptible to this infection, which commonly affects both feral and domestic pigeon populations worldwide. In the present case, a rock pigeon was presented with nodular, proliferative, and crusty lesions involving the eyelids, beak, and oral cavity, with some lesions showing superficial ulceration. Histopathology examination of the nodular lesions revealed characteristic intracytoplasmic inclusion bodies (Bollinger bodies), confirming the diagnosis of pigeon pox. The present case highlights the significance of histopathology as a reliable diagnostic tool for the confirmative diagnosis of pigeon pox in rock pigeons. Early detection and appropriate management are essential to prevent disease transmission and secondary complications in affected pigeons.
Keywords: Bollinger bodies, histopathology, pigeon pox and rock pigeon