Computed tomography enterography of jejunal infarction in a Timneh African grey parrot (Psittacus timneh)

Abstract

To describe diagnostic imaging findings and novel computed tomography (CT)-enterography in a Timneh African grey parrot (Psittacus timneh) with jejunal ischemia and infarction. A 10-year-old, 270 g, male intact Timneh African grey parrot (Psittacus timneh) was presented for lethargy and anorexia of 48 hours duration. Physical examination revealed a quiet but alert mentation, mild dehydration, grade III/VI intermittent cardiac murmur, moderate soft and compressible coelomic distension, weak perching ability, loss of balance, and chewed feather shafts. Pre-contrast computed tomography (CT) identified segmental small intestinal dilation, secondary air sac compression, and scant coelomic effusion. Ultrasound performed immediately following CT identified focal concentric jejunal wall thickening at this level. CT enterography revealed two populations of small intestine secondary to focal small intestinal luminal narrowing that was not identified on pre-contrast CT. Post-mortem and histopathologic examination confirmed jejunal infarction, severe atherosclerosis of major vessels, and bacterial septicemia. This report describes diagnostic imaging findings and novel use of CT enterography in a parrot with jejunal ischemia and infarction. Imaging features are similar to those reported in other species, and CT enterography correlated well with sonographic and necropsy findings. Intestinal ischemia and infarction should be considered in avian patients with small intestinal segmental dilation, focal luminal narrowing, and wall thickening identified on diagnostic imaging, especially in the face of atherosclerosis. CT enterography may be a safe, useful, minimally invasive diagnostic tool in parrots to further evaluate the gastrointestinal tract, especially with the increased availability and accessibility of CT in veterinary hospitals.