Pseudomonas aeruginosaStomatitis as a Sequel to Trichomoniasis in Captive Saker Falcons (Falco cherrug)

Abstract

Twelve adult female saker falcons developed reduced appetite, progressive weight loss, and unilateral or bilateral sinusitis. Nodular white or yellow caseous lesions were visible on the oropharynx and tongue of all birds. One falcon had 2 caseous masses on either side of the tracheobronchial syrinx, resulting in severe tracheal stenosis. All 12 birds had a history of mild to moderate trichomonal infections 3–4 weeks before examination. In all birds, bacterial culture of samples from these masses yielded pure growths of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The birds were treated with a combination of piperacillin (100 mg/kg) and tobramycin (10 mg/kg) administered intramuscularly q12h for 7 days. Oropharyngeal lesions were debrided, and the oral cavity of each bird was sprayed with a 1% povidone iodine mouthwash preparation. In birds with unilateral or bilateral sinusitis, a solution of 0.2 ml of a 5% chlorhexidine gluconate preparation diluted to 20 ml with sterile saline was used to flush the affected sinus q12h for 3–5 days. Tracheal masses in the 1 falcon were removed by curettage during tracheoscopy. Oropharyngeal lesions in all birds were completely resolved within 8–18 days of treatment. Trichomoniasis coupled with stress during the training and hunting seasons may have predisposed these falcons to infection with P aeruginosa.