Subspecies-Induced Fatal Vasculitis in Zebra Finches (), USA.

Abstract

subsp.(MAH) is a zoonotic pathogen with a broad host range and diverse clinical manifestations. We report here the first documented case of MAH-induced fatal vasculitis in zebra finch (). Histopathological examination revealed acid-fast bacilli within macrophages and endothelial cells, primarily affecting the heart and aorta. Mycobacterial DNA was detected in cloacal swabs from affected finches and environmental samples from their housing facility. PCR targeting thegene and insertion elements IS1245 and IS901, followed by sequencing, confirmed MAH infection. MAH DNA was identified in 4 of 13 finch cloacal swabs and 7 of 28 environmental samples. This study describes a novel, highly pathogenic manifestation of MAH in birds and underscores the potential for avian involvement in environmental and zoonotic transmission.