Avian Atherosclerosis: Parrots and Beyond

Atherosclerotic lesions are prevalent in companion psittacine species. Parrots account for much of the veterinary scientific information on avian atherosclerosis, but the lesions have been described in virtually all avian orders. This review presents a synthesis of the epidemiologic, clinical, diagnostic, and therapeutic information known in psittaciformes, at this time, which may help in the veterinary management of atherosclerotic diseases. The article further expands on nondomestic avian species for which information is restricted to pathologic and prevalence studies. A thorough knowledge of atherosclerosis is of the upmost importance for avian clinicians as the disease is common, affects most species of birds, and seems to be associated with captive lifestyles characterized by decreased activity and nonnative diets. Therefore, avian veterinarians are expected to be largely exposed to this chronic medical condition through patient presentation and should be prepared to properly manage this disease.