Fungal Transverse Myelitis in a Crimson Rosella (Platycercus elegans)

This report describes a case of chronic fungal transverse myelitis in a crimson rosella (Platycercus elegans) presented for a progressive inability to stand over a 5-day period. Findings on physical examination revealed loss of neurological function to the legs, vent and tail, whereas the wings, head and neck remained neurologically normal. Radiographic imaging demonstrated a slight kyphosis in the notarial region, while findings on hematologic examination revealed nonregenerative anemia and a normal white cell count with reactive lymphocytes. A tentative diagnosis of spinal trauma was made, and supportive medical care was administered to the patient. Despite all medical treatment, the bird died 12 hours after presentation. Findings on postmortem examination revealed a fungal myelitis, meningitis and vertebral osteomyelitis associated with a healed spinal fracture in the notarial-synsacral region. No evidence of fungal infection was detected in any other location in the body. This case demonstrates how the partially segmental nature of the spinal cord blood supply, when damaged by trauma, may have led to a fungal transverse myelitis and the patient׳s subsequent death.