Chlamydia-induced bilaterial ectropion of the inferior eyelids in pigeons

In this study we described four cases of bilateral ectropion in pigeons that were investigated in Greece. Anemia, leukocytosis, and increased levels of enzymes lactate dehydrogenase, aspartate aminotransferase, creatine phosphokinase, and total serum proteins were found. Chlamydial elementary bodies were observed by modified Ziehl-Neelsen stain in direct smears of conjuctiva, liver, and spleen as well as in yolk sac samples after egg inoculation with eyelid material. Histologically, significant hyperplasia of the conjunctival epithelium was observed. Using immunohistochemical methods, chlamydial antigen was revealed in eyelid, liver, and spleen paraffin sections. This study suggests that Chlamydia spp. was the causative agent that induced ectropion.