Identification of Anaerosporobacter sp. using next-generation DNA sequencing as a presumptive cause of chronic cloacitis in a Congo African grey parrot (Psittacus erithacus)

A 29-year-old, female Congo African grey parrot (Psittacus erithacus) was presented for a 2-month history of soft malodorous stool. Next-generation DNA sequencing of the faecal matter identified Anaerosporobacter sp. in the stool sample. The bird was treated with a 14-day course of metronidazole, after which next-generation DNA sequencing no longer detected Anaerosporobacter sp. The bird's clinical signs resolved concurrently. Clinical signs of malodorous stool recurred, and repeated next-generation DNA sequencing showed recurrence of Anaerosporobacter sp. Duodenal dysmotility/hypermotility syndrome was noted on fluoroscopy. The bird also tested positive for bornavirus and anti-ganglioside antibodies. We suspect that dysmotility and hypermotility of the duodenum were associated with active bornavirus infection, which caused immunosuppression and predisposed the bird to intestinal colonisation by a novel organism. This report demonstrates the presumptive diagnosis and treatment challenges of Anaerosporobacter sp. from the faeces of a psittaciform species using next-generation DNA sequencing as opposed to traditional culture techniques.