MYCOTIC PNEUMONIA 41 



(b) Microscopic examination reveals the spores or fila- 

 ments of the fungus in most of the lesions, either acute or 

 chronic. 



Symptoms.— In the very early stages no symptoms are 

 noted, and it is only after the disease has progressed suffici- 

 ently to cause obstruction or irritation to the tissues that 

 symptoms are manifested. The affected birds become weak 

 and depressed, do not follow the flock; the plumage is rough. 

 Respirations are accelerated and during expiration are accom- 

 panied by a rattling or snoring sound. The mouth is held 

 open to facilitate breathing. The temperature is elevated, 

 the appetite diminished and thirst increased. There is often 

 a greenish-yellow discharge from the nasal passages. The 

 birds soon become emaciated, a severe diarrhea develops, and 

 death results from exhaustion. 



Diagnosis.— Made by finding the spores or fungi by a 

 microscopical examination of scrapings taken from the 

 affected parts. 



Prognosis.— Very unfavorable. 



Treatment.— Hygienic.— Keep the affected birds in a warm, 

 well ventilated place. 



Dietetic— Feed concentrated nutritious food. 



Medical.— Treatment is unsatisfactory in well established 

 cases. Inhalations of antiseptics as tar or turpentine are 

 indicated. These substances may be volatilized with boiling 

 water or the tar by placing it on a hot surface. The affected 

 birds are allowed to inhale the fumes for a half hour every 

 day. Potassium iodid (.05-0.1 per bird daily) is also indi- 

 cated; sulphate of iron (4.0 to 1000.0) may be used in the 

 drinking water. 



Prevention.— The healthy birds should be separated from 

 the sick ones and the premises disinfected (lime or carbolic 

 acid 5 per cent.). The straw and grain should be cleaned 

 before given to the birds, as dust is the common carrier of 

 the fungus. Successful disinfection cannot be attained as 

 the spores occur widely distributed in nature. Cleaning 

 of the straw and grain as suggested assists in eliminating the 

 fungus. 



