Molecular Diagnostics: Psittacine Beak and Feather Disease (PBFD) by PCR

Overview

• Psittacine Beak and Feather Disease (PBFD) is a highly contagious and potentially fatal viral disease affecting psittacine birds (parrots, cockatoos, macaws, and lovebirds). Caused by the Beak and Feather Disease Virus (BFDV), a member of the Circoviridae family, it attacks the cells of the feather follicles, beak, and claws, as well as the bird’s immune system.
• Because PBFD can present as an asymptomatic infection or mimic other nutritional and environmental deficiencies, early and definitive detection is critical to preventing widespread outbreaks in aviary populations.