Histomoniasis in Peacock (Pavo cristatus) in the Potiguar Semiarid

Background: Histomoniasis is a disease caused by Histomonas meleagridis, flagellated protozoan that can cause severe necrotizing hepatitis and typhlitis in several bird species. The has cosmopolitan distribution. In experimental infection, peacocks (Pavo spp.) showed susceptibility to histomoniasis, however there are few reports on natural histomoniasis this northeastern Brazil, about its occurrence avian species scarce nonexistent peacocks. Therefore, report aims describe the epidemiological clinicopathological aspects of case peacock cristatus) Brazilian semiarid region.Case: A 3-month-old male with history apathy anorexia was attended Veterinary Hospital Universidade Federal Rural do Semi-Árido (UFERSA), Mossoró, RN, Brazil. animal raised extensively farm without basic sanitary measures, also living animals different After clinical examination, which intense weight loss were confirmed, submitted emergency therapeutic no improvement died. At necropsy, diffuse bilateral multifocal coalescent observed. Fragments organs collected 10% formaldehyde buffered phosphate-saline buffer for histopathological analysis cecal content microbiological analysis. Histopathology cecum revealed transmural associated myriads trophozoites morphologically compatible meleagridis. same microorganisms observed association lesions, allowed diagnosis histomoniasis. Also, bacterium Pantoea agglomerans isolated from content.Discussion: macroscopic microscopic findings first recording semi-arid region Rio Grande Norte. an extensive breeding management, such as use anthelmintics, may favor infection nematode Heterakis gallinarum, that’ transmits contamination, begins orofecal route, happens through ingestion eggs contaminated H. meleagridis pass gastrointestinal tract, reaching ceca causing lesions organ, we case. From ceca, access bloodstream reaches liver, where it causes necrotic hepatitis, present peacock. Both hepatic disease. challenge diagnosing occurs mainly due nonspecific signs, loss, only signs reported breeder Confirmation any important establish among differential diagnoses species, Since Norte, evident need consider possible cases symptoms demonstrates implement control prophylaxis measures aiming avoid losses birds economic breeders promote quality life animals.