Hepatic lipidosis in psittacine birds—a review

Fatty liver or hepatic lipidosis is a mild, progressive metabolic disorder in several domestic animal species and various bird species in which the lipid is accumulated in the hepatocytes. The excessive intake of fatty acids, increased lipolysis, decreased oxidation of fatty acids in the...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Dražen Đuričić, Maja Lukač, Josip Miljković
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: Academia.edu Journals 2025-05-01
Series:Academia Biology
Online Access:https://www.academia.edu/129598922/Hepatic_lipidosis_in_psittacine_birds_a_review
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Summary:Fatty liver or hepatic lipidosis is a mild, progressive metabolic disorder in several domestic animal species and various bird species in which the lipid is accumulated in the hepatocytes. The excessive intake of fatty acids, increased lipolysis, decreased oxidation of fatty acids in the liver, and the decreased ability of the liver to excrete processed fatty acids back into circulation are possible causes of hepatic lipidosis. There is a species, age, sex, and genetic predisposition to fatty liver disease. In parrots, hepatic lipidosis is most common in budgerigars, cockatiels, Amazon parrots, macaws, budgerigars, lovebirds, and young cockatoos. The most common causes of hepatic lipidosis in parrots are inadequate diet, especially with seeds, too frequent or ad libitum feeding, lack of activity, nutritional deficiencies, certain toxins, and hereditary factors, among others. The clinical signs are nonspecific (anorexia, lethargy, weakness, dehydration, weight loss or obesity, vomiting or regurgitation, polydipsia and polyuria, tachycardia, and dyspnea). The diagnosis can be made based on clinical examination, liver enzyme tests, and X-rays and is confirmed by liver biopsy. With proper and appropriate treatment, fluid therapy, supportive care (vitamins, liver-protective herbal extracts (e.g., silymarin, etc.), L-carnitine, and other supplements), and a restrictive, low-fat diet, the liver can regenerate and recover under veterinary supervision. This review study aimed to comprehensively evaluate the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management of hepatic lipidosis in different psittacine species.
ISSN:2837-4010