Chlamydia psittaci Infection Presenting Initially with Gastrointestinal Symptoms.

BACKGROUND: Chlamydia psittaci (C. psittaci) is a pathogenic, gram-negative, aerobic, and obligate intracellular parasite. Humans are primarily infected by inhaling aerosols formed from the feces of infected birds. Previously reported cases of C. psittaci infection are rare. The lack of specific clinical manifestations of psittacosis and the limited detection sensitivity of traditional methods lead to inadequate or delayed diagnosis. In this case, the pres-ence of C. psittaci was confirmed by next-generation sequencing (NGS) of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid.

METHODS: Bronchoscopy, next-generation sequencing.

RESULTS: After using bronchoscopy to obtain bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, NGS indicated the presence of C. psittaci. Therefore, anti-infective treatment was administered.

CONCLUSIONS: For patients with severe pneumonia, it is essential to perform bronchoscopy promptly. The etiological agent of the infection can be identified through NGS of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid obtained via bronchoscopy. Subsequently, appropriate anti-infective treatment should be initiated swiftly based on the specific identified pathogen.