Field Investigation and Molecular Detection of Pigeon Paramyxovirus-1 (PPMV-1) in Domestic Pigeons (Columba livia) From Selected Egyptian Governorates.

Pigeon paramyxovirus-1 (PPMV-1) is a pigeon-host variant of avian paramyxovirus type 1 (APMV-1) associated with neurological, enteric, and respiratory disease in pigeons. This study aimed to investigate the circulation of PPMV-1 among domestic pigeons (Columba livia) in some Egyptian governorates through the clinico-pathological picture, isolation, and molecular identification. A total of 39 domestic pigeons (Columba livia), aged 3-14 months, were collected between April and September 2025 from live bird markets and private lofts in seven Egyptian governorates. Suspected pigeons were examined for the specific clinical signs and gross postmortem lesions, and then pooled tissue samples were processed for PPMV-1 isolation in embryonated chicken eggs (ECEs) and detection by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Neurological signs, including torticollis, head tremors, and circling, were recorded in more than 60% of cases, alongside greenish diarrhea and conjunctivitis. Gross lesions included brain hemorrhages, enlarged kidneys with petechiae, hepatic congestion, proventricular hemorrhages, and pulmonary congestion. Virus inoculation in ECEs caused embryo mortality within 48-72 h with severe hemorrhages and growth retardation. RT-PCR confirmed the presence of PPMV-1 RNA in 10 out of 39 samples (25.6%) from Cairo, Giza, Qalyubia, Fayoum, Minya, and Alexandria governorates. This study provides field and laboratory evidence of PPMV-1 circulation in Egyptian pigeons and underscores the importance of surveillance and biosecurity to limit virus spread. Further molecular characterization, including sequencing and phylogenetic analysis, is recommended in future studies to better define the evolutionary relationships of the circulating strains.