Systemic Amyloidosis in Saker Falcon (Falco cherrug)

Abstract

The Saker Falcon (Falco cherrug), an endangered species, faces threats from diseases associated with captivity, such as amyloidosis. This study reports the first documented case of systemic AA amyloidosis in a captive Saker Falcon in Iran, linked to chronic pododermatitis (bumblefoot) and visceral gout. A female falcon with a low body score, anorexia, bilateral foot lesions (Grade II bumblefoot), and paralysis died during transport to the veterinary clinic. Postmortem analysis showed urate deposits on the pericardium and gizzard, along with amyloid accumulation in the liver, confirmed by Congo red staining. Histopathology identified eosinophilic hyaline material between hepatocytes and inflammatory infiltrates in the gizzard and heart. Chronic inflammation from bumblefoot and metabolic disturbances from visceral gout were implicated as triggers for amyloidosis, consistent with prior studies linking AA amyloidosis in birds to prolonged inflammation, stress, and poor captive conditions. The liver was the main site of amyloid buildup, suggesting liver failure as a likely cause of death, contrasting with mammals, where the kidneys are usually affected.