Iron Storage Disease In Birds

Key Points

• Iron storage disease is the excess accumulation of iron (hemosiderin) in tissues, particularly the liver.
• Iron storage disease is most often reported in toucans and other ramphastids, mynah birds, and starlings.
• Mynahs and European starlings appear to be more susceptible to iron overload because they have no barriers to dietary iron absorption and they do not down-regulate iron absorption when body stores are adequate.
• Liver biopsy is currently the best way to evaluate iron status antemortem.
• Traditionally, phlebotomy, deferoxamine and low-iron diets have been used for management of birds with iron storage disease. Treatment for at least 16 weeks has been recommended.
• The most important way to prevent iron storage in sensitive birds is low iron intake, especially through the diet and drinking water.
• The use of natural chelators such as tannins to lower iron levels must be done with caution. Tannins are complex compounds that can potentially reduce protein digestion and cause anorexia.