Clinical and histologic features of a novel polyostotic proliferative bone disease in lovebirds (Agapornis spp).

Polyostotic osteopetrosis syndrome is a rare, progressive skeletal disease in lovebirds with guarded prognosis.

This multi-institutional study characterizes a novel polyostotic osteoproliferative disease in lovebirds (Agapornis spp), termed polyostotic osteopetrosis syndrome. Data from 22 confirmed cases across Australia, France, Italy, and the US (spanning 1984-2024) were analyzed. Affected birds presented with a median age of 3.5 years, with females predominating (14/22). Clinical presentation was nonspecific and variable, often accompanied by palpable osseous masses. Imaging identified expansile lesions primarily affecting the sternum, skull, and vertebrae. Hematology and biochemistry were generally unremarkable. Histopathologic examination by five independent pathologists confirmed consistent disease characteristics: extensive woven bone proliferation disrupting normal medullary and cortical bone architecture. The condition carries a guarded prognosis with mean survival of 68 days. Although the etiology remains unknown, an inherited disorder is suspected. This characterization provides clinicians with diagnostic criteria and establishes a foundation for future research into disease pathogenesis, genetics, and potential therapeutic interventions.

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