Comparative analysis of biochemical, radiological, and histopathological findings in hepatic lipidosis and iron storage disease of common mynas (Acridotheres tristis)

Due to its unique metabolism and digestive traits, the common myna (Acridotheres tristis) is particularly susceptible to liver diseases, including iron storage disease (ISD) and hepatic lipidosis. This study, conducted on 29 mynas referred to veterinary centers in Kermanshah, aimed to evaluate correlations between serological findings, radiographic features, and histopathological changes. Blood biochemical and antioxidant parameters were assessed, and liver size measurements were obtained via radiographs in lateral and ventrodorsal positions. Ultrasound-guided fine-needle core biopsies provided tissue samples for histopathological evaluation and disease severity assessment. Results showed that serum cholesterol > 129.5 mg/dL (p = 0.0012) and triglycerides > 55 mg/dL (p = 0.0071) were significantly associated with hepatic lipidosis. The mean Malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration in affected birds was 0.8384 nM, correlating with larger liver sizes. Radiographs indicated liver sizes > 67.45 mm, with receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis revealing 83.33% sensitivity and 87.5% specificity for detecting hepatic conditions. Serum ferritin > 1.955 ng/mL was identified as a reliable diagnostic indicator for ISD. However, radiographic liver size alone was insufficient for definitive differentiation between hepatic lipidosis and ISD. Using Periodic Acid-Schiff (PAS) and Prussian blue staining, histopathological examination confirmed lipid and glycogen deposition in hepatic lipidosis and hemosiderin accumulation in ISD, validating the biochemical findings. This study highlights the necessity of multimodal diagnostic approach integrating biochemical, radiological, and histopathological techniques for accurate diagnosis and management of hepatic diseases in mynas.