ABSTRACT
Avian renal disease is a frequently diagnosed but often poorly understood problem in birds. It is associated with multiple diseases and has many causes. Nephritis (inflammation of the kidney) may involve the interstitial tissue, the tubules or the glomerulus (although ‘glomerulonephritis’ is typically reserved for glomerular lesions). Plain view radiographs allow visualization of the size and density of the kidneys. In a lateral view, with both acetabulae on the same plane, the normal kidneys lie in the sacral area and do not extend ventrally past the ventral rim of the acetabulae. The avian kidney is readily accessible using endoscopy (see Chapter 6, Endoscopy). Renal gout, mineralization or physical anomalies can be visualised. Initial supportive care includes diuresing the patient and maintaining good hydration. Parenteral fluids given at 100–200 ml/kg/day (divided into 2–3 doses) for three days, followed by 50–100 ml/kg/day until uric acid levels return to normal and remain normal.
