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Moraes IDS, Silva VLDB, de Andrade-Silva BE, Gomes APN, de Urzedo NF, Abolis VB, Gonçalves RDS, Arpon KV, de Assis-Silva ZM, da Silva LF, Zago EA, Gonçalves MB, Braga ÍA, Saturnino KC, Colodel EM, Júnior AM, Pacheco RDC, Ramos DGDS. Gastrointestinal Helminths in Wild Felids in the Cerrado and Pantanal: Zoonotic Bioindicators in Important Brazilian Biomes. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1622. [PMID: 38891670 PMCID: PMC11171020 DOI: 10.3390/ani14111622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2024] [Revised: 05/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Environmental changes in the Brazilian Pantanal and Cerrado facilitate the spread of parasitic diseases in wildlife, with significant implications for public health owing to their zoonotic potential. This study aimed to examine the occurrence and diversity of gastrointestinal parasites in wild felids within these regions to assess their ecological and health impacts. We collected and analyzed helminth-positive samples from 27 wild felids using specific taxonomic keys. Diverse parasitic taxa were detected, including zoonotic helminths, such as Ancylostoma braziliense, Ancylostoma caninum, Ancylostoma pluridentatum, Toxocara cati, Toxocara canis, Dipylidium caninum, Taenia spp., Echinococcus spp., and Spirometra spp. Other nematodes, such as Physaloptera praeputialis and Physaloptera anomala, were identified, along with acanthocephalans from the genus Oncicola and a trematode, Neodiplostomum spp. (potentially the first record of this parasite in wild felids in the Americas). Human encroachment into natural habitats has profound effects on wild populations, influencing parasitic infection rates and patterns. This study underscores the importance of continuous monitoring and research on parasitic infections as a means of safeguarding both wildlife and human populations and highlights the role of wild felids as bioindicators of environmental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iago de Sá Moraes
- Laboratório de Parasitologia e Análises Clínicas Veterinária, Instituto de Ciências Agrárias, Universidade Federal de Jataí, Jataí 75801-615, GO, Brazil; (I.d.S.M.); (N.F.d.U.); (V.B.A.); (Z.M.d.A.-S.); (L.F.d.S.); (Í.A.B.)
| | - Victória Luiza de Barros Silva
- Laboratório de Parasitologia Veterinária e Doenças Parasitárias dos Animais Domésticos e Silvestres, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso, Cuiabá 78060-900, MT, Brazil; (V.L.d.B.S.); (E.A.Z.); (M.B.G.); (R.d.C.P.)
| | - Beatriz Elise de Andrade-Silva
- Laboratório de Biologia e Parasitologia de Mamíferos Reservatórios, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, RJ, Brazil; (B.E.d.A.-S.); (A.P.N.G.); (R.d.S.G.); (K.V.A.); (A.M.J.)
| | - Ana Paula Nascimento Gomes
- Laboratório de Biologia e Parasitologia de Mamíferos Reservatórios, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, RJ, Brazil; (B.E.d.A.-S.); (A.P.N.G.); (R.d.S.G.); (K.V.A.); (A.M.J.)
| | - Nicoly Ferreira de Urzedo
- Laboratório de Parasitologia e Análises Clínicas Veterinária, Instituto de Ciências Agrárias, Universidade Federal de Jataí, Jataí 75801-615, GO, Brazil; (I.d.S.M.); (N.F.d.U.); (V.B.A.); (Z.M.d.A.-S.); (L.F.d.S.); (Í.A.B.)
| | - Vitória Breda Abolis
- Laboratório de Parasitologia e Análises Clínicas Veterinária, Instituto de Ciências Agrárias, Universidade Federal de Jataí, Jataí 75801-615, GO, Brazil; (I.d.S.M.); (N.F.d.U.); (V.B.A.); (Z.M.d.A.-S.); (L.F.d.S.); (Í.A.B.)
| | - Renata de Souza Gonçalves
- Laboratório de Biologia e Parasitologia de Mamíferos Reservatórios, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, RJ, Brazil; (B.E.d.A.-S.); (A.P.N.G.); (R.d.S.G.); (K.V.A.); (A.M.J.)
| | - Karina Varella Arpon
- Laboratório de Biologia e Parasitologia de Mamíferos Reservatórios, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, RJ, Brazil; (B.E.d.A.-S.); (A.P.N.G.); (R.d.S.G.); (K.V.A.); (A.M.J.)
| | - Zara Mariana de Assis-Silva
- Laboratório de Parasitologia e Análises Clínicas Veterinária, Instituto de Ciências Agrárias, Universidade Federal de Jataí, Jataí 75801-615, GO, Brazil; (I.d.S.M.); (N.F.d.U.); (V.B.A.); (Z.M.d.A.-S.); (L.F.d.S.); (Í.A.B.)
| | - Lizandra Fernandes da Silva
- Laboratório de Parasitologia e Análises Clínicas Veterinária, Instituto de Ciências Agrárias, Universidade Federal de Jataí, Jataí 75801-615, GO, Brazil; (I.d.S.M.); (N.F.d.U.); (V.B.A.); (Z.M.d.A.-S.); (L.F.d.S.); (Í.A.B.)
| | - Ellen Amanda Zago
- Laboratório de Parasitologia Veterinária e Doenças Parasitárias dos Animais Domésticos e Silvestres, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso, Cuiabá 78060-900, MT, Brazil; (V.L.d.B.S.); (E.A.Z.); (M.B.G.); (R.d.C.P.)
| | - Michelle Benevides Gonçalves
- Laboratório de Parasitologia Veterinária e Doenças Parasitárias dos Animais Domésticos e Silvestres, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso, Cuiabá 78060-900, MT, Brazil; (V.L.d.B.S.); (E.A.Z.); (M.B.G.); (R.d.C.P.)
| | - Ísis Assis Braga
- Laboratório de Parasitologia e Análises Clínicas Veterinária, Instituto de Ciências Agrárias, Universidade Federal de Jataí, Jataí 75801-615, GO, Brazil; (I.d.S.M.); (N.F.d.U.); (V.B.A.); (Z.M.d.A.-S.); (L.F.d.S.); (Í.A.B.)
| | - Klaus Casaro Saturnino
- Laboratório de Anatomia Patológica Veterinária, Instituto de Ciências Agrárias, Universidade Federal de Jataí, Jataí 75801-615, GO, Brazil;
| | - Edson Moleta Colodel
- Laboratório de Patologia Veterinária, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso, Cuiabá 78060-900, MT, Brazil;
| | - Arnaldo Maldonado Júnior
- Laboratório de Biologia e Parasitologia de Mamíferos Reservatórios, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, RJ, Brazil; (B.E.d.A.-S.); (A.P.N.G.); (R.d.S.G.); (K.V.A.); (A.M.J.)
| | - Richard de Campos Pacheco
- Laboratório de Parasitologia Veterinária e Doenças Parasitárias dos Animais Domésticos e Silvestres, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso, Cuiabá 78060-900, MT, Brazil; (V.L.d.B.S.); (E.A.Z.); (M.B.G.); (R.d.C.P.)
| | - Dirceu Guilherme de Souza Ramos
- Laboratório de Parasitologia e Análises Clínicas Veterinária, Instituto de Ciências Agrárias, Universidade Federal de Jataí, Jataí 75801-615, GO, Brazil; (I.d.S.M.); (N.F.d.U.); (V.B.A.); (Z.M.d.A.-S.); (L.F.d.S.); (Í.A.B.)
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Nourollahi Fard SR, Akhtardanesh B, Sadr S, Khedri J, Radfar MH, Shadmehr M. Gastrointestinal helminths infection of free-roaming cats (Felis catus) in Southeast Iran. Vet Med Sci 2024; 10:e1422. [PMID: 38504628 PMCID: PMC10951621 DOI: 10.1002/vms3.1422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 02/17/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cats in Iran are definitive hosts for several zoonotic intestinal helminths, such as Toxocara cati, Dipylidium caninum, Toxascaris leonina, Physaloptera praeputialis and Diplopylidium nolleri. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to determine the prevalence of intestinal helminth infection in free-roaming cats in southeast Iran, a region with a high free-roaming cat population. METHODS From January 2018 to December 2021, 153 cadavers of free-roaming cats from Southeast Iran were necropsied for intestinal helminth infections. The carcasses were dissected, and the digestive systems were removed. The esophagus, stomach, small intestine, caecum and colon were tightly ligated. All adult helminths were collected, preserved and identified. RESULTS The prevalence of gastrointestinal helminth infections was 80.39% (123/153). Of the cats from Kerman, 73% (73/100) were infected with at least one helminth, including D. caninum 70% (70/100), T. leonina 8% (8/100) and P. praeputialis 17% (17/100). Concurrent infection with two helminth species was found in 16% (16/100) and of three species infections was found in 3% (3/100) of the cats. Of the cats from Zabol, 94.33% (50/53) were infected with at least one of the helminths, including D. caninum 69.81% (37/53), T. leonina 11.32% (6/53), P. praeputialis 37.73% (20/53) and T. cati 5.66% (3/53). Concurrent infection with two helminth species was found in 28.3% (15/53), and three species were found in 1.88% (1/53) of the cats. Helminth infections were more prevalent in older cats. There was no association between sex and infection rate. CONCLUSION Based on the very high prevalence of zoonotic intestinal helminth infections in free-roaming cats in southeast Iran, the potential public health risk emphasizes the need for intersectoral collaboration, particularly the provision of health and hygiene education to high-risk populations, such as pre-school and school-age children.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Baharak Akhtardanesh
- Department of clinical sciencesSchool of veterinary medicineShahid Bahonar University of KermanKermanIran
| | - Soheil Sadr
- Department of PathobiologyFaculty of Veterinary MedicineFerdowsi University of MashhadMashhadIran
| | - Javad Khedri
- Department of PathobiologyFaculty of Veterinary MedicineFerdowsi University of MashhadMashhadIran
| | - Mohammad Hossein Radfar
- Department of pathobiologySchool of veterinary medicineShahid Bahonar University of KermanKermanIran
| | - Mehdi Shadmehr
- School of Veterinary MedicineShahid Bahonar University of KermanKermanIran
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Bonilla-Aldana JL, Espinosa-Nuñez AC, Bonilla-Aldana DK, Rodriguez-Morales AJ. Toxocara cati Infection in Cats ( Felis catus): A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1022. [PMID: 38612261 PMCID: PMC11011152 DOI: 10.3390/ani14071022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2024] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Toxocariasis is an infection caused in canines, felines, humans, and other vertebrates by species of the genus Toxocara, such as T. canis and T. cati. The embryonated eggs of these parasites are the primary means of acquiring the infection for both definitive hosts, dogs and cats, respectively, and for intermediates, such as humans and other vertebrates. When deposited on park soils, environmental contamination becomes a risk to environmental, human, and animal health. Objective: To determine the global prevalence of Toxocara cati in cats (Felis catus). Methods: A systematic review of the literature was carried out in six databases (Scopus, PubMed, ScienceDirect, SciELO and Google Scholar) to evaluate the global prevalence of Toxocara cati in cats, defined by coproparasitological, histological, and molecular techniques. A meta-analysis was performed using a random effects model to calculate pooled prevalence and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). A two-tailed 5% alpha level was used for hypothesis testing. Results: Two hundred and eighty-nine studies were included. The global pooled prevalence of Toxocara cati in cats using coproparasitological methods was 17.0% (95.0% CI: 16.2-17.8%). In the subgroup analysis according to country, Nepal had the highest prevalence of T. cati infection (94.4%; 95% CI 89.7-99.2%). The pooled prevalence of T. cati infection by PCR in four studies was 4.9% (95.0% CI: 1.9-7.9%). Conclusions: This systematic review underscores the need for preventive action against toxocariasis due to its widespread prevalence. The interplay between animal and human health should be emphasised, necessitating measures like deworming cats, hygiene practices, and public education to mitigate risks. Safeguarding feline health can also reduce human transmission, benefiting both species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Luis Bonilla-Aldana
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Zootehcnics, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Universidad de la Amazonia, Florencia 111321, Caquetá, Colombia; (J.L.B.-A.); (A.C.E.-N.)
| | - Alba Cristina Espinosa-Nuñez
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Zootehcnics, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Universidad de la Amazonia, Florencia 111321, Caquetá, Colombia; (J.L.B.-A.); (A.C.E.-N.)
| | | | - Alfonso J. Rodriguez-Morales
- Masters of Climate Change and Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics Program, Universidad Cientifica del Sur, Lima 15307, Peru;
- Gilbert and Rose-Marie Chagoury School of Medicine, Lebanese American University, Beirut P.O. Box 36-5053, Lebanon
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Adhikari RB, Dhakal MA, Ale PB, Regmi GR, Ghimire TR. Survey on the prevalence of intestinal parasites in domestic cats (Felis catus Linnaeus, 1758) in central Nepal. Vet Med Sci 2023; 9:559-571. [PMID: 36346533 PMCID: PMC10029910 DOI: 10.1002/vms3.999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cats (Felis catus) are the only felines that live in close contact with humans. Since cats can act as vectors, carriers, reservoirs and definitive hosts of many gastrointestinal (GI) parasites, parasitic assessment could contribute to their survival and well-being. AIMS The current study aimed to assess the diversity and prevalence of GI parasites in domestic and feral cats from Ratnanagar in Chitwan in Central Nepal. METHODS A total of 107 fresh faecal samples of cats (90 household cats and 17 feral cats) of varied ages and sex were collected and transported to the laboratory. The copromicroscopic examination was carried out following direct wet mount, formalin-ethyl acetate sedimentation, saturated salt flotation, acid-fast staining and sporulation techniques. Furthermore, associated risk factors were evaluated to ascertain the predictor of risks for parasitic acquisition. RESULTS The current study revealed an overall 95.3% prevalence rate with a 100% rate in feral cats and 94.4% in household cats. Altogether, 18 (17 known and one unknown) different species of GI parasites were reported with the helminths (95.3%; 11 species) and the protozoa (55.1%; seven species). Besides age and sex, outdoor lifestyle, absence or unknown history of medication and hunting behaviour of the felines are the predictors of risk. Furthermore, mixed infection was comparatively higher than single infection in the faecal samples. CONCLUSIONS Cats harbour a higher prevalence and greater diversity of GI parasites, and parasitism varies with age and sex. This finding can be essential for veterinarians and public health authorities for strategic treatment and for assessing the zoonotic transmission of the parasites from these felines. Importantly, an effective medication strategy for cats and owners is recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roshan Babu Adhikari
- Third Pole Conservancy, Bhaktapur, Nepal
- Nepalese Army Institute of Health Sciences (NAIHS), Kathmandu, Nepal
| | | | | | | | - Tirth Raj Ghimire
- Department of Zoology, Tri-Chandra Multiple Campus, Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu, Nepal
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Heydarian P, Kia EB, Heidari Z, Sharifdini M, Zarei Z, Zahabiun F. Molecular Characterization of Mesocestoides litteratus (Cestoda: Cyclophyllidea: Mesocestoididae) Tetrathyridium Isolated from Two Species of Rodents from Iran. Acta Parasitol 2023; 68:223-230. [PMID: 36637696 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-022-00657-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Mesocestoides spp. are Cyclophyllidean tapeworms with zoonotic importance. The current study aimed to investigate the molecular characteristics of Mesocestoides larvae (tetrathyridium) isolated from the abdominal cavity of persion jird, Meriones persicus, and from the liver of grey hamster, Cricetulus migratorius, in Ardabil Province, northwest Iran. METHODS Genomic DNA of the isolates of Mesocestoides tetrathyridium were extracted, and mitochondrial gene of cytochrome-c oxidase subunit1 (cox1) was amplified. Sequencing of PCR products were performed and phylogenic analysis was run using MEGA 6.0 software. RESULTS Both isolates were identified as Mesocestoides litteratus, showing high identity with M. litteratus sequences available in GenBank. Also, they had 100% homology to each other. Intra-species variation within isolates of M. litteratus were 0-2.4%. The phylogenetic reconstruction based on the partial sequence of the cox1 gene showed that our sequences of M. litteratus were clustered with M. litteratus isolates from Slovakia, Netherlands, Germany and Italy. CONCLUSION This is the first molecular description of M. litteratus from M. persicus and C. migratorius. Phylogenetic analysis illustrated that M. litteratus isolates of the current study had very high identities with the isolates of this species from other countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peyman Heydarian
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Eshrat Beigom Kia
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Zahra Heidari
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Parasitology and Immunology, School of Medicine, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
| | - Meysam Sharifdini
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Zabihollah Zarei
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farzaneh Zahabiun
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Rousseau J, Castro A, Novo T, Maia C. Dipylidium caninum in the twenty-first century: epidemiological studies and reported cases in companion animals and humans. Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:131. [PMID: 35534908 PMCID: PMC9088078 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05243-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Dipilidiosis is a parasitic disease caused by the tapeworm Dipylidium caninum. Fleas and, less frequently, lice act as an intermediate host, and their ingestion is required for infection to occur. While the disease mainly affects domestic and wild carnivores, it is also considered a zoonotic disease, with most human cases reported in children. Dipylidium caninum is considered to be the most common tapeworm infesting companion animals, but dipilidosis in humans is rare. The aims of this review were to improve current understanding of the epidemiology of this parasitosis and its management by the medical and veterinary community. Methods A comprehensive review of the published literature during the last 21 years (2000–2021) on the epidemiology, clinical features, diagnosis, treatment and prevention measures of D. caninum infection and dipilidiosis in companion animals and humans was conducted. Results Using predefined eligibility criteria for a search of the published literature, we retrieved and screened 280 publications. Of these, 161 (141 epidemiological studies, 20 case reports [16 human cases]) were considered for inclusion in this review. This parasitosis is present worldwide; however, despite being the most frequent cestode infection in animals, it is often underdiagnosed using common coprological techniques. Its diagnosis in humans has also proved challenging, being frequently confused with pinworm infection, leading to inappropriate treatment and to the persistence of the disease over time. Prevention measures include control of ectoparasites in animals and the environment, as well as regular deworming of animals, most commonly with praziquantel. Conclusions The diagnosis of dipilidiosis remains challenging in both animals and humans, primarily due to the low sensitivity of the diagnostic methods currently available and a lack of knowledge of the morphological characteristics of the parasite. Although treatment with the appropriate anti-cestode compounds is well tolerated and results in resolution of the infection, indiscriminate use of these compounds may predispose to an increase in resistance. Given the worldwide distribution of this parasite, it is essential to act on several fronts, with a focus on health education for children and animal owners and the control of intermediate hosts, both in animals and in the surrounding environment. Graphical Abstract ![]()
Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13071-022-05243-5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julieta Rousseau
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade Nova de Lisboa (NOVA), Rua da Junqueira 100, 1349-008, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Andry Castro
- Centre of Geographical Studies and Associated Laboratory (TERRA), Institute of Geography and Spatial Planning, Universidade de Lisboa, Edif. IGOT, Rua Branca Edmée Marques, 1600-276, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Teresa Novo
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade Nova de Lisboa (NOVA), Rua da Junqueira 100, 1349-008, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Carla Maia
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade Nova de Lisboa (NOVA), Rua da Junqueira 100, 1349-008, Lisbon, Portugal.
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Hosseini H, Zibaei M, Miahipour A, Hatami Z, Firoozeh F, Badri M. Toxocara Species Infection in Pet Dogs and Cats Ensured by Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification Assay. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENTERIC PATHOGENS 2021. [DOI: 10.34172/ijep.2021.21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Toxocariasis is a parasitic disease with global distribution. Many paratenic or transport hosts have been identified as the sources of infection, including vertebrates such as birds and humans. The definitive hosts of Toxocara are dogs and cats whose parasites live in their guts. Hence, the diagnosis of the disease in these animals is important. Objective: The present study was performed using the loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) method to diagnose toxocariasis. Materials and Methods: In the present study, 60 samples of pet feces were collected and subsequently evaluated by direct smear, formalin-ether, and LAMP. Results: Toxocara infection in dogs by microscopic and formal ether methods and LAMP method was 10% and 13.3%, respectively, while feline infection with this parasite was not observed either microscopically or molecularly. Conclusion: The present findings revealed that pet dogs can be considered as a source of infection for humans. Therefore, it is recommended that animal owners receive the necessary training to prevent the risks of transmitting zoonotic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamid Hosseini
- Student Research Committee, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Mohammad Zibaei
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Abolfazl Miahipour
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Zahra Hatami
- Student Research Committee, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Farzaneh Firoozeh
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Milad Badri
- Metabolic Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Prevention of Non-Communicable Diseases, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
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Darabi E, Kia EB, Mohebali M, Mobedi I, Zahabiun F, Zarei Z, Khodabakhsh M, Khanaliha K. Gastrointestinal Helminthic Parasites of Stray Cats ( Felis catus) in Northwest Iran. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF PARASITOLOGY 2021; 16:418-425. [PMID: 34630587 PMCID: PMC8476725 DOI: 10.18502/ijpa.v16i3.7095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2021] [Accepted: 06/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Stray cats are considered an important source of various human and animal diseases, particularly diseases of parasitic helminths. We aimed to investigate the distribution of zoonotic species of gastrointestinal helminths in stray cats in Meshkin-Shahr district in Ardabil Province in the northwest of Iran. METHODS The gastrointestinal tract of 104 stray cats from villages of Meshkin-Shahr district were provided during 2014-2015. Each gastrointestinal tract was cut into distinct sections, including esophagus, stomach, small intestine, and large intestine, and each section was examined separately for detection of helminths. Helminths were collected and then identified at the species level after clearing and staining. RESULTS Overall, 88 out of 104 cats (84.6%) were found to be infected with at least one gastrointestinal helminth. The rate of infection for each species was as follows: Toxocara mystax (syn. cati) (49%), Taenia taeniaeformis (44.2%), Joyexiella pasqualei (32.7%), Dipylidium caninum (23.1%), Rictularia cahirensis (4.8%), and Physaloptera praeputialis (4.8%). Among these parasites, only Ph. praeputialis was collected from the stomach, all other helminths were collected from the small intestine. CONCLUSION The results demonstrate a high infection rate of stray cats with zoonotic helminths. The presence of zoonotic species in stray cats, particularly T. mystax, has public health importance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enayat Darabi
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Eshrat Beigom Kia
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Center for Research of Endemic Parasites of Iran (CREPI), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi Mohebali
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Center for Research of Endemic Parasites of Iran (CREPI), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Iraj Mobedi
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farzaneh Zahabiun
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zabiholla Zarei
- Meshkin-Shahr Station, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahya Khodabakhsh
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Khadijeh Khanaliha
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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9
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Arefkhah N, Shadzi MR, Mikaeili F, Sarkari B, Esfandiari F, Goudarzi F. Seroprevalence and associated risk factors of toxocariasis among nomads in Boyer-Ahmad County, southwest Iran. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2021; 114:372-377. [PMID: 31825495 DOI: 10.1093/trstmh/trz117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2019] [Revised: 09/15/2019] [Accepted: 12/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human toxocariasis is caused by the larval stage of Toxocara canis and Toxocara cati. This cross-sectional study was conducted to evaluate the seroprevalence and the risk factors associated with Toxocara infection in nomads of Boyer-Ahmad County in the southwest of Iran. METHODS A total of 968 blood samples were collected from nomads. A structured questionnaire, containing sociodemographic data, was completed for each participant. Sera were evaluated for anti-Toxocara antibodies, using the T. canis excretory-secretory antigens prepared from the second stage larvae, in an ELISA system. RESULTS Among the 968 participants, 220 (22.7%) were males and 748 (77.3%) were females; the mean age was 40.71 y. Anti-Toxocara IgG antibodies were detected in 14 (1.4%) of the 968 nomads. The association between Toxocara infection and gender, age, contact with dogs, residential area and level of education were not statistically significant (p>0.05). CONCLUSIONS The findings of the study revealed a low prevalence rate of toxocariasis in nomadic communities in southwest Iran. Geographic location and climatic conditions as well as the lifestyle and sociodemographic features of the participants may contribute to the low prevalence rate of Toxocara infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nasir Arefkhah
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.,Medicinal Plants Research Center, Yasuj University of Medical Sciences, Yasuj, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Shadzi
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Fattaneh Mikaeili
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Bahador Sarkari
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.,Basic Sciences in Infectious Diseases Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Farideh Esfandiari
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Goudarzi
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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Maharana BR, Gupta S, Gupta S, Ganguly A, Kumar B, Chandratre GA, Bisla RS. First report of molecular and phylogenetic analysis of Physaloptera praeputialis in naturally infected stray cats from India. Parasitol Res 2021; 120:2047-2056. [PMID: 33893552 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-021-07163-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Nematodes of the genus Physaloptera are globally distributed and infect a multitude of hosts. Their life cycle involves orthopterans and coleopterans as intermediate hosts. The morphological characters alone are inadequate to detect and differentiate Physaloptera spp. from its congeners. Moreover, molecular studies are limited to compare them precisely. The present communication reports the first molecular phylogenetic characterization of feline Physaloptera spp. from India based on mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (COX1) and small subunit ribosomal DNA (18S rDNA). The nematodes were first isolated from the stomach of adult stray cats during necropsy examination. Based on the gross and microscopic characters, the worms were identified as P. praeputialis. Morphological identification was further confirmed through PCR targeting the barcode region of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (MT-COI) gene, using nematode-specific primers cocktail followed by species specific primers targeting partial COX1 and 18S rRNA genes. Generated sequences were submitted in NCBI GenBank (MW517846, MW410927, MW411349), and phylogenetic trees were constructed using the maximum likelihood method. When compared with other sequences of Physaloptera species across the globe, the present isolates showed 85.6-97.7% and 97.3-99% nucleotide homology based on COX1 and 18S rRNA gene, respectively. BLASTn analysis revealed a strong identity to other Physaloptera spp., and the phylogenetic tree placed all Physaloptera spp. in the same cluster. This study again indicates the usefulness of molecular techniques to substantiate the identity of species that may lack adequate descriptions and impart new insight for the potentially overlooked significance of P. praeputialis infections in felines.
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Affiliation(s)
- B R Maharana
- Referral Veterinary Diagnostic and Extension Centre, Lala Lajpat Rai University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Karnal, Haryana, 132001, India.
| | - Snehil Gupta
- Lala Lajpat Rai University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Hisar, Haryana, 125001, India
| | - Surbhi Gupta
- Lala Lajpat Rai University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Hisar, Haryana, 125001, India
| | - A Ganguly
- Referral Veterinary Diagnostic and Extension Centre, Lala Lajpat Rai University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Karnal, Haryana, 132001, India
| | - Binod Kumar
- College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh, Gujarat, 362001, India
| | - G A Chandratre
- Lala Lajpat Rai University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Hisar, Haryana, 125001, India
| | - R S Bisla
- Referral Veterinary Diagnostic and Extension Centre, Lala Lajpat Rai University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Karnal, Haryana, 132001, India
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11
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Valizadeh M, Tahvildar Biderouni F, Shahrokhi SR, Ghanimatdan M, Nagahi AR. Sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of mitochondrial cox1 and nad1 genes in Toxocara canis and Toxascaris leonina isolates from Iran. BULGARIAN JOURNAL OF VETERINARY MEDICINE 2021. [DOI: 10.15547/bjvm.2274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxocara canis and Toxascaris leonina are the most important ascaridoid nematodes of the family Toxocaridae. The present study was aimed to characterisation and analysis of genetic variation within and among T. canis and T. leonina isolates obtained from Iran by sequencing partial mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (pcox1) and partial NADH dehydrogenase subunit 1 (pnad1) genes. A total number of 134 adult nematodes belonging to Toxocaridae family were collected from stray dogs in Alborz province, Iran during 2015 and 2016. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed and products were sequenced. Sequences of two mitochondrial cox1 and nad1 genes were compared with other sequences in the GenBank, while multiple sequences alignment analysis was performed using the Bioedit and MEGA6 software and phylogenetic tree was plotted. For all isolates, amplicons of about 450 and 350 base pairs (bp) were successfully produced by PCR for cox1 and nad1, respectively. All sequences of T. canis isolates from present study were 100% homologous across the nad1 gene but not in the cox1 gene. The results indicate that the PCR method based on sequence of cox1 and nad1 genes is a suitable technique for the differentiation of T. canis and T. leonina species and that mtDNA regions could be used as genetic markers for the identification and differentiation of Toxocara species.
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12
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A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Toxocariasis in Iran: Is it Time to Take it Seriously? Acta Parasitol 2020; 65:569-584. [PMID: 32319035 DOI: 10.2478/s11686-020-00195-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2019] [Accepted: 03/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Toxocariasis is one of the neglected zoonosis with considerable public health importance around the world. The current study aimed to elucidate the overall prevalence of Toxocara infection in human and definitive hosts and also the contamination of soil and raw vegetables with the ova of these parasites, in Iran, using systematic review and meta-analysis. METHODS Six English and Persian databases were explored from 2000 to 2017 using the terms toxocariasis, Toxocara spp., visceral larva migrans, Iran, epidemiology, and prevalence. This meta-analysis conducted using STATA, and for all statistical tests, a p value less than 0.05 was considered significant. The random-effects model was used to the report of the pooled prevalence with a 95% confidence interval (CI). RESULTS The pooled prevalence of toxocariasis in human was calculated as 11% (95% CI 8-13%). In terms of definitive hosts, the pooled prevalence of Toxocara infection in dogs and cats were calculated as 17% (95% CI 14-20%) and 37% (95% CI 26-48%), respectively. Also, the pooled prevalence of Toxocara spp. eggs in the soil and raw vegetable samples were calculated as 18% (95% CI 13-23%) and 2% (95% CI 1-3%), respectively. CONCLUSIONS The results of current study demonstrate that toxocariasis should be taken more seriously by health authorities. Implementing an appropriate control program is necessary to reduce the incidence of this disease in Iran.
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Shafiei R, Rahimi MT, Emameh RZ, Mirzaei M, Perez-Cordon G, Ahmadpour E. Status of human toxocariasis, a neglected parasitic zoonosis in Iran: a systematic review from past to current. Trop Doct 2020; 50:285-291. [PMID: 32998656 DOI: 10.1177/0049475520931545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Although human toxocariasis can lead to serious complications including neurological, ocular and visceral complications, there is a lack of comprehensive epidemiological information about the seroprevalence of Toxocara species in humans. In the present study, we analysed and reviewed the overall seroprevalence of human toxocariasis in Iran. The data collection was systematically undertaken on published articles using the PubMed, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect and Scopus databases. A total of 27 studies from the past two decades reporting seroprevalence of human toxocariasis met our eligibility criteria. The pooled proportion of Toxocara infection was estimated as 6.58% (95% confidence interval = 3.98-9.77). A wide variation between different studies was observed (Q statistic = 799.37, df = 26, P < 0.0001, and I2 = 96.7%). The seroprevalence rate of toxocariasis in the Iranian population is relatively high; contamination of the environment by eggs from the host as well as from household dogs and cats should be blamed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reza Shafiei
- Vector-borne Diseases Research Centre, 196469North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences, Bojnurd, Iran
| | - Mohammad T Rahimi
- Center for Health Related Social and Behavioral Sciences Research Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
| | - Reza Zolfaghari Emameh
- Department of Energy and Environmental Biotechnology, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (NIGEB), Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi Mirzaei
- School of Medicine, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
| | - Gregorio Perez-Cordon
- National Cryptosporidium Reference Unit, Public Health Wales Microbiology, Singleton Hospital, Swansea, UK.,151375Swansea University Medical School, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | - Ehsan Ahmadpour
- Infectious and Tropical Disease Research Center, 48432Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Immunology Research Center, 48432Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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Wierzbowska IA, Kornaś S, Piontek AM, Rola K. The Prevalence of Endoparasites of Free Ranging Cats ( Felis catus) from Urban Habitats in Southern Poland. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10040748. [PMID: 32344783 PMCID: PMC7222823 DOI: 10.3390/ani10040748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2020] [Revised: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Free ranging domestic cats are common in urban and suburban habitats and may cause a threat of disease transmission to other pets, wildlife and humans. We investigated the occurrence of endoparasites in cats in Kraków city, Southern Poland, based on examination of road-killed individuals. More than half of the cats were infected with at least one of seven identified parasites. Cats from suburban areas were more likely to be infected than cats from the city core. Our study supports the results from other studies, showing that cats may serve as a significant source of zoonotic transmission. Abstract Growing urbanization leads to an increased risk of parasite spread in densely inhabited areas. Free-ranging cats can be locally numerous and come into frequent contact with both wildlife and humans. Cats are thus expected to contribute to parasitic disease transmission. In our study, we investigated the prevalence of endoparasites in free ranging cats in urban areas of Kraków city, based on necropsy of road-killed cats in relation to sex and diet of cat, season and habitat type. We found that 62% of 81 cats were infected with endoparasites with Toxocara cati being the most prevalent. In total, we identified seven parasite species. The number of parasite species was higher in suburban habitats and aside from Eucoleus aerophilus the prevalence of all parasites was higher in cats from suburban areas than in the individuals living in the city urban core. The prey of examined cats included mostly rodents, followed by soricomorphs and birds, which can all serve as paratenic hosts. Based on our results, we suggest that cats in urban areas should be considered as a serious potential zoonotic threat. Implementation of proper veterinary control and wider education on the topic is recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Izabela A. Wierzbowska
- Institute of Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Biology of Jagiellonian University, 7 Gronostajowa Str., 30-387 Kraków, Poland;
| | - Sławomir Kornaś
- Faculty of Animal Breeding and Biology, University of Agriculture in Kraków, 24/28 Mickiewicza Av., 30-059 Kraków, Poland;
| | - Aleksandra M. Piontek
- Institute of Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Biology of Jagiellonian University, 7 Gronostajowa Str., 30-387 Kraków, Poland;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-012-664-5157
| | - Kaja Rola
- Institute of Botany, Faculty of Biology of Jagiellonian University, 3 Gronostajowa str., 30-387 Kraków, Poland;
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15
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Peng ZW, Ning Y, Liu D, Sun Y, Wang LX, Zhai QA, Hou ZJ, Chai HL, Jiang GS. Ascarid infection in wild Amur tigers (Panthera tigris altaica) in China. BMC Vet Res 2020; 16:86. [PMID: 32156273 PMCID: PMC7063752 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-020-02296-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2019] [Accepted: 02/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Wild Amur tigers are a sparsely populated species, and the conservation of this species is of great concern worldwide, but as an important health risk factor, parasite infection in them is not fully understanding. RESULTS In this study, sixty-two faecal samples were collected to investigate the frequency and infection intensity of Toxocara cati and Toxascaris leonina in wild Amur tigers. The T. cati and T. leonina eggs were preliminary identified by microscopy, and confirmed by molecular techniques. Infection intensity was determined by the modified McMaster technique. Phylogenetic trees demonstrated that T. cati of wild Amur tiger had a closer relationship with which of other wild felines than that of domestic cats. T. leonina of Amur tiger and other felines clustered into one clade, showing a closer relationship than canines. The average frequency of T. cati was 77.42% (48/62), and the frequency in 2016 (100%) were higher than those in 2013 (P = 0.051, < 0.1; 66.6%) and 2014 (P = 0.079, < 0.1; 72.2%). The infection intensity of T. cati ranged from 316.6 n/g to 1084.1 n/g. For T. leonina, only three samples presented eggs when the saturated sodium chloride floating method was performed, indicating that the frequency is 4.83% (3/62). Unfortunately, the egg number in faecal smears is lower than the detective limitation, so the infection intensity of T. leonina is missed. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrated that ascarids are broadly prevalent, and T. cati is a dominant parasite species in the wild Amur tiger population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Wei Peng
- College of Wildlife and Protected Area, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, China
| | - Yao Ning
- College of Wildlife and Protected Area, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, China
| | - Dan Liu
- Amur Tiger Pk, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Ying Sun
- College of Wildlife and Protected Area, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, China
| | - Li-Xin Wang
- College of Wildlife and Protected Area, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, China
| | - Qi-An Zhai
- College of Wildlife and Protected Area, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, China
| | - Zhi-Jun Hou
- College of Wildlife and Protected Area, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, China.
| | - Hong-Liang Chai
- College of Wildlife and Protected Area, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, China.
| | - Guang-Shun Jiang
- College of Wildlife and Protected Area, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, China.
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16
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Prevalence Maps and Climate-Based Risk Map of Toxocariasis in Iran. ARCHIVES OF CLINICAL INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2019. [DOI: 10.5812/archcid.89272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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17
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El-Dakhly KM, Aboshinaf AS, Kamel AA. A case report on the gallbladder fluke, Euparadistomum herpestesi (Trematoda: Dicrocoeliidae), in stray cats ( Felis catus) in Beni-Suef, Egypt. J Parasit Dis 2018; 42:646-650. [PMID: 30538367 DOI: 10.1007/s12639-018-1039-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2018] [Accepted: 09/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Scarce literature studying parasites, particularly helminths, of gallbladder of cats in Egypt are available. Stray cats (Felis catus) are widespread in Beni-Suef, Egypt. Therefore, a total of 62 stray cats were necropsied and parasitologically examined. Three (4.84%) cats harboured an ovoid yellowish to brown flukes in the gallbladder. Infected cats were females and aged more than 3 years. The worm burden ranged 1-3 (one cat harboured 3 flukes and the other 2 cats were infected by one fluke each). Moreover, Mixed infections with intestinal cestodes and/or nematodes were detected. The fluke is quite discoid measuring 7.75 × 3.25 mm. The oral sucker measured 1 mm in diameter. The acetabulum was nearly central, rounded and measured 0.75 mm in diameter. Short pharynx (no prepharynx). Two broad intestinal ceca extending short distance from the posterior extremity of the fluke. Testes are ovoid, opposite to each other occupying the anterior half, each measured 0.25 mm in diameter. The ratio of testes to the acetabulum is characteristically 1:2. Ovary was somewhat ovoid, measured 0.3 × 0.45 mm, and attached to it a large dorsal chamber of receptaculum seminis measuring 0.58 × 0.52 mm. Vitellaria extended from the level of testes along the length of intestinal caeca or somewhat shorter than length of them. Uterus consisted of several coils occupying the entire area behind the oral sucker. Based on those criteria, the recovered flukes might be identified as Euparadistomum herpestesi. To the best of authors' knowledge and based on the microscopic identification, it is the first preliminary report denoting the existence of the gallbladder flukes, E. herpestesi, from stray cats in Beni-Suef, Egypt.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khaled Mohamed El-Dakhly
- 1Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, 62511 Egypt
| | | | - Asmaa Alaa Kamel
- 1Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, 62511 Egypt
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18
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Molecular characterization of Toxocara spp. eggs isolated from public parks and playgrounds in Shiraz, Iran. J Helminthol 2018; 93:306-312. [DOI: 10.1017/s0022149x18000354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
AbstractHuman toxocariasis, a worldwide parasitic disease, is caused by the larval stage of intestinal nematodes of dogs and cats, namely Toxocara canis and Toxocara cati. Human infection occurs by the accidental ingestion of embryonated eggs present in the soil, vegetables or on other contaminated surfaces, as well as via consumption of uncooked paratenic hosts, such as bird meat and giblets. The objective of this study was to evaluate the contamination of soil in public parks and playgrounds in Shiraz using microscopy and molecular methods. A total of 150 soil samples were collected from public parks and playgrounds in various areas of Shiraz, southern Iran. The samples were treated with saturated zinc sulphate solution, and Toxocara spp. eggs were detected by microscopic observation followed by nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR). To differentiate T. canis and T. cati eggs from each other, PCR restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS)-rDNA region by SalI endonuclease enzyme was used. PCR-sequencing was performed to confirm the results of the PCR-RFLP method. Based on the flotation results of the 150 soil samples, six (4%) were found to be positive for Toxocara spp. eggs, whereas nested-PCR showed 24 samples to be positive (16%). Based on the PCR-RFLP method and the sequence of the ITS-rDNA region, a total of 23 out of 24 isolates were confirmed as T. cati and one out of 24 as T. canis. The results showed a higher number of soil samples to be positive for Toxocara by the molecular method than microscopy, and higher T. cati infection in soil samples, which could have an important role in human infection with toxocariasis in this region.
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Pereira PF, Barbosa ADS, Moura APPD, Vasconcellos ML, Uchôa CMA, Bastos OMP, Amendoeira MRR. Gastrointestinal parasites in stray and shelter cats in the municipality of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA 2017; 26:383-388. [DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612017024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2017] [Accepted: 03/24/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Abstract The increasingly urban nature of the population has led many people to choose independent pets, such as cats. This situation has also made it possible for these animals to be abandoned, thus increasing the numbers of cats on the streets and in shelters. These animals can act as a source of infection for other hosts. Between 2014 and 2015, the frequency of gastrointestinal parasites in captive and stray cats in the municipality of Rio de Janeiro was analyzed. Ninety-one fecal samples were collected from captive cats and 172 from stray cats. Centrifugal sedimentation and flotation techniques were used. The frequency of parasites among the stray cats was 77.3%, and this was significantly higher than the frequency observed in captive cats (49.5%). Helminths were detected more frequently, and hookworms were the parasites most detected. Toxocara cati, Cystoisospora sp. and Dipylidium caninum were also detected. No statistical difference in the frequency of parasites was observed between the sexes among the captive cats. However, among the stray cats, males (85.5%) presented higher positivity than females (71.8%). The high frequency of hookworms, which are the agent for “cutaneous larva migrans” in humans, shows the need to control parasitic infections among the cats studied.
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Zibaei M, Sadjjadi SM. Trend of toxocariasis in Iran: a review on human and animal dimensions. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF VETERINARY RESEARCH 2017; 18:233-242. [PMID: 29387094 PMCID: PMC5767628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2017] [Revised: 05/13/2017] [Accepted: 05/30/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
One of the neglected soil and/or food-borne diseases with international public health importance is toxocariasis. Human cases are being increasingly reported from Asian, African, Oceania, European and the American countries. Hence, human toxocariasis (HT) is now considered as a major zoonosis with global and regional importance. In Iran, human and animal toxocariasis is an endemic disease with clinical and epidemiologic health problem aspects. Doubtless, understanding the epidemiology and the trend of this important parasitic disease and its affecting factors will provide the establishment of effective prevention and control programs. To better understand the trend of toxocariasis researches in Iran, this study was performed to analyze different aspects of this zoonotic disease including history, life cycle, species, human animals and environmental studies, diagnostic aspects and treatments to find out the gaps, including different aspects of clinical sings in human patients, new and specific recombinant antigens based on the native antigens, new diagnostic tools, especially rapid diagnostic tests, paratenic hosts status and new treatment procedures which is necessary to be investigated in the future studies on this important zoonotic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Zibaei
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - S. M. Sadjjadi
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Basic Sciences in Infectious Diseases Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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Detection of Helminth Eggs and Identification of Hookworm Species in Stray Cats, Dogs and Soil from Klang Valley, Malaysia. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0142231. [PMID: 26671680 PMCID: PMC4682862 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0142231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2015] [Accepted: 10/18/2015] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The present study was conducted to determine the prevalence of helminth eggs excreted in the faeces of stray cats, dogs and in soil samples. A total of 505 fresh samples of faeces (from 227 dogs and 152 cats) and soil were collected. The egg stage was detected via microscopy after the application of formalin–ether concentration technique. Genomic DNA was extracted from the samples containing hookworm eggs and used for further identification to the species level using real-time polymerase chain reaction coupled with high resolution melting analysis. Microscopic observation showed that the overall prevalence of helminth eggs among stray cats and dogs was 75.7% (95% CI = 71.2%–79.9%), in which 87.7% of dogs and 57.9% of cats were infected with at least one parasite genus. Five genera of heliminth eggs were detected in the faecal samples, including hookworms (46.4%), Toxocara (11.1%), Trichuris (8.4%), Spirometra (7.4%) and Ascaris (2.4%). The prevalence of helminth infections among stray dogs was significantly higher than that among stray cats (p < 0.001). Only three genera of helminths were detected in soil samples with the prevalence of 23% (95% CI = 15.1%–31%), consisting of hookworms (16.6%), Ascaris (4%) and Toxocara (2.4%). The molecular identification of hookworm species revealed that Ancylostoma ceylanicum was dominant in both faecal and soil samples. The dog hookworm, Ancylostoma caninum, was also detected among cats, which is the first such occurrence reported in Malaysia till date. This finding indicated that there was a cross-infection of A. caninum between stray cats and dogs because of their coexistent within human communities. Taken together, these data suggest the potential role of stray cats and dogs as being the main sources of environmental contamination as well as for human infections.
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