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Haynes E, Yabsley MJ, Nemeth NM, Danks ZD, Stasiak I, Garrett KB, Adcock KG, Chamberlain MJ, Ruder MG. Health Assessment of Adult Male Eastern Wild Turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo silvestris) from Western Kentucky, USA. J Wildl Dis 2024; 60:660-669. [PMID: 38584308 DOI: 10.7589/jwd-d-23-00162] [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: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Wild turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo) are an important game species throughout the geographic range. Populations throughout multiple regions of the US have been declining, including in Kentucky, US, raising concerns among managers and resource users. To better understand the overall population health, we performed postmortem examinations and targeted pathogen, mineral, and toxicant testing on 36 adult male, apparently healthy, wild turkeys that were hunter harvested in western Kentucky during April 2018. We found that birds were in fair to good nutritional condition with no significant gross or microscopic lesions. Ticks (Amblyomma spp.) and lice (three species) were present on 94 and 31% of birds, respectively. We commonly detected intestinal nematodes and cestodes and found coccidian oocysts in 39% and capillarid eggs in 6% of birds. The prevalences of lymphoproliferative disease virus and reticuloendotheliosis virus were 39 and 11%, respectively. Spleen samples tested with PCR were positive for Borrelia burgdorferi, Haemoproteus sp., and Leucocytozoon sp. in 11, 83, and 3%, respectively. Based on a subjective histologic assessment of testis tissues, most birds had widespread and abundant sperm present. Mineral analysis and broad toxicant screening on liver samples from 32 turkeys were unremarkable. Further work is needed to assess potential population risk factors and to determine individual- and population-level impacts of pathogens on adults and poults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen Haynes
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine, 589 D. W. Brooks Drive, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA
| | - Michael J Yabsley
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine, 589 D. W. Brooks Drive, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, 180 East Green Street, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA
- Center for Ecology of Infectious Diseases, University of Georgia, 203 D. W. Brooks Drive, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA
| | - Nicole M Nemeth
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine, 589 D. W. Brooks Drive, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA
- Department of Pathology, University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine, 501 D. W. Brooks Drive, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA
| | - Zachary D Danks
- Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, 1 Sportsman's Lane, Frankfort, Kentucky 40601, USA
| | - Iga Stasiak
- Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, 1 Sportsman's Lane, Frankfort, Kentucky 40601, USA
- Current address: Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment, 112 Research Drive, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7N 3R3, Canada
| | - Kayla B Garrett
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine, 589 D. W. Brooks Drive, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, 180 East Green Street, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA
| | - Kayla G Adcock
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine, 589 D. W. Brooks Drive, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA
| | - Michael J Chamberlain
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, 180 East Green Street, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA
| | - Mark G Ruder
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine, 589 D. W. Brooks Drive, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA
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Martínez JPH, de Giacometi M, de Mello AB, Martins KR, Cunha RC, Soares MP, Oliveira CB, França RT. First reported case of Trichomonas gallinae infection in red-breasted toucan (Ramphastos dicolorus). Vet Parasitol Reg Stud Reports 2024; 47:100962. [PMID: 38199700 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2023.100962] [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: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
This study reports the infection and diagnosis of the protozoan morphologic complex Trichomonas gallinae in a baby red-breasted toucan (Ramphastos dicolorus). Nodular lesions on the soft palate and edema in the oral cavity were observed macroscopically. Microscopically, a granuloma with multiple layers of necrosis interspersed with inflammatory polymorphonuclear infiltrates was observed. Parasitism was confirmed by parasitological diagnosis, isolation of the flagellates in culture medium, and Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) using 5.8S ribosomal RNA (rRNA). Flanking internal transcribed spacer (ITS) gene regions were amplified by polymerase chain reaction, and the sequences were analyzed phylogenetically using MEGA 11 software. Phylogenetic analysis based on ITS1/5.8S rRNA/ITS2 sequences demonstrated high nucleotide identity with two Trichomonas sequences available in GenBank, which were more closely related to T. vaginalis (99%) than to T. gallinae (98%). In addition to being potential transmitters of this protozoan, rigorous monitoring of infectious and parasitic diseases in wild bird populations is essential for their preservation. The forms of transmission of Trichomonas sp. favor the occurrence of the disease in many non-Columbiformes species, which is essential for the monitoring of this disease in wild birds.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marjorie de Giacometi
- Departament of Microbiology and Parasitology, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas, RS, Brazil
| | - Alexia Brauner de Mello
- Departament of Microbiology and Parasitology, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas, RS, Brazil
| | - Kaue Rodriguez Martins
- Departament of Medicine Veterinary Preventive, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas, RS, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo Casquero Cunha
- Departament of Medicine Veterinary Preventive, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas, RS, Brazil
| | - Mauro P Soares
- Departament of Medicine Veterinary Preventive, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas, RS, Brazil
| | - Camila Belmonte Oliveira
- Departament of Microbiology and Parasitology, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas, RS, Brazil
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Cuta L, Baums CG, Cramer K, Harzer M, Hauptmann J, Heenemann K, Krautwald-Junghanns ME, Stegmaier I, Vahlenkamp TW, Schmidt V. An Explorative Study of the Causal Pathogenesis of Green Liver Discoloration in Organically Reared Female Bronze Turkeys ( Meleagris gallopavo) Considering the Infectious Risk Factors. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13050918. [PMID: 36899775 PMCID: PMC10000099 DOI: 10.3390/ani13050918] [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: 01/23/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
A recent study revealed that organically raised Bronze turkeys showed a high prevalence of green liver discoloration. This alteration is commonly associated with the Turkey Osteomyelitis Complex and potentially caused by opportunistic bacteria. Therefore, 360 organically fattened Bronze turkeys were examined post-mortem throughout two fattening trials with two examinations each to determine possible infectious risk factors and reduce disease prevalence. Clinical and pathoanatomical examinations were performed on every hen. Histopathological, bacteriological, parasitological, and virological examinations were performed on at least six hens without and, if applicable, six hens with green livers on each examination date. Overall, 9.0% of all hens had a green liver without a correlation with bacterial or parasitological findings but multiple health impairments. The discoloration correlated significantly with the detection of immunosuppressive turkey hemorrhagic enteritis virus at the early stage and macro- and histological joint/bone lesions at the late fattening stage, indicating the presence of two different predisposing pathogeneses. Flocks not being vaccinated against hemorrhagic enteritis but having a virus-positive sample showed the highest prevalence of green liver discoloration and developed worse in various parameters. In conclusion, an adequate vaccination schedule and the prevention of field infections may lead to a decreased risk of performance reduction and improved animal health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larissa Cuta
- Clinic for Birds and Reptiles, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Leipzig, An den Tierkliniken 17, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-(0)341-9738405
| | - Christoph Georg Baums
- Institute of Bacteriology and Mycology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University Leipzig, An den Tierkliniken 29, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Kerstin Cramer
- Clinic for Birds and Reptiles, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Leipzig, An den Tierkliniken 17, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Maxi Harzer
- Institute of Virology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Leipzig, An den Tierkliniken 29, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Jutta Hauptmann
- Institute of Bacteriology and Mycology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University Leipzig, An den Tierkliniken 29, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Kristin Heenemann
- Institute of Virology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Leipzig, An den Tierkliniken 29, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | | | - Ines Stegmaier
- Clinic for Birds and Reptiles, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Leipzig, An den Tierkliniken 17, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Thomas W. Vahlenkamp
- Institute of Virology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Leipzig, An den Tierkliniken 29, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Volker Schmidt
- Clinic for Birds and Reptiles, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Leipzig, An den Tierkliniken 17, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
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Sigrist B, Ng TWC, Albini S, Wolfrum N. A new duplex real-time PCR for simultaneous detection and differentiation of Tetratrichomonas gallinarum and Trichomonas gallinae. J Vet Diagn Invest 2022; 34:631-637. [PMID: 35593583 DOI: 10.1177/10406387221098069] [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: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Tetratrichomonas gallinarum and Trichomonas gallinae are pathogenic avian parasites that infect a wide range of bird species. The pathologic potential of T. gallinarum is controversial, whereas T. gallinae causes disease in many avian species. Infections are often asymptomatic in doves and pigeons; thus, columbids are presumed to represent the natural hosts for trichomonads. The detection of T. gallinarum and T. gallinae is based on direct microscopic observation or a conventional PCR assay. Microscopy is not very sensitive, and identification of the trichomonads at the genus or species level is not possible. Conventional PCR assays have been developed primarily for phylogenetic studies, which detect a wide range of Trichomonas spp. but do not allow their differentiation. We developed a duplex real-time PCR (rtPCR) assay for the simultaneous detection and differentiation of T. gallinarum and T. gallinae. We found that the rtPCR assay detected 102 plasmid DNA copies of T. gallinarum and as few as 101 plasmid DNA copies of T. gallinae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brigitte Sigrist
- Department of Poultry and Rabbit Diseases, Institute for Food Safety and Hygiene, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - T W Cherry Ng
- Department of Poultry and Rabbit Diseases, Institute for Food Safety and Hygiene, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Sarah Albini
- Department of Poultry and Rabbit Diseases, Institute for Food Safety and Hygiene, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Nina Wolfrum
- Department of Poultry and Rabbit Diseases, Institute for Food Safety and Hygiene, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Ateş MB, Harman H, Akçakavak G, Ozdemir O, Duran T, Akbulut NK. Pathomorphological and molecular investigations in naturally infected Chukar partridges (Alectoris Chukar) with Histomonas meleagridis and Tetratrichomonas gallinarum. PESQUISA VETERINÁRIA BRASILEIRA 2022. [DOI: 10.1590/1678-5150-pvb-7180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT: Histomonas meleagridis and Tetratrichomonas gallinarum are two protozoans responsible for mortality associated with typhlohepatitis in poultry. In this study, the etiology of high mortality in Chukar partridges suspected of infection with these agents was investigated pathologically and molecularly. Twelve healthy partridges during the laying period and 30 partridges that died due to disease and were included in the study. In blood analysis, increased levels of WBC, NEU, LYM, MONO, EO and BASO suggesting bacterial and/or parasitic infection; decreased levels of HGB, MCH and MCHC, which are markers of anemia; and increased AST and LDH levels, which are important for liver degenerations. In the liver, which is one of the most pathologically affected organs, multifocal necrosis foci that sometimes merge with each other and spread to large areas, and severe fibrino-necrotic typhlitis were detected. There was amyloid deposition in the space of Disse and vascular sinuses in the liver. PAS positive protozoal agents were observed in and around the lesioned areas. By PCR analyzes using specific primers, 11 of the samples were positive for H. meleagridis only, whereas 5 were positive for T. gallinarum only; 14 samples tested positive for both agents. Sequence analysis showed 100% identity between all samples resulting in positive PCR. In addition, Escherichia coli was produced in microbiological culture (27 of 30). When all the results were evaluated together, it was concluded that H. meleagridis and T. gallinarum and secondary E. coli may cause high mortality in partridges under lay stress.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Halil Harman
- Bahri Dağdaş International Agricultural Research Institute, Turkey
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Falkowski P, Liebhart D, Bobrek K, Gaweł A. The Prevalence of Tetratrichomonas spp. in Reproductive Geese Flocks. Avian Dis 2021; 64:547-551. [PMID: 33570107 DOI: 10.1637/aviandiseases-d20-00042] [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: 04/24/2020] [Accepted: 07/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Tetratrichomonas is a genus of parasites that usually inhabits the lower digestive tract, especially the cecum, of various bird species. The infection might lead to birds' death, but in many cases it could be asymptomatic or with mild clinical signs which might be not observed. Subclinical infections can be undiagnosed, leading to production losses. To investigate the prevalence of Tetratrichomonas spp. in geese, 23 cloacal swabs were taken from each of 43 flocks of reproductive geese from five major geese production provinces in Poland after first, second, or third laying season. The obtained swabs were placed in culture medium for propagation of the parasite. All cultures were screened microscopically before PCR was applied to detect the parasites' DNA. After cultivation, the presence of genetic material of Tetratrichomonas was found in 430 out of 989 samples, which correspond to 38 (88.4%) of 43 flocks. The study shows how the number of laying seasons and the size of the flock in which the birds were kept affects the distribution of protozoa of the genus Tetratrichomonas in geese reproductive flocks in Poland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piotr Falkowski
- Department of Epizootiology with Clinic of Birds and Exotic Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Wrocław University of Environmental and Life Sciences, pl. Grunwaldzki 45, 50-366, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Dieter Liebhart
- Clinic for Poultry and Fish Medicine, Department for Farm Animals and Veterinary Public Health, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinaerplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria A-1210
| | - Kamila Bobrek
- Department of Epizootiology with Clinic of Birds and Exotic Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Wrocław University of Environmental and Life Sciences, pl. Grunwaldzki 45, 50-366, Wrocław, Poland.,Clinic for Poultry and Fish Medicine, Department for Farm Animals and Veterinary Public Health, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinaerplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria A-1210
| | - Andrzej Gaweł
- Department of Epizootiology with Clinic of Birds and Exotic Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Wrocław University of Environmental and Life Sciences, pl. Grunwaldzki 45, 50-366, Wrocław, Poland
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Feng S, Chang H, Wang Y, Luo F, Wu Q, Han S, He H. Lethal infection caused by Tetratrichomonas gallinarum in black swans (Cygnus atratus). BMC Vet Res 2021; 17:191. [PMID: 33985499 PMCID: PMC8117575 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-021-02894-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tetratrichomonas gallinarum is parasitic protozoa with a wide host range. However, its lethal infection is rare reported. CASE PRESENTATION Here, we described the first lethal cases of T. gallinarum infection in black swans in China. Five black swans died within a week in succession without obvious symptoms except mild diarrhea. At necropsy, severe lesions were observed in caeca with thickened caecal walls and hemorrhages in the mucosa. A large number of moving trophozoites were found in the contents of the cecum by microscopic examination. The livers were enlarged with multiple bleeding spots on the surface. Histopathology of the livers showed mononuclear cell infiltration and moderate hyperplasia of fibrous tissue. The histopathology of the cecum showed that the villi of the cecum were edematous. Finally, the presence of T. gallinarum was determined by specific PCR andin-situ hybridization assay. Additionally, common pathogens that can cause similar symptoms were excluded. CONCLUSIONS The death of the black swan was caused by T. gallinarum, suggesting that the parasite might be a new threat to the Cygnus birds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengyong Feng
- National Research Center for Wildlife Borne Diseases, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1-5 Beichenxilu, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100101, PR China.,College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Han Chang
- National Research Center for Wildlife Borne Diseases, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1-5 Beichenxilu, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100101, PR China.,College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Yutian Wang
- Beijing General Station of Animal Husbandry, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100107, China
| | - Fubing Luo
- Beijing Center for Animal Disease Control, Beijing, China
| | - Qiaoxing Wu
- Shaanxi Institute of zoology, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi, China
| | - Shuyi Han
- National Research Center for Wildlife Borne Diseases, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1-5 Beichenxilu, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100101, PR China
| | - Hongxuan He
- National Research Center for Wildlife Borne Diseases, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1-5 Beichenxilu, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100101, PR China.
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Badparva E, Badparva S, Hosseini-Chegeni A. Occurrence of Tetratrichomonas gallinarum (Trichomonadida: Trichomonadidae) in chicken feces from Lorestan Province, Western Iran. J Parasit Dis 2020; 44:10-16. [PMID: 32174700 DOI: 10.1007/s12639-019-01153-z] [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] [Received: 06/21/2019] [Accepted: 08/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Species of Tetratrichomonas gallinarum and Trichomonas gallinae, are found in the digestive tract of birds. To investigate trichomonads of a lower intestinal tract of native chickens, we examined 72 feces samples from the different life stages of fowl species in Khorramabad County, Lorestan Province, Western Iran. Using microscopical examination, out of 72 collected samples, 26 (31.6%) bird feces samples were found infected with a trichomonad similar to T. gallinarum. A 527-bp fragment of 18S rRNA gene of T. gallinarum was amplified by PCR. The 18S constructed phylogeny indicates two different clades within T. gallinarum, suggesting that commensal T. gallinarum-like of the bird hosts may be the reason for the genetic divergence in T. gallinarum species complex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ebrahim Badparva
- 1Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Sajad Badparva
- Yang Researchers and Elite Club, Khorramabad Branch, Islamic Azad University, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Asadollah Hosseini-Chegeni
- 3Department of Plant Protection, Lorestan University (Pol-e Dokhtar Higher Education Center), Pol-e Dokhtar, Iran
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Landman WJM, Gantois N, van Eck JHH, van der Heijden HMJF, Viscogliosi E. Tetratrichomonas gallinarum granuloma disease in a flock of free range layers. Vet Q 2019; 39:153-160. [PMID: 31625452 PMCID: PMC6853223 DOI: 10.1080/01652176.2019.1682714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2019] [Revised: 10/07/2019] [Accepted: 10/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Granuloma disease in a flock of free range productive layers in the Netherlands in 2017 is described. The disease resembled granuloma outbreaks in layers caused by Tetratrichomonas gallinarum in 2013 and occurred in the same area in which the rearing farm considered as the source of the 2013 outbreaks was located. Between 55 and 84 weeks of age mortality was 20.3% (breeder's norm 3.9%). All dead hens examined (n = 20) showed granulomas especially in liver and ceca. Nine hens with or without liver and/or ceca granulomas were examined for trichomonads in mentioned organs by in situ hybridization (ISH), nested PCR, and cloning and sequencing. Ceca were also examined by culture. T. gallinarum ISH was positive in all livers and ceca with granulomas and negative in case granulomas were absent. T. gallinarum strain 13/16632, which caused the 2013 outbreaks was found in 4/8 hens with granulomas. Moreover, other trichomonads were detected: a T. gallinarum strain GPO-like and a Simplicimonas sp. strain GABC1-like. Mixed infections also occurred. Infectious causes of granuloma disease other than the afore-mentioned trichomonads could be excluded. Trichomonad DNA was not detected in environmental samples and wild ducks originating from the farm of concern, except for one duck in which the same Simplicimonas sp. as in hens was detected, leaving the source of the T. gallinarum infection in hens unknown. It is concluded that the herein described granuloma disease likely was caused by T. gallinarum strain 13/16632. However, the pathogenicity of the other trichomonads found remains to be clarified.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - N. Gantois
- CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019 – UMR 8204 – CIIL – Centre d’Infection et d’Immunité de Lille, University of Lille, Lille, France
| | - J. H. H. van Eck
- Department of Farm Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | | | - E. Viscogliosi
- CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019 – UMR 8204 – CIIL – Centre d’Infection et d’Immunité de Lille, University of Lille, Lille, France
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10
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Grunenwald C, Sidor I, Mickley R, Dwyer C, Gerhold R. Tetratrichomonas and Trichomonas spp.-Associated Disease in Free-Ranging Common Eiders ( Somateria mollissima) from Wellfleet Bay, MA and Description of ITS1 Region Genotypes. Avian Dis 2019; 62:117-123. [PMID: 29620469 DOI: 10.1637/11742-080817-reg.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
During an outbreak of Wellfleet Bay virus (WFBV) in common eiders ( Somateria mollissima) from the Cape Cod region of Massachusetts, several birds were diagnosed with trichomonosis consisting of multiple trichomonad species. Six birds were examined, with trichomonads found in ceca in four birds and associated typhlitis in three of these four birds. PCR and DNA sequencing utilizing trichomonad-specific primers targeting the ITS1 region of the ribosomal DNA (rDNA) revealed the presence of Tetratrichomonas gallinarum in the gastrointestinal tracts of five birds and Trichomonas spp. in the livers of two birds, one of which had a dual Te. gallinarum-Trichomonas gallinae infection. Sequence analysis revealed no variation between Te. gallinarum sequences whereas the ITS1 sequences obtained from the other Trichomonas spp. demonstrated the presence of multiple genotypes. One sequence had 100% identity to a Trichomonas sp. previously isolated from a Cooper's hawk ( Accipiter cooperii) and the other sequence was 100% identical to a previously described Tr. gallinae isolate obtained from a Pacific Coast band-tailed pigeon ( Patagioenas fasciata monilis). These findings suggest Te. gallinarum and other Trichomonas spp. possibly contributed to morbidity and mortality in this species. Furthermore, to the authors' knowledge, this is the first report of trichomonad-associated disease in a free-ranging sea duck.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Grunenwald
- A Department of Microbiology, The University of Tennessee, 1406 Circle Drive, Knoxville, TN 37996.,B Center for Wildlife Health, The University of Tennessee, 2431 Joe Johnson Drive, Knoxville, TN 37996
| | - I Sidor
- C New Hampshire Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, University of New Hampshire, 21 Botanical Lane, Durham, NH 03824
| | - R Mickley
- D United States Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Wildlife Services, Sutton, MA 01590
| | - C Dwyer
- E United States Fish and Wildlife Service, Division of Migratory Birds, 300 Westgate Center, Hadley, MA 01035
| | - R Gerhold
- B Center for Wildlife Health, The University of Tennessee, 2431 Joe Johnson Drive, Knoxville, TN 37996.,F Department of Biomedical and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, The University of Tennessee, 2407 River Drive, Knoxville, TN 37996
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11
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Abstract
Except for the important role coccidia have as predisposing factors of necrotic enteritis, the role parasites play in the dynamics of a healthy microbiota of chickens is not well explored. This review describes the interactions of relevant intestinal parasites of chickens with bacteria. Infection with Eimeria spp. favor the growth of Clostridium perfringens and suppress the growth of many other bacteria by increasing viscosity and passage time of the ingesta, and by causing lesions to the intestinal mucosa that improve the availability of nutrients for C. perfringens. Conversely, there are indications that bacteria influence the course of disease after infections with Eimeria spp. Not much is known about intestinal cryptosporidiosis in chickens, but results in mice show that the intestinal microbiota induces some resistance against infection with Cryptosporidium parvum and that the innate immune response triggered by infections with cryptosporidia might have an effect on other intestinal microbes. Histomonas meleagridis depend on bacteria in vitro, and in vivo it will cause lesions in chickens only in the presence of bacteria. Blastocystis spp. are very common in chickens, but there is no information about interactions with bacteria. In humans, there is evidence of the correlation of the detection of Blastocystis and changes in the intestinal microbiota. There are indications of interactions between Ascaridia galli and various bacteria in chickens and Ascaridia spp. of mammals are known to produce various types of antimicrobial molecules. However, often the underlying mechanisms of these interactions between parasites and bacteria remain unknown and only correlations but not causation can be established.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rüdiger Hauck
- A Department of Pathobiology and Department of Poultry Science, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849
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12
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Landman WJM, van Eck JHH. Response to letter to the editor titled "Do we really need to reconsider coligranulomatosis (Hjärre & Wramby's disease) in poultry?". Avian Pathol 2018; 47:437-439. [PMID: 29963910 DOI: 10.1080/03079457.2018.1492091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - J H H van Eck
- b Department of Farm Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine , Utrecht University , Utrecht , Netherlands
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Collántes-Fernández E, Fort MC, Ortega-Mora LM, Schares G. Trichomonas. PARASITIC PROTOZOA OF FARM ANIMALS AND PETS 2018. [PMCID: PMC7122547 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-70132-5_14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
The most widely known trichomonad in veterinary medicine is Tritrichomonas foetus. It is the etiologic agent of bovine tritrichomonosis, a sexually transmitted disease in extensively managed herds throughout many geographic regions worldwide. The same trichomonad species is also regarded as the causative agent of chronic diarrhea in the domestic cat, although more recent studies observed molecular differences between bovine- and feline-derived T. foetus. Trichomonosis in cats has a worldwide distribution and is mainly present among cats from high-density housing environments. Other trichomonads are found as inhabitants of the gastrointestinal tract in birds, such as Trichomonas gallinae. Particularly, Columbiformes, Falconiformes, Strigiformes, and wild Passeriformes can be severely affected by avian trichomonads. Diagnosis of trichomonosis is often complicated by the fragility of the parasite. To ensure valid test results, it is essential to collect and handle specimens in the right way prior to analysis. Cultivation tests, the specific amplification of parasites, or a combination of both test methods is the most efficient and most commonly used way to diagnose trichomonosis in animals. Bovine tritrichomonosis is mainly controlled by the identification and withdrawal of infected animals from bovine herds. The control of feline and avian trichomonosis relies mainly on preventive measures.
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Liebhart D, Hess M. Do we really need to reconsider coligranulomatosis (Hjärre and Wramby's disease) in poultry? Avian Pathol 2017; 47:225-226. [PMID: 29243957 DOI: 10.1080/03079457.2017.1414149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Dieter Liebhart
- a Clinic for Poultry and Fish Medicine, Department for Farm Animals and Veterinary Public Health , University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna , Vienna , Austria
| | - Michael Hess
- a Clinic for Poultry and Fish Medicine, Department for Farm Animals and Veterinary Public Health , University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna , Vienna , Austria
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Landman WJM, Molenaar RJ, Cian A, van der Heijden HMJF, Viscogliosi E. Granuloma disease in flocks of productive layers caused by Tetratrichomonas gallinarum. Avian Pathol 2017; 45:465-77. [PMID: 26950827 DOI: 10.1080/03079457.2016.1163325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
In 2013, seven outbreaks of granuloma disease occurred in Dutch flocks of productive layers housed on different farms. These outbreaks were characterized by increased mortality and high incidence of granulomas, mainly in caeca (340/408 hens = 83%) and livers (69/408 hens = 17%). Mortality started to increase between 21 and 35 weeks of age and reached 3.7% to 11.0% exceeding the breeder's norm in periods ranging from 9 to 48 weeks. Some flocks also showed decreased egg production and/or loss of mean egg weight. All affected flocks were linked to one rearing farm, which therefore seemed to be the source of the disease. However, no signs of disease had been observed at this rearing farm. Sentinel hens placed in one of the affected flocks to determine whether the disease had an infectious nature developed granulomas identical to those seen in the outbreaks. Next, by fulfilling Koch's postulates it was shown that Tetratrichomonas gallinarum was the aetiological agent of the granuloma disease. The condition was reproduced in mature specified pathogen free White Leghorn hens (GD - Animal Health, Deventer, the Netherlands) by inoculation via both an artificial and a natural route with a well-defined axenic T. gallinarum isolate obtained from one of the affected flocks. Other causes of granuloma disease were excluded.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - R J Molenaar
- a GD - Animal Health , Deventer , the Netherlands
| | - A Cian
- b CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019 - UMR 8204 - CIIL - Centre d'Infection et d'Immunité de Lille, University of Lille , Lille , France
| | | | - E Viscogliosi
- b CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019 - UMR 8204 - CIIL - Centre d'Infection et d'Immunité de Lille, University of Lille , Lille , France
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Zhou BH, Liu LL, Liu J, Yuan FW, Tian EJ, Wang HW. Effect of Diclazuril on the Bursa of Fabricius Morphology and SIgA Expression in Chickens Infected with Eimeria tenella. THE KOREAN JOURNAL OF PARASITOLOGY 2015; 53:675-82. [PMID: 26797433 PMCID: PMC4725230 DOI: 10.3347/kjp.2015.53.6.675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2015] [Revised: 10/07/2015] [Accepted: 10/17/2015] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
The effects of diclazuril on the bursa of Fabricius (BF) structure and secretory IgA (SIgA) expression in chickens infected with Eimeria tenella were examined. The morphology of the BF was observed by hematoxylin and eosin staining, while ultrastructural changes were monitored by transmission electron microscopy. E. tenella infection caused the BF cell volumes to decrease, irregularly arranged, as well as, enlargement of the intercellular space. Diclazuril treatment alleviated the physical signs of damages associated with E. tenella infection. The SIgA expression in BF was analyzed by immunohistochemistry technique. The SIgA expression increased significantly by 350.4% (P<0.01) after E. tenella infection compared to the normal control group. With the treatment of diclazuril, the SIgA was relatively fewer in the cortex, and the expression level was significantly decreased by 46.7% (P<0.01) compared with the infected and untreated group. In conclusion, E. tenella infection in chickens induced obvious harmful changes in BF morphological structure and stimulated the expression of SIgA in the BF. Diclazuril treatment effectively alleviated the morphological changes. This result demonstrates a method to develop an immunological strategy in coccidiosis control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bian-Hua Zhou
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Henan, Luoyang 471003, China
| | - Li-Li Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Henan, Luoyang 471003, China
| | - Jeffrey Liu
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, USA
| | - Fu-Wei Yuan
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Henan, Luoyang 471003, China
| | - Er-Jie Tian
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Henan, Luoyang 471003, China
| | - Hong-Wei Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Henan, Luoyang 471003, China
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Grafl B, Weise H, Le Bris J, Liebhart D, Bilic I, Hess M. Aberrant Clinical Appearance and Pathomorphology Noticed During an Outbreak of Histomonosis Indicates a Different Pathogenesis ofHistomonas meleagridisGenotype 2. Avian Dis 2015; 59:452-8. [DOI: 10.1637/11093-041715-case.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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Liebhart D, Neale S, Garcia-Rueda C, Wood AM, Bilic I, Wernsdorf P, Jaskulska B, Hess M. A single strain of Tetratrichomonas gallinarum causes fatal typhlohepatitis in red-legged partridges (Alectoris rufa) to be distinguished from histomonosis. Avian Pathol 2015; 43:473-80. [PMID: 25175532 DOI: 10.1080/03079457.2014.959435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Typhlohepatitis was observed in a flock of 2500 red-legged partridges in Great Britain, characterized by the sudden deaths of 15 birds within 2 days. Necropsy of five dead birds revealed severe lesions in the caeca with thickened caecal walls, a reddened lining and bloody contents. The livers contained multiple miliary lesions and similar pathological changes were found in the spleens of some birds. Microscopic examination of intestinal contents showed the occurrence of coccidial oocysts in two partridges. Different methods for the detection of bacteria from liver and intestine samples were conducted without positive results. Histopathological examination revealed the presence of protozoan parasites in the caecum, liver and spleen of the affected birds. In situ hybridization (ISH) for the detection of trichomonads resulted in positive findings and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) confirmed the presence of Tetratrichomonas gallinarum in the lesions. Additionally, archived tissues of red-legged partridges from different flocks suffering from severe typhlohepatitis in Great Britain in 2008 and 2009 were re-investigated by ISH and PCR. Beside the sporadic occurrence of histomonosis, in most of the cases trichomonads were detected by ISH in the caecum and liver of affected birds. Furthermore, dissemination of the flagellate into the lung and bursa of Fabricius could be demonstrated. Analyses of T. gallinarum DNA obtained from the different cases resulted in homologous nucleotide sequences. Altogether, the results demonstrate the circulation of a virulent strain of T. gallinarum in reared red-legged partridges.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Liebhart
- a Clinic for Poultry and Fish Medicine, Department for Farm Animals and Veterinary Public Health , University of Veterinary Medicine , Vienna , Austria
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Abstract
Members of the family Trichomonadidae, mainly Trichomonas gallinae and Tetratrichomonas gallinarum, represent important parasites in birds with worldwide presence, since being reported in the 19th century. Especially Columbiformes, Falconiformes and Strigiformes can be severely affected by trichomonads, whereas the majority of infections in Galliformes and Anatiformes are subclinical although severe infections are occasionally reported. With the recent appearance of deadly infections in wild Passeriformes the protozoan parasite T. gallinae obtained greater attention which will be addressed in this review. Although light microscopy remains the method of choice to confirm the presence of trichomonads molecular studies were introduced in recent years, in order to characterize the parasites and to establish relationships between isolates. Isolation of trichomonads is a prerequisite for detailed in vitro and in vivo studies and different media are reported to obtain suitable material. The limited information about virulence factors will be reviewed in context with the pathogenicity of trichomonads which varies greatly, indicating certain strain heterogeneity of the parasites. Options for treatment characterized by the leading role of imidazoles whose activity is sometimes hampered by resistant parasites remains a challenge for the future. Introducing more standardized genetic studies and investigations concentrating on the host-pathogen interaction should be helpful to elucidate virulence factors which might lead to new concepts of treatment.
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Liebhart D, Sulejmanovic T, Grafl B, Tichy A, Hess M. Vaccination against histomonosis prevents a drop in egg production in layers following challenge. Avian Pathol 2013; 42:79-84. [PMID: 23391185 DOI: 10.1080/03079457.2012.760841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
The effect of attenuated Histomonas meleagridis on pullets was investigated and the protection of vaccinated adult laying hens against a severe challenge was studied in the same experimental setting. Four groups of 25 pullets were set up at 18 weeks of life and birds in two groups were vaccinated with in vitro-attenuated H. meleagridis. Chickens in two groups (vaccinated and non-vaccinated) were challenged 5 weeks later with virulent histomonads, while the remaining groups were retained until termination of the study 11 weeks post vaccination. Vaccination of pullets did not have any impact on their subsequent performance. Egg production of non-vaccinated but challenged birds dropped significantly (P ≤ 0.05) between 2 and 4 weeks post challenge (p.c.) to 58.7%, compared with 90% in control chickens. At 4 weeks p.c., the drop in egg production in vaccinated and challenged birds was significantly lower (P=0.02) than in non-protected layers. Pathological changes were found only in challenged birds 2 and 6 weeks p.c. Several non-vaccinated birds showed severe lesions in the caeca with sporadic involvement of the liver and atrophy of the reproductive tract. Vaccination prior to challenge reduced the incidence of pathological findings. For the first time, vaccination of pullets with in vitro-attenuated histomonads could be shown to be an effective and safe prophylactic tool to prevent a severe drop in egg production of commercial layers following experimental infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Liebhart
- Department for Farm Animals and Veterinary Public Health, Clinic for Avian, Reptile and Fish Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine, Veterinaerplatz, Vienna, Austria.
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Burns RE, Braun J, Armién AG, Rideout BA. Hepatitis and splenitis due to systemic tetratrichomoniasis in an American white pelican (Pelecanus erythrorhynchos). J Vet Diagn Invest 2013; 25:511-4. [PMID: 23674462 DOI: 10.1177/1040638713488368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
A free-ranging, young adult, female American white pelican (Pelecanus erythrorhynchos), found dead on the grounds of the San Diego Zoo Safari Park in Southern California, had severe multifocal to coalescing necrotizing hepatitis and splenitis on postmortem examination. Histologically, within the large areas of necrosis were myriad pleomorphic, 5-20 µm in diameter, protozoal organisms with 1 to multiple nuclei. Ultrastructurally, the organisms were consistent with a trichomonad flagellate. Polymerase chain reaction and sequencing of the small subunit ribosomal RNA gene identified nucleotide sequences with 99% identity to Tetratrichomonas gallinarum, which is a common inhabitant of the intestinal tract of galliform and anseriform birds that has occasionally been associated with disease, including typhlitis and hepatitis. Damage to the cecal mucosa in the pelican from trematodes and secondary bacterial infection could have allowed invasion and systemic dissemination of the organism. Exposure of the pelican to a variety of native and exotic anseriform and galliform birds at the zoological institution could have led to cross-species infection and severe manifestation of disease in a novel host.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel E Burns
- Wildlife Disease Laboratories, Institute for Conservation Research, San Diego Zoo Global, San Diego, CA 92112-0551, USA.
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Laing ST, Weber ES, Yabsley MJ, Shock BC, Grosset C, Petritz OA, Barr B, Reilly CM, Lowenstine LJ. Fatal hepatic tetratrichomoniasis in a juvenile Waldrapp ibis (Geronticus eremita). J Vet Diagn Invest 2013; 25:277-81. [PMID: 23404476 DOI: 10.1177/1040638713476711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Waldrapp ibis (Geronticus eremita) are a critically endangered species, and there are currently more birds in captivity than in the wild. A juvenile, male Waldrapp ibis housed in a mixed-species exhibit was found dead with no premonitory signs. Necropsy revealed extensive necrotizing hepatitis associated with numerous pleomorphic protozoa that were immunohistochemically reactive with antibodies raised against Tritrichomonas foetus, a parasite of cattle. Electron microscopy confirmed the organisms as members of family Trichomonadidae, and sequence analysis of the first ribosomal internal transcribed spacer region (ITS1), 5.8S ribosomal RNA, and ITS2 regions indicated high genetic similarity (96-97%) to members of the Tetratrichomonas gallinarum complex. The animal was born in captivity, and no introductions in this exhibit had occurred since 2009. Other Waldrapp ibis that had contact with the infected male were negative for flagellate infections by fecal examination, thus cross-species transmission is proposed as the source of infection. The host range of the T. gallinarum complex is very large and although the pathogenicity of its members, especially for wild birds, is controversial, these parasites should be considered as a possible cause of acute mortality in Waldrapp ibis. In addition, immunohistochemistry with T. foetus antibodies and molecular diagnostics may be useful tools for preventative veterinary care of endangered bird populations. A greater understanding of the ecology and pathogenesis of this pathogen may also be vital for screening subclinical captive populations and existing wild populations prior to reintroduction efforts.
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Amin A, Bilic I, Berger E, Hess M. Trichomonas gallinae, in comparison to Tetratrichomonas gallinarum, induces distinctive cytopathogenic effects in tissue cultures. Vet Parasitol 2011; 186:196-206. [PMID: 22172581 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2011.11.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2011] [Revised: 11/03/2011] [Accepted: 11/14/2011] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
In the present study the interaction of three genetically different clonal cultures of Trichomonas gallinae and Tetratrichomonas gallinarum with a permanent chicken liver (LMH) and a permanent quail fibroblast (QT35) cell culture was studied. Proliferation of T. gallinae cells was associated with a disintegration of the cell monolayer. The initial lesions on the LMH monolayer consisted of a progressive accumulation of the flagellate, forming clumps attached to the monolayer. A prolonged incubation time was characterized by appearance of holes in the cell monolayer with accumulation of trichomonads at their periphery. According to the severeness of the monolayer disruption differences among three tested T. gallinae clones were noticed. Furthermore, filtrates obtained either from axenic cultures of T. gallinae or from infected cell cultures produced a cytopathogenic effect similar to the protozoal cells, on both types of cell cultures. However, the destructive effect of the flagellates and their cell-free filtrates was much more pronounced on the LMH monolayer in comparison with the QT35 cells. Furthermore, freshly seeded LMH and QT35 cells suspended in cell-free filtrates of T. gallinae were unable to form a confluent monolayer. In comparison to T. gallinae, clonal cultures of T. gallinarum or their cell-free filtrates produced no effect on both types of monolayers. Interestingly, the cell-free filtrates obtained from both trichomonad species had an effect on the viability of both cell cultures. However, the cytotoxic effect of T. gallinarum filtrates was less severe than that recorded by T. gallinae. Consequently, for the first time a destruction of specified monolayers induced by T. gallinae-free filtrates could be demonstrated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aziza Amin
- Clinic for Avian, Reptile and Fish Medicine, Department for Farm Animals and Veterinary Public Health, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, A-1210 Vienna, Austria
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Detection of Tritrichomonas foetus and Pentatrichomonas hominis in intestinal tissue specimens of cats by chromogenic in situ hybridization. Vet Parasitol 2011; 183:209-14. [PMID: 21856079 PMCID: PMC3242073 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2011.07.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2011] [Revised: 07/15/2011] [Accepted: 07/27/2011] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
In this retrospective study 102 cats were analyzed for the presence of trichomonads in intestinal tissue sections using chromogenic in situ hybridization (CISH). Two intestinal trichomonad species are described in cats: Pentatrichomonas hominis and Tritrichomonas foetus. While P. hominis is considered a mere commensal, T. foetus has been found to be the causative agent of feline large-bowel diarrhea. For the detection of both agents within intestinal tissue CISH assays using three different probes were performed. In the first CISH run a probe specific for all relevant members of the order Trichomonadida (OT probe) was used. In a second CISH run all positive samples were further examined on three consecutive tissue sections using the OT probe, a probe specific for the family of Tritrichomonadidae (Tritri probe) and a newly designed probe specifically detecting P. hominis (Penta hom probe). In total, four of the 102 cats were found to be positive with the OT probe. Thereof, one cat gave a positive reaction with the P. hominis probe and three cats were positive with the T. foetus probe. All Trichomonas-positive cats were pure-bred and between 8 and 32 weeks of age. In one cat positive for T. foetus large amounts of parasites were found in the gut lumen and invading the intestinal mucosa. The species of the detected trichomonads were confirmed by polymerase chain reaction and nucleotide sequencing of a part of the 18S ribosomal RNA gene. In this study, the usefulness of CISH to detect intestinal trichomonads within feline tissue samples was shown. Additionally, the specific detection of P. hominis using CISH was established. Generally, it was shown that CISH is well suited for detection and differentiation of trichomonosis in retrospective studies using tissue samples.
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Liebhart D, Zahoor M, Prokofieva I, Hess M. Safety of avirulent histomonads to be used as a vaccine determined in turkeys and chickens. Poult Sci 2011; 90:996-1003. [DOI: 10.3382/ps.2010-01255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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Grafl B, Liebhart D, Windisch M, Ibesich C, Hess M. Seroprevalence of Histomonas meleagridis in pullets and laying hens determined by ELISA. Vet Rec 2011; 168:160. [PMID: 21493512 DOI: 10.1136/vr.c6479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Serum samples from 1120 layers from 56 flocks and 400 pullets from 20 flocks were tested by an indirect sandwich ELISA to investigate the prevalence of antibodies to Histomonas meleagridis in chickens kept in alternative husbandry systems. The overall prevalence of antibodies to H meleagridis in layers was 37.3 per cent, and positive birds were identified in 50 flocks. This was significantly higher than in pullets, where only 8.3 per cent of the birds tested positive. Optical density (OD) values obtained from pullet sera were much lower than the OD values from layers; however, positive birds were detected in half of the pullet flocks. In particular, all birds from an organic pullet flock were found to be positive, with high OD values. Overall, the highest prevalence of positive sera was obtained from birds kept in free-range flocks. Attempts to reisolate live histomonads from birds in 18 layer flocks were unsuccessful.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Grafl
- Clinic for Avian, Reptile and Fish Medicine, Department for Farm Animals and Veterinary Public Health, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria
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