1
|
Tomášek A, Maňoušek J, Kuta J, Hlásenský J, Křen L, Šindler M, Zelený M, Kala P, Němec P. Metals and Trace Elements in Calcified Valves in Patients with Acquired Severe Aortic Valve Stenosis: Is There a Connection with the Degeneration Process? J Pers Med 2023; 13:jpm13020320. [PMID: 36836554 PMCID: PMC9967375 DOI: 10.3390/jpm13020320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acquired calcified aortic valve stenosis is the most common valve disease in adulthood. In the etiopathogenesis of this complex pathology, the importance of inflammation is mentioned, in which non-infectious influences represented by the biological effects of metal pollutants may participate. The main goal of the study was to determine the concentration of 21 metals and trace elements-aluminium (Al), barium (Ba), cadmium (Cd), calcium (Ca), chrome (Cr), cobalt (Co), copper (Cu), gold (Au), lead (Pb), magnesium (Mg), mercury (Hg), molybdenum (Mo), nickel (Ni), phosphorus (P), selenium (Se), strontium (Sr), sulfur (S), tin (Sn), titanium (Ti), vanadium (V) and zinc (Zn)-in the tissue of calcified aortic valves and to compare them with the concentrations of the same elements in the tissue of healthy aortic valves in the control group. MATERIAL AND METHODS The study group consisted of 49 patients (25 men, mean age: 74) with acquired, severe, calcified aortic valve stenosis with indicated heart surgery. The control group included 34 deceased (20 men, median age: 53) with no evidence of heart disease. Calcified valves were explanted during cardiac surgery and deep frozen. Similarly, the valves of the control group were removed. All valves were lyophilized and analyzed by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. The concentrations of selected elements were compared by means of standard statistical methods. RESULTS Calcified aortic valves contained significantly higher (p < 0.05) concentrations of Ba, Ca, Co, Cr, Mg, P, Pb, Se, Sn, Sr and Zn and-in contrast-lower concentrations of Cd, Cu, Mo, S and V than valves of the control group. Significant positive correlations of concentrations between the pairs Ca-P, Cu-S and Se-S and strong negative correlations between the elements Mg-Se, P-S and Ca-S were found in the affected valves. CONCLUSION Aortic valve calcification is associated with increased tissue accumulation of the majority of the analyzed elements, including metal pollutants. Some exposure factors may increase their accumulation in the valve tissue. A relationship between exposure to environmental burden and the aortic valve calcification process cannot be ruled out. Advances in histochemical and imaging techniques allowing imaging of metal pollutants directly in valve tissue may represent an important future perspective.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aleš Tomášek
- Centre for Cardiovascular Surgery and Transplantation, Pekařská 53, 656 91 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Maňoušek
- Department of Internal Cardiology Medicine, University Hospital and Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Jihlavská 20, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Kuta
- Research Centre for Toxic Compounds in the Environment (RECETOX), Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jiří Hlásenský
- Department of Internal Cardiology Medicine, University Hospital and Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Jihlavská 20, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +420-532-232-454
| | - Leoš Křen
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital and Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Jihlavská 20, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Šindler
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, St Anne’s University Hospital and Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Tvrdého 2a, 662 99 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Michal Zelený
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, St Anne’s University Hospital and Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Tvrdého 2a, 662 99 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Kala
- Department of Internal Cardiology Medicine, University Hospital and Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Jihlavská 20, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Němec
- Centre for Cardiovascular Surgery and Transplantation, Pekařská 53, 656 91 Brno, Czech Republic
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Bertola M, Montarsi F, Obber F, Da Rold G, Carlin S, Toniolo F, Porcellato E, Falcaro C, Mondardini V, Ormelli S, Ravagnan S. Occurrence and Identification of Ixodes ricinus Borne Pathogens in Northeastern Italy. Pathogens 2021; 10:1181. [PMID: 34578213 PMCID: PMC8470124 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10091181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Revised: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
In Europe, Ixodes ricinus is the main vector for tick-borne pathogens (TBPs), the most common tick species in Italy, particularly represented in pre-alpine and hilly northern areas. From 2011 to 2017, ticks were collected by dragging in Belluno province (northeast Italy) and analyzed by molecular techniques for TBP detection. Several species of Rickettsia spp. and Borrelia spp. Anaplaspa phagocitophilum, Neoerlichia mikurensis and Babesia venatorum, were found to be circulating in the study area carried by I. ricinus (n = 2668, all stages). Overall, 39.1% of screened pools were positive for at least one TBP, with a prevalence of 12.25% and 29.2% in immature stages and adults, respectively. Pathogens were detected in 85% of the monitored municipalities, moreover the presence of TBPs varied from one to seven different pathogens in the same year. The annual TBPs prevalence fluctuations observed in each municipality highlights the necessity of performing continuous tick surveillance. In conclusion, the observation of TBPs in ticks remains an efficient strategy for monitoring the circulation of tick-borne diseases (TBDs) in a specific area.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michela Bertola
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell’Università 10, Legnaro, 35020 Padua, Italy; (F.M.); (F.O.); (G.D.R.); (S.C.); (F.T.); (E.P.); (C.F.); (S.O.); (S.R.)
| | - Fabrizio Montarsi
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell’Università 10, Legnaro, 35020 Padua, Italy; (F.M.); (F.O.); (G.D.R.); (S.C.); (F.T.); (E.P.); (C.F.); (S.O.); (S.R.)
| | - Federica Obber
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell’Università 10, Legnaro, 35020 Padua, Italy; (F.M.); (F.O.); (G.D.R.); (S.C.); (F.T.); (E.P.); (C.F.); (S.O.); (S.R.)
| | - Graziana Da Rold
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell’Università 10, Legnaro, 35020 Padua, Italy; (F.M.); (F.O.); (G.D.R.); (S.C.); (F.T.); (E.P.); (C.F.); (S.O.); (S.R.)
| | - Sara Carlin
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell’Università 10, Legnaro, 35020 Padua, Italy; (F.M.); (F.O.); (G.D.R.); (S.C.); (F.T.); (E.P.); (C.F.); (S.O.); (S.R.)
| | - Federica Toniolo
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell’Università 10, Legnaro, 35020 Padua, Italy; (F.M.); (F.O.); (G.D.R.); (S.C.); (F.T.); (E.P.); (C.F.); (S.O.); (S.R.)
| | - Elena Porcellato
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell’Università 10, Legnaro, 35020 Padua, Italy; (F.M.); (F.O.); (G.D.R.); (S.C.); (F.T.); (E.P.); (C.F.); (S.O.); (S.R.)
| | - Christian Falcaro
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell’Università 10, Legnaro, 35020 Padua, Italy; (F.M.); (F.O.); (G.D.R.); (S.C.); (F.T.); (E.P.); (C.F.); (S.O.); (S.R.)
| | | | - Silvia Ormelli
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell’Università 10, Legnaro, 35020 Padua, Italy; (F.M.); (F.O.); (G.D.R.); (S.C.); (F.T.); (E.P.); (C.F.); (S.O.); (S.R.)
| | - Silvia Ravagnan
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell’Università 10, Legnaro, 35020 Padua, Italy; (F.M.); (F.O.); (G.D.R.); (S.C.); (F.T.); (E.P.); (C.F.); (S.O.); (S.R.)
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Cafiso A, Olivieri E, Floriano AM, Chiappa G, Serra V, Sassera D, Bazzocchi C. Investigation of Tick-Borne Pathogens in Ixodes ricinus in a Peri-Urban Park in Lombardy (Italy) Reveals the Presence of Emerging Pathogens. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10060732. [PMID: 34200825 PMCID: PMC8230559 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10060732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Revised: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Ticks are important vectors of a great range of pathogens of medical and veterinary importance. Lately, the spread of known tick-borne pathogens has been expanding, and novel ones have been identified as (re)emerging health threats. Updating the current knowledge on tick-borne pathogens in areas where humans and animals can be easily exposed to ticks represents a starting point for epidemiological studies and public awareness. A PCR screening for tick-borne pathogens was carried out in Ixodes ricinus ticks collected in a peri-urban recreational park in Ticino Valley, Italy. The presence of Rickettsia spp., Borrelia burgdorferi senso latu complex, Anaplasma spp. and Babesia spp. was evaluated in a total of 415 I. ricinus specimens. Rickettsia spp. (R monacensis and R. helvetica) were detected in 22.96% of the samples, while B. burgdorferi s.l. complex (B. afzelii and B. lusitaniae) were present in 10.94%. Neoehrlichia mikurensis (1.99%) and Babesia venatorum (0.73%) were reported in the area of study for the first time. This study confirmed the presence of endemic tick-borne pathogens and highlighted the presence of emerging pathogens that should be monitored especially in relation to fragile patients, the difficult diagnosis of tick-borne associated diseases and possible interactions with other tick-borne pathogens.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Cafiso
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Milan, Via dell’Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy; (G.C.); (V.S.); (C.B.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0250334533
| | - Emanuela Olivieri
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Pavia, Via Ferrata 9, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (E.O.); (A.M.F.); (D.S.)
| | - Anna Maria Floriano
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Pavia, Via Ferrata 9, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (E.O.); (A.M.F.); (D.S.)
| | - Giulia Chiappa
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Milan, Via dell’Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy; (G.C.); (V.S.); (C.B.)
| | - Valentina Serra
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Milan, Via dell’Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy; (G.C.); (V.S.); (C.B.)
| | - Davide Sassera
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Pavia, Via Ferrata 9, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (E.O.); (A.M.F.); (D.S.)
| | - Chiara Bazzocchi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Milan, Via dell’Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy; (G.C.); (V.S.); (C.B.)
- Coordinated Research Center “EpiSoMI”, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Colomba C, Siracusa L, Trizzino M, Gioè C, Giammanco A, Cascio A. Myocarditis in Mediterranean spotted fever: a case report and a review of the literature. JMM Case Rep 2016; 3:e005039. [PMID: 28348768 PMCID: PMC5330236 DOI: 10.1099/jmmcr.0.005039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2015] [Accepted: 04/19/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Mediterranean spotted fever (MSF) is a tick-borne acute febrile disease caused by Rickettsia conorii. Most cases follow a benign course, with a case fatality rate of 3-7 % among hospitalized patients. Complications are described mainly in adult patients and include hepatic, renal, neurological and cardiac impairment. Among cardiac complications, pericarditis, myocarditis and heart rhythm disorders are uncommon complications in MSF and only a few cases have been reported in the literature. CASE PRESENTATION We describe a new case of acute myocarditis complicating MSF in an immunocompetent adult patient without risk factors for severe MSF. CONCLUSION Myocarditis is an uncommon but severe complication of MSF. Clinicians should be aware of a possible cardiac involvement in patients with MSF. Close monitoring and an aggressive approach are essential to reduce mortality rates of MSF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Colomba
- Dipartimento di Scienze per la promozione della salute e materno-infantile, Università di Palermo, Italy
| | - Lucia Siracusa
- Dipartimento di Scienze per la promozione della salute e materno-infantile, Università di Palermo, Italy
| | - Marcello Trizzino
- Dipartimento di Scienze per la promozione della salute e materno-infantile, Università di Palermo, Italy
| | - Claudia Gioè
- Dipartimento di Scienze per la promozione della salute e materno-infantile, Università di Palermo, Italy
| | - Anna Giammanco
- Dipartimento di Scienze per la promozione della salute e materno-infantile, Università di Palermo, Italy
| | - Antonio Cascio
- Dipartimento di Scienze per la promozione della salute e materno-infantile, Università di Palermo, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Sréter-Lancz Z, Sréter T, Széll Z, Egyed L. Molecular evidence ofRickettsia helveticaandR. monacensisinfections inIxodes ricinusfrom Hungary. ANNALS OF TROPICAL MEDICINE AND PARASITOLOGY 2013; 99:325-30. [PMID: 15829141 DOI: 10.1179/136485905x28027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Z Sréter-Lancz
- Department of Microbiology, National Food Investigation Institute, H-1095 Budapest, Mester u. 81, Hungary
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
6
|
Sfar N, M'Ghirbi Y, Letaïef A, Parola P, Bouattour A, Raoult D. First report ofRickettsia monacensisandRickettsia helveticafrom Tunisia. ANNALS OF TROPICAL MEDICINE AND PARASITOLOGY 2013; 102:561-4. [DOI: 10.1179/136485908x311795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
|
7
|
Edvinsson M, Nilsson K, Thelin S, Nyström-Rosander C. No evidence of Chlamydophila spp. or other intracellular bacteria in mitral valves. Int J Cardiol 2013; 164:249-50. [PMID: 22805541 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2012.06.075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2012] [Accepted: 06/24/2012] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
|
8
|
Tijsse-Klasen E, Fonville M, Gassner F, Nijhof AM, Hovius EKE, Jongejan F, Takken W, Reimerink JR, Overgaauw PAM, Sprong H. Absence of zoonotic Bartonella species in questing ticks: first detection of Bartonella clarridgeiae and Rickettsia felis in cat fleas in the Netherlands. Parasit Vectors 2011; 4:61. [PMID: 21501464 PMCID: PMC3087693 DOI: 10.1186/1756-3305-4-61] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2011] [Accepted: 04/18/2011] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Awareness for flea- and tick-borne infections has grown in recent years and the range of microorganisms associated with these ectoparasites is rising. Bartonella henselae, the causative agent of Cat Scratch Disease, and other Bartonella species have been reported in fleas and ticks. The role of Ixodes ricinus ticks in the natural cycle of Bartonella spp. and the transmission of these bacteria to humans is unclear. Rickettsia spp. have also been reported from as well ticks as also from fleas. However, to date no flea-borne Rickettsia spp. were reported from the Netherlands. Here, the presence of Bartonellaceae and Rickettsiae in ectoparasites was investigated using molecular detection and identification on part of the gltA- and 16S rRNA-genes. Results The zoonotic Bartonella clarridgeiae and Rickettsia felis were detected for the first time in Dutch cat fleas. B. henselae was found in cat fleas and B. schoenbuchensis in ticks and keds feeding on deer. Two Bartonella species, previously identified in rodents, were found in wild mice and their fleas. However, none of these microorganisms were found in 1719 questing Ixodes ricinus ticks. Notably, the gltA gene amplified from DNA lysates of approximately 10% of the questing nymph and adult ticks was similar to that of an uncultured Bartonella-related species found in other hard tick species. The gltA gene of this Bartonella-related species was also detected in questing larvae for which a 16S rRNA gene PCR also tested positive for "Candidatus Midichloria mitochondrii". The gltA-gene of the Bartonella-related species found in I. ricinus may therefore be from this endosymbiont. Conclusions We conclude that the risk of acquiring Cat Scratch Disease or a related bartonellosis from questing ticks in the Netherlands is negligible. On the other hand fleas and deer keds are probable vectors for associated Bartonella species between animals and might also transmit Bartonella spp. to humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ellen Tijsse-Klasen
- Laboratory for Zoonoses and Environmental Microbiology, National Institute for Public Health and Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
Tijsse-Klasen E, Fonville M, Reimerink JH, Spitzen-van der Sluijs A, Sprong H. Role of sand lizards in the ecology of Lyme and other tick-borne diseases in the Netherlands. Parasit Vectors 2010; 3:42. [PMID: 20470386 PMCID: PMC2890652 DOI: 10.1186/1756-3305-3-42] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2010] [Accepted: 05/14/2010] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Lizards are considered zooprophylactic for almost all Borrelia burgdorferi species, and act as dilution hosts in parts of North America. Whether European lizards significantly reduce the ability of B. burgdorferi to maintain itself in enzootic cycles, and consequently decrease the infection rate of Ixodes ricinus ticks for B. burgdorferi and other tick-borne pathogens in Western Europe is not clear. Results Ticks were collected from sand lizards, their habitat (heath) and from the adjacent forest. DNA of tick-borne pathogens was detected by PCR followed by reverse line blotting. Tick densities were measured at all four locations by blanket dragging. Nymphs and adult ticks collected from lizards had a significantly lower (1.4%) prevalence of B. burgdorferi sensu lato, compared to questing ticks in heath (24%) or forest (19%). The prevalence of Rickettsia helvetica was significantly higher in ticks from lizards (19%) than those from woodland (10%) whereas neither was significantly different from the prevalence in ticks from heather (15%). The prevalence of Anaplasma and Ehrlichia spp in heather (12%) and forest (14%) were comparable, but significantly lower in ticks from sand lizards (5.4%). The prevalence of Babesia spp in ticks varied between 0 and 5.3%. Tick load of lizards ranged from 1 - 16. Tick densities were ~ 5-fold lower in the heather areas than in woodlands at all four sites. Conclusions Despite their apparent low reservoir competence, the presence of sand lizards had insignificant impact on the B. burgdorferi s.l. infection rate of questing ticks. In contrast, sand lizards might act as reservoir hosts for R. helvetica. Remarkably, the public health risk from tick-borne diseases is approximately five times lower in heather than in woodland, due to the low tick densities in heather.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ellen Tijsse-Klasen
- Laboratory for Zoonoses and Environmental Microbiology, National Institute for Public Health and Environment (RIVM), Antonie van Leeuwenhoeklaan 9, PO Box 1, Bilthoven, the Netherlands.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Frykholm B. Hypotheses concerning rickettsial microorganisms, autoimmune diseases and new treatment strategies. Med Hypotheses 2010; 74:758-60. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2009.11.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2009] [Accepted: 11/18/2009] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
|
11
|
Elfving K, Lindblom A, Nilsson K. Seroprevalence of Rickettsia spp. infection among tick-bitten patients and blood donors in Sweden. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009; 40:74-7. [PMID: 17852905 DOI: 10.1080/00365540701509907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Serum samples from 236 Swedish patients with symptoms of infectious disease appearing after a tick bite were analysed for the presence of antibodies to Rickettsia helvetica, the only rickettsial species so far isolated from ticks in Sweden. Of these subjects, 137 had tested seropositive for Borrelia burgdorferi. For control purposes, sera from 161 healthy blood donors were examined. A total of 10/397 samples (2.6%) showed IgG-antibodies to R. helvetica at or above a titre of 1/80 as cut-off. 6/137 (4.4%) belonged to the Borrelia positive group, 3/99 (3.0%) to the tick-bitten but Borrelia negative group and 1/161 (0.6%) to the control group. The difference between the tick-exposed groups and the control group was significant in Pearson's 2-sided chi(2) test. In 1 serum sample the presence of antibodies to R. helvetica was further confirmed by Western immunoblot. The study shows that infection with Rickettsia spp. as well as coinfection with Lyme borreliosis needs to be considered in the diagnosis of tick-transmitted infections in Sweden. Owing to a known occurrence of immunological cross-reactivites, however, the results must be cautiously interpreted with regard to species of Rickettsia involved.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karin Elfving
- From the Departments of Microbiology, Falu Central Hospital, Falu, Sweden
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
On the question of infectious aetiologies for multiple sclerosis, schizophrenia and the chronic fatigue syndrome and their treatment with antibiotics. Med Hypotheses 2009; 72:736-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2008.11.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2008] [Revised: 08/25/2008] [Accepted: 11/13/2008] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
|
13
|
Molecular Investigations of Rickettsia helvetica infection in dogs, foxes, humans, and Ixodes ticks. Appl Environ Microbiol 2009; 75:3230-7. [PMID: 19329665 DOI: 10.1128/aem.00220-09] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Rickettsia helvetica, a tick-borne member of the spotted-fever-group rickettsiae, is a suspected pathogen in humans; however, its role in animals is unknown. The aims of this study were to establish a R. helvetica-specific real-time TaqMan PCR assay and apply it to the analysis of tick vectors (to determine potential exposure risk) and blood samples from Canidae and humans (to determine prevalence of infection). The newly designed 23S rRNA gene assay for R. helvetica was more sensitive than a published citrate synthase gene (gltA) assay for several rickettsiae. Blood samples from 884 dogs, 58 foxes, and 214 human patients and 2,073 ticks (Ixodes spp.) collected from either vegetation or animals were analyzed. Although the maximal likelihood estimate of prevalence was 12% in unfed ticks and 36% in ticks collected from animals, none of the 1,156 blood samples tested PCR positive. Ticks from cats were more frequently PCR positive than ticks from dogs. Sequencing of the 23S rRNA and/or the gltA gene of 17 tick pools confirmed the presence of R. helvetica. Additionally, Rickettsia monacensis, which has not been previously found in Switzerland, was identified. In conclusion, R. helvetica was frequently detected in the tick population but not in blood samples. Nevertheless, due to the broad host range of Ixodes ticks and the high rate of infestation with this agent (i.e., R. helvetica was 13 times more frequent in unfed ticks than the tick-borne encephalitis virus), many mammals may be exposed to R. helvetica. The PCR assay described here represents an important tool for studying this topic.
Collapse
|
14
|
Presence of Chlamydophila pneumoniae DNA but not mRNA in stenotic aortic heart valves. Int J Cardiol 2009; 143:57-62. [PMID: 19246110 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2009.01.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2008] [Revised: 01/24/2009] [Accepted: 01/26/2009] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The pathogenesis of aortic valve stenosis may involve inflammation and we have previously demonstrated Chlamydophila pneumoniae (C. pneumoniae) DNA in stenotic aortic heart valves. Dissemination of these bacteria is probably mediated by alveolar macrophages. Bacterial DNA alone does not indicate whether the bacteria are viable and replicating. This study aimed to investigate the presence of C. pneumoniae mRNA, a marker of replicating bacteria, and C. pneumoniae DNA in stenotic aortic valves and the prevalence of C. pneumoniae in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). METHODS DNA was extracted from heart valves and PBMC and mRNA from heart valves from 76 patients undergoing aortic valve replacement surgery. C. pneumoniae DNA and mRNA were measured by real-time PCR targeting the ompA gene. RESULTS C. pneumoniae DNA was demonstrated in 22% of heart valves and in 5% of PBMC. C. pneumoniae mRNA was not detected in any valve. Patients positive for C. pneumoniae in the valve underwent coronary artery by-pass grafting more often (p=0.01) and suffered from angina pectoris (p=0.02) and arterial hypertension (p=0.03) more often than patients negative for C. pneumoniae in the valve. CONCLUSIONS These findings support a role for C. pneumoniae in the pathogenesis of aortic valve stenosis and indicate that the bacteria disseminate from the respiratory tract long before the patients were in need of surgery and that the valve infection thereafter entered into a persistent and non-replicative state. Moreover, patients positive for C. pneumoniae in the valve more often needed by-pass grafting because of more advanced coronary disease.
Collapse
|
15
|
Sarih M, Socolovschi C, Boudebouch N, Hassar M, Raoult D, Parola P. Spotted fever group rickettsiae in ticks, Morocco. Emerg Infect Dis 2008; 14:1067-73. [PMID: 18598627 PMCID: PMC2600325 DOI: 10.3201/eid1407.070096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Identified rickettsiae were 4 pathogens, 2 suspected pathogens, and 1 incompletely described species. A total of 370 ticks, encompassing 7 species from 4 genera, were collected during 2002–2006 from domestic animals and vegetation in the Taza region of northeastern Morocco. Rickettsial DNA was identified in 101 ticks (27%) by sequencing PCR products of fragments of the citrate synthase and outer membrane protein genes of Rickettsia spp. Seven rickettsiae of the spotted fever group were identified, including 4 pathogens: R. aeschlimannii in Hyalomma marginatum marginatum, R. massiliae in Rhipicephalus sanguineus, R. slovaca in Dermacentor marginatus, and R. monacensis in Ixodes ricinus. Two suspected pathogens were also detected (R. raoultii in D. marginatus and R. helvetica in I. ricinus). An incompletely described Rickettsia sp. was detected in Haemaphysalis spp. ticks.
Collapse
|
16
|
Casolari C, Pecorari M, Balli F, Fabio G, Gennari W, Sabbatini AMT, Nanni N, Migaldi M, Guaraldi N, Tagliazucchi S, Alù M, Bertoli G, Fabio R, Portolani M. Unusual concurrent detection by polymerase chain reaction of Bartonella henselae and parvovirus b19 in an immunocompetent child with erythema nodosum and hepatic granulomatous disease. Diagn Microbiol Infect Dis 2007; 59:81-4. [PMID: 17532594 DOI: 10.1016/j.diagmicrobio.2007.03.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2006] [Revised: 03/20/2007] [Accepted: 03/23/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
We report an unusual case of documented Bartonella henselae genotype I from hepatic tissue in an Italian immunocompetent girl presenting with erythema nodosum and hepatic granulomata. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed on biopsied liver sample to confirm the etiologic role of B. henselae and to identify the genetic variant of this organism. A PCR on the same liver biopsy for parvovirus B19 was also positive, but the clinical meaning of this was not clear.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Casolari
- Department of Medical Laboratory and Legal Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena 41100, Italy.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Brouqui P, Parola P, Fournier PE, Raoult D. Spotted fever rickettsioses in southern and eastern Europe. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007; 49:2-12. [PMID: 17266709 DOI: 10.1111/j.1574-695x.2006.00138.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Mediterranean spotted fever due to Rickettsia conorii conorii was thought, for many years, to be the only tick-borne rickettsial disease prevalent in southern and eastern Europe. However, in recent years, six more species or subspecies within the spotted fever group of the genus Rickettsia have been described as emerging pathogens in this part of the world. Tick-borne agents include Rickettsia conorii israelensis, Rickettsia conorii caspia, Rickettsia aeschlimannii, Rickettsia slovaca, Rickettsia sibirica mongolitimonae and Rickettsia massiliae. Many Rickettsia of unknown pathogenicity have also been detected from ticks and could represent potential emerging pathogens to be discovered in the future. Furthermore, a new spotted fever rickettsia, Rickettsia felis, was found to be associated with cat fleas and is an emerging human pathogen. Finally, the mite-transmitted Rickettsia akari, the agent of rickettsialpox, is also known to be prevalent in Europe. We present here an overview of these rickettsioses, focusing on emerging diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Philippe Brouqui
- Unité des Rickettsies, Faculté de Médecine, Université de la Méditerranée, Marseille, France.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Apfalter P, Reischl U, Hammerschlag MR. In-house nucleic acid amplification assays in research: how much quality control is needed before one can rely upon the results? J Clin Microbiol 2006; 43:5835-41. [PMID: 16333064 PMCID: PMC1317225 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.43.12.5835-5841.2005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Petra Apfalter
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Institute of Hygiene and Medical Microbiology, Vienna General Hospital, Waehringer Guertel 18-20/5P, 1090 Vienna, Austria.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Abstract
Rickettsiae are obligate intracellular alpha-proteobacteria that primarily target the microvascular endothelium. In the last two decades, new rickettsial pathogens have been associated with human illness around the world. Clinically, the common denominator in all rickettsioses is the development of increased microvascular permeability, leading to cerebral and non-cardiogenic pulmonary edema. With the development of powerful research tools, advances in the understanding of rickettsial pathogenesis have been dramatic. Entry into the host cell is followed by rapid escape into the cytoplasm to avoid phagolysosomal fusion. Spotted fever group rickettsiae induce actin polymerization via a group of proteins called RickA, which promote nucleation of actin monomers via the Arp2/3 complex at one rickettsial pole, propelling the bacteria across the cytoplasm and into neighboring cells. Damage to the host cell is most likely multifactorial. The most extensively studied mechanism is the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and downregulation of enzymes involved in protection against oxidative injury. The significance of ROS-mediated cellular damage in vivo is beginning to be elucidated. The main pathogenic mechanism is increased microvascular permeability leading to profound metabolic disturbances in the extravascular compartment. The underlying factors responsible for those changes are beginning to be elucidated in vitro and include direct effects of intracellular rickettsiae, cytokines, and possibly activated coagulation factors--all of which most likely modify interendothelial junctions. Our knowledge on rickettsial pathogenesis will continue to expand in the near future as new research tools become available.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juan P Olano
- Center for Biodefense and Emerging Infectious Diseases, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555-0609, USA.
| |
Collapse
|