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Kantzanou M, Kostares E, Kostare G, Papagiannopoulou E, Kostares M, Tsakris A. Prevalence of Leishmaniasis among Blood Donors: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Diseases 2024; 12:160. [PMID: 39057131 PMCID: PMC11276524 DOI: 10.3390/diseases12070160] [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: 05/30/2024] [Revised: 07/07/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Our study seeks to provide a comprehensive assessment of leishmaniasis prevalence among blood donors, employing rigorous methodologies to inform public health initiatives and transfusion safety measures. A thorough literature search was conducted using electronic databases (Medline, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar) to identify the relevant studies reporting the prevalence of leishmaniasis among blood donors, gathering a wide range of studies encompassing different geographic locations and time periods. The pooled prevalence with a 95% confidence interval (CI) was estimated, and quality assessment, outlier analysis, and influential analysis were performed to ensure the robustness and validity of the findings. Our search and subsequent analyses led to the inclusion of thirty-five studies in our review. Using molecular diagnostic methods, the prevalence was estimated at 2.3% (95% CI 1-3.9%), while serological diagnostic methods indicated a higher prevalence rate of 4.5% (95% CI 2.8-6.7%). Notably, we observed significant heterogeneity among the included studies for each analysis. The observed heterogeneity highlights the need for future research to delve into the factors influencing leishmaniasis prevalence, with prospective and retrospective studies addressing the limitations identified in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Kantzanou
- Department of Microbiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 115 27 Athens, Greece
| | - Evangelos Kostares
- Department of Microbiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 115 27 Athens, Greece
| | - Georgia Kostare
- Department of Microbiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 115 27 Athens, Greece
| | - Evangelia Papagiannopoulou
- Department of Microbiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 115 27 Athens, Greece
| | - Michael Kostares
- Department of Anatomy, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 115 27 Athens, Greece
| | - Athanasios Tsakris
- Department of Anatomy, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 115 27 Athens, Greece
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Hide M, Michel G, Legueult K, Pin R, Leonard S, Simon L, Bañuls AL, Delaunay P, Marty P, Pomares C. Asymptomatic Leishmania infantum infection in dogs and dog owners in an endemic area in southeast France. Parasite 2024; 31:16. [PMID: 38530209 DOI: 10.1051/parasite/2024019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of asymptomatic leishmaniasis in dogs and their owners in the main endemic areas of France has not been studied to date. The objective of this study was to quantify asymptomatic Leishmania infantum infection in southeast France in healthy people and their dogs using molecular and serological screening techniques. We examined the presence of parasitic DNA using specific PCR targeting kinetoplast DNA (kDNA) and specific antibodies by serology (ELISA for dogs and Western blot for humans) among immunocompetent residents and their dogs in the Alpes-Maritimes. Results from 343 humans and 607 dogs were included. 46.9% (n = 161/343) of humans and 18.3% (n = 111/607) of dogs were PCR positive; 40.2% of humans (n = 138/343) and 9.9% of dogs (n = 60/607) were serology positive. Altogether, 66.2% of humans (n = 227) and 25.7% of dogs (n = 156) had positive serologies and/or positive PCR test results. Short-haired dogs were more frequently infected (71.8%, n = 112) than long-haired dogs (12.2%, n = 19) (p = 0.043). Dogs seemed to be more susceptible to asymptomatic infection according to their breed types (higher infection rates in scenthounds, gun dogs and herding dogs) (p = 0.04). The highest proportion of dogs and human asymptomatic infections was found in the Vence Region, corresponding to 28.2% (n = 20/71) of dogs and 70.5% (n = 31/44) of humans (4.5/100,000 people). In conclusion, the percentage of infections in asymptomatic humans is higher than in asymptomatic dogs in the studied endemic area. It is questionable whether asymptomatic infection in humans constitutes a risk factor for dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mallorie Hide
- MIVEGEC, Université de Montpellier, IRD, CNRS, 911 av Agropolis, 34090, Montpellier, France
| | - Gregory Michel
- Centre Méditerranéen de Médecine Moléculaire (C3M), U1065, Université Côte d'Azur, Inserm, 151 route Saint Antoine de Ginestière, BP 2 3194 06204, Nice, France
| | - Kevin Legueult
- Département de Santé Publique, UR2CA, Université Côte d'Azur, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, 151, route de Saint Antoine de Ginestière, CS 23079 06202, Nice, France
| | - Raphaelle Pin
- Laboratoire Vétérinaire Départemental, 105 route des Chappes, BP 107 06902, Sophia-Antipolis, France
| | - Susana Leonard
- MIVEGEC, Université de Montpellier, IRD, CNRS, 911 av Agropolis, 34090, Montpellier, France
| | - Loïc Simon
- Centre Méditerranéen de Médecine Moléculaire (C3M), U1065, Université Côte d'Azur, Inserm, 151 route Saint Antoine de Ginestière, BP 2 3194 06204, Nice, France - Service de Parasitologie Mycologie, CHU Nice, 151, route de Saint Antoine de Ginestière, CS 23079 06202, Nice, France
| | - Anne-Laure Bañuls
- MIVEGEC, Université de Montpellier, IRD, CNRS, 911 av Agropolis, 34090, Montpellier, France
| | - Pascal Delaunay
- Service de Parasitologie Mycologie, CHU Nice, 151, route de Saint Antoine de Ginestière, CS 23079 06202, Nice, France
| | - Pierre Marty
- Centre Méditerranéen de Médecine Moléculaire (C3M), U1065, Université Côte d'Azur, Inserm, 151 route Saint Antoine de Ginestière, BP 2 3194 06204, Nice, France - Service de Parasitologie Mycologie, CHU Nice, 151, route de Saint Antoine de Ginestière, CS 23079 06202, Nice, France
| | - Christelle Pomares
- Centre Méditerranéen de Médecine Moléculaire (C3M), U1065, Université Côte d'Azur, Inserm, 151 route Saint Antoine de Ginestière, BP 2 3194 06204, Nice, France - Service de Parasitologie Mycologie, CHU Nice, 151, route de Saint Antoine de Ginestière, CS 23079 06202, Nice, France
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Mulè A, Crosato V, Kuhns DB, Lorenzi L, Chirico C, Maifredi G, Notarangelo LD, Castelli F, Tomasoni LR. Visceral Leishmaniasis in Immunocompetent Hosts in Brescia: A Case Series and Analysis of Cytokine Cascade. Microorganisms 2024; 12:394. [PMID: 38399799 PMCID: PMC10892745 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12020394] [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: 01/26/2024] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a parasitic zoonosis caused by Leishmania spp. that usually manifests itself in immunocompromised subjects. It is a rare and neglected disease, and it is not endemic in the province of Brescia (Italy). Three cases of human VL occurred in Brescia from October to December 2021 in immunocompetent patients. We evaluated the patients looking for signs of underlying immunodeficiencies and conducted further epidemiological evaluations in the province of Brescia without success. An analysis of the sera levels of the main cytokines involved in the immune response to VL was performed. All patients presented a significant augmentation of CXCL-10, CCL-4, and IL-6. The patients tested during the acute phase showed an elevation of IL-1α, IL-5, IL-10, and IL-12, while in the recovery phase, higher levels of TNF-α and IL-7 were detected. Altogether, a predominant activation of the T-helper-2 pathway emerged during the acute phase of the parasite infection, while the cytokines associated with the T-helper-1 pathway were less represented. This imbalanced immune response to the parasite infection might play a crucial role in the development of VL in immunocompetent patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Mulè
- Unit of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia and ASST Spedali Civili di Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (V.C.); (F.C.)
| | - Verena Crosato
- Unit of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia and ASST Spedali Civili di Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (V.C.); (F.C.)
| | - Douglas Byron Kuhns
- Neutrophil Monitoring Laboratory, Applied/Developmental Research Directorate, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD 20701, USA;
| | - Luisa Lorenzi
- Pathology Unit, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy;
| | - Claudia Chirico
- Department of Hygiene and Health Prevention, Health Protection Agency of Brescia (ATS Brescia), 25124 Brescia, Italy
| | - Giovanni Maifredi
- Epidemiology Unit, Health Protection Agency of Brescia (ATS Brescia), 25124 Brescia, Italy;
| | - Luigi D. Notarangelo
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, Division of Intramural Research, NIAID, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20852, USA;
| | - Francesco Castelli
- Unit of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia and ASST Spedali Civili di Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (V.C.); (F.C.)
| | - Lina R. Tomasoni
- Unit of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, ASST Spedali Civili di Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy;
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Deni A, De Pascali AM, Ortalli M, Balducelli E, Provenzano M, Ferrara F, Busutti M, La Manna G, Zammarchi L, Bartoloni A, Caroti L, Ibarra-Meneses AV, Carrillo E, Comai G, Varani S. Identification of asymptomatic Leishmania infection in patients undergoing kidney transplant using multiple tests. Int J Infect Dis 2024; 138:81-83. [PMID: 37995832 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2023.11.012] [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: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In immunocompromised patients, asymptomatic Leishmania infection can reactivate, and evolve to severe disease. To date, no test is considered the gold standard for the identification of asymptomatic Leishmania infection. A combination of methods was employed to screen for Leishmania infection in patients undergoing kidney transplant (KT). METHODS We employed polymerase chain reaction for the detection of parasitic DNA in peripheral blood, Western blot to identify serum immunoglobulin G and whole blood assay to detect cytokines/chemokines after stimulation of whole blood with parasitic antigen. RESULTS One-hundred twenty patients residing in Italy were included in the study at the time of KT. Each patient that tested positive to at least one test was considered as Leishmania positive. Fifty out of 120 patients (42%) tested positive for one or more tests. The detection of specific cell-mediated response (32/111, 29%) was the most common marker of Leishmania infection, followed by a positive serology (24/120, 20%). Four patients (3%) harbored parasitic DNA in the blood. CONCLUSION Our findings underline the high prevalence of asymptomatic Leishmania infection in patients undergoing KT in Italy, who are potentially at-risk for parasite reactivation and can benefit from an increased vigilance. Understanding the clinical relevance of these findings deserves further studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Deni
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Margherita Ortalli
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy; Unit of Microbiology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Emma Balducelli
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Michele Provenzano
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy; Nephrology, Dialysis and Renal Transplant Unit, IRCCS Azienza Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesca Ferrara
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Marco Busutti
- Nephrology, Dialysis and Renal Transplant Unit, IRCCS Azienza Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Gaetano La Manna
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy; Nephrology, Dialysis and Renal Transplant Unit, IRCCS Azienza Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Zammarchi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy; Infectious and Tropical Diseases Unit, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Alessandro Bartoloni
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy; Infectious and Tropical Diseases Unit, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Leonardo Caroti
- Nephrology, Dialysis, Transplantation Unit, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Ana Victoria Ibarra-Meneses
- Département de pathologie et microbiologie, Faculté de médecine vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, J2S 2M2 Saint-Hyacinthe, Canada; The Research Group on Infectious Diseases in Production Animals (GREMIP), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Université de Montréal, J2S 2M2 Montreal, Canada
| | - Eugenia Carrillo
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Leishmaniasis, National Centre for Microbiology, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Giorgia Comai
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy; Nephrology, Dialysis and Renal Transplant Unit, IRCCS Azienza Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Stefania Varani
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy; Unit of Microbiology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy.
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5
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Asymptomatic Leishmania infection in humans: A systematic review. J Infect Public Health 2023; 16:286-294. [PMID: 36630836 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiph.2022.12.021] [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: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Leishmaniasis is a highly prevalent neglected tropical disease. It mainly presents as two forms: cutaneous and visceral leishmaniasis, the latter being the most severe form. However, asymptomatic cases of Leishmania infection result in an increase in the underreporting and transmission of the protozoan OBJECTIVES: In this study, articles on the incidence of asymptomatic Leishmania infection were systematically reviewed. METHODS The publications identified in the Medline/PubMed and Science Direct databases included 4568 articles. Inclusion, exclusion, and eligibility criterion analysis resulted in 83 articles being retained. These studies were mostly performed in Brazil (n = 26) and India (n = 15). RESULTS Several detection techniques have been used for diagnosis. Among the species found were L. infantum and L. donovani, which result in visceral leishmaniasis, and L. amazonensis, L. braziliensis, and L. panamensis. The incidence rates varied between the analyzed locations, largely due to sampling and the presence or absence of endemism in the regions. The largest populations analyzed were in two studies performed in India and Nepal. One of these studies evaluated 32,529 people and the incidence rate was 8.3% (n = 2702), while the other study evaluated 21,267 people and the incidence rate was 1.76% (n = 375). Only 14.28% of the studies investigated leishmaniasis in blood donors. Preexisting diseases have also been reported. CONCLUSION The findings of this systematic review present the incidence of cases of asymptomatic Leishmania infection worldwide, in addition to detailing the studies and offering information for researchers and health authorities to seek alternatives to reduce the number of leishmaniasis cases.
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Zaghi I, Ielasi L, Stagni B, Cascavilla A, Ferri S, Ambrosini V, Riefolo M, Varani S. A case of Leishmania infection with focal splanchnic involvement without systemic symptoms: a potential anti-inflammatory role for vitamin D. Acta Clin Belg 2022:1-4. [DOI: 10.1080/17843286.2022.2145686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- I Zaghi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Division of Internal Medicine, Hepatobiliary and Immunoallergic Diseases, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Italy
| | - L Ielasi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Division of Infectious Diseases, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - B Stagni
- Division of Internal Medicine, Hepatobiliary and Immunoallergic Diseases, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Italy
| | - A Cascavilla
- Division of Infectious Diseases, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - S Ferri
- Division of Internal Medicine, Hepatobiliary and Immunoallergic Diseases, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Italy
| | - V Ambrosini
- Nuclear Medicine Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - M Riefolo
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Pathology Unit, Sant’Orsola Hospital, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - S Varani
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Unit of Clinical Microbiology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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Laboratory diagnostics for human Leishmania infections: a polymerase chain reaction-focussed review of detection and identification methods. Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:412. [PMID: 36335408 PMCID: PMC9636697 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05524-z] [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: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Leishmania infections span a range of clinical syndromes and impact humans from many geographic foci, but primarily the world's poorest regions. Transmitted by the bite of a female sand fly, Leishmania infections are increasing with human movement (due to international travel and war) as well as with shifts in vector habitat (due to climate change). Accurate diagnosis of the 20 or so species of Leishmania that infect humans can lead to the successful treatment of infections and, importantly, their prevention through modelling and intervention programs. A multitude of laboratory techniques for the detection of Leishmania have been developed over the past few decades, and although many have drawbacks, several of them show promise, particularly molecular methods like polymerase chain reaction. This review provides an overview of the methods available to diagnostic laboratories, from traditional techniques to the now-preferred molecular techniques, with an emphasis on polymerase chain reaction-based detection and typing methods.
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Busutti M, Deni A, De Pascali AM, Ortalli M, Attard L, Granozzi B, Fabbrizio B, La Manna G, Comai G, Varani S. Updated diagnosis and graft involvement for visceral leishmaniasis in kidney transplant recipients: a case report and literature review. Infection 2022; 51:507-518. [PMID: 36329343 PMCID: PMC10042904 DOI: 10.1007/s15010-022-01943-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Purpose
Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) has become a rising concern to transplantation teams, being associated with graft dysfunction and reduced survival of renal transplant recipients. Here, we describe a case of VL occurring in a kidney transplant (KT) recipient in Italy, a country in which Leishmania infantum is endemic and we reviewed the literature on the clinical course and diagnosis of VL in KT recipients residing or travelling to southern Europe.
Results
The VL case was diagnosed 18 months after transplant and 28 days after the onset of symptoms by quantitative PCR (qPCR) on peripheral blood. A graft biopsy showed renal involvement, and PCR performed on graft tissue displayed the presence of Leishmania DNA. The retrospective confirmation of Leishmania-positive serology in a serum sample collected before transplantation, as well as the absence of anti-Leishmania IgG in the graft donor strongly suggest that reactivation of a latent parasitic infection caused VL in the current case.
Conclusion
VL is often underdiagnosed in transplant recipients, despite the presence of latent Leishmania infection being reported in endemic countries. This case report, as well as the literature review on leishmaniasis in KT recipients, underline the importance of rapid VL diagnosis to promptly undergo treatment. Serology is scarcely sensitive in immunocompromised patients, thus molecular tests in peripheral blood should be implemented and standardized for both VL identification and follow-up.
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Roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) are a novel potential reservoir for human visceral leishmaniasis in the Emilia-Romagna region of northeastern Italy. Int J Parasitol 2022; 52:745-750. [PMID: 36265672 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2022.09.002] [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: 08/16/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Leishmaniasis is a complex human disease caused by intracellular parasites of the genus Leishmania, predominantly transmitted by the bite of sand flies. In Italy, leishmaniasis is caused exclusively by Leishmania infantum, responsible for the human and canine visceral leishmaniases (HVL and CVL, respectively). Within the Emilia-Romagna region, two different foci are active in the municipalities of Pianoro and Valsamoggia (both in the province of Bologna). Recent molecular studies indicated that L. infantum strains circulating in dogs and humans are different, suggesting that there is an animal reservoir other than dogs for human visceral leishmaniasis in the Emilia-Romagna region. In this work, we analyzed specimens from wild animals collected during hunts or surveillance of regional parks near active foci of human visceral leishmaniasis for L. infantum infection in the province of Bologna. Out of 70 individuals analyzed, 17 (24%) were positive for L. infantum. The infection prevalence in hedgehogs (Erinaceus europaeus), roe deer (Capreolus capreolus), badgers (Meles meles), and bank voles (Myodes glareolus) was 80, 33, 25, and 11%, respectively. To distinguish the two strains of L. infantum we have developed a nested PCR protocol optimized for animal tissues. Our results demonstrated that most (over 90%) of L. infantum infections in roe deer were due to the strain circulating in humans in the Emilia-Romagna region.
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Fusco D, Martínez-Pérez GZ, Remkes A, De Pascali AM, Ortalli M, Varani S, Scagliarini A. A sex and gender perspective for neglected zoonotic diseases. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:1031683. [PMID: 36338031 PMCID: PMC9632621 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.1031683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Fusco
- Department of Infectious Diseases Epidemiology, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Hamburg, Germany
- *Correspondence: Daniela Fusco
| | | | - Aaron Remkes
- Department of Infectious Diseases Epidemiology, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Alessandra Mistral De Pascali
- Section of Microbiology, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Margherita Ortalli
- Section of Microbiology, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Stefania Varani
- Section of Microbiology, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Microbiology Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Alessandra Scagliarini
- Section of Microbiology, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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De Pascali AM, Todeschini R, Baiocchi S, Ortalli M, Attard L, Ibarra-Meneses AV, Carrillo E, Varani S. Test combination to detect latent Leishmania infection: A prevalence study in a newly endemic area for L. infantum, northeastern Italy. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2022; 16:e0010676. [PMID: 35969605 PMCID: PMC9410555 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0010676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Most people infected with Leishmania remain asymptomatic, which is a common element that may promote the resurgence of clinically evident leishmaniasis in individuals with impaired cell-mediated immune responses. Unfortunately, there is no universally accepted assay to identify asymptomatic infection. This cross-sectional study focuses on the employment of three methods targeting different features of the parasitic infection to be used in combination for the screening of latent leishmaniasis in a newly endemic area of northeastern Italy. Methodology/principal findings The selected methods included highly sensitive Real-Time PCR for detection of parasitic kinetoplast (k)DNA in peripheral blood, Western Blot (WB) for detection of specific IgG, and Whole Blood stimulation Assay (WBA) to evaluate the anti-leishmanial T-cell response by quantifying the production of IL-2 after stimulation of patients’ blood with Leishmania specific antigens. Among 145 individuals living in a municipality of the Bologna province, northeastern Italy, recruited and screened for Leishmania infection, 23 subjects tested positive (15.9%) to one or more tests. Positive serology was the most common marker of latent leishmaniasis (15/145, 10%), followed by the detection of specific cell-mediated response (12/145, 8%), while only few individuals (6/145, 4%) harbored parasitic DNA in the blood. Conclusions/significance Combining different tests substantially increased the yield of positivity in detecting latent Leishmania infection. The test combination that we employed in this study appears to be effective to accurately identify latent leishmaniasis in an endemic area. After infection with Leishmania infantum cutaneous or visceral leishmaniasis can develop, but in most cases the host becomes an asymptomatic carrier of the parasite. This key population of individuals with latent leishmaniasis can undergo reactivation of the infection with severe outcome in case of immunosuppression and can contribute to disease transmission. The public health impact of leishmaniasis is currently underestimated in Europe, despite Leishmania infection is endemic in the Mediterranean countries and outbreaks of human leishmaniasis have been reported in the last decades, including northeastern Italy. One of the causes contributing to this neglect is that the available diagnostic tests exhibit scarce sensitivity in identification of latent leishmaniasis. In this study, we identified latent Leishmania infection in a newly endemic area of northeastern Italy by using three different diagnostic methods; serological, molecular and immunological tests. Sixteen percent of individuals residing in the selected area were shown to be positive to at least one of the three tests, which indicates a previous contact with the parasite. This study highlights the importance of test combination to enhance the ability to identify latent Leishmania infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Mistral De Pascali
- Section of Microbiology, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Renato Todeschini
- Unit of Hygiene and Public Health, Department of Public Health, AUSL Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Simone Baiocchi
- Microbiology Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Margherita Ortalli
- Microbiology Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Luciano Attard
- Infectious Diseases Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Ana Victoria Ibarra-Meneses
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Leishmaniasis, National Centre for Microbiology, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Majadahonda (Madrid), Spain, CIBERINFEC
- Département de pathologie et microbiologie, Faculté de médecine vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, Quebec, Canada
- The Research Group on Infectious Diseases in Production Animals (GREMIP), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada
| | - Eugenia Carrillo
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Leishmaniasis, National Centre for Microbiology, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Majadahonda (Madrid), Spain, CIBERINFEC
- * E-mail: (EC); (SV)
| | - Stefania Varani
- Section of Microbiology, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Microbiology Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- * E-mail: (EC); (SV)
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12
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Defilippo F, Carrera M, Lelli D, Canziani S, Moreno A, Sozzi E, Manarolla G, Chiari M, Marco F, Cerioli MP, Lavazza A. Distribution of Phlebotomine Sand Flies (Diptera: Psychodidae) in the Lombardy Region, Northern Italy. INSECTS 2022; 13:insects13050463. [PMID: 35621798 PMCID: PMC9146192 DOI: 10.3390/insects13050463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Simple Summary Pathogens transmitted to humans and animals by Phlebotomines are relatively neglected, as they cause infectious diseases which represent an underestimated burden in most European countries. Several sand fly species are competent vectors of Leishmaniasis, an endemic disease that has spread widely throughout the Mediterranean region in conjunction with sand flies’ movements. In the Lombardy region, information on sand flies is poor and/or outdated. Therefore, the present study was undertaken to preliminarily ascertain the species composition, distribution, and diversity in representative Lombardy localities. The sampling took advantage of regional surveillance plans namely, West Nile virus and leishmaniasis monitoring plans. A focused sampling was also performed in areas identified as favorable for vector presence. Sampling was conducted using CO2–CDC traps conducted every two and/or three weeks. From trapping for the West Nile monitoring plan, 21 out of 44 capture sites were positive for sand flies, while for the leishmaniasis monitoring plan, 11 out of the 40 trapping sites detected sand flies’ presence. Specimen identification was conducted by identifying morphological features. Phlebotomus perniciosus was the most abundant species (87.76% of specimens collected). Adequate and well-structured monitoring of sand fly populations is essential to provide information about distribution patterns of vector species present in defined geographical areas, as they could enhance pathogen circulation. Abstract This study investigated the species composition and density of sand flies in the Lombardy region (Northern Italy). Sand flies were collected using CDC traps baited with CO2 (CO2–CDC traps) between June and August 2021. A total of 670 sand flies were collected. The specimens were identified as seven species belonging to two genera, Phlebotomus and Sergentomyia, namely, S. minuta, Ph. perniciosus, Ph. perfiliewii, Ph. neglectus, Ph. mascitti, Ph. papatasi, and Ph. ariasi. Phlebotomus perniciosus was the most abundant species (87.76%), followed by Ph. perfiliewii (7.31%), Ph. neglectus (3.13%), S. minuta (0.75%), Ph. mascitti (0.6%), Ph. papatasi (0.3%), and Ph. ariasi, for which only one specimen was identified. Among these identified species, five are considered vectors of Leishmania, which causes cutaneous and visceral leishmaniasis. As vector presence increases the risk of vector-borne leishmaniasis, these results suggest that Northern Italy could be a potential area of pathogen circulation over the next few years. These preliminary results suggest that the risk of borne leishmaniasis is high in this region of Northern Italy. Monitoring the distribution of sand fly species in areas suitable for their persistence is important for control programs aimed at reducing the risk of leishmaniasis infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Defilippo
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia ed Emilia-Romagnia, Via Bianchi 9, 24124 Brescia, Italy; (M.C.); (D.L.); (S.C.); (A.M.); (E.S.); (M.P.C.); (A.L.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Maya Carrera
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia ed Emilia-Romagnia, Via Bianchi 9, 24124 Brescia, Italy; (M.C.); (D.L.); (S.C.); (A.M.); (E.S.); (M.P.C.); (A.L.)
| | - Davide Lelli
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia ed Emilia-Romagnia, Via Bianchi 9, 24124 Brescia, Italy; (M.C.); (D.L.); (S.C.); (A.M.); (E.S.); (M.P.C.); (A.L.)
| | - Sabrina Canziani
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia ed Emilia-Romagnia, Via Bianchi 9, 24124 Brescia, Italy; (M.C.); (D.L.); (S.C.); (A.M.); (E.S.); (M.P.C.); (A.L.)
| | - Ana Moreno
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia ed Emilia-Romagnia, Via Bianchi 9, 24124 Brescia, Italy; (M.C.); (D.L.); (S.C.); (A.M.); (E.S.); (M.P.C.); (A.L.)
| | - Enrica Sozzi
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia ed Emilia-Romagnia, Via Bianchi 9, 24124 Brescia, Italy; (M.C.); (D.L.); (S.C.); (A.M.); (E.S.); (M.P.C.); (A.L.)
| | - Giovanni Manarolla
- Welfare Department, Lombardy Region, Piazza Città di Lombardia 1, 20124 Milan, Italy; (G.M.); (M.C.); (F.M.)
| | - Mario Chiari
- Welfare Department, Lombardy Region, Piazza Città di Lombardia 1, 20124 Milan, Italy; (G.M.); (M.C.); (F.M.)
| | - Farioli Marco
- Welfare Department, Lombardy Region, Piazza Città di Lombardia 1, 20124 Milan, Italy; (G.M.); (M.C.); (F.M.)
| | - Monica Pierangela Cerioli
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia ed Emilia-Romagnia, Via Bianchi 9, 24124 Brescia, Italy; (M.C.); (D.L.); (S.C.); (A.M.); (E.S.); (M.P.C.); (A.L.)
| | - Antonio Lavazza
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia ed Emilia-Romagnia, Via Bianchi 9, 24124 Brescia, Italy; (M.C.); (D.L.); (S.C.); (A.M.); (E.S.); (M.P.C.); (A.L.)
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13
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Calzolari M, Romeo G, Bergamini F, Dottori M, Rugna G, Carra E. Host preference and Leishmania infantum natural infection of the sand fly Phlebotomus perfiliewi in northern Italy. Acta Trop 2022; 226:106246. [PMID: 34843690 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2021.106246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Revised: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
The host preference of hematophagous insects is important in determining the cycle of pathogens that they potentially transmit; for example, sand flies are competent vectors of Leishmania parasites. In this work, we evaluated the host preference of sand flies collected in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy in 2018 and 2019 in an area in which Leishmania infantum circulates actively. Out of about 30,000 sampled sand flies, we obtained 252 engorged females, which were processed to identify the sources of blood meals. Sampling data collected confirmed a positive phototropism of Phlebotomus (Ph.) perfiliewi respect to Ph. perniciosus and the enhanced efficiency of light traps in collecting engorged females compared with traps baited with carbon dioxide. We identified blood source in 185 females (183 Ph. perfiliewi, two Ph. pernicious). The most bitten animal was the roe deer (49.5%), followed by humans (29.2%), hare (7.1%) and cow (4.7%). Other animals, including wild boar, horse, donkey, porcupine, chicken and red fox, were less represented (<2%), while the blood of dogs and rodents were not detected. In addition, we singly screened engorged females for Leishmania founding 5 positive specimens, fed on roe deer (4) and man (1), providing evidence of parasite circulation in a sylvatic environment, where presence of dogs was not common. These findings suggest the existence of an uncharacterized Leishmania reservoir in the surveyed area.
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14
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Ibarra-Meneses AV, Corbeil A, Wagner V, Onwuchekwa C, Fernandez-Prada C. Identification of asymptomatic Leishmania infections: a scoping review. Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:5. [PMID: 34983616 PMCID: PMC8727076 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-021-05129-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Asymptomatic Leishmania infection may play an important role in the transmission of the parasite in endemic areas. At present there is no consensus on the definition of asymptomatic Leishmania infection, nor is there a safe and accessible gold standard test for its identification. METHODS This paper presents a scoping review to summarize definitions of asymptomatic Leishmania infection found in the literature, as well as to detail the approach (molecular, serological, cellular, and/or parasitological tests) used by researchers to identify this asymptomatic population. A scoping review of published and gray literature related to asymptomatic Leishmania infection was conducted; retrieved citations were screened based on predefined eligibility criteria, and relevant data items were extracted from eligible articles. The analysis is descriptive and is presented using tables, figures, and thematic narrative synthesis. RESULTS We conducted a screening of 3008 articles, of which 175 were selected for the full review. Of these articles, we selected 106 that met the inclusion criteria. These articles were published between 1991 and 2021, and in the last 5 years, up to 38 articles were reported. Most of the studies were conducted in Brazil (26%), Spain (14%), India (12%), Bangladesh (10%), and Ethiopia (7%). Of the studies, 84.9% were conducted in the immunocompetent population, while 15.1% were conducted in the immunosuppressed population (HIV, immunosuppressive drugs, and organ transplantation population). We report 14 different techniques and 10 strategies employed by researchers to define asymptomatic Leishmania infection in an endemic area. CONCLUSIONS The definition of asymptomatic Leishmania infection is not unified across the literature, but often includes the following criteria: residence (or extended stay) in a Leishmania-endemic area, no reported signs/symptoms compatible with leishmaniasis, and positive on a combination of serological, molecular, cellular, and/or parasitological tests. Caution is recommended when comparing results of different studies on the subject of asymptomatic infections, as the reported prevalence cannot be confidently compared between areas due to the wide variety of tests employed by research groups. More research on the importance of asymptomatic immunosuppressed and immunocompetent Leishmania-positive populations in leishmaniasis epidemiology is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Victoria Ibarra-Meneses
- Département de Pathologie et Microbiologie, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, QC, Canada.,The Research Group on Infectious Diseases in Production Animals (GREMIP), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Université de Montréal, Saint Hyacinthe, Canada
| | - Audrey Corbeil
- Département de Pathologie et Microbiologie, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, QC, Canada.,The Research Group on Infectious Diseases in Production Animals (GREMIP), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Université de Montréal, Saint Hyacinthe, Canada
| | - Victoria Wagner
- Département de Pathologie et Microbiologie, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, QC, Canada.,The Research Group on Infectious Diseases in Production Animals (GREMIP), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Université de Montréal, Saint Hyacinthe, Canada
| | - Chukwuemeka Onwuchekwa
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Christopher Fernandez-Prada
- Département de Pathologie et Microbiologie, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, QC, Canada. .,The Research Group on Infectious Diseases in Production Animals (GREMIP), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Université de Montréal, Saint Hyacinthe, Canada.
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15
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Diotallevi A, Scalvini L, Buffi G, Pérez-Pertejo Y, De Santi M, Verboni M, Favi G, Magnani M, Lodola A, Lucarini S, Galluzzi L. Phenotype Screening of an Azole-bisindole Chemical Library Identifies URB1483 as a New Antileishmanial Agent Devoid of Toxicity on Human Cells. ACS OMEGA 2021; 6:35699-35710. [PMID: 34984300 PMCID: PMC8717589 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.1c05611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
We report the evaluation of a small library of azole-bisindoles for their antileishmanial potential, in terms of efficacy on Leishmania infantum promastigotes and intracellular amastigotes. Nine compounds showed good activity on L. infantum MHOM/TN/80/IPT1 promastigotes with IC50 values ranging from 4 to 10 μM. These active compounds were also tested on human (THP-1, HEPG2, HaCaT, and human primary fibroblasts) and canine (DH82) cell lines. URB1483 was selected as the best compound, with no quantifiable cytotoxicity in mammalian cells, to test the efficacy on intracellular amastigotes. URB1483 significantly reduced the infection index of both human and canine macrophages with an effect comparable to the clinically used drug pentamidine. URB1483 emerges as a new anti-infective agent with remarkable antileishmanial activity and no cytotoxic effects on human and canine cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurora Diotallevi
- Department
of Biomolecular Sciences, University of
Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029 Urbino (PU), Italy
| | - Laura Scalvini
- Department
of Food and Drug, University of Parma, 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Gloria Buffi
- Department
of Biomolecular Sciences, University of
Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029 Urbino (PU), Italy
| | | | - Mauro De Santi
- Department
of Biomolecular Sciences, University of
Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029 Urbino (PU), Italy
| | - Michele Verboni
- Department
of Biomolecular Sciences, University of
Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029 Urbino (PU), Italy
| | - Gianfranco Favi
- Department
of Biomolecular Sciences, University of
Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029 Urbino (PU), Italy
| | - Mauro Magnani
- Department
of Biomolecular Sciences, University of
Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029 Urbino (PU), Italy
| | - Alessio Lodola
- Department
of Food and Drug, University of Parma, 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Simone Lucarini
- Department
of Biomolecular Sciences, University of
Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029 Urbino (PU), Italy
- . Tel: +39 0722 303333
| | - Luca Galluzzi
- Department
of Biomolecular Sciences, University of
Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029 Urbino (PU), Italy
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16
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Iatta R, Mendoza-Roldan JA, Latrofa MS, Cascio A, Brianti E, Pombi M, Gabrielli S, Otranto D. Leishmania tarentolae and Leishmania infantum in humans, dogs and cats in the Pelagie archipelago, southern Italy. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009817. [PMID: 34555036 PMCID: PMC8491888 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2021] [Revised: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) caused by Leishmania infantum is endemic in the Mediterranean basin with most of the infected human patients remaining asymptomatic. Recently, the saurian-associated Leishmania tarentolae was detected in human blood donors and in sheltered dogs. The circulation of L. infantum and L. tarentolae was investigated in humans, dogs and cats living in the Pelagie islands (Sicily, Italy) by multiple serological and molecular testing. Human serum samples (n = 346) were tested to assess the exposure to L. infantum by immunofluorescence antibody test (IFAT), enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and Western blot (WB) and to L. tarentolae by IFAT. Meanwhile, sera from dogs (n = 149) and cats (n = 32) were tested for both Leishmania species by IFAT and all blood samples, including those of humans, by specific sets of real time-PCR for L. infantum and L. tarentolae. The agreement between serological tests performed for human samples, and between serological and molecular diagnostic techniques for both human and animal samples were also assessed. Overall, 41 human samples (11.8%, 95% CI: 8.9–15.7) were positive to L. infantum (5.2%, 95% CI: 3.3–8.1), L. tarentolae (5.2%, 95% CI: 3.3–8.1) and to both species (1.4%, 95% CI: 0.6–3.3) by serology and/or molecular tests. A good agreement among the serological tests was determined. Both Leishmania spp. were serologically and/or molecularly detected in 39.6% dogs and 43.7% cats. In addition to L. infantum, also L. tarentolae circulates in human and animal populations, raising relevant public health implications. Further studies should investigate the potential beneficial effects of L. tarentolae in the protection against L. infantum infection. Leishmania infantum is the major agent of canine and human leishmaniasis being endemic throughout the Mediterranean basin, including Italy. The protozoan is transmitted through the bite of infected phlebotomine sand flies mainly represented by the species Phlebotomus perniciosus and Phlebotomus perfiliewi as proven vectors in Italy. The sand fly fauna in this country includes, among others Sergentomyia minuta, considered herpetophilic vectors of Leishmania tarentolae. This species non-pathogenic to mammalians has recently been detected in human blood donors and in sheltered dogs. Our data demonstrate the occurrence of both L. infantum and L. tarentolae in humans and animal population living in leishmaniasis endemic area opening new perspectives into the study of this human disease. Therefore, the ecology of L. tarentolae highlights the need of a more comprehensive study on the spread of this parasite and on its potential beneficial role in public health through a cross-protection that could occur against pathogenic Leishmania spp. when L. tarentolae occurs in sympatry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Iatta
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | | | | | - Antonio Cascio
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Unit, Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties "G. D’Alessandro", University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Emanuele Brianti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie, Università degli Studi di Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Marco Pombi
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica e Malattie Infettive, "Sapienza" Università di Roma, Rome, Italy
| | - Simona Gabrielli
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica e Malattie Infettive, "Sapienza" Università di Roma, Rome, Italy
| | - Domenico Otranto
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
- Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan, Iran
- * E-mail:
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17
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Co-Circulation of Phleboviruses and Leishmania Parasites in Sand Flies from a Single Site in Italy Monitored between 2017 and 2020. Viruses 2021; 13:v13081660. [PMID: 34452524 PMCID: PMC8402820 DOI: 10.3390/v13081660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Revised: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Sand flies transmit Leishmania infantum, which is responsible for causing leishmaniasis, as well as many phleboviruses, including the human pathogenic Toscana virus. We screened sand flies collected from a single site between 2017 and 2020 for the presence of both phleboviruses and Leishmania. The sand flies were sampled with attractive carbon dioxide traps and CDC light traps between May and October. We collected more than 50,000 sand flies; 2826 were identified at the species level as Phlebotomus perfiliewi (98%) or Phlebotomus perniciosus (2%). A total of 16,789 sand flies were tested in 355 pools, and phleboviruses were found in 61 pools (6 Toscana virus positive pools, 2 Corfou virus positive pools, 42 Fermo virus positive pools, and 7 Ponticelli virus positive pools, and 4 unidentified phlebovirus positive pools). Leishmania was found in 75 pools and both microorganisms were detected in 16 pools. We isolated nine phleboviruses from another 2960 sand flies (five Ponticelli viruses and for Fermo viruses), not tested for Leishmania; the complete genome of a Fermo virus isolate was sequenced. The simultaneous detection in space and time of the Fermo virus and L. infantum is evidence that supports the co-circulation of both microorganisms in the same location and partial overlap of their cycles. A detailed characterization of the epidemiology of these microorganisms will support measures to limit their transmission.
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18
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Guillén MC, Alcover MM, Borruel N, Sulleiro E, Salvador F, Berenguer D, Herrera-de Guise C, Rodríguez V, Moure Z, Sánchez-Montalvà A, Molina I, Fisa R, Riera C. Leishmania infantum asymptomatic infection in inflammatory bowel disease patients under anti-TNF therapy. Heliyon 2020; 6:e03940. [PMID: 32420499 PMCID: PMC7218013 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2020.e03940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2019] [Revised: 12/12/2019] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In recent years anti-TNF therapy has been associated with leishmaniasis in immunocompromised patients from endemic areas. Nevertheless, data on asymptomatic Leishmania infection in such patients is scarce. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of asymptomatic infection in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients treated with TNF inhibitors living in an endemic area (Catalonia) and to follow up them to study how the infection evolved. METHODS 192 IBD patients (143 Crohn's disease; 49 ulcerative colitis) from Catalonia (Spain), an area endemic for L. infantum, were recruited. Peripheral blood samples were collected and tested for anti-Leishmania antibodies by Western blotting (WB). Leishmania kinetoplast DNA was detected in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) by a quantitative PCR. RESULTS Serology was positive in 3.1% and Leishmania DNA was found in 8.8%, with a low parasitic load and humoral response. The prevalence was 10.9%, patients being considered infected if they tested positive by at least one of the techniques. Eight out of the 21 patients with asymptomatic leishmaniasis were monitored for 3-8 months after the first test. None of them showed an increased parasitemia or humoral response, or developed leishmaniasis during the follow-up period. CONCLUSION The prevalence of Leishmania asymptomatic infection detected in our IBD cohort is similar to that found in healthy population in close endemic areas. Due to the short monitoring period, it is not possible to reach a conclusion about the risk of Leishmania reactivation from this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Carmen Guillén
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Biology, Health and Environment, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Science, University of Barcelona, Avda Joan XXIII, 27-31, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - M. Magdalena Alcover
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Biology, Health and Environment, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Science, University of Barcelona, Avda Joan XXIII, 27-31, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Natalia Borruel
- Crohn's and Colitis Attention Unit, Vall d’Hebron University Hospital, Ps Vall d'Hebron, 119-129, 08035, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Elena Sulleiro
- Department of Microbiology, Vall d’Hebron University Hospital, PROSICS, Ps Vall d'Hebron, 119-129, 08035, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Fernando Salvador
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Vall d’Hebron University Hospital, PROSICS Barcelona, Ps Vall d'Hebron, 119-129, 08035, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Diana Berenguer
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Biology, Health and Environment, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Science, University of Barcelona, Avda Joan XXIII, 27-31, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Claudia Herrera-de Guise
- Crohn's and Colitis Attention Unit, Vall d’Hebron University Hospital, Ps Vall d'Hebron, 119-129, 08035, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Verónica Rodríguez
- Crohn's and Colitis Attention Unit, Vall d’Hebron University Hospital, Ps Vall d'Hebron, 119-129, 08035, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Zaira Moure
- Department of Microbiology, Vall d’Hebron University Hospital, PROSICS, Ps Vall d'Hebron, 119-129, 08035, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Adrián Sánchez-Montalvà
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Vall d’Hebron University Hospital, PROSICS Barcelona, Ps Vall d'Hebron, 119-129, 08035, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Israel Molina
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Vall d’Hebron University Hospital, PROSICS Barcelona, Ps Vall d'Hebron, 119-129, 08035, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Roser Fisa
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Biology, Health and Environment, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Science, University of Barcelona, Avda Joan XXIII, 27-31, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Cristina Riera
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Biology, Health and Environment, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Science, University of Barcelona, Avda Joan XXIII, 27-31, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
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