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Cortes MA, Bert W, Couvreur M, De Waele D, Singh PR. Nematodes associated with terrestrial gastropod molluscs in Belgium and additional characterisation of Pellioditis californica and P. hermaphrodita. J Helminthol 2024; 98:e27. [PMID: 38509853 DOI: 10.1017/s0022149x2400004x] [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] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
A survey for slug- and snail-associated nematodes was conducted in forests, parks, botanical gardens, and nature reserves at 13 localities in Belgium to uncover more diversity of gastropod mollusc-associated nematodes and to characterise Pellioditis populations found in the country. A total of 319 slugs and snails belonging to nine species were examined. Arion vulgaris was the most commonly found mollusc species in this study (eight locations), and 19.4% of the examined mollusc specimens were found infected by nematodes. The highest prevalence of nematodes was observed in Cornu aspersum (60%) followed by A. vulgaris (34.8%), Limax maximus (28.6%), and Cepaea sp. (20%). Eleven nematode species belonging to eight families were isolated and identified from the mollusc hosts including Alloionema appendiculatum, Angiostoma dentiferum, A. gandavense, Angiostrongylus vasorum, Cosmocerca longicauda, Panagrolaimus cf. subelongatus, Pellioditis californica, P. hermaphrodita, Rhabditis sp., Tetrameres cf. fissispina, and Troglostrongylus cf. brevior.Pellioditis was the most commonly found nematode genus (at nine localities) and C. longicauda and P. californica were reported in Belgium for the first time. Co-infections of more than one nematode species were observed in eight (2.5%) molluscs specimens. Most co-infections consisted of two nematode species. In one A. vulgaris specimen, a co-infection of three nematode species (A. vasorum, P. hermaphrodita, and Tetrameres cf. fissispina) was observed. Four ex vivo cultures of P. californica and six ex vivo cultures of P. hermaphrodita were established from single hermaphrodites, and both species were described based on light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and morphometric, morphological, and molecular data.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Cortes
- Nematology Research Unit, Department of Biology, Ghent University, K.L. Ledeganckstraat 35, 9000Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Veterinary Paraclinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Visayas State University, Visca, Baybay City, Leyte, Philippines
| | - W Bert
- Nematology Research Unit, Department of Biology, Ghent University, K.L. Ledeganckstraat 35, 9000Ghent, Belgium
| | - M Couvreur
- Nematology Research Unit, Department of Biology, Ghent University, K.L. Ledeganckstraat 35, 9000Ghent, Belgium
| | - D De Waele
- Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom, South Africa
- Laboratory of Tropical Crop Improvement, Department of Biosystems, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, University of Leuven, Willem de Croylaan 42, 3001Heverlee, Belgium
| | - P R Singh
- Department of Entomology and Nematology, Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida, 3205 College Ave., Davie, FL33314-7719, USA
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Galietta V, Eleni C, Raso C, Cocumelli C, Friedrich KG, Di Cerbo P, Iurescia M, Diaconu EL, Alba P, De Liberato C. Systemic Infection by Angiostrongylus vasorum in a Fennec (Vulpeszerda) in an Italian Zoological Garden. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11090965. [PMID: 36145397 PMCID: PMC9505467 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11090965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Revised: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
This paper reported a case of a metastrongyloid nematode Angiostrongylus vasorum infection in a fennec (Vulpes zerda) kept in a zoo in central Italy. The fennec had shown paralysis of the hind limbs, anorexia, weakness and respiratory signs before death. Cardiomegaly and granulomatous pneumonia were the major anatomopathological findings. Inflammatory lesions associated with parasitic larvae were observed in the lungs, brain, liver, heart, spinal cord and kidney of the fennec at histology. A. vasorum diagnosis was confirmed by both morphological and molecular identification of adult worms recovered at necropsy. Fennecs are active predators and maintain their hunting behaviour in captivity. Hence, it is likely that the animal was exposed to infection by preying on parasitised gastropods, intermediate hosts of A. vasorum, entering zoo enclosures from the surrounding environment. This is the first report of A. vasorum systemic infection in a captive fennec (V. zerda) in a zoo in Italy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Galietta
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana “M. Aleandri”, Via Appia Nuova 1411, 00178 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0679099468
| | - Claudia Eleni
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana “M. Aleandri”, Via Appia Nuova 1411, 00178 Rome, Italy
| | - Caterina Raso
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana “M. Aleandri”, Via Appia Nuova 1411, 00178 Rome, Italy
| | - Cristiano Cocumelli
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana “M. Aleandri”, Via Appia Nuova 1411, 00178 Rome, Italy
| | | | - Pilar Di Cerbo
- Fondazione Bioparco, Viale del Giardino Zoologico 20, 00197 Rome, Italy
| | - Manuela Iurescia
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana “M. Aleandri”, Via Appia Nuova 1411, 00178 Rome, Italy
| | - Elena L. Diaconu
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana “M. Aleandri”, Via Appia Nuova 1411, 00178 Rome, Italy
| | - Patricia Alba
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana “M. Aleandri”, Via Appia Nuova 1411, 00178 Rome, Italy
| | - Claudio De Liberato
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana “M. Aleandri”, Via Appia Nuova 1411, 00178 Rome, Italy
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Hemostatic Dysfunction in Dogs Naturally Infected with Angiostrongylus vasorum—A Narrative Review. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11020249. [PMID: 35215192 PMCID: PMC8878016 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11020249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 02/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
This narrative review aims to describe Angiostrongylus vasorum-induced hemostatic dysfunction of dogs with emphasis on clinical and laboratory findings as well as potential therapeutic strategies for the bleeding patient. Canine angiostrongylosis (CA) is a disease with potentially high morbidity and mortality in endemic areas and with fatal outcome often associated with either severe respiratory compromise, pulmonary hypertension and right-sided heart failure, or hemostatic dysfunction with severe bleeding. The most common signs of hemorrhage are hematomas, petecchiation, ecchymoses, oral mucosal membrane bleeding and scleral bleeding, while intracranial and pulmonary hemorrhage are among the most severe. The pathophysiological mechanisms underlying hemostatic dysfunction in these patients are presently researched. While the larval effect on platelets remains unknown, the parasite appears to induce dysregulation of hemostatic proteins, with studies suggesting a mixture of pro-coagulant protein consumption and hyperfibrinolysis. Importantly, not all dogs display the same hemostatic abnormalities. Consequently, characterizing the hemostatic state of the individual patient is necessary, but has proven difficult with traditional coagulation tests. Global viscoelastic testing shows promise, but has limited availability in general practice. Treatment of A. vasorum-infected dogs with hemostatic dysfunction relies on anthelmintic treatment as well as therapy directed at the individual dog’s specific hemostatic alterations.
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Oborina V, Mõttus M, Jokelainen P. Angiostrongylus vasorum in Estonia: Multi-center study in dogs with clinical signs suggestive of canine angiostrongylosis, survey of potential risk behaviors among the dogs, and questionnaire survey of knowledge about the parasite among veterinarians. Vet Parasitol Reg Stud Reports 2021; 26:100642. [PMID: 34879953 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2021.100642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2021] [Revised: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Angiostrongylus vasorum is a parasite that can cause life-threatening disease in dogs. In recent years, A. vasorum has been reported spreading into new areas, in particular towards northeastern Europe. Despite being detected in wildlife in Estonia, no studies have focused on A. vasorum in domestic dogs in the country. We conducted a multi-center study in 2018-2019: at eight small animal clinics, altogether 115 dogs that had clinical signs that could be suggestive of canine angiostrongylosis were enrolled for testing using a commercial A. vasorum antigen detection test. In addition, we collected information on potential risk behaviors for acquiring A. vasorum infection - eating potential intermediate hosts and paratenic hosts - among the dogs, using a questionnaire for dog owners. Moreover, we surveyed knowledge about A. vasorum among veterinarians authorized to work in Estonia. None (0.0%, 95% confidence interval 0.0-2.6) of the 114 dogs included in the study tested A. vasorum antigen positive. Two (2.0%) of the 102 dogs included in the risk behavior analysis had been seen to eat slugs and/or snails, and this behavior was considered possible for further 17 (16.7%) of the dogs. Four (3.9%) of the dogs had been seen to eat frogs, and this behavior was considered possible for further 14 (13.7%) of the dogs. Thirty-eight (90.5%) of the 42 veterinarians who participated in the questionnaire survey selected the correct host and 28 (66.7%) selected the correct vectors of the parasite, from the provided options. Our results indicate that A. vasorum was either not established or not common in dogs in Estonia in 2018-2019, but this needs to be interpreted with caution due to the limited sample size, possible false negative results in recently infected dogs and the limited sensitivity of the test applied. Most local veterinarians seemed to know the parasite, and this awareness and knowledge among veterinarians should be maintained and further improved. Taken the presence of the parasite in local wildlife, it is prudent to include A. vasorum infection in the list of differential diagnoses for dogs with clinical signs that could be suggestive of canine angiostrongylosis in Estonia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Oborina
- Small Animal Clinic of Estonian University of Life Sciences, Kreutzwaldi 62, Tartu 51014, Estonia; Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Kreutzwaldi 62, Tartu 51014, Estonia.
| | - Maare Mõttus
- Small Animal Clinic of Estonian University of Life Sciences, Kreutzwaldi 62, Tartu 51014, Estonia; Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Kreutzwaldi 62, Tartu 51014, Estonia.
| | - Pikka Jokelainen
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Kreutzwaldi 62, Tartu 51014, Estonia; Department of Bacteria, Parasites & Fungi, Infectious Disease Preparedness, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, Copenhagen S 2300, Denmark; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, P.O. Box 66, Helsinki 00014, Finland.
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Gillis-Germitsch N, Kockmann T, Kapel CMO, Thamsborg SM, Webster P, Tritten L, Schnyder M. Fox Serum Proteomics Analysis Suggests Host-Specific Responses to Angiostrongylus vasorum Infection in Canids. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10111513. [PMID: 34832667 PMCID: PMC8623225 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10111513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Revised: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Dogs infected with the cardiopulmonary nematode Angiostrongylus vasorum may suffer from respiratory distress and/or bleeding disorders. Descriptions of clinical signs in foxes are rare, despite high prevalence. To evaluate the impact of infection on coagulation and immune response, serum proteins from eight experimentally infected foxes before and after inoculation (day 0, 35, 84, 154) were subjected to differential proteomic analyses based on quantitative data and compared to available data from dogs. The number of proteins with differential abundance compared to the uninfected baseline increased with chronicity of infection. Bone marrow proteoglycan, chitinase 3-like protein 1 and pulmonary surfactant-associated protein B were among the most prominently increased proteins. The abundance of several proteins involved in coagulation was decreased. Enriched pathways obtained from both increased and decreased proteins included, among others, "platelet degranulation" and "haemostasis", and indicated both activation and suppression of coagulation. Qualitative comparison to dog data suggests some parallel serum proteomic alterations. The comparison, however, also indicates that foxes have a more adequate immunopathological response to A. vasorum infection compared to dogs, facilitating persistent infections in foxes. Our findings imply that foxes may be more tolerant to A. vasorum infection, as compared to dogs, reflecting a longer evolutionary host-parasite adaptation in foxes, which constitute a key wildlife reservoir.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Gillis-Germitsch
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 266a, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland;
- Graduate School for Cellular and Biomedical Sciences, University of Bern, Mittelstrasse 43, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Tobias Kockmann
- Functional Genomics Center Zurich, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich (ETH Zurich), University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland;
| | - Christian M. O. Kapel
- Section for Organismal Biology, Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Thorvaldsensvej 40, 1871 Frederiksberg C, Denmark;
| | - Stig M. Thamsborg
- Veterinary Parasitology Research Group, Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Dyrlægevej 100, 1870 Frederiksberg C, Denmark; (S.M.T.); (P.W.)
| | - Pia Webster
- Veterinary Parasitology Research Group, Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Dyrlægevej 100, 1870 Frederiksberg C, Denmark; (S.M.T.); (P.W.)
- Prediagnostics and Service, Infectious Disease Preparedness, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, 2300 Copenhagen S, Denmark
| | - Lucienne Tritten
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 266a, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland;
- Correspondence: (L.T.); (M.S.); Tel.: +41-44-635-85-01 (L.T. & M.S.); Fax: +41-44-635-89-07 (L.T. & M.S.)
| | - Manuela Schnyder
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 266a, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland;
- Correspondence: (L.T.); (M.S.); Tel.: +41-44-635-85-01 (L.T. & M.S.); Fax: +41-44-635-89-07 (L.T. & M.S.)
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Deak G, Berriatua E, Mihalca AD. The current situation of Angiostrongylus vasorum in Romania: a national questionnaire-based survey. BMC Vet Res 2021; 17:323. [PMID: 34620165 PMCID: PMC8496003 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-021-03034-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Angiostrongylus vasorum (Nematoda, Metastrongyloidea) is a vascular nematode that resides in the pulmonary arteries and the right side of the heart of a wide variety of carnivores, with an indirect life cycle using coprophagic gastropods as intermediate hosts. For domestic dogs, the infection with A. vasorum can be asymptomatic, but more frequently, it is associated with a wide range of clinical manifestations like cardio-respiratory signs, bleedings, neurological signs, and ocular problems which can lead to death when not treated accordingly. Angiostrongylosis was confirmed for the first time in Romania in red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) in 2017 and two years later a seroepidemiologic study was conducted among domestic dogs. However, to this date, no clinical canine angiostrongylosis cases were published in Romania. The aim of the present paper was to evaluate the knowledge about canine angiostrongylosis among veterinarians in Romania and to update the distribution of this disease using a national wide anonymous questionnaire. Results Overall, 147 unique responses were submitted, from 31 out of 42 counties. Twelve veterinarians (8%) from 8 counties (26%) acknowledged diagnosing a case of angiostrongylosis including 5 from the Bucharest and 1 from each of the remaining seven counties. All affected dogs had respiratory distress, 75% suffered cardiopathy, 16% coagulopathies and 8% neurological signs. Case diagnosis was based mostly on larval detection by coprology (67%) and serological antigen detection test (42%). Conclusions Romanian veterinarians are aware of canine angiostrongylosis and a significant number have clinical experience with the disease. Epidemiological studies are now needed to assess its distribution in the country, and further efforts are required to improve understanding of the disease, its diagnostic and treatment methods among veterinarians. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12917-021-03034-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgiana Deak
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Calea Mănăștur 3-5, 400372, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
| | - Eduardo Berriatua
- Department of Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Regional Campus of International Excellence 'Campus Mare Nostrum', University of Murcia, 30100, Murcia, Spain
| | - Andrei Daniel Mihalca
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Calea Mănăștur 3-5, 400372, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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De Zan G, Citterio CV, Danesi P, Gaspardis G, Gabassi E, Panciera L, Zanardello C, Binato G, Cocchi M. Angiostrongylosis in northeastern Italy: First report of two autochthonous fatal cases in dogs and first detection in a wild red fox. VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY- REGIONAL STUDIES AND REPORTS 2020; 23:100505. [PMID: 33678362 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2020.100505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2020] [Revised: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Canine angiostrongylosis is an emergent cardio-pulmonary gastropod-borne helminthic infection caused by the metastrongyloid nematode Angiostrongylus vasorum. Clinically, it is characterized by a wide spectrum of non-specific signs and the red fox serves as the most important reservoir for dog infections. In Italy, this disease has been well documented both in northwestern and central-southern regions, whereas it is apparently poorly recognized in the northeastern area of the country. This report describes the diagnostic findings of two autochthonous cases of fatal canine angiostrongylosis and of one case in a wild red fox detected in northeastern Italy. Reporting cases is relevant to clinicians in order to increase their awareness for the prompt diagnosis of a potentially life-threatening disease that may go unnoticed or misdiagnosed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabrita De Zan
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, SCT4 - UD, Via della Roggia 100, 33030 Basaldella di Campoformido (UD), Italy.
| | - Carlo Vittorio Citterio
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, SCT2 - BL, Via Cappellari 44/A, 32100 Belluno (BL), Italy.
| | - Patrizia Danesi
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, SCS3, Viale dell'Università 10, 35020 Legnaro (PD), Italy.
| | - Gloria Gaspardis
- Ambulatorio Veterinario Dr. Gaspardis, Via Gaspardis 2, 33040 Visco (UD), Italy.
| | - Enrico Gabassi
- Ambulatorio Veterinario Dr. Gaspardis, Via Gaspardis 2, 33040 Visco (UD), Italy.
| | - Leonardo Panciera
- Ambulatorio Veterinario Dr. Leonardo Panciera, Via La Cal 99/103, 32020 Limana (BL), Italy.
| | - Claudia Zanardello
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, SCS3, Viale dell'Università 10, 35020 Legnaro (PD), Italy.
| | - Giovanni Binato
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, SCS2, Viale dell'Università 10, 35020 Legnaro (PD), Italy.
| | - Monia Cocchi
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, SCT4 - UD, Via della Roggia 100, 33030 Basaldella di Campoformido (UD), Italy.
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Lempereur L, Nijsse R, Losson B, Marechal F, De Volder A, Schoormans A, Martinelle L, Danlois F, Claerebout E. Coprological survey of endoparasite infections in owned dogs and owners' perceptions of endoparasite control in Belgium and the Netherlands. VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY- REGIONAL STUDIES AND REPORTS 2020; 22:100450. [PMID: 33308762 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2020.100450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2020] [Revised: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 08/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Infections with endoparasites are common in dogs. Some of these parasites are potentially zoonotic and therefore a public health concern. A survey was conducted in twenty-six small animal practices to evaluate the prevalence of endoparasites in Belgian and Dutch owned dogs older than 6 months as well as risk factors associated with infection. Out of 239 faecal samples screened (168 in Belgium and 71 in the Netherlands), 18 dogs were tested positive for at least one type of endoparasite with three dogs co-infected with two parasitic species. Toxocara sp. was the most frequently found endoparasite (4.6%). Three other dogs were positive for Angiostrongylus vasorum (1.4%) using the Baermann method and confirmed in one dog by the Angiodetect® test. Age and predation behaviour were identified as two risk factors associated with endoparasite infection. Although the majority (77%) of the owners in this study reported to administer at least one anthelmintic treatment per year, only a minority of them (24.3%) were aware of the risk to human health, indicating that owner awareness is sub-optimal. For dog owners, human toxocarosis and other potential zoonoses remain an underestimated health concern. The implementation of sustainable parasite control strategies should be promoted taking also into account the public health risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Lempereur
- FPS Health, Food chain Safety & Environment, Corporate Strategy, Place Victor Horta, 40 box 10, 1060 Brussels, Belgium.
| | - R Nijsse
- Utrecht University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, P.O. box 80.165, 3508 TD Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - B Losson
- Liège University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Centre for Fundamental and Applied Research for Animal and Health (FARAH), Laboratory of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, 4000 Liège, Belgium
| | - F Marechal
- Liège University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Centre for Fundamental and Applied Research for Animal and Health (FARAH), Laboratory of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, 4000 Liège, Belgium
| | - A De Volder
- Liège University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Centre for Fundamental and Applied Research for Animal and Health (FARAH), Laboratory of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, 4000 Liège, Belgium
| | - A Schoormans
- Utrecht University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, P.O. box 80.165, 3508 TD Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - L Martinelle
- Liège University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Experimental Station CARE - FePex, Center for Fundamental and Applied Research for Animal and Health (FARAH), 4000 Liège, Belgium
| | - F Danlois
- Boehringer Ingelheim, Animal Health Belgium SA, Brussels, Belgium
| | - E Claerebout
- Ghent University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Laboratory of Parasitology, Salisburylaan 133, B-9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
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Lemming L, Jørgensen AC, Nielsen LB, Nielsen ST, Mejer H, Chriél M, Petersen HH. Cardiopulmonary nematodes of wild carnivores from Denmark: Do they serve as reservoir hosts for infections in domestic animals? INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY-PARASITES AND WILDLIFE 2020; 13:90-97. [PMID: 32884901 PMCID: PMC7452676 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2020.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 08/10/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The cardiopulmonary nematodes Angiostrongylus vasorum, Crenosoma vulpis, Capillaria aerophila and Aelurostrongylus abstrusus, are a cause of concern in the scientific and veterinary community, potentially causing significant disease in domestic animals. To investigate the potential of wild carnivores as reservoir hosts to these parasites, a total of 1041 animals from seven regions of Denmark were sampled: 476 raccoon dogs (Nyctereutes procyonoides), 367 red foxes (Vulpes vulpes), 123 American mink (Neovison vison), 31 beech martens (Martes foina), 30 Eurasian otters (Lutra lutra) and 14 polecats (Mustela putorius). Hearts and lungs were collected and examined for cardiopulmonary parasites. Capillaria aerophila was identified using morphology, whereas A. vasorum and C. vulpis were identified by a duplex real-time PCR, and A. abstrusus by conventional PCR. This is the first Danish report of A. vasorum and C. vulpis infections in raccoon dogs, mink and polecats, and of C. aerophila in raccoon dogs and beech martens. In addition, this is the first time A. vasorum and C. vulpis have been identified in wild animals from the island of Bornholm, just as it is the first report of C. vulpis in American mink, and C. vulpis and A. vasorum in polecats in Europe. The prevalence of A. vasorum appears to have increased in red foxes in Denmark compared to previous studies, while C. vulpis and C. aerophila prevalences are lower. Our data show that several wild carnivores can serve as reservoir hosts for A. vasorum, C. vulpis and C. aerophila in Denmark, and that A. vasorum appears more abundant than previously reported. It is speculated that the A. vasorum increase might relate to increased snail abundance, which may be due to a rise in mean yearly temperatures in Denmark. The first report of C. vulpis in American mink. The first report of C. vulpis and A. vasorum in polecats. The first report of A. vasorum in raccoon dogs, mink, and polecats from Denmark. The first report of C. vulpis in raccoon dogs, mink, and polecats from Denmark. The first report of C. aerophila in raccoon dogs and beech martens from Denmark.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise Lemming
- Centre for Diagnostic, Technical University of Denmark, Kemitorvet, DK-2800, Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Ann Cholewa Jørgensen
- Centre for Diagnostic, Technical University of Denmark, Kemitorvet, DK-2800, Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Linette Buxbom Nielsen
- Centre for Diagnostic, Technical University of Denmark, Kemitorvet, DK-2800, Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Stine Thorsø Nielsen
- Centre for Diagnostic, Technical University of Denmark, Kemitorvet, DK-2800, Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Helena Mejer
- Parasitology and Aquatic Pathobiology, Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Dyrlægevej 100, DK-1870, Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Mariann Chriél
- Centre for Diagnostic, Technical University of Denmark, Kemitorvet, DK-2800, Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Heidi Huus Petersen
- Centre for Diagnostic, Technical University of Denmark, Kemitorvet, DK-2800, Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
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10
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Becskei C, Willesen JL, Schnyder M, Wozniakiewicz M, Miroshnikova N, Mahabir SP. Field safety and efficacy of an orally administered combination of sarolaner, moxidectin and pyrantel (Simparica Trio ®) for the prevention of angiostrongylosis in dogs presented as veterinary patients. Parasit Vectors 2020; 13:385. [PMID: 32727548 PMCID: PMC7391663 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-020-04262-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Infection with the cardiopulmonary nematode Angiostrongylus vasorum may cause severe disease in dogs, therefore prophylactic treatments are necessary to prevent infection in dogs at risk. A clinical field study was conducted to demonstrate the efficacy and safety of an oral combination of sarolaner, moxidectin and pyrantel (Simparica Trio®) for the prevention of A. vasorum infection in dogs (prevention study). A survey study was conducted concurrently to determine the infection pressure in the same areas. Methods Prevention and survey studies were both conducted at the same veterinary clinics in endemic hot spots for A. vasorum in Denmark and Italy. The prevention study was a randomized, placebo controlled, double masked study where 622 client-owned dogs were treated and tested at 30 days intervals for 10 months. In the survey study 1628 dogs that were at risk of infection and/or were suspected to be infected were tested by fecal and/or serological methods, and the percent of dogs positive for A. vasorum was calculated. Results In the prevention study, there were no adverse events related to treatment with Simparica Trio®. Two placebo-treated animals became infected with A. vasorum during the 10-month study period, while none of the dogs in the combination product-treated group became infected. In the survey study, 12.2% of the study dogs were found positive to A. vasorum, indicating high exposure to the parasite during the period of the prevention study. Conclusions Monthly oral treatment with the combination of sarolaner, moxidectin and pyrantel (Simparica Trio®) was 100% effective in the prevention of natural infection with A. vasorum in dogs in highly endemic areas. In endemic areas, A. vasorum occurrence in dogs at risk is considerable.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Csilla Becskei
- Zoetis, Veterinary Medicine Research and Development, Mercuriusstraat 20, Zaventem, B-1930, Belgium.
| | - Jakob L Willesen
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 16 Dyrlægevej, 1870, Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Manuela Schnyder
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 266A, 8057, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Magda Wozniakiewicz
- Zoetis, Veterinary Medicine Research and Development, Mercuriusstraat 20, Zaventem, B-1930, Belgium
| | - Nataliya Miroshnikova
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 266A, 8057, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Sean P Mahabir
- Zoetis Inc, Veterinary Medicine Research and Development, 333 Portage Street, Kalamazoo, MI, 49007, USA
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Conquering Switzerland: the emergence of Angiostrongylus vasorum in foxes over three decades and its rapid regional increase in prevalence contrast with the stable occurrence of lungworms. Parasitology 2020; 147:1071-1079. [PMID: 32372743 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182020000700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Angiostrongylus vasorum, Crenosoma vulpis and Capillaria aerophila are the most common lungworms of domestic and wild canids. We investigated the short- and long-term lungworm prevalence changes in the Swiss fox population with a focus on A. vasorum. Between 2012 and 2017, lungs and hearts of 533 foxes from north-eastern Switzerland were necropsied and blood samples tested for circulating A. vasorum antigen. Angiostrongylus vasorum prevalence increased steadily from 21.5% in 2012 to 81.8% in 2017. In contrast, C. aerophila and C. vulpis prevalences fluctuated between 41.8 and 74.7%, and 3.6 and 14.9%, respectively. Based on 3955 blood samples collected between 1986 and 2017 from three geographic areas and during four time periods, antigen seropositivity increased from 2.4 to 62.0%. In north-eastern Switzerland, seropositivity was initially low (1.9 and 1.7% in the first two time periods) but increased in the following two decades to 22.2 and 62.0%, respectively. Our findings depict the spectacular expansion of A. vasorum in the past three decades. Regionally, the prevalence in foxes increased 4-fold within 6 years in some regions. This underpins the important role of foxes as reservoir hosts, likely explaining the increasing number of cases of canine angiostrongylosis in Switzerland. Our findings are representative of central Europe and may help anticipating future developments in areas where A. vasorum is present but (still) infrequent.
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12
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Gavrilović P, Marinković D, Vidanović D, Dobrosavljević I, Gavrilović A. Are golden jackals (Canis aureus) definitive hosts for Angiostrongylus vasorum? Transbound Emerg Dis 2019; 66:2305-2310. [PMID: 31254445 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.13284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2019] [Revised: 05/28/2019] [Accepted: 06/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Angiostrongylosis caused by Angiostrongylus vasorum is an emerging disease in Europe. Recent reports have shown that, besides the red fox (Vulpes vulpes) recognized as the main definitive host and reservoir for the parasite, the role of the definitive host can be taken by a range of mammals. We considered that, due to the rapid large-scale expansion of its populations in Europe, the golden jackal (Canis aureus) could assume an important role in the epidemiology of the disease. The aim of the investigations was to explore the role of the golden jackal as the definitive host for A. vasorum. Sixty-three golden jackals, legally hunted in lowlands around the Danube River in Serbia recognized as the core area of the species' distribution in Europe, were subjected to patho-morphological and parasitological examination. The adult forms of A. vasorum were detected in the pulmonary arteries in six golden jackals with gross lesions manifested in the lungs. The finding of first stage larvae (L1) of A. vasorum in microscopic smears of the lung tissue altered by infection, which was consistent with the presence of adult parasites and manifestation of gross lesions in the lungs, confirms the successful reproduction of the parasite in the golden jackal. Migration of L1 from the blood vessels to the airways was confirmed by histopathology and, subsequently, their shedding was demonstrated by the Baermann method. The results support the hypothesis that the golden jackal acts as a suitable definitive host for A. vasorum. As a definitive host with a large-scale expansion of its populations in Europe, the golden jackal may be an important part of the parasite's host repertoire by spreading the parasite into previously non-endemic areas and by being an additional definitive host in endemic areas of vulpine angiostrongylosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pavle Gavrilović
- Department of Pathology and Parasitology, Veterinary Specialized Institute 'Pančevo', Pančevo, Serbia
| | - Darko Marinković
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Pathology, Belgrade University, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Dejan Vidanović
- Department of Laboratory Diagnostics, Veterinary Specialized Institute 'Kraljevo', Kraljevo, Serbia
| | - Ivan Dobrosavljević
- Department of Pathology, Veterinary Specialized Institute 'Požarevac', Požarevac, Serbia
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13
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A grid-cell based fecal sampling scheme reveals: land-use and altitude affect prevalence rates of Angiostrongylus vasorum and other parasites of red foxes (Vulpes vulpes). Parasitol Res 2019; 118:2235-2245. [PMID: 31079253 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-019-06325-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2018] [Accepted: 04/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
In view of the role of foxes as a reservoir for Angiostrongylus vasorum, a nematode of the heart and lungs of dogs and foxes, its occurrence across Switzerland was investigated in foxes applying a standardized sampling scheme for fox fecal samples. In 72 study areas, which consisted of three 1-km2 grid cells, a total of 1481 samples were collected by walking transects following linear features in the terrain, and analyzed by a flotation-sieving method. The overall prevalence rate of A. vasorum in fecal samples was 8.8% (95% confidence interval, CI 7.4-10.3%), being significantly higher in the Swiss Plateau (11.4%, CI. 9.4-13.8%) compared with other bioregions, and more prevalent in areas with less than 50% of cultivated land (p = 0.043). Prevalence rates increased with decreasing altitudes being significantly higher below 400 m above sea level (20.6%, 95% CI 15.2-26.9%), while all samples collected above 900 m asl were negative. Eggs of Toxocara sp. (12.1%), Taeniidae (10.5%), Capillaria spp. (8.3%), Trichuris vulpis (5.5%), hookworms (5.3%), Toxascaris leonina (1.3%) and Strongyloides sp. (0.4%) were furthermore identified. Taeniid eggs were positively and Capillaria spp. negatively associated with the amount of cultivated land. The prevalence rates based on our fecal analyses were generally lower compared with previous studies from Switzerland which were based on fox necropsies. However, the grid cell-based sampling scheme with replicable transects for fox feces collection proved to be a suitable, non-invasive method for parasitic large-scale surveys providing information on the relative infectious pressure for the local dog population.
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14
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Gavrilović P, Dobrosavljević I, Vasković N, Todorović I, Živulj A, Kureljušić B, Pavlović I. Cardiopulmonary parasitic nematodes of the red fox (Vulpes vulpes) in Serbia. Acta Vet Hung 2019; 67:60-69. [PMID: 30973268 DOI: 10.1556/004.2019.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Among the wild canids, the red fox (Vulpes vulpes) is recognised as an important reservoir species for a range of parasites, including cardiopulmonary nematodes of public health and veterinary importance. As cross-host transmission between the red fox and domestic carnivores can play an important role in the epizootiology of cardiopulmonary parasitic diseases, the aim of the present investigations was to obtain data on the geographical distribution of cardiopulmonary nematodes of the red fox. The material for examination consisted of 83 foxes which were legally hunted at different locations during a three-month period from December 2017 to February 2018. The presence of four emerging species in Europe (Angiostrongylus vasorum, Crenosoma vulpis, Dirofilaria immitis and Eucoleus aerophilus) was revealed in red foxes of Serbia. Crenosoma vulpis and E. aerophilus were detected in foxes in both the plain and the mountainous areas across the country. Dirofilaria immitis is distributed in red foxes near alluvial rivers in Vojvodina province (northern Serbia). Angiostrongylosis caused by A. vasorum was demonstrated to exist in two enzootic foci with a high percentage of infected foxes in a plain area of northern Serbia. To the best of our knowledge, C. vulpis and A. vasorum were discovered for the first time in red foxes in central Serbia. The results provide strong evidence for veterinarians to take into consideration the parasitic nematodes discovered in red foxes in the differential diagnosis of diseases of companion animals. In the context of the 'One Health' approach the results related to the distribution of the zoonotic species E. aerophilus and D. immitis can be useful for medical epidemiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pavle Gavrilović
- 1 Department of Pathology and Parasitology, Novoseljanski put 33, 26000 Pančevo, Serbia
| | - Ivan Dobrosavljević
- 2 Department of Pathology, Veterinary Specialized Institute ‘Požarevac’, Požarevac, Serbia
| | - Nikola Vasković
- 3 Department of Epizootiology, Veterinary Specialized Institute ‘Kraljevo’, Kraljevo, Serbia
| | - Igor Todorović
- 4 Department of Animal Health, Novoseljanski put 33, 26000 Pančevo, Serbia
| | - Aleksandar Živulj
- 5 Department of Epizootiology, Veterinary Specialized Institute ‘Pančevo’, Novoseljanski put 33, 26000 Pančevo, Serbia
| | | | - Ivan Pavlović
- 7 Department of Parasitology, Scientific Veterinary Institute of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia
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15
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Canonne AM, Billen F, Losson B, Peters I, Schnyder M, Clercx C. Angiostrongylosis in dogs with negative fecal and in-clinic rapid serological tests: 7 Cases (2013-2017). J Vet Intern Med 2018; 32:951-955. [PMID: 29601653 PMCID: PMC5980360 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.15092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2017] [Revised: 12/20/2017] [Accepted: 02/07/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Angiostrongylosis is considered as emerging disease in dogs in Belgium. Detection of first-stage larvae in feces using the Baermann method has an imperfect sensitivity. OBJECTIVES Investigation of efficacy of noninvasive blood and fecal diagnostic tests in comparison with PCR on bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) material in a small series of coughing or dyspnoeic dogs naturally infected with Angiostrongylus vasorum. ANIMALS Seven dogs with angiostrongylosis. METHODS Retrospective study. Dogs with cough, exercise intolerance and dyspnea of 2- to 8-week duration. Diagnostic methods used included Baermann analysis, AngioDetect rapid assay, ELISAs for detection of circulating antigen and specific antibodies and qPCR on BAL material. RESULTS Baermann analysis, AngioDetect rapid assay, antigen ELISA, antibody ELISA, and qPCR on BAL material were positive in 3/7, 2/7, 3/6, 6/6, and 7/7 dogs, respectively. ELISA for antibodies or qPCR on BAL material were essential for definitive diagnosis in 3 dogs. Relative sensitivities of AngioDetect rapid assay, Baermann analysis, and ELISA for antigen detection were lower than 50% compared with ELISA for antibodies or qPCR on BAL material. CONCLUSION AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE In this small clinical series, Baermann analysis and AngioDetect rapid assay failed to confirm the diagnosis in some dogs. Therefore, ELISA for antibody detection and qPCR on BAL material should strongly be considered in clinically suspected dogs when antigen detection methods (AngioDetect or ELISA) and Baermann analysis are negative.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. Morgane Canonne
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineUniversity of LiègeBelgium
| | - F. Billen
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineUniversity of LiègeBelgium
| | - B. Losson
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Parasitic DiseasesUniversity of LiègeBelgium
| | - I. Peters
- TDDS Laboratories, University of Exeter, ExeterDevonLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - M. Schnyder
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse FacultyUniversity of ZurichZurichSwitzerland
| | - C. Clercx
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineUniversity of LiègeBelgium
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Penagos-Tabares F, Lange MK, Chaparro-Gutiérrez JJ, Taubert A, Hermosilla C. Angiostrongylus vasorum and Aelurostrongylus abstrusus: Neglected and underestimated parasites in South America. Parasit Vectors 2018; 11:208. [PMID: 29587811 PMCID: PMC5870519 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-018-2765-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2017] [Accepted: 03/04/2018] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The gastropod-borne nematodes Angiostrongylus vasorum and Aelurostrongylus abstrusus are global causes of cardio/pulmonary diseases in dogs and cats. In the last decade, the number of reports on canine and feline lungworms has increased in several areas of Europe and North America. The unspecific clinical signs and prolonged course of these diseases often renders diagnosis challenging. Both infections are considered as emerging and underestimated causes of disease in domestic pets. In South America, little information is available on these diseases, apart from occasional reports proving the principle presence of A. vasorum and A. abstrusus. Thus, the purpose of this review is to summarize reports on infections in both domestic and wildlife animals in South America and to increase the awareness on gastropod-borne metastrongyloid parasites, which also include important zoonotic species, such as A. cantonensis and A. costaricensis. This review highlights the usefulness of diagnostic tools, such as the Baermann funnel technique, serology and PCR, and proposes to include these routinely on cases with clinical suspicion for lungworm infections. Future national epidemiological surveys are recommended to be conducted to gain a deeper insight into the actual epidemiological situation of gastropod-borne parasitoses in South America.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felipe Penagos-Tabares
- Institute of Parasitology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392, Giessen, Germany. .,CIBAV Research Group, Veterinary Medicine School, University of Antioquia, 050034, Medellin, Colombia.
| | - Malin K Lange
- Institute of Parasitology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | | | - Anja Taubert
- Institute of Parasitology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - Carlos Hermosilla
- Institute of Parasitology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392, Giessen, Germany
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17
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Schug K, Krämer F, Schaper R, Hirzmann J, Failing K, Hermosilla C, Taubert A. Prevalence survey on lungworm (Angiostrongylus vasorum, Crenosoma vulpis, Eucoleus aerophilus) infections of wild red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) in central Germany. Parasit Vectors 2018; 11:85. [PMID: 29409523 PMCID: PMC5801722 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-018-2672-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2017] [Accepted: 01/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Angiostrongylus vasorum, Crenosoma vulpis and Eucoleus aerophilus are a source of increasing concern, potentially causing significant pulmonary and severe cardiac/systemic diseases in domestic dogs and wild canids, especially red foxes (Vulpes vulpes). To investigate the prevalence and geographical distribution of these parasites in central Germany, a total of 569 foxes were examined by dissection. Methods Pluck (heart and lung) and faecal samples of red foxes were collected from three regions of Germany. Lungs, hearts and adjacent vessels were processed for adult nematode detection. Parasitological diagnoses of faecal samples were performed by SAF technique, Giardia- and Cryptosporidium-Coproantigen-ELISAs and by a duplex copro-PCR for the detection of A. vasorum and C. vulpis DNA. Results Foxes originated from three Federal States of central Germany: Thuringia (n = 359); Rhineland-Palatinate (n = 121) and Hesse (n = 89). High prevalences for all three nematodes were detected, with E. aerophilus (69.4%; 395/569), followed by C. vulpis (32.3%; 184/569) and A. vasorum (14.1%; 80/569). In case of A. vasorum, prevalences varied significantly between Federal States, with the highest prevalence of 27.3% in Rhineland-Palatinate, followed by 19.1% and 8.4% in Hesse and Thuringia, respectively. The presence of A. vasorum in fox populations showed a rather patchy distribution, increasing from north-eastern to south-western regions. Analyses on C. vulpis revealed prevalences of 35.1%, 30.3% and 25.6% (Thuringia, Hesse and Rhineland-Palatinate, respectively). The most prevalent lungworm nematode was E. aerophilus, with a prevalence of 75.2%, 71.9% and 66.9% (Rhineland-Palatinate, Hesse and Thuringia, respectively) and an almost area-wide equal distribution. Significant differences for single parasite prevalences within geographical regions of the Federal States could be detected whilst no correlation between age or gender and parasite occurrence was estimated. Weak seasonality for the winter months for A. vasorum, stronger correlation to spring and late summer for C. vulpis and no correlation to any season for E. aerophilus were detected. The method of dissection revealed a significantly higher sensitivity for C. vulpis when compared with the results of the duplex copro-PCR. Conclusions A sylvatic cycle was confirmed for all three lungworm nematodes in the examined area. The prevalences for all three lungworm nematodes are some of the highest recorded so far in German foxes. The data suggest that A. vasorum might be spreading from south-western to north-eastern parts of Germany. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13071-018-2672-4) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathrin Schug
- Institute of Parasitology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Friederike Krämer
- Institute of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Roland Schaper
- Bayer Animal Health GmbH, Global Marketing CAP, MON/6210, 51373, Leverkusen, Germany
| | - Jörg Hirzmann
- Institute of Parasitology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Klaus Failing
- Unit for Biomathematics and Data Processing, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Carlos Hermosilla
- Institute of Parasitology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Anja Taubert
- Institute of Parasitology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany.
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Grandi G, Lind EO, Schaper R, Ågren E, Schnyder M. Canine angiostrongylosis in Sweden: a nationwide seroepidemiological survey by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays and a summary of five-year diagnostic activity (2011-2015). Acta Vet Scand 2017; 59:85. [PMID: 29258532 PMCID: PMC5735942 DOI: 10.1186/s13028-017-0351-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2017] [Accepted: 12/07/2017] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background For the first time in Sweden, Angiostrongylus vasorum was detected on the island of Sydkoster in foxes and dogs in 2003. After sporadic detection of the parasite in foxes in southern Sweden, the first positive canine faecal sample on the mainland was found in 2011. Since then a total of 2882 faecal samples have been analysed with the Baermann test at the National Veterinary Institute (SVA) during the years 2011–2015; 20 of them being positive. Contemporaneously, of over 525 fox necropsies, only three were found to be infected. To gather a more accurate knowledge of A. vasorum occurrence in Sweden, a large scale seroepidemiological survey was performed and totally 3885 serum samples from dogs were tested for both the presence of circulating antigens and of specific antibodies to A. vasorum. Results In total, 0.10% (n = 4, 95% Confidence Intervals, CI 0.03–0.26%) of the dogs were positive for both antigen and antibodies, whereas 0.51% (n = 20, CI 0.31–0.79%) of the tested dogs were only antigen positive and 0.88% (n = 34, CI 0.61–1.22%) only positive for specific antibodies. Seropositive animals, as well as the majority of A. vasorum-positive faecal samples tested during the same period, were spread over central and southern Sweden. Annual prevalence of positive faecal dog samples and of necropsied A. vasorum positive foxes (coming from southern Sweden) varied from 0.3 to 0.9% (overall: 0.7%, CI 0.4–1.1%) and 0.0 to 1.4% (overall: 0.3%, CI 0.1–0.9%), respectively. Conclusions The findings confirmed that A. vasorum has become established in various geographical areas of central and southern Sweden. Veterinarians and dog owners should be aware of the potential risks of infection in large areas of the country, since canine angiostrongylosis may be a fatal disease if left untreated.
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19
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Deak G, Gherman CM, Ionică AM, Vezendan AD, D'Amico G, Matei IA, Daskalaki AA, Marian I, Damian A, Cozma V, Mihalca AD. Angiostrongylus vasorum in Romania: an extensive survey in red foxes, Vulpes vulpes. Parasit Vectors 2017; 10:330. [PMID: 28701176 PMCID: PMC5508484 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-017-2270-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2017] [Accepted: 07/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Angiostrongylus vasorum is the causative agent of canine angiostrongylosis, a severe snail-borne disease of dogs. Red foxes are important natural reservoirs of infection, and surveys of foxes provide a more objective picture of the parasite distribution. Our aim was to investigate the possibility of the presence of A. vasorum in red foxes from the western part of Romania and to analyse the risk factors related to the sex, age and geographic origin of the foxes. Between July 2016 and April 2017, 567 hunted red foxes from 10 counties of western Romania were examined by necropsy for the presence of lungworms. Results Overall, the infection with A. vasorum has been found in 24 red foxes (4.2%) originating in four counties (Mureș, Hunedoara, Sălaj and Cluj). There was no significant difference between the prevalence in males and females, between juveniles and adults and between counties. Conclusions This is the first report of autochthonous infections of A. vasorum in Romania, showing a relatively low prevalence and extending eastwards the known distributional range of this parasite in Europe. The presence of autochthonous cases in domestic dogs in Romania remains to be confirmed by further studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgiana Deak
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Călin M Gherman
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
| | - Angela M Ionică
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Alexandru D Vezendan
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Gianluca D'Amico
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Ioana A Matei
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Aikaterini A Daskalaki
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Ionuț Marian
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Aurel Damian
- Department of Comparative Anatomy, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Vasile Cozma
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Andrei D Mihalca
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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Coia ME, Hammond G, Chan D, Drees R, Walker D, Murtagh K, Stone J, Bexfield N, Reeve L, Helm J. Retrospective evaluation of thoracic computed tomography findings in dogs naturally infected by Angiostrongylus vasorum. Vet Radiol Ultrasound 2017; 58:524-534. [DOI: 10.1111/vru.12505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2016] [Revised: 01/09/2017] [Accepted: 01/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Mark E. Coia
- School of Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical; Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Bearsden; Glasgow G61 1QH
| | - Gawain Hammond
- School of Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical; Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Bearsden; Glasgow G61 1QH
| | - Daniel Chan
- Department of Clinical Science and Services; The Royal Veterinary College; Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms Hatfield Hertfordshire AL9 7TA
| | - Randi Drees
- Department of Clinical Science and Services; The Royal Veterinary College; Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms Hatfield Hertfordshire AL9 7TA
| | - David Walker
- Anderson Moores, The Granary; Bunstead Barns; Poles Lane Hursley Winchester, Hampshire SO21 2LL
| | - Kevin Murtagh
- School of Veterinary Science; University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus; Chester High Road Neston Wirral CH64 7TE
| | - Janine Stone
- Pride Veterinary Centre, Riverside Road; Pride Park Derby DE24 8HX
| | - Nicholas Bexfield
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science; University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus; Leicestershire LE12 5RD
| | - Lizzie Reeve
- Langford Veterinary Services; University of Bristol; Langford House Langford Bristol BS40 5DU
| | - Jenny Helm
- School of Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical; Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Bearsden; Glasgow G61 1QH
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Benda T, Csivincsik Á, Nemes C, Turbók J, Zsolnai A, Simonyai E, Majoros G, Nagy G. Lethal Angiostrongylus vasorum infection in a Hungarian dog. Acta Parasitol 2017; 62:221-224. [PMID: 28030338 DOI: 10.1515/ap-2017-0027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2016] [Accepted: 09/29/2016] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
During post-mortem examination of lungs and heart of a 7-month-old female French bulldog, 158 worms were collected from the lung vessels and they proved Angiostrongylus vasorum by their morphological and genetic identification by PCR. The histopathological investigation found a multifocal interstitial inflammation characterized by numerous lymphocytes and a smaller number of plasma cells and eosinophils whilst L1 stage larvae could be seen inside dilated alveoli. We suggested a lethal angiostrongylosis supposed to lead to a fatal effect. Our report attracts attention to the presence of the nematode A. vasorum as causative agent of canine cardiopulmonary disorder in the south-western region of Hungary.
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Lempereur L, Martinelle L, Marechal F, Bayrou C, Dalemans AC, Schnyder M, Losson B. Prevalence of Angiostrongylus vasorum in southern Belgium, a coprological and serological survey. Parasit Vectors 2016; 9:533. [PMID: 27716374 PMCID: PMC5052934 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-016-1820-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2016] [Accepted: 09/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Canine angiostrongylosis, a gastropod-borne helminthic infection, is increasingly being described in North America and is now reported in many European countries. In dogs, Angiostrongylus vasorum may cause a wide spectrum of clinical signs. Respiratory distress such as coughing and dyspnoea are the most frequently described manifestations. The aim of the present study was to gain additional information on the distribution, prevalence and risk factors associated with A. vasorum infection in dog from southern Belgium through the combined used of a commercially available in-clinic assay for detection of circulating antigen (Angio Detect™, IDEXX, Westbrook, USA) and coprology in two different canine populations: dogs with clinical signs compatible with angiostrongylosis and asymptomatic dogs or dogs presented for unrelated conditions (control). Results A total of 979 dogs were enrolled in the study from November 2014 until February 2016. Seven hundred fifty-seven dogs were included in the control group, whereas 222 dogs had clinical signs compatible with angiostrongylosis. Forty-six dogs out of 979 (4.7 %) had A. vasorum circulating antigen. There was a highly significant difference between the two populations (3.6 % (27/747) and 8.6 % (19/222) in control and symptomatic dogs, respectively) (P = 0.00379). First stage larvae (L1) of A. vasorum were found in seven out of 24 serologically positive control dogs and in six out of 17 serologically positive symptomatic dogs. Interestingly, L1 of Crenosoma vulpis were detected by Baermann technique in one control and nine symptomatic dogs, respectively. Out of 17 Angio Detect™ (IDEXX, Westbrook, USA) positive dogs with negative (14) or not performed Baermann test (three), one dog was positive in both in-house ELISAs (Ag and Ab) and one dog was positive for Ag. Statistical analysis was unable to detect any risk factors associated with the direct and/or indirect detection of A. vasorum. Conclusions This seroepidemiological study demonstrated for the first time a high seroprevalence in Southern Belgium for A. vasorum. The Angio Detect™ was found to be suitable in this context as the collection, preservation and examination of stools were difficult. Nevertheless, discrepancies were observed between the different available tests. Additional research is clearly needed. Also, coproscopy remains a very useful tool in dogs infected for less than nine weeks and for the identification of other canine lung nematodes such as C. vulpis. This study also demonstrates that asymptomatic dogs may shed A. vasorum L1 in their faeces and therefore contribute to the maintenance of A. vasorum life-cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laetitia Lempereur
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Center for Fundamental and Applied Research for Animal and Health (FARAH), Laboratory of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium.
| | - Ludovic Martinelle
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Experimental Station CARE - FePex, Center for Fundamental and Applied Research for Animal and Health (FARAH), University of Liège, Liege, Belgium
| | - Françoise Marechal
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Center for Fundamental and Applied Research for Animal and Health (FARAH), Laboratory of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Calixte Bayrou
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Center for Fundamental and Applied Research for Animal and Health (FARAH) Pathology Unit, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | | | - Manuela Schnyder
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Bertrand Losson
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Center for Fundamental and Applied Research for Animal and Health (FARAH), Laboratory of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
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Geographical distribution of Angiostrongylus vasorum in foxes (Vulpes vulpes) in the Republic of Ireland. Parasitology 2016; 143:588-93. [PMID: 26940534 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182016000032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
The reported incidence of the metastrongylid nematode Angiostrongylus vasorum, that infects dogs and other canids, is increasing worldwide outside recognized endemic foci. This apparent expansion of the parasite's range is causing concern to veterinary clinicians as the disease caused in dogs can be life threatening and its treatment is not straightforward. The red fox is thought to be a reservoir host for dogs. To investigate the spatial distribution of infection in foxes in Ireland, the hearts and lungs of 542 foxes from all over Ireland were examined. The incidence of infection was found to be 39·9% [95% confidence interval (CI) 35·7-44·1] with positive samples occurring in each of the country's 26 counties. This report confirms that the parasite is endemic in Ireland and the overall prevalence is the second highest in Europe. This is the first survey of A. vasorum infection in Irish foxes and highlights the potential exposure of the Irish dog population to high risk of cross-infection. Additionally, Crenosoma vulpis was found in seven of the foxes, a parasite not previously reported in the Irish fox.
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Increased prevalence and geographic spread of the cardiopulmonary nematode Angiostrongylus vasorum in fox populations in Great Britain. Parasitology 2015; 142:1190-5. [DOI: 10.1017/s0031182015000463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
SUMMARYThe nematode Angiostrongylus vasorum is becoming more widely recorded globally, and is of increasing concern as a cause of disease in dogs. Apparent geographic spread is difficult to confirm due to a lack of standardized disease recording systems, increasing awareness among veterinary clinicians, and recent improvements in diagnostic technologies. This study examines the hypothesis that A. vasorum has spread in recent years by repeating the methods of a previous survey of the fox population. The hearts and lungs of 442 foxes from across Great Britain were collected and examined by dissection and flushing of the pulmonary circulation and microscopic inspection of tracheal scrapes. Sampling and parasite extraction methods were identical to an earlier survey in 2005 to ensure comparability. Prevalence of A. vasorum was 18·3% (exact binomial confidence bounds 14·9–22·3), compared with 7·3% previously (5·3–9·9, n = 546), and had increased significantly in most regions, e.g. 7·4% in the Northern UK (previously zero) and 50·8% in the south-east (previously 23·2%). Other nematodes identified were Crenosoma vulpis (prevalence 10·8%, CI 8·1–14·2) and Eucoleus aerophilus (31·6%, CI 27·3–36·2). These data support the proposal that A. vasorum has increased in prevalence and has spread geographically in Great Britain.
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