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Lavallée-Bourget ÈM, Fernandez-Prada C, Massé A, Arsenault J. Prevalence, spatial distribution and risk mapping of Dirofilaria immitis in wild canids in southern Québec, Canada. Int J Parasitol Parasites Wildl 2024; 25:100988. [PMID: 39345330 PMCID: PMC11437776 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2024.100988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2024] [Revised: 09/10/2024] [Accepted: 09/11/2024] [Indexed: 10/01/2024]
Abstract
Domestic dogs (Canis familiaris) and wild canids, including coyotes (Canis latrans) and red foxes (Vulpes vulpes), serve as definitive hosts for Dirofilaria immitis, a parasitic nematode causing the heartworm disease. Understanding infection risks in wildlife reservoirs in relation to environmental factors is crucial for assessing exposure risk in domestic dogs. The regional prevalence of D. immitis infection was estimated in trapped wild coyotes and red foxes across Québec, Canada. Spatial clusters of infection were detected using Kulldorff's spatial scan statistics. A series of logistic regression models predicting the D. immitis status in coyotes were built from heartworm development unit (HDU) estimates and cumulative precipitation variables over various time periods. Between October 2020 and March 2021, 421 coyotes and 284 red foxes were examined for the presence of D. immitis. The parasite was found in 43 coyotes and 1 red fox. A high-risk infection cluster was detected in coyotes in southwestern Québec. The best model included as sole predictor the average cumulative HDU contributing to risk of D. immitis in the three years preceding coyote capture. This model significantly predicted infection status with an area under the curve of 76.1%. The cumulative precipitation had no notable effect in any model. This study highlights a high prevalence of D. immitis in coyotes in Québec with regional differences correlated to temperature-derived predictors. The spatial risk of infection in this population likely represents the environmental risk of exposure to the parasite given that coyotes do not receive preventive treatment compared to domestic dogs. Our findings are important for veterinarians in the application of prevention strategies for heartworm disease in domestic dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ève-Marie Lavallée-Bourget
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Université de Montréal, 3200 Sicotte, Saint-Hyacinthe, Québec, J2S 2M2, Canada
- Epidemiology of Zoonoses and Public Health Research Unit (GREZOSP), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Université de Montréal, 3200 Sicotte, Saint-Hyacinthe, Québec, J2S 2M2, Canada
| | - Christopher Fernandez-Prada
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Université de Montréal, 3200 Sicotte, Saint-Hyacinthe, Québec, J2S 2M2, Canada
- Epidemiology of Zoonoses and Public Health Research Unit (GREZOSP), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Université de Montréal, 3200 Sicotte, Saint-Hyacinthe, Québec, J2S 2M2, Canada
| | - Ariane Massé
- Epidemiology of Zoonoses and Public Health Research Unit (GREZOSP), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Université de Montréal, 3200 Sicotte, Saint-Hyacinthe, Québec, J2S 2M2, Canada
- Ministère de l'Environnement, de la Lutte contre les changements climatiques, de la Faune et des Parcs, 880 Ch Sainte-Foy, Québec, G1S 4X4, Canada
| | - Julie Arsenault
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Université de Montréal, 3200 Sicotte, Saint-Hyacinthe, Québec, J2S 2M2, Canada
- Epidemiology of Zoonoses and Public Health Research Unit (GREZOSP), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Université de Montréal, 3200 Sicotte, Saint-Hyacinthe, Québec, J2S 2M2, Canada
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Martin EM, Mitchell EB, Yoon S, McCall JW, Fankhauser B, Mansour A, McCall S, Pollmeier M. Efficacy of moxidectin, using various dose regimens, against JYD-34, a macrocyclic lactone resistant isolate of Dirofilaria immitis. Parasit Vectors 2024; 17:176. [PMID: 38575969 PMCID: PMC10996163 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-024-06149-0] [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: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Macrocyclic lactones (MLs) are the only class of drugs currently commercially available that are effective for preventing heartworm disease. The data presented in this article provide information on the efficacy of oral moxidectin against JYD-34, a known ML-resistant Dirofilaria immitis isolate, when dogs are treated under various dosing regimens. METHODS Fifty-two purpose-bred Beagle dogs were used in five laboratory studies. All dogs were inoculated with 50 D. immitis third-stage larvae (L3) (JYD-34 isolate) 30 days prior to the first treatment. Dogs were randomized to treatment (four to five animals in each group) with one, three, or five monthly doses of oral moxidectin ranging from 6 to 100 µg/kg body weight. In each study, control dogs were not treated. Five to 6 months after L3 inoculation, dogs were euthanized, and adult worms were counted to evaluate efficacy of the dosing regimens. RESULTS Adult heartworms were recovered from all control dogs, with an overall geometric mean of 29.7 worms (range 15.2 to 38.0, individual counts ranged from 8 to 51). Five monthly doses of 6 µg/kg provided 83.3% and 90.2%, efficacy, and the same number of monthly doses of 9 µg/kg demonstrated 98.8% and 94.1% efficacy. Three monthly doses of 30 and 50 µg/kg demonstrated 97.9% and 99.0% efficacy, respectively, while a single dose of 100 µg/kg demonstrated 91.1% efficacy. CONCLUSIONS Five monthly doses of 9 µg/kg provided similar or only marginally lower efficacy against JYD-34, a known ML-resistant isolate, compared to substantially higher doses administered for 3 months. This underscores the importance of duration of exposure to moxidectin when facing ML-resistant isolates. Repeated administration of lower doses of moxidectin are an alternative to higher doses in the prevention of heartworm disease associated with less susceptible or resistant isolates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth M Martin
- Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health, 1730 Olympic Drive, Athens, GA, 30601, USA.
| | | | - Stephen Yoon
- Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health, 1730 Olympic Drive, Athens, GA, 30601, USA
| | - John W McCall
- TRS Labs, Inc, 215 Paradise Blvd, Athens, GA, 30607, USA
| | - Becky Fankhauser
- Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health, 1730 Olympic Drive, Athens, GA, 30601, USA
| | | | - Scott McCall
- TRS Labs, Inc, 215 Paradise Blvd, Athens, GA, 30607, USA
| | - Matthias Pollmeier
- Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica GmbH, Binger Str. 173, 55216, Ingelheim Am Rhein, Germany
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Gandasegui J, Power RI, Curry E, Lau DCW, O'Neill CM, Wolstenholme A, Prichard R, Šlapeta J, Doyle SR. Genome structure and population genomics of the canine heartworm Dirofilaria immitis. Int J Parasitol 2024; 54:89-98. [PMID: 37652224 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2023.07.006] [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: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
The heartworm, Dirofilaria immitis, is a filarial parasitic nematode responsible for significant morbidity and mortality in wild and domesticated canids. Resistance to macrocyclic lactone drug prevention represents a significant threat to parasite control and has prompted investigations to understand the genetic determinants of resistance. This study aimed to improve the genomic resources of D. immitis to enable a more precise understanding of how genetic variation is distributed within and between parasite populations worldwide, which will inform the likelihood and rate by which parasites, and in turn, resistant alleles, might spread. We have guided the scaffolding of a recently published genome assembly for D. immitis (ICBAS_JMDir_1.0) using the chromosomal-scale reference genomes of Brugia malayi and Onchocerca volvulus, resulting in an 89.5 Mb assembly composed of four autosomal- and one sex-linked chromosomal-scale scaffolds representing 99.7% of the genome. Publicly available and new whole-genome sequencing data from 32 D. immitis samples from Australia, Italy and the USA were assessed using principal component analysis, nucleotide diversity (Pi) and absolute genetic divergence (Dxy) to characterise the global genetic structure and measure within- and between-population diversity. These population genetic analyses revealed broad-scale genetic structure among globally diverse samples and differences in genetic diversity between populations; however, fine-scale subpopulation analysis was limited and biased by differences between sample types. Finally, we mapped single nucleotide polymorphisms previously associated with macrocyclic lactone resistance in the new genome assembly, revealing the physical linkage of high-priority variants on chromosome 3, and determined their frequency in the studied populations. This new chromosomal assembly for D. immitis now allows for a more precise investigation of selection on genome-wide genetic variation and will enhance our understanding of parasite transmission and the spread of genetic variants responsible for resistance to treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Gandasegui
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Hospital Clínic - University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Rosemonde I Power
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia.
| | - Emily Curry
- Institute of Parasitology, McGill University, Sainte Anne-de-Bellevue, QC, Canada.
| | - Daisy Ching-Wai Lau
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia.
| | - Connor M O'Neill
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA.
| | - Adrian Wolstenholme
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA.
| | - Roger Prichard
- Institute of Parasitology, McGill University, Sainte Anne-de-Bellevue, QC, Canada.
| | - Jan Šlapeta
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia.
| | - Stephen R Doyle
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Cambridgeshire CB10 1SA, United Kingdom.
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Kumar S, Prichard RK, Long T. Droplet digital PCR as a tool to detect resistant isolates of Dirofilaria immitis. Int J Parasitol Drugs Drug Resist 2023; 23:10-18. [PMID: 37540993 PMCID: PMC10407818 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpddr.2023.07.002] [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: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/06/2023]
Abstract
Prevention of canine heartworm disease, caused by Dirofilaria immitis, relies on macrocyclic lactones for which drug resistance is now a concern. Although genetic polymorphisms have been associated with resistance in D. immitis populations, the mechanism is still not well understood. The lack of reliable in vitro assays to detect resistance is a limitation for confirming resistance. Ten single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were previously clinically validated in D. immitis resistant isolates, using the MiSeq platform. This technique although useful for research studies is expensive and does not facilitate rapid detection of these markers in small numbers of clinical samples. We developed a droplet digital PCR protocol for detecting SNPs correlating with ML resistance. Specific primers and hydrolysis probes encompassing the wildtype and mutant alleles were designed to amplify the SNP targets from genomic DNA of different D. immitis isolates. Allele frequencies were determined and the suitability of the ddPCR assay was assessed and compared with MiSeq data. The ddPCR assay accurately detected and quantified alternate nucleotides in two isolates of reference, the ML-susceptible Missouri (MO) and ML-resistant JYD-34, at the previously identified SNP positions. The presence of the SNPs was also determined in additional isolates with known or putative susceptible or resistant phenotypes. We observed SNP1 and SNP2 are more predictive markers and appear suitable for rapid detection and monitoring of drug resistance. Our results suggested that ddPCR could be employed to distinguish infection due to actual genetic resistance from infection with susceptible parasites and also for rapid detection of isolates not only with ML susceptible and resistant genotypes but also mixed genotypes that correspond to heterogeneous isolates containing a mixed population of ML susceptible and resistant parasites. DdPCR may be a useful tool for conducting surveys, or assessments of individual isolates, for genetic evidence of resistance or developing resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sohini Kumar
- Institute of Parasitology, McGill University, 21111 Lakeshore Road, Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue, H9X3V9, QC, Canada
| | - Roger K Prichard
- Institute of Parasitology, McGill University, 21111 Lakeshore Road, Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue, H9X3V9, QC, Canada
| | - Thavy Long
- Institute of Parasitology, McGill University, 21111 Lakeshore Road, Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue, H9X3V9, QC, Canada.
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Roblejo-Arias L, Díaz-Corona C, Piloto-Sardiñas E, Díaz-Sánchez AA, Zając Z, Kulisz J, Woźniak A, Moutailler S, Obregon D, Foucault-Simonin A, Corona-González B, Cabezas-Cruz A. First molecular characterization of Dirofilaria Immitis in Cuba. BMC Vet Res 2023; 19:239. [PMID: 37978522 PMCID: PMC10655431 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-023-03803-0] [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: 05/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dirofilarioses are widespread diseases caused by mosquito-borne nematodes of the family Onchocercidae, genus Dirofilaria. The major etiologic agent of canine dirofilariosis in the American continent is the zoonotic parasite Dirofilaria immitis. Existing reports of filarioid nematodes in Cuba are based solely on morphological and immunological analysis which do not allow unambiguous identification and/or direct detection of causal agents. RESULTS Here we present the molecular characterization of filarioid nematodes found in a dog in Cuba. Based on the molecular and phylogenetic analysis of the 5.8S-ITS2-28S region and cox1 gene fragments, the worms were unambiguously classified as D. immitis. Sequence analysis showed high identity of the gene fragments in this study with others previously obtained from D. immitis found in dogs, wolfs and jackals but also from mosquito vectors of D. immitis. CONCLUSIONS Further studies are guarantee to better understand the epidemiological impact of canine dirofilariosis in Cuba as well as the competence of different species of culicid mosquitoes as vectors of Dirofilaria in the country.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisset Roblejo-Arias
- Direction of Animal Health, National Center for Animal and Plant Health, Carretera de Tapaste y Autopista Nacional, Apartado Postal 10, San José de las Lajas, Mayabeque, 32700, Cuba
| | - Cristian Díaz-Corona
- Direction of Animal Health, National Center for Animal and Plant Health, Carretera de Tapaste y Autopista Nacional, Apartado Postal 10, San José de las Lajas, Mayabeque, 32700, Cuba
| | - Elianne Piloto-Sardiñas
- Direction of Animal Health, National Center for Animal and Plant Health, Carretera de Tapaste y Autopista Nacional, Apartado Postal 10, San José de las Lajas, Mayabeque, 32700, Cuba
- Laboratoire de Santé Animale, ANSES, INRAE, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, UMR BIPAR, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | | | - Zbigniew Zając
- Department of Biology and Parasitology, Medical University of Lublin, Radziwiłłowska 11st, Lublin, 20-080, Poland
| | - Joanna Kulisz
- Department of Biology and Parasitology, Medical University of Lublin, Radziwiłłowska 11st, Lublin, 20-080, Poland
| | - Aneta Woźniak
- Department of Biology and Parasitology, Medical University of Lublin, Radziwiłłowska 11st, Lublin, 20-080, Poland
| | - Sara Moutailler
- Laboratoire de Santé Animale, ANSES, INRAE, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, UMR BIPAR, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Dasiel Obregon
- School of Environmental Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Angélique Foucault-Simonin
- Laboratoire de Santé Animale, ANSES, INRAE, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, UMR BIPAR, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Belkis Corona-González
- Direction of Animal Health, National Center for Animal and Plant Health, Carretera de Tapaste y Autopista Nacional, Apartado Postal 10, San José de las Lajas, Mayabeque, 32700, Cuba.
| | - Alejandro Cabezas-Cruz
- Laboratoire de Santé Animale, ANSES, INRAE, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, UMR BIPAR, Maisons-Alfort, France.
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Mitchell E, Tielemans E, McCall JW, Baker C, Martin E, Frost J, Yoon S, Fankhauser B. Efficacy of an oral combination of moxidectin, afoxolaner, and pyrantel pamoate for the prevention of heartworm disease in dogs. Res Vet Sci 2023; 162:104957. [PMID: 37454406 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2023.104957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Dirofilaria immitis, the mosquito-borne agent of dirofilariosis, a chronic and sometimes fatal cardiopulmonary canine disease, is endemic in most warm and temperate regions in the world. The efficacy of an oral endectoparasiticide product (test product or TP) combining moxidectin, afoxolaner, and pyrantel pamoate was evaluated for the prevention of heartworm disease in dogs, in two laboratory and one field studies. In each laboratory study, 20 D. immitis-naïve beagle dogs were experimentally infected with D. immitis. Ten control dogs were sham-treated, and ten dogs were administered the TP targeting the minimum effective dose, six times monthly and starting 30 days post infection. At necropsy seven months after inoculations, no heartworms were found in any of the TP treated dog, whereas 19 to 42 live heartworms were found in the control dogs. In each study, treatment efficacy was 100% and the difference between treated and untreated groups was highly significant (p < 0.0001). A field study was conducted through the full transmission season in several heartworm-endemic regions of the United States. One hundred and twenty client-owned dogs that were negative for D. immitis at enrollment were administered twelve monthly oral doses of the TP at label dose. Blood tests for D. immitis antigen and modified Knott's tests for microfilariae remained negative through the full duration of the study, demonstrating that all dogs were protected from heartworm infection during the full transmission season. These studies demonstrated that TP administered monthly for at least six doses is effective at preventing dirofilariosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Mitchell
- Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health, 1730 Olympic Drive, Athens, GA 30601, USA
| | - Eric Tielemans
- Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health, 29 avenue Tony Garnier, 69007 Lyon, France.
| | - John W McCall
- TRS Labs, Inc., 215 Paradise Blvd., Athens, GA 30607, USA
| | - Christine Baker
- Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health, 1730 Olympic Drive, Athens, GA 30601, USA
| | - Elizabeth Martin
- Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health, 1730 Olympic Drive, Athens, GA 30601, USA
| | - Justin Frost
- Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health, 1730 Olympic Drive, Athens, GA 30601, USA
| | - Stephen Yoon
- Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health, 1730 Olympic Drive, Athens, GA 30601, USA
| | - Becky Fankhauser
- Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health, 1730 Olympic Drive, Athens, GA 30601, USA
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Zeb J, Song B, Khan MA, Senbill H, Aziz MU, Hussain S, Waris A, E-Tabor A, Sparagano OA. Genetic diversity of vector-borne pathogens in ixodid ticks infesting dogs from Pakistan with notes on Ehrlichia canis, Rickettsia raoultii and Dirofilaria immitis detection. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:214. [PMID: 37381006 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-05804-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vector-/tick-borne pathogens (V/TBPs) pose a potential threat to human and animal health globally. Information regarding canine V/TBPs is scarce and no specific study has been conducted so far to explore the microbial diversity within ticks infesting dogs from Pakistan. Herein, this knowledge gap is addressed by assessing the genetic diversity and prevalence pattern of V/TBPs in ixodid ticks with special implications for public and canine health. METHODS A total of 1150 hard ticks were collected from 300 dogs across central Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Pakistan. After morpho-molecular identification, 120 tick samples were screened for the presence of V/TBPs by amplifying 16S rRNA/gltA (Rickettsia/Ehrlichia and Wolbachia sp.), 18S rRNA (Theileria sp.) and cox1 (Dirofilaria sp.) genes through PCR followed by sequencing and phylogenetic study. RESULTS In toto, 50 ixodid ticks (50/120, 41.7%) were found positive for V/TBPs DNA. The detected V/TBPs were categorized into five genera and eight species, viz. Ehrlichia (E. canis and Ehrlichia sp.), Rickettsia (R. massiliae, R. raoultii and Rickettsia sp.), Theileria (T. annulata), Dirofilaria (D. immitis) and Wolbachia (Wolbachia sp.). The pathogen prevalence patterns showed that R. massiliae was the most prevalent zoonotic V/TBP (19.5%), followed by E. canis (10.8%), Rickettsia sp. (7.5%), R. raoultii (6.7%), T. annulata (5.8%), D. immitis (5.8%), Wolbachia sp. (4.2%) and Ehrlichia sp. (3.3%), respectively. Among the screened tick species, most Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato samples were found positive for V/TBP DNA (20/20,100%) followed by Rh. turanicus sensu stricto (13/20, 65%), Hyalomma dromedarii (8/20, 40%), Rh. haemaphysaloides (6/20, 30%), Hy. excavatum (2/20, 10%) and Rh. microplus (1/20, 5%). Co-occurrence of V/TBP was also detected in tick specimens (single V/TBP infection: 32 ticks; double and triple: 13 and 5 tick samples). The detected pathogens shared a phylogenetic relationship with similar isolates published in NCBI GenBank from Old and New World countries. CONCLUSION Ixodid ticks infesting dogs harbor a diverse array of V/TBPs including zoonotic agents from Pakistan. Furthermore, the presence of D. immitis in ticks that infest dogs raises the possibility that this parasite has either attained its dead-end host (i.e. the tick) while feeding on dogs or has expanded its range of intermediate/paratenic hosts. Further research work is needed to investigate the epidemiology and confirm the vector competence of screened tick species for these pathogens from Pakistan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jehan Zeb
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Public Health, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, 518057, 999077, Hong Kong, SAR, China.
| | - Baolin Song
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Public Health, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, 518057, 999077, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Munsif Ali Khan
- Vector-Borne Diseases Control Unit, District Health Office, Abbottabad, 22010, Pakistan
| | - Haytham Senbill
- Department of Applied Entomology and Zoology, Faculty of Agriculture, Alexandria University, Alexandria, 21545, Egypt
| | - Muhammad Umair Aziz
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Public Health, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, 518057, 999077, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Sabir Hussain
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Public Health, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, 518057, 999077, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Abdul Waris
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, 518057, 999077, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Ala E-Tabor
- Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Olivier Andre Sparagano
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Public Health, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, 518057, 999077, Hong Kong, SAR, China.
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Ying Z, Upadhyay A, Wang J, Han Q, Liu Q. The prevalence of canine dirofilariasis in China: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:207. [PMID: 37340314 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-05770-9] [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: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dirofilariasis, the disease caused by Dirofilaria spp., and in particular by Dirofilaria immitis and Dirofilaria repens in canines, occurs frequently in canids and felids, and occasionally in humans, in temperate, sub-tropical and tropical regions globally. Although highly effective, safe and convenient preventive medicines have been available for the treatment of dirofilariasis for the past three decades, the disease remains a major veterinary and public health concern in endemic areas. The insect vectors, host-parasite relationships and interactions of Dirofilaria spp. have received little attention in China, and there is very little information in English regarding the prevalence of dirofilariasis in animals and humans in the country. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to evaluate the status of canine dirofilariasis in China based on the available literature in English and in Chinese. METHODS We systematically searched five databases for epidemiologic studies on the prevalence of canine dirofilariasis in China and finally selected 42 studies eligible for inclusion in the systematic review and meta-analysis. The meta-analysis was performed using the random effects model in the meta package in R v4.2.1. RESULTS The random effects model gave a pooled and weighted prevalence of Dirofilaria infection among dogs in China in the past 100 years of 13.8% (2896/51,313, 95% confidence interval 8.2-20.4%) with a high level of heterogeneity (I2 = 99.5%). CONCLUSIONS Our analyses indicated that the prevalence of canine dirofilariasis in China has gradually declined, but that the range of Dirofilaria spp. has expanded. Older and outdoor dogs presented a higher rate of positive infection. The findings indicated that more attention should be paid to host factors for the effective control and management of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhu Ying
- One Health Institute, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, Hainan, China
- National Animal Protozoa Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Archana Upadhyay
- One Health Institute, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, Hainan, China
- Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, School of Life Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, Hainan, China
| | - Jinhua Wang
- One Health Institute, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, Hainan, China
- School of Animal Science and Technology, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, Hainan, China
| | - Qian Han
- One Health Institute, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, Hainan, China.
- Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, School of Life Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, Hainan, China.
| | - Qun Liu
- National Animal Protozoa Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100083, China.
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Hussain S, Hussain A, Aziz MU, Song B, Zeb J, Hasib FMY, Almendros A, Cabezas-Cruz A, George D, Sparagano O. First molecular confirmation of multiple zoonotic vector-borne diseases in pet dogs and cats of Hong Kong SAR. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2023; 14:102191. [PMID: 37121216 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2023.102191] [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: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, the incidence of vector-borne diseases (VBDs) has increased throughout the globe. In particular, tick-borne diseases (e.g., caused by Ehrlichia canis, E. ewingii, Anaplasma phagocytophilum, A. platys, Borrelia burgdorferi sensu stricto (s.s.) and Babesia gibsoni) and mosquito-borne diseases (e.g., caused by Dirofilaria immitis) diseases pose a burden on animal health. Nevertheless, there have been no studies undertaken on the occurrence of VBDs in pet dogs and cats in Hong Kong SAR. This study fills this gap, and is the first to determine the seroprevalence of major VBDs, such as those caused by D. immitis, E. canis, E. ewingii, A. phagocytophilum, A. platys and B. burgdorferi s.s, in dogs and cats through commercially available SNAP 4Dx plus testing. Infection by all these pathogens and Babesia sp. was further assessed through PCR and DNA sequencing. A total of 224 blood samples were collected from domestic dogs (n = 159) and cats (n = 65) in Hong Kong SAR during summer 2022. Hematocrit and platelet counts were determined in each blood sample and other hematological parameters were assessed using an automatic hematology analyzer and vortex the specimen for one to two minutes at or near the highest setting to minimize the clumping. All cat sera samples were negative for tested pathogens, but antibodies against some of the pathogens were detected in dog sera samples. Here, the highest figures were recorded for seroprevalence of E. canis/E. ewingii (10.7%), followed by D. immitis (5.7%), and A. phagocytophilum/A. platys (2.5%). No B. burgdorferi s.s. antibodies were detected in any of the dogs tested. Through molecular diagnostics, we detected the presence of B. gibsoni (3.7%), E. canis (3.1%), D. immitis (5.7%), and A. phagocytophilum (1.3%). Neighbor-Joining phylogenetic trees for vector-borne pathogens (i.e., genus Anaplasma sp.) showed 100% clustering to Japan, the USA and Germany, whereas genus Ehrlichia sp. showed 100% clustering to China, Turkey, Cuba, and Greece. Similarly, genus Babesia sp. clustered 100% to India, Sri Lanka and Austria, while D. immitis clustered in Iraq, South Korea, Portugal, France, the USA and Italy. This study provides the first evidence on the occurrence of tick-borne pathogens in pet dogs in Hong Kong SAR. Based on these findings, it is recommended that appropriate screening should be undertaken in domestic dogs to evaluate the prevalence of these pathogens and promote the timely control of VBDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabir Hussain
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Public Health, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China; School of Biological, Environmental, and Earth Sciences, University of Southern Mississippi, Hattiesburg, MS 39406, United States.
| | - Abrar Hussain
- Department of Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, 61802, United States
| | - Muhammad Umair Aziz
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Public Health, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Baolin Song
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Public Health, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Jehan Zeb
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Public Health, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - F M Yasir Hasib
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Public Health, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Angel Almendros
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Alejandro Cabezas-Cruz
- Anses, INRAE, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, UMR BIPAR, Laboratoire de Santé Animale, Maisons-Alfort, F-94700, France
| | - David George
- School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RU, United Kingdom
| | - Olivier Sparagano
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Public Health, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China.
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Mitchell E, Tielemans E, McCall JW, Baker C, Martin E, Frost J, Yoon S, Fankhauser B. Efficacy for the prevention of heartworm disease in dogs of an oral combination of moxidectin, afoxolaner, and pyrantel pamoate. Res Vet Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2022.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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11
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Scavo NA, Zecca IB, Sobotyk C, Saleh MN, Lane SK, Olson MF, Hamer SA, Verocai GG, Hamer GL. High prevalence of canine heartworm, Dirofilaria immitis, in pet dogs in south Texas, USA, with evidence of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes contributing to transmission. Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:407. [PMID: 36329477 PMCID: PMC9635171 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05514-1] [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: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The canine heartworm Dirofilaria immitis, a filarioid nematode of dogs and other carnivores, is widespread in the USA and the world. Over 20 different mosquito species serve as intermediate hosts of D. immitis, but their contribution to transmission varies according to factors like host feeding patterns, geographic locations and climatic conditions. The yellow fever mosquito, Aedes aegypti, is a competent vector of D. immitis but is often dismissed as a vector of veterinary relevance given its anthropophilic feeding behavior. We evaluated the prevalence of D. immitis in pet dogs along the USA-Mexico border and assessed whether Ae. aegypti in the area are naturally infected with heartworm and are potentially acting as a vector. Methods A total of 200 whole blood samples collected from pet dogs in the Lower Rio Grande Valley in south Texas from 2016 to 2019 were included in this study. Canine serum samples for D. immitis were tested using the DiroCHEK® Canine Heartworm Antigen Test Kit pre- and post-immune complex dissociations (ICD) and blood samples were tested using high-resolution melt (HRM) quantitative PCR (qPCR) and a probe-based qPCR. Additionally, mosquito specimens were collected and identified, and Ae. aegypti heads, abdomens and pools were tested using conventional PCR (cPCR) and HRM qPCR. Results Overall, heartworm prevalence in dogs aged > 6 months was 40.8% (64/157) when the results from all testing modalities were considered. Heartworm antigen was detected in 33.5% and 40.7% of the dogs using DiroCHEK® pre- and post-ICD, respectively. By molecular screening, 20.1% of dogs tested positive with probe-based qPCR, while only one tested positive with HRM qPCR. Of the Ae. aegypti abdomens from blood-fed Ae. aeygpti tested, 20 (21.7%) from mosquitoes that fed on dogs and four (7%) from those that fed on humans tested positive for heartworm. Among Ae. aegypti heads from blood-fed Ae. aeygpti, two (1.1%) were positive based on cPCR and four (2.5%) were positive based on HRM qPCR. No D. immitis DNA was detected in the 208 pools of whole bodies (358 individuals) of Ae. aegypti gravid females. Conclusions Our study highlights a high prevalence of heartworm in dogs in south Texas and provides evidence that Ae. aegypti could be contributing to heartworm transmission in canine populations in this region. Graphical Abstract ![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole A. Scavo
- grid.264756.40000 0004 4687 2082Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX USA
| | - Italo B. Zecca
- grid.264756.40000 0004 4687 2082Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX USA
| | - Caroline Sobotyk
- grid.264756.40000 0004 4687 2082Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX USA ,grid.25879.310000 0004 1936 8972Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA USA
| | - Meriam N. Saleh
- grid.264756.40000 0004 4687 2082Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX USA
| | - Sarah K. Lane
- grid.264756.40000 0004 4687 2082Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX USA
| | - Mark F. Olson
- grid.264756.40000 0004 4687 2082Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX USA
| | - Sarah A. Hamer
- grid.264756.40000 0004 4687 2082Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX USA
| | - Guilherme G. Verocai
- grid.264756.40000 0004 4687 2082Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX USA
| | - Gabriel L. Hamer
- grid.264756.40000 0004 4687 2082Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX USA
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Couper LI, Mordecai EA. Ecological drivers of dog heartworm transmission in California. Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:388. [PMID: 36274157 PMCID: PMC9590206 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05526-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Effectively controlling heartworm disease-a major parasitic disease threatening animal health in the US and globally-requires understanding the local ecology of mosquito vectors involved in transmission. However, the key vector species in a given region are often unknown and challenging to identify. Here we investigate (i) the key vector species associated with transmission of the parasite, Dirofilaria immitis, in California and (ii) the climate and land cover drivers of vector presence. METHODS To identify key mosquito vectors involved in transmission, we incorporated long-term, finely resolved mosquito surveillance data and dog heartworm case data in a statistical modeling approach (fixed-effects regression) that rigorously controls for other unobserved drivers of heartworm cases. We then used a flexible machine learning approach (gradient boosted machines) to identify the climate and land cover variables associated with the presence of each species. RESULTS We found significant, regionally specific, positive associations between dog heartworm cases and the abundance of four vector species: Aedes aegypti (Central California), Ae. albopictus (Southern California), Ae. sierrensis (Central California), and Culiseta incidens (Northern and Central California). The proportion of developed land cover was one of the most important ecological variables predicting the presence or absence of the putative vector species. CONCLUSION Our results implicate three previously under-recognized vectors of dog heartworm transmission in California and indicate the land cover types in which each putative vector species is commonly found. Efforts to target these species could prioritize surveillance in these land cover types (e.g. near human dwellings in less urbanized settings for Ae. albopictus and Cs. incidens) but further investigation on the natural infection prevalence and host-biting rates of these species, as well as the other local vectors, is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa I Couper
- Department of Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA.
| | - Erin A Mordecai
- Department of Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
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Smith R, Murillo DFB, Chenoweth K, Barua S, Kelly PJ, Starkey L, Blagburn B, Wood T, Wang C. Nationwide molecular survey of Dirofilaria immitis and Dirofilaria repens in companion dogs and cats, United States of America. Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:367. [PMID: 36229848 PMCID: PMC9559157 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05459-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Heartworms, Dirofilaria immitis, are known to be widespread in dogs and cats in the USA, but there have been no country-wide prevalence studies performed to date. There have also been no large-scale studies to determine whether the closely related species, Dirofilaria repens, occurs in the USA. Methods To provide this large-scale data, we examined whole blood samples (n = 2334) submitted from around the USA to the Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory at Auburn University between 2016 and 2022. Quantitative PCRs for D. immitis (targeting 16S rRNA) and D. repens (targeting cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 gene) were performed to determine the presence of Dirofilaria DNA. DNA sequencing was performed to confirm the results. Results Dirofilaria immitis DNA was found in 6.3% (68/1080) of the dogs from 17/39 states, and 0.3% (4/1254) of the cats from 4/42 states. None of the dogs or cats were positive for D. repens. The average 16S rRNA copy number of D. immitis in the dogs was 1,809,604 in 200 µl whole blood, while only a single copy was found in each of the four D. immitis-positive cats. The prevalence of D. immitis in dogs of different ages, sexes, and breeds did not differ significantly, but the prevalence in Southern states (7.5%, 60/803) was significantly higher than in the Western (1.7%, 1/58), Midwest (3.3%, 4/120), and Northeastern states (3.1%, 3/98) (P < 0.05). Dogs positive for D. immitis were identified in each study year (2016: 4.2%, 2/48; 2017: 9.8%, 4/41; 2018: 5.1%, 8/156; 2019: 4.9%, 15/306; 2020: 9.8%, 26/265; 2021: 4.9%, 13/264). Interestingly, dogs infected with Hepatozoon spp. (11.8%, 37/313) were significantly more likely to also be positive for D. immitis than dogs without evidence of Hepatozoon infection (3.9%, 30/760) (P < 0.0001). Conclusions To our knowledge, this is the first nationwide molecular survey of Dirofilaria spp. in dogs and cats in the USA, and the largest molecular survey of canine and feline dirofilariosis worldwide. Further studies are warranted to combine PCR with standard heartworm diagnostics to better understand the prevalence of Dirofilaria spp. and aid in determining the risks posed to dogs and cats in the USA. Graphical Abstract ![]()
Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13071-022-05459-5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Smith
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA
| | | | - Kelly Chenoweth
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA
| | - Subarna Barua
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA
| | - Patrick John Kelly
- Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis
| | - Lindsay Starkey
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA
| | - Byron Blagburn
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA
| | - Theresa Wood
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA
| | - Chengming Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA. .,Department of Pathobiology, Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn, AL, USA.
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KİRMAN R, AKYUZ M, BALKAYA İ, GÜVEN E, AVCIOĞLU H. Gastrointestinal helminths of stray dogs in Erzurum province: prevalence and risk to public health. ANKARA ÜNIVERSITESI VETERINER FAKÜLTESI DERGISI 2022. [DOI: 10.33988/auvfd.1082999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Dogs have an important role in public health due to their close contact with humans and living in common areas. This study was aimed to investigate the presence and prevalence of gastrointestinal system helminths in stray dogs in Erzurum province. Gastrointestinal helminth eggs were detected in a total of 190 out of 446 (42.6%) in stray dogs in Erzurum province. In the study, taeniid eggs (17.71%, 79/446), T. canis (16.82%, 75/446), T. leonina (12.78%, 57/446), Linguatula spp. (4.48%, 20/446), spiny-headed worms (2.91%, 13/446), hookworms (2.69%, 12/446), Alaria spp. (1.12%, 5/446) and Trichuris spp. (0.22%, 1/446) eggs were observed. In addition, proglottid structures of Mesocestoides spp. (3.14%), Taenia spp. (2.69%), and D. caninum (1.12%), adults of Alaria spp. (0.22%), T. canis (0.22%), and T. leonina (0.22%) were detected. According to the results of the study, zoonotic parasites including taeniid cestodes, T. canis, Linguatula spp., spiny-headed worm, hookworm, Alaria spp., and Trichuris spp. were common in stray dogs in the province. Public health risks can be reduced by regular deworming of dogs, proper management of the process, prevention of environmental contamination with dog feces, and proper enforcement of sanitation protocols.
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Penezić A, Kuručki M, Bogdanović N, Pantelić I, Bugarski-Stanojević V, Ćirović D. Heartworm Disease in Jackals: Unusual Location of Dirofilaria immitis. Acta Parasitol 2022; 67:1412-1415. [PMID: 35587305 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-022-00567-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The knowledge of heartworm disease in free ranging wild canid populations is limited. As it is very difficult to monitor this disease in live animals, sporadic findings are mostly obtained by examining culled individuals of game species. METHODS As a part of a broader study on jackal (Canis aureus) ecology in Serbia, the necropsy of legally hunted animals was performed in 2020. RESULTS Two cases of heartworm infection with unusually located adult heartworms were diagnosed. The first case is an adult female jackal harvested in the vicinity of the capital city of Belgrade. Three adult specimens of Dirofilaria immitis were found in the right atrium of the heart, and nine adult specimens were located at an atypical site, in the vena cava caudalis. Very similar, the second case was in an adult female jackal harvested in the vicinity of Bački Monoštor. In this case, six adult specimens of D. immitis were found in the right atrium of the heart and six more adult specimens in the vena cava caudalis. CONCLUSION Although this nematode generally resides in the pulmonary arteries and the right ventricle of the heart, rare findings in other large blood vessels can occur. To the best of our knowledge, these are the first and only two confirmed cases of adult D. immitis found in vena cava caudalis in jackals in Europe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Penezić
- Faculty of Biology, University of Belgrade, Studentski trg 16, Belgrade, Serbia.
| | - Milica Kuručki
- Faculty of Biology, University of Belgrade, Studentski trg 16, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Neda Bogdanović
- Faculty of Biology, University of Belgrade, Studentski trg 16, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Ilija Pantelić
- Faculty of Biology, University of Belgrade, Studentski trg 16, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Vanja Bugarski-Stanojević
- Institute for Biological Research, "Siniša Stanković", National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Bulevar Despota Stefana 142, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Duško Ćirović
- Faculty of Biology, University of Belgrade, Studentski trg 16, Belgrade, Serbia
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Fadladdin YAJ, Rahman HU, Kabir M. New record of parasitic infection among school children of Lower Dir Pakistan. BRAZ J BIOL 2022; 82:e244747. [DOI: 10.1590/1519-6984.244747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) are a major cause of morbidity worldwide and have been described as an important public health problem. The present study aimed to determine the un usual parasitic infection and identification of risk factors among 4-12years old school age children residing in lower dir district, Pakistan from 2018- 2019. Of the 400 children studied in which the overall prevalence rate for intestinal parasitic infections was found to be 71.75%. Children infected with single parasite accounted for 67.94% and 32.05% were detected with poly-parasitism. Shistosoma japonicum (0.69%), Taxocara spp (0.69%) and cryptosporidium (0.69%), were identified in children living in studied areas. We conclude that there is a need for mass scale campaigns to create awareness regarding health and hygiene in children and the need for development of effective poverty control programmes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - M. Kabir
- Thal University Bhakkar, Pakistan; University of Sargodha, Pakistan
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Rimal S, Adhikari A, Acharya R, Singh DK, Joshi NP, Shrestha B, Kaphle K, El-Dakhly KM, Giannelli A. Occurrence of Dirofilaria immitis in Stray Dogs from Nepal. Acta Parasitol 2021; 66:1222-1228. [PMID: 33880716 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-021-00380-w] [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: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nematodes of the genus Dirofilaria are widespread vector-borne helminths (VBH) of veterinary relevance. Dirofilariosis caused by D. immitis is frequently diagnosed in dogs often showing a severe clinical condition known as heartworm disease. Assessing the distribution pattern of canine dirofilariosis is pivotal to undertake appropriate control measures and define the risk of infection in animals and humans. This study provides original data on the occurrence of D. immitis in naive stray dogs from Nepal. METHODS An epidemiological study was performed on stray dogs from Siddharthanagar, Lumbini region, Nepal. Alive animals were blood sampled and examined for microfilariae using direct microscopy, buffy coat centrifugation and modified Knott's method. In addition, hematobiochemical parameters, including packed cell volume (PCV), alanine aminotransferase (SGPT), aspartate aminotransferase (SGOT), alkaline phosphate (ALP), creatinine, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), urea and total protein were analysed, along with a clinical scoring (body temperature and respiratory rate). During the observation period, data on autopsies performed on stray dogs showing canine heartworm disease were also included. RESULTS The overall prevalence of D. immitis in both alive and necropsied dogs was 22.49% (38/169). Out of 150 alive dogs, 29 (19.3%) were positive for D. immitis microfilariae. The prevalence of the infection varied according to the technique used, ranging from 16.0 to 19.3% based on direct blood smear microscopy and modified Knott's technique, respectively. The infection rate was significantly higher (p < 0.05) in dogs aging more than 3 years. A positive correlation was observed between SGPT and SGOT and the presence of microfilariae (p < 0.05). Among the 19 dead stray dogs, 9 animals showed adult D. immitis nematodes. CONCLUSION Results of this survey account for the presence of D. immitis in stray dogs from Nepal, thus supporting the existence of a local transmission cycle of diroflariosis in the region. Further investigations are warranted to accurately define the prevalence of the infection in the canine population and to undertake appropriate control measures to reduce the burden on the infection in dogs and, accordingly, the risk of transmission to humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subash Rimal
- Institute of Agriculture and Animal Science, Tribhuvan University, Kritipur, Nepal.
| | - Anil Adhikari
- Institute of Agriculture and Animal Science, Tribhuvan University, Kritipur, Nepal
| | - Rabin Acharya
- Institute of Agriculture and Animal Science, Tribhuvan University, Kritipur, Nepal
| | - Dinesh Kumar Singh
- Institute of Agriculture and Animal Science, Tribhuvan University, Kritipur, Nepal
| | - Naresh Prasad Joshi
- Livestock Service Department, The Government of Nepal, Khumaltar, Lalitpur, Nepal
| | - Birendra Shrestha
- Institute of Agriculture and Animal Science, Tribhuvan University, Kritipur, Nepal
| | - Krishna Kaphle
- Institute of Agriculture and Animal Science, Tribhuvan University, Kritipur, Nepal
| | - Khaled Mohamed El-Dakhly
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, 62511, Egypt
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Noack S, Harrington J, Carithers DS, Kaminsky R, Selzer PM. Heartworm disease - Overview, intervention, and industry perspective. Int J Parasitol Drugs Drug Resist 2021; 16:65-89. [PMID: 34030109 PMCID: PMC8163879 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpddr.2021.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Revised: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Dirofilaria immitis, also known as heartworm, is a major parasitic threat for dogs and cats around the world. Because of its impact on the health and welfare of companion animals, heartworm disease is of huge veterinary and economic importance especially in North America, Europe, Asia and Australia. Within the animal health market many different heartworm preventive products are available, all of which contain active components of the same drug class, the macrocyclic lactones. In addition to compliance issues, such as under-dosing or irregular treatment intervals, the occurrence of drug-resistant heartworms within the populations in the Mississippi River areas adds to the failure of preventive treatments. The objective of this review is to provide an overview of the disease, summarize the current disease control measures and highlight potential new avenues and best practices for treatment and prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Noack
- Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health, Binger Str. 173, 55216, Ingelheim am Rhein, Germany
| | - John Harrington
- Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health, 1730 Olympic Drive, 30601, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Douglas S Carithers
- Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health, 3239 Satellite Blvd, 30096, Duluth, GA, USA
| | - Ronald Kaminsky
- paraC Consulting, Altenstein 13, 79685, Häg-Ehrsberg, Germany
| | - Paul M Selzer
- Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health, Binger Str. 173, 55216, Ingelheim am Rhein, Germany.
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Detection of Borrelia spp., Ehrlichia canis, Anaplasma phagocytophilum, and Dirofilaria immitis in Eastern Coyotes (Canis latrans) in Nova Scotia, Canada. J Wildl Dis 2021; 57:678-682. [PMID: 33956091 DOI: 10.7589/jwd-d-20-00188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2020] [Accepted: 11/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Borrelia burgdorferi and Borrelia miyamotoi are tickborne zoonotic pathogens in Canada. Both bacteria are vectored by ticks, Ixodes scapularis in Atlantic Canada, but require wildlife reservoir species to maintain the bacteria for retransmission to future generations of ticks. Coyotes (Canis latrans) are opportunistic feeders, resulting in frequent contact with other animals and with ticks. Because coyotes are closely related to domestic dogs (Canis lupus familiaris), it is probable that coyote susceptibility to Borrelia infection is similar to that of dogs. We collected livers and kidneys of eastern coyotes from licensed harvesters in Nova Scotia, Canada, and tested them using nested PCR for the presence of B. burgdorferi, B. miyamotoi, and Dirofilaria immitis. Blood obtained from coyote livers was also tested serologically for antibodies to B. burgdorferi, Ehrlichia canis, Anaplasma phagocytophilum, and D. immitis. Borrelia burgdorferi and D. immitis were detected by both nested PCR and serology tests. Seroreactivity to A. phagocytophilum was also found. Borrelia miyamotoi and E. canis were not detected. Our results show that coyotes in Nova Scotia have been exposed to a number of vectorborne pathogens.
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Meyers AC, Auckland L, Meyers HF, Rodriguez CA, Kontowicz E, Petersen CA, Travi BL, Sanders JP, Hamer SA. Epidemiology of Vector-Borne Pathogens Among U.S. Government Working Dogs. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2021; 21:358-368. [PMID: 33601954 PMCID: PMC8086402 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2020.2725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Surveillance of U.S. domestic dogs for exposure to vector-borne pathogens can identify regions of transmission that are relevant for human and animal health. Working dogs with high levels of outdoor exposure may be sensitive indicators of local risk, owing to increased contact with vectors. We randomly selected 476 high-value government working dogs from 40 states to determine the prevalence of infection with Dirofilaria immitis and Rickettsia spp., and exposure to Ehrlichia spp., Anaplasma spp., and Borrelia burgdorferi, and identify risk factors for positivity. Additionally, we tested 100 of these dogs from Texas for Leishmania spp. where sand fly vectors occur. Previously published Trypanosoma cruzi infection data on these dogs were used to identify coinfection or co-exposures. Infection prevalence was 0.84% for D. immitis, and all dogs were negative for Rickettsia spp. DNA. Seroprevalence of each pathogen was: B. burgdorferi 0.84%, Ehrlichia spp. 1.3%, Anaplasma spp. 1.5%, Leishmania spp. 2.0%, and T. cruzi 12.2%. Coinfection or co-exposure took place in four (0.84%) dogs. In bivariable analysis, we found that D. immitis-positive and Ehrlichia-seropositive dogs were significantly older than negative dogs (p < 0.05). Furthermore, seroprevalence of Anaplasma spp. was significantly higher among dogs in the Northeast United States relative to other areas of the country (4.7% vs. ≤1.4%; p = 0.041). Although autochthonous Leishmania infections have been described in the United States, the cases reported herein may represent imported Leishmania infection. Most federal working dogs are bred in Europe, where the parasite is endemic and congenitally transmitted. Serological cross-reaction between T. cruzi and Leishmania spp. complicates diagnosis. In this study, the use of multiple testing strategies in a comparative complementary manner provided evidence for these dogs' true exposures. Comprehensive surveillance for vector-borne pathogens in dogs can improve clinician awareness and target prevention and treatment in a One Health manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alyssa C. Meyers
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Lisa Auckland
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Hannah F. Meyers
- Department of Chemistry, Kalamazoo College, Kalamazoo, Michigan, USA
| | - Carlos A. Rodriguez
- Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Eric Kontowicz
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Public Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Christine A. Petersen
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Public Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Bruno L. Travi
- Department of Internal Medicine (Infectious Diseases) and Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - John P. Sanders
- Office of Workforce Health and Safety, Department of Homeland Security, Office of the Chief Human Capital Officer, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Sarah A. Hamer
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA.,Address correspondence to: Sarah A. Hamer, Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, 4458 TAMU, College Station, TX 77843-4458, USA
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21
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Mwacalimba K, Wright A, Giannakakis K, L'Estrange R, Nguyen TS. Retrospective Analysis of Heartworm ( Dirofilia immitis) Prevention Medication Compliance and Economic Value in Dogs in Veterinary Practices in Australia. Front Vet Sci 2021; 7:602907. [PMID: 33469554 PMCID: PMC7813930 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2020.602907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Canine heartworm (HW) is endemic in Australia. Prevention usually involves monthly topical or oral preventives, or annual injections of extended-release moxidectin (ProHeart SR-12*1), hereafter referred to as injectable moxidectin (IM). Poor compliance can leave dogs susceptible to infection. This pharmacoeconomics study used retrospective transactional data from 52 Australian veterinary practices to examine the economic value of compliance, revenue, and patient retention associated with veterinarian-sourced canine HW prevention. Methods: This longitudinal descriptive study utilized anonymized transaction records of 228,185 dogs identified to have visited a veterinary practice at least twice in the period 2010–2015. Purchase compliance against a benchmark of 12 months HW protection per year was measured for IM or monthly HW (MHW) preparations each year and for consecutive years. The average annual cost per dog by preventative modality was also determined. Results: Between 2010 and 2015, of the 228,185 dogs identified, 73.0% recorded either zero or one purchase of HW preventive from their veterinary clinic; 18.7% recorded at least two IM purchases, and 10.6% purchased MHW prevention at least twice. Single-year purchase compliance was 92.8–96.9% for IM vs. 26.9–36.5% for dogs receiving MHW products. Consecutive-year purchase compliance was 76.7% for IM and 24.4% for MHW medications. Dog owners spent $AU108.29/dog/year (Australian dollars) on IM vs. $AU131.96/dog/year on MHW prevention products, which may have treated other parasites concurrently, although repeat MHW purchasers only purchased enough to cover an average of 7.2 months per year. Dogs recording at least two HW prevention transactions generated more revenue for veterinary practices/dog/year compared to dogs with less than two. Finally, dogs receiving IM, especially those that started at <15 months old, had the highest retention rate in this population. Conclusions: In the 5 years from 2010 to 2015, 73% of dog owners who visited a veterinary practice at least twice made less than two purchases of HW preventatives from the veterinary practice. For those with at least two preventative purchases, 76.7% of dogs receiving IM and 24.4% of dogs prescribed with MHW products purchased enough doses to provide continuous protection over the observation period.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Andrea Wright
- Outcomes Research, Zoetis, Parsippany, NJ, United States
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Neff E, Evans CC, Jimenez Castro PD, Kaplan RM, Dharmarajan G. Drug Resistance in Filarial Parasites Does Not Affect Mosquito Vectorial Capacity. Pathogens 2020; 10:2. [PMID: 33375024 PMCID: PMC7822010 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10010002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2020] [Revised: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Parasite drug resistance presents a major obstacle to controlling and eliminating vector-borne diseases affecting humans and animals. While vector-borne disease dynamics are affected by factors related to parasite, vertebrate host and vector, research on drug resistance in filarial parasites has primarily focused on the parasite and vertebrate host, rather than the mosquito. However, we expect that the physiological costs associated with drug resistance would reduce the fitness of drug-resistant vs. drug-susceptible parasites in the mosquito wherein parasites are not exposed to drugs. Here we test this hypothesis using four isolates of the dog heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis)-two drug susceptible and two drug resistant-and two vectors-the yellow fever mosquito (Aedes aegypti) and the Asian tiger mosquito (Ae. albopictus)-as our model system. Our data indicated that while vector species had a significant effect on vectorial capacity, there was no significant difference in the vectorial capacity of mosquitoes infected with drug-resistant vs. drug-susceptible parasites. Consequently, contrary to expectations, our data indicate that drug resistance in D. immitis does not appear to reduce the transmission efficiency of these parasites, and thus the spread of drug-resistant parasites in the vertebrate population is unlikely to be mitigated by reduced fitness in the mosquito vector.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik Neff
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, Drawer E, Aiken, SC 29802, USA
| | - Christopher C. Evans
- Department of Infectious Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA; (C.C.E.); (P.D.J.C.); (R.M.K.)
| | - Pablo D. Jimenez Castro
- Department of Infectious Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA; (C.C.E.); (P.D.J.C.); (R.M.K.)
- Grupo de Parasitología Veterinaria, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá 11001000, Colombia
| | - Ray M. Kaplan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA; (C.C.E.); (P.D.J.C.); (R.M.K.)
| | - Guha Dharmarajan
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, Drawer E, Aiken, SC 29802, USA
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Fudge JM, Boyanowski B, Page B, Liu S, Rogovskyy AS. Serological prevalence of six vector-borne pathogens in dogs presented for elective ovariohysterectomy or castration in the South central region of Texas. BMC Vet Res 2020; 16:381. [PMID: 33032588 PMCID: PMC7545558 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-020-02607-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 10/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Most vector-borne pathogens cause zoonotic diseases. These zoonoses often have wild animal reservoirs that play a significant role in disease epidemiology. However, pet animals have also been implicated in transmission of zoonotic agents to humans. To exemplify, dogs are competent reservoir hosts for several zoonotic vector-borne bacteria and protozoa. Despite that vector-borne diseases can be life-threatening for both pets and humans, studies on pathogen seroprevalence are very limited. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine the serological prevalence of six zoonotic vector-borne agents in dogs from the South Central region of Texas (US). Electronic medical records of dogs, presenting over 2014–2019 for elective ovariohysterectomy or castration at a high volume spay and neuter clinic, were reviewed for serological testing. Sera from 418 dogs were tested for the Dirofilaria immitis antigen, and antibodies to Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Anaplasma platys, Borrelia burgdorferi, Ehrlichia canis, and Ehrlichia ewingi, using a commonly available commercial test kit. Descriptive statistics were computed to characterize the respective seroprevalence rates of the dog population. The study involved 192 (46%) male and 226 (54%) female dogs. Results Overall, 85 (20%) dogs tested positive for at least one of the 6 pathogens investigated. The highest seroprevalence rate averaged over the 6-year period was 11.7% for D. immitis followed by 8.4% for E. canis and/or E. ewingii, 4.3% for A. phagocytophilum and/or A. platys, and 0.2% for B. burgdorferi. The co-exposure or co-infection was only detected in 3.8% of the dog population. Conclusions Together, opportunistic testing of dogs presenting for elective surgical procedures may provide an effective way of assessing seroprevalence and/or risk factors for common vector-borne diseases within a geographic region of concern.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Mack Fudge
- Hill Country Animal League, 924 N. Main St, Boerne, TX, 78006, USA
| | | | - Bernie Page
- Hill Country Animal League, 924 N. Main St, Boerne, TX, 78006, USA
| | - Shuling Liu
- Statistical Collaboration Center, Department of Statistics, College of Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Artem S Rogovskyy
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA.
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Long T, Alberich M, André F, Menez C, Prichard RK, Lespine A. The development of the dog heartworm is highly sensitive to sterols which activate the orthologue of the nuclear receptor DAF-12. Sci Rep 2020; 10:11207. [PMID: 32641726 PMCID: PMC7343802 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-67466-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Prevention therapy against Dirofilaria immitis in companion animals is currently threatened by the emergence of isolates resistant to macrocyclic lactone anthelmintics. Understanding the control over developmental processes in D. immitis is important for elucidating new approaches to heartworm control. The nuclear receptor DAF-12 plays a role in the entry and exit of dauer stage in Caenorhabditis elegans and in the development of free-living infective third-stage larvae (iL3) of some Clade IV and V parasitic nematodes. We identified a DAF-12 ortholog in the clade III nematode D. immitis and found that it exhibited a much higher affinity for dafachronic acids than described with other nematode DAF-12 investigated so far. We also modelled the DimDAF-12 structure and characterized the residues involved with DA binding. Moreover, we showed that cholesterol derivatives impacted the molting process from the iL3 to the fourth-stage larvae. Since D. immitis is unable to synthesize cholesterol and only completes its development upon host infection, we hypothesize that host environment contributes to its further molting inside the host vertebrate. Our discovery contributes to a better understanding of the developmental checkpoints of D. immitis and offers new perspectives for the development of novel therapies against filarial infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thavy Long
- INTHERES, Université de Toulouse, INRAE, ENVT, 31027, Toulouse Cedex 3, France.
- Institute of Parasitology, McGill University, Sainte-Anne-De-Bellevue, H9X3V9, QC, Canada.
| | - Mélanie Alberich
- INTHERES, Université de Toulouse, INRAE, ENVT, 31027, Toulouse Cedex 3, France
| | - François André
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, CNRS, Institute for Integrative Biology of the Cell (I2BC), 91198, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Cécile Menez
- INTHERES, Université de Toulouse, INRAE, ENVT, 31027, Toulouse Cedex 3, France
| | - Roger K Prichard
- Institute of Parasitology, McGill University, Sainte-Anne-De-Bellevue, H9X3V9, QC, Canada
| | - Anne Lespine
- INTHERES, Université de Toulouse, INRAE, ENVT, 31027, Toulouse Cedex 3, France.
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25
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Dantas-Torres F, Otranto D. Overview on Dirofilaria immitis in the Americas, with notes on other filarial worms infecting dogs. Vet Parasitol 2020; 282:109113. [PMID: 32464570 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2020.109113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2020] [Revised: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Canine dirofilariosis in the Americas is primarily caused by Dirofilaria immitis, a mosquito-borne filarial worm infecting dogs, which may also infect and cause disease in other mammalian hosts, including humans. Morphological and molecular evidence gathered in the past decades suggest that other Dirofilaria spp. may infect dogs in the American continent, though the actual taxonomic identity of them still needs to be elucidated. In addition, filarial worms belonging to distinct genera have also been reported in dogs in this part of the world, including Acanthocheilonema reconditum, Cercopithifilaria bainae, and Onchocerca lupi. Among these, O. lupi is a species of major clinical significance, which has been reported not only in dogs, but also in cats and humans in North America. The present article provides a current overview on canine dirofilariosis in the Americas, with notes on other filarial worms infecting dogs. It also provides some insights into outstanding research questions that should be responded to fill some of the several knowledge gaps related to this group of parasites in this continent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filipe Dantas-Torres
- Department of Immunology, Aggeu Magalhães Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil.
| | - Domenico Otranto
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari, Valenzano, Italy; Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan, Iran
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26
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Kabuusu RM, Stroup DF, Pinckney R, Chriestmon J, Alexander R, Richards C, Macpherson C. An analysis of time trends for canine heartworm disease in Grenada and its associated risk factors based on veterinary clinical pathology laboratory data base records between 2003 and 2015. Prev Vet Med 2020; 179:104989. [PMID: 32417638 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2020.104989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2019] [Revised: 03/28/2020] [Accepted: 04/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Canine heartworm (CHW) disease is a common parasitic infection in dogs in the Caribbean islands. However, studies on temporal trends and risk factors are limited for this region. This study represents the time trends in laboratory prevalence and risk factors of canine heartworm infections between 2003 and 2015. In this case series, 662 cases of laboratory-diagnosed heartworm were compared to 662 dogs without a laboratory diagnosis of heartworm (controls). One hundred and seventy two frozen serum positive samples were later analyzed for heartworm antigens using Heska solo® Step CH, and all 172 cases of microfilariae were confirmed as Dirofilaria immitis. Annual prevalence, linear trends and odds ratios (OR) for CHW were estimated using EPIINFO version 7 at a significance level of α = 0.05. Logistic regression was used to assess the association of CHW with variables showing a statistically significant univariate relationship. Laboratory prevalence of CHW decreased from 72 cases per 1000 dogs per year in 2003 to 15 cases per 1000 dogs per year in 2015 [X2 for linear trend = 151.8, p < 0.0001], with the occurrence of an epidemic of CHW between 2008 and 2010. The odds of CHW were higher among adult dogs [(OR) = 3.9 (95% CI, 2.9-7.0)] and geriatric dogs [OR = 2.1 (95% CI, 1.1-4.3)] compared to puppies. The odds of CHW were higher [OR = 1.3 (95% CI, 1.1-1.6)] among male dogs than female dogs, but the odds for CHW were lower among neutered dogs [OR = 0.4 (95% CI, 0.2 - 0.6)] compared to intact dogs. The odds of a dog being diagnosed with CHW were elevated [OR = 4.1 (95% CI, 3.2-5.2)] during the dry season compared to the rainy season. Our findings show that canine heartworm is extensive in laboratory submissions in Grenada. However, the laboratory prevalence of CHW decreased between 2003 and 2015, with an epidemic occurring between 2008 and 2010. Age of the dog, sex, neutered status, and seasonality of diagnosis were significantly associated CHW in Grenada.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard M Kabuusu
- School of Veterinary Medicine, St. George's University, Grenada, West Indies.
| | | | - Rhonda Pinckney
- School of Veterinary Medicine, St. George's University, Grenada, West Indies
| | - Jennifer Chriestmon
- School of Veterinary Medicine, St. George's University, Grenada, West Indies
| | - Ruth Alexander
- School of Veterinary Medicine, St. George's University, Grenada, West Indies
| | - Carla Richards
- School of Veterinary Medicine, St. George's University, Grenada, West Indies
| | - Calum Macpherson
- School of Medicine, St. George's University, Grenada, West Indies
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Filarial worms: a systematic review and meta-analysis of diversity in animals from Iran with emphasis on human cases. Parasitology 2020; 147:909-921. [PMID: 32249728 DOI: 10.1017/s003118202000058x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Current systematic review and meta-analysis demonstrate the prevalence reports of filariasis in animals in Iran along with human cases. Studies were screened, relevant papers were selected and the random-effect model was used by forest plot with 95% confidence interval (CI). Of 17 records of human case-reports, particularly from Khuzestan province (5 cases), Dirofilaria repens was the most detected parasite (10 cases) with higher involvement of the right eye (7 cases) than other organs. Eleven animal species were reported to be parasitised by filarioids in Iran. The prevalence of Dirofilaria immitis in canids was 14.69% (95% CI: 10.33-19.67), with highest rates (20.92%; 95% CI: 13.84-29.03) in free-ranging dogs. Male (10.07%; 95% CI: 5.10-16.47) and more than 1-year old (20.77%; 95% CI: 8.66-36.42) dogs were more likely to be found infected. The frequency of other filarioids of zoonotic interest was: Acanthocheilonema reconditum in dogs 2.15% (95% CI: 0.71-4.33), Dipetalonema evansi in camels 10.16% (95% CI: 4.73-17.34), Onchocerca cervicalis in horses 3.63% (95% CI: 1.44-6.75%) and Onchocerca fasciata 16.57% (95% CI: 10.12-24.24%) in camels. Still, our knowledge on parasitic filariae in Iran is limited and more investigation is needed in both human and animal populations.
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Turner JD, Marriott AE, Hong D, O' Neill P, Ward SA, Taylor MJ. Novel anti-Wolbachia drugs, a new approach in the treatment and prevention of veterinary filariasis? Vet Parasitol 2020; 279:109057. [PMID: 32126342 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2020.109057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2019] [Revised: 02/07/2020] [Accepted: 02/08/2020] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
Filarial nematodes are tissue-dwelling parasitic worms that can cause a range of disfiguring pathologies in humans and potentially lethal infections of companion animals. The bacterial endosymbiont, Wolbachia, is present within most human and veterinary filarial pathogens, including the causative agent of heartworm disease, Dirofilaria immitis. Doxycycline-mediated drug targeting of Wolbachia leads to sterility, clearance of microfilariae and gradual death of adult filariae. This mode of action is attractive in the treatment of filariasis because it avoids severe host inflammatory adverse reactions invoked by rapid-killing anthelmintic agents. However, doxycycline needs to be taken for four weeks to exert curative activity. In this review, we discuss the evidence that Wolbachia drug targeting is efficacious in blocking filarial larval development as well as in the treatment of chronic filarial disease. We present the current portfolio of next-generation anti-Wolbachia candidates discovered through phenotypic screening of chemical libraries and validated in a range of in vitro and in vivo filarial infection models. Several novel chemotypes have been identified with selected narrow-spectrum anti-Wolbachia specificity and superior time-to-kill kinetics compared with doxycycline. We discuss the opportunities of developing these novel anti-Wolbachia agents as either cures, adjunct therapies or new preventatives for the treatment of veterinary filariasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph D Turner
- Centre for Drugs and Diagnostics, Department of Tropical Disease Biology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK.
| | - Amy E Marriott
- Centre for Drugs and Diagnostics, Department of Tropical Disease Biology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - David Hong
- Department of Chemistry, University of Liverpool, UK
| | - Paul O' Neill
- Department of Chemistry, University of Liverpool, UK
| | - Steve A Ward
- Centre for Drugs and Diagnostics, Department of Tropical Disease Biology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Mark J Taylor
- Centre for Drugs and Diagnostics, Department of Tropical Disease Biology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
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Mosquito diversity and dog heartworm prevalence in suburban areas. Parasit Vectors 2020; 13:12. [PMID: 31924253 PMCID: PMC6953185 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-019-3874-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2019] [Accepted: 12/30/2019] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Urbanization is occurring rapidly on a global scale and is altering mosquito communities, creating assemblages that are characteristically less diverse. Despite high rates of urbanization and ample examples of vector-borne diseases transmitted by multiple species, the effects of urbanization-driven mosquito diversity losses on disease transmission has not been well explored. We investigated this question using the dog heartworm, a filarial parasite vectored by numerous mosquito species. Methods We trapped host-seeking mosquitoes in undeveloped areas and neighborhoods of different ages in Wake County, North Carolina, USA, analyzing captured mosquitoes for heartworm DNA. We compared within-mosquito heartworm infection across land-use types by Kruskal–Wallis and likelihood ratio tests. Using zip code level data acquired from dogs in a local shelter, we performed linear regressions of within-host heartworm prevalence by within-mosquito heartworm prevalence as well as by three mosquito diversity measures. We also determined the best predictor of host-level prevalence among models including within-mosquito infection, mosquito diversity and abundance, and socioeconomic status as variables. Results Suburban areas had lower within-mosquito heartworm prevalence and lower likelihood of heartworm-positive mosquitoes than did undeveloped field sites, although no differences were seen between suburban and undeveloped wooded sites. No relationships were noted between within-mosquito and within-host heartworm prevalence. However, mosquito diversity metrics were positively correlated with host heartworm prevalence. Model selection revealed within-host prevalence was best predicted by a positive relationship with mosquito Shannon–Wiener diversity and a negative relationship with household income. Conclusions Our results demonstrate that decreases in mosquito diversity due to urbanization alter vector-borne disease risk. With regard to dog heartworm disease, this loss of mosquito diversity is associated with decreased heartworm prevalence within both the vector and the host. Although the response is likely different for diseases transmitted by one or few species, mosquito diversity losses leading to decreased transmission could be generalizable to other pathogens with multiple vectors. This study contributes to better understanding of the effects of urbanization and the role of vector diversity in multi-vectored pathosystems.![]()
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Khan W, Nisa NN, Ullah S, Ahmad S, Mehmood SA, Khan M, Ahmad S, Ali W, Ullah H, Anwar K. Gastrointestinal helminths in dog feces surrounding suburban areas of Lower Dir district, Pakistan: A public health threat. BRAZ J BIOL 2019; 80:511-517. [PMID: 31644646 DOI: 10.1590/1519-6984.211956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2018] [Accepted: 03/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Data on environmental contamination of the parasites of zoonotic importance is scarce in Pakistan. Soil contamination with feces of dogs hide infective stages of the parasite represents a health-risk to humans. This study was aimed to assess the eggs of gastrointestinal parasites of stray dogs and household dogs in lower Dir district, Pakistan with special consideration to those that can be spread to humans. One hundred and fifty two stool specimens from (stray dogs=90 and household dogs=62) were collected. The helminth eggs were processed by direct smear method and centrifugation techniques and identified by microscopic examination. Of the total examined dogs 26.8% (n=41 /152) were found to be infected with one or more intestinal parasites. The intestinal helminths detected were Dipylidium caninum (n =18, 11.8%), followed by Toxocara canis (n =16, 10.5%), Taenia spp., (n=10, 6.57%) Ancylostoma caninum (n=6, 3.94), Toxascaris spp., Capillaria spp., and Trichuris vulpis (n=2, 1.31% each) in order of their prevalence. Pattern of infection revealed that 27 (65.8%) dogs have single, 13(31.7%) double and 1(2.43%) triple infection. The stray dogs were highly infected 34.4% (n=31) than house hold dogs 16.1% (n=10). The prevalence of infection with intestinal parasites was significantly different among these two groups (p = 0.0097). This study highlight a severe environmental contamination by frequent parasitic stages infectious to humans. There is a higher risk of zoonotic transmission from dogs which indicate an immediate need for the controlling of these parasites and educating the public to take wise action relating to the parasites and pets.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Khan
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Zoology, University of Malakand, Lower Dir, Pakistan
| | - N N Nisa
- Southern Zone-Agricultural Research Center, Vertebrate Pest Control Institute, University of Karachi, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - S Ullah
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Zoology, University of Malakand, Lower Dir, Pakistan
| | - S Ahmad
- Department of Zoology, University of Hazara, Mansehra, Pakistan
| | - S A Mehmood
- Department of Zoology, University of Hazara, Mansehra, Pakistan
| | - M Khan
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Zoology, University of Malakand, Lower Dir, Pakistan
| | - S Ahmad
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Zoology, University of Malakand, Lower Dir, Pakistan
| | - W Ali
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Malakand, Lower Dir, Pakistan
| | - Hamid Ullah
- Department of Zoology, University of Peshawar, Peshawar, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
| | - Khurshaid Anwar
- Live Stock Research and Dairy Development Department, KP, Pakistan
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Silva MSG, Leles D, Sudré AP, Millar PR, Uchôa F, Brener B. Prevalence and Molecular Characterization of Dirofilaria immitis (Filarioidea: Onchocercidae) in Dogs from Endemic Areas of Rio De Janeiro State, Brazil. J Parasitol 2019. [DOI: 10.1645/18-96] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- M. S. G. Silva
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Biomedical Institute, Fluminense Federal University (UFF). Rua Professor Hernani Melo no. 101, São Domingos, Niterói–Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, 24210-130
| | - D. Leles
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Biomedical Institute, Fluminense Federal University (UFF). Rua Professor Hernani Melo no. 101, São Domingos, Niterói–Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, 24210-130
| | - A. P. Sudré
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Biomedical Institute, Fluminense Federal University (UFF). Rua Professor Hernani Melo no. 101, São Domingos, Niterói–Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, 24210-130
| | - P. R. Millar
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Biomedical Institute, Fluminense Federal University (UFF). Rua Professor Hernani Melo no. 101, São Domingos, Niterói–Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, 24210-130
| | - F. Uchôa
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Biomedical Institute, Fluminense Federal University (UFF). Rua Professor Hernani Melo no. 101, São Domingos, Niterói–Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, 24210-130
| | - B. Brener
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Biomedical Institute, Fluminense Federal University (UFF). Rua Professor Hernani Melo no. 101, São Domingos, Niterói–Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, 24210-130
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Zohdy S, Valenta K, Rabaoarivola B, Karanewsky CJ, Zaky W, Pilotte N, Williams SA, Chapman CA, Farris ZJ. Causative agent of canine heartworm ( Dirofilaria immitis) detected in wild lemurs. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY-PARASITES AND WILDLIFE 2019; 9:119-121. [PMID: 31061793 PMCID: PMC6487360 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2019.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2019] [Revised: 04/08/2019] [Accepted: 04/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The lemurs of Madagascar are threatened by human activities. We present the first molecular detection of canine heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis) in a wild non-human primate, the mouse lemur (Microcebus rufus). Zoonotic D. immitis infection has been associated with clinical pathology that includes serious and often fatal cardiac and pulmonary reactions. With human encroachment and associated increases in free-roaming dog populations in Madagascar, we examined lemurs for zoonotic canid pathogens. D. immitis presents a new potential conservation threat to lemurs. We highlight the need for wide-ranging and effective interventions, particularly near protected areas, to address this growing conservation issue. Molecular evidence of canine heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis) in lemurs. The first detection of D. immitis, in a wild non-human primate. Free-roaming dogs spatially overlap with lemurs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Zohdy
- School of Forestry and Wildlife Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA.,College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA
| | - Kim Valenta
- Department of Evolutionary Anthropology, Duke University, Durham, NC, 27708, USA
| | | | - Caitlin J Karanewsky
- Department of Biochemistry, Stanford University School of Medicine, California, USA
| | - Weam Zaky
- Department of Biological Sciences, Smith College, Northampton, MA, USA
| | - Nils Pilotte
- Department of Biological Sciences, Smith College, Northampton, MA, USA.,Molecular and Cellular Biology Program, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, USA
| | - Steven A Williams
- Department of Biological Sciences, Smith College, Northampton, MA, USA.,Molecular and Cellular Biology Program, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, USA
| | - Colin A Chapman
- Department of Anthropology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Wildlife Conservation Society, 2300 Southern Boulevard, Bronx, NY, USA.,Section of Social Systems Evolution, Primate Research Institute, Kyoto University, Japan
| | - Zach J Farris
- Department of Health & Exercise Science, Appalachian State University, North Carolina, USA
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Maclean MJ, Savadelis MD, Coates R, Dzimianski MT, Jones C, Benbow C, Storey BE, Kaplan RM, Moorhead AR, Wolstenholme AJ. Does evaluation of in vitro microfilarial motility reflect the resistance status of Dirofilaria immitis isolates to macrocyclic lactones? Parasit Vectors 2017; 10:480. [PMID: 29143656 PMCID: PMC5688452 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-017-2436-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several reports have confirmed that macrocyclic lactone-resistant isolates of Dirofilaria immitis are circulating in the United States; however, the prevalence and potential impact of drug resistance is unknown. We wished to assess computer-aided measurements of motility as a method for rapidly assessing the resistance status of parasite isolates. METHODS Blood containing microfilariae (MF) from two clinical cases with a high suspicion of resistance was fed to mosquitoes and the resultant L3 injected into dogs that were then treated with six doses of Heartgard® Plus (ivermectin + pyrantel; Merial Limited) at 30-day intervals. In both cases patent heartworm infections resulted despite the preventive treatment. Microfilariae isolated from these dogs and other isolates of known resistance status were exposed to varying concentrations of ivermectin in vitro and their motility assessed 24 h later using computer-processed high-definition video imaging. RESULTS We produced two isolates, Yazoo-2013 and Metairie-2014, which established patent infections despite Heartgard® Plus treatments. Measurements of the motility of MF of these and other isolates (Missouri, MP3 and JYD-27) following exposure to varying concentrations of ivermectin did not distinguish between susceptible and resistant heartworm populations. There was some evidence that the method of MF isolation had an influence on the motility and drug susceptibility of the MF. CONCLUSIONS We confirmed that drug-resistant heartworms are circulating in the southern United States, but that motility measurements in the presence of ivermectin are not a reliable method for their detection. This implies that the drug does not kill the microfilariae via paralysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary J Maclean
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Georgia, 501 DW Brooks Drive, Athens, 30602, GA, USA.,Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Molly D Savadelis
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Georgia, 501 DW Brooks Drive, Athens, 30602, GA, USA
| | - Ruby Coates
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Georgia, 501 DW Brooks Drive, Athens, 30602, GA, USA.,Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Michael T Dzimianski
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Georgia, 501 DW Brooks Drive, Athens, 30602, GA, USA
| | - Corey Jones
- Yazoo City Animal Hospital, Yazoo City, MS, USA
| | | | - Bobby E Storey
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Georgia, 501 DW Brooks Drive, Athens, 30602, GA, USA
| | - Ray M Kaplan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Georgia, 501 DW Brooks Drive, Athens, 30602, GA, USA
| | - Andrew R Moorhead
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Georgia, 501 DW Brooks Drive, Athens, 30602, GA, USA
| | - Adrian J Wolstenholme
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Georgia, 501 DW Brooks Drive, Athens, 30602, GA, USA. .,Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA.
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Genchi C, Kramer L. Subcutaneous dirofilariosis (Dirofilaria repens): an infection spreading throughout the old world. Parasit Vectors 2017; 10:517. [PMID: 29143643 PMCID: PMC5688444 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-017-2434-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Two main Dirofilaria species infect dogs: D. immitis and D. repens. While D. immitis has a worldwide distribution, D. repens is currently found only in Europe, Asia, and Africa. Adult D. repens are located in subcutaneous tissues of natural hosts where they survive for long periods of time. First-stage larvae, microfilariae, circulate in the peripheral bloodstream, where they are taken up by the mosquito intermediate hosts. Infected mosquitoes then transmit infective third-stage (L3) larvae to new hosts through the blood meal. In dogs, most infections are asymptomatic, although cutaneous disorders such as pruritus, dermal swelling, subcutaneous nodules, and ocular conjunctivitis can be observed. Currently, two factors have increased the concerns about this parasitic infection 1) its spread throughout the European countries and to other continents and its prevalence in dog populations, where in some cases it has overcome D. immitis; and 2) its zoonotic potential, which is much greater than that of D. immitis. Results Different hypotheses can be put forward to explain these concerns. First, climate change has allowed more favorable conditions for survival of culicid vectors. Second, accidental hosts such as humans may have a less efficient immune reaction against a parasite that is located in subcutaneous tissues, and thus less exposed to the host’s immune response than, for instance, D. immitis. Furthermore, the absence of clinical signs in the majority of canine infections and the difficulty in diagnosing the infection, due to the lack of serologic tests and thus the reliance on the identification of microfilariae and differentiation from D. immitis to confirm the presence of the parasite, favor the further spread of this species. Finally, among the macrocyclic lactones currently used to prevent heartworm infection, only moxidectin has been found to be fully effective against the infective larvae transmitted by mosquitoes and partially effective (efficacy 96%) against adult D. repens in experimental studies. Conclusions Dirofilaria repens infection is much more difficult than D. immitis to diagnose and control in the reservoir population (microfilaremic dogs). In addition, lack of familiarity with D. repens infection could lead to lack of vigilance underestimation for this parasite. The number of human cases in Europe and Asia is currently a serious public health concern. Medical doctors and veterinarians must collaborate closely for better control and surveillance of D. repens infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio Genchi
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133, Milan, Italy.
| | - Laura Kramer
- Dipartimento di Scienze Medico Veterinarie, Università di Parma, Parma, Italy
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Conan A, Napier P, Shell L, Knobel DL, Dundas J, Scorpio D, Ketzis J. Heterogeneous distribution of Dirofilaria immitis in dogs in St. Kitts, West Indies, 2014-2015. VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY- REGIONAL STUDIES AND REPORTS 2017; 10:139-142. [PMID: 31014587 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2017.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2017] [Revised: 09/21/2017] [Accepted: 10/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
In the Caribbean region, Dirofilaria immitis (heartworm) has been detected on almost all of the islands. While it is assumed to be endemic throughout the region, there is a lack of baseline data from the Leeward Islands (north-east of the Caribbean region). The objective of this study was to estimate the prevalence and the spatial distribution of heartworm disease in dogs on St. Kitts, a small 174km2 island which is part of the Leeward Islands. A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2014 with 100 dogs tested using a commercial antigen test. Dogs were from all regions of the island except the southeastern region, which differs socio-economically from the rest of the island. Heartworm was not detected in these 100 dogs. To complete the survey, in 2015, fifteen dogs from the southeast region were tested, eight of which were positive for heartworm. Prevalence was estimated at 7.0% (95% confidence interval: 4.6-11.6). Data from two other sources were added to complete the report: data from dogs enrolled in a free spay and neuter program and tested against heartworm (164 dogs with 3 positive for heartworm), and the data from positive dogs diagnosed at the Ross University Veterinary Clinic in 2014 and 2015 (3 dogs). Most of the heartworm positive dogs (10/14) lived in a delimited area in the southeast of the island. These results indicate an overall low prevalence of Dirofilaria immitis in St. Kitts, lower than that observed in the other Caribbean islands. Heterogeneity in the spatial distribution of the parasite was observed, with the majority of cases residing in the southeast of the island. Previous spatial models focused on the spread of the parasite over large geographical areas and long distances, but not within a restricted area. Our results indicate the presence of local factors which may have limited spread of the disease over short distances. Further studies are needed to understand this markedly heterogeneous distribution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Conan
- Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Westfarm, PO Box 334, Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis.
| | - Paula Napier
- Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Westfarm, PO Box 334, Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis
| | - Linda Shell
- Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Westfarm, PO Box 334, Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis
| | - Darryn L Knobel
- Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Westfarm, PO Box 334, Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis
| | - James Dundas
- Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Westfarm, PO Box 334, Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis; University of Prince Edward Island, Atlantic Veterinary College, Department of Companion Animals, 550 University Avenue, Charlottetown, PE C1A 4P3, Canada
| | - Diana Scorpio
- Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Westfarm, PO Box 334, Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis; Vaccine Research Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Jennifer Ketzis
- Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Westfarm, PO Box 334, Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis
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Oudni-M'rad M, Chaâbane-Banaoues R, M'rad S, Trifa F, Mezhoud H, Babba H. Gastrointestinal parasites of canids, a latent risk to human health in Tunisia. Parasit Vectors 2017; 10:280. [PMID: 28583158 PMCID: PMC5460421 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-017-2208-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2017] [Accepted: 05/18/2017] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although data on the parasite environmental contamination are crucial to implement strategies for control and treatment, information about zoonotic helminths is very limited in Tunisia. Contamination of areas with canid faeces harboring infective parasite elements represents a relevant health-risk impact for humans. The aim of this study was to assess the environmental contamination with eggs and oocysts of gastrointestinal parasites of dogs and wild canids in Tunisia with special attention to those that can be transmitted to humans. RESULTS One thousand two hundred and seventy faecal samples from stray dogs and 104 from wild canids (red foxes and golden jackals) were collected from different geographical regions throughout Tunisia. The helminth eggs and protozoan oocysts were concentrated by sucrose flotation and identified by microscopic examination. The most frequently observed parasites in dog samples were Toxocara spp. (27.2%), E. granulosus (25.8%), and Coccidia (13.1%). For wild canid faeces, the most commonly encountered parasites were Toxocara spp. (16.3%) followed by Capillaria spp. (9.6%). The parasite contamination of dog faeces varied significantly from one region to another in function of the climate. CONCLUSION To our knowledge, the study highlights for the first time in Tunisia a serious environmental contamination by numerous parasitic stages infective to humans. Efforts should be made to increase the awareness of the contamination risk of such parasites in the environment and implement a targeted educational program.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myriam Oudni-M'rad
- Laboratory of Medical and Molecular Parasitology-Mycology (LP3M), LR 12ES08. Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Monastir, 5000, Monastir, Tunisia.
| | - Raja Chaâbane-Banaoues
- Laboratory of Medical and Molecular Parasitology-Mycology (LP3M), LR 12ES08. Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Monastir, 5000, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Selim M'rad
- Laboratory of Medical and Molecular Parasitology-Mycology (LP3M), LR 12ES08. Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Monastir, 5000, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Fatma Trifa
- Laboratory of Biomass Valorisation and Production of Eukaryotic Proteins, Center of Biotechnology, University of Sfax, 3018, Sfax, Tunisia
| | - Habib Mezhoud
- Laboratory of Medical and Molecular Parasitology-Mycology (LP3M), LR 12ES08. Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Monastir, 5000, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Hamouda Babba
- Laboratory of Medical and Molecular Parasitology-Mycology (LP3M), LR 12ES08. Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Monastir, 5000, Monastir, Tunisia.,Laboratory of Parasitology-Mycology, EPS F. Bourguiba, 5000, Monastir, Tunisia
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Simón F, González-Miguel J, Diosdado A, Gómez PJ, Morchón R, Kartashev V. The Complexity of Zoonotic Filariasis Episystem and Its Consequences: A Multidisciplinary View. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2017; 2017:6436130. [PMID: 28642878 PMCID: PMC5469992 DOI: 10.1155/2017/6436130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2017] [Accepted: 05/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Vector-borne transmitted helminthic zoonosis affects the health and economy of both developing and developed countries. The concept of episystem includes the set of biological, environmental, and epidemiological elements of these diseases in defined geographic and temporal scales. Dirofilariasis caused by different species of the genus Dirofilaria is a disease affecting domestic and wild canines and felines and man, transmitted by different species of culicid mosquitoes. This complexity is increased because Dirofilaria species harbor intracellular symbiont Wolbachia bacteriae, which play a key role in the embryogenesis and development of dirofilariae and in the inflammatory pathology of the disease. In addition, the vector transmission makes the dirofilariasis susceptible to the influence of the climate and its variations. The present review addresses the analysis of dirofilariasis from the point of view of the episystem, analyzing the complex network of interactions established between biological components, climate, and factors related to human activity, as well as the different problems they pose. The progress of knowledge on human and animal dirofilariasis is largely due to the multidisciplinary approach. Nevertheless, different aspects of the disease need to continue being investigated and cooperation between countries and specialists involved should be intensified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Simón
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Javier González-Miguel
- Institute of Natural Resources and Agrobiology of Salamanca (IRNASA-CSIC), Salamanca, Spain
| | - Alicia Diosdado
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Paula Josefina Gómez
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Rodrigo Morchón
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Vladimir Kartashev
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Rostov State Medical University, Rostov-na-Donu, Russia
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Polymorphism in ABC transporter genes of Dirofilaria immitis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY-DRUGS AND DRUG RESISTANCE 2017; 7:227-235. [PMID: 28494332 PMCID: PMC5421822 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpddr.2017.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2017] [Revised: 04/26/2017] [Accepted: 04/28/2017] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Dirofilaria immitis, a filarial nematode, causes dirofilariasis in dogs, cats and occasionally in humans. Prevention of the disease has been mainly by monthly use of the macrocyclic lactone (ML) endectocides during the mosquito transmission season. Recently, ML resistance has been confirmed in D. immitis and therefore, there is a need to find new classes of anthelmintics. One of the mechanisms associated with ML resistance in nematodes has been the possible role of ATP binding cassette (ABC) transporters in reducing drug concentrations at receptor sites. ABC transporters, mainly from sub-families B, C and G, may contribute to multidrug resistance (MDR) by active efflux of drugs out of the cell. Gene products of ABC transporters may thus serve as the targets for agents that may modulate susceptibility to drugs, by inhibiting drug transport. ABC transporters are believed to be involved in a variety of physiological functions critical to the parasite, such as sterol transport, and therefore may also serve as the target for drugs that can act as anthelmintics on their own. Knowledge of polymorphism in these ABC transporter genes in nematode parasites could provide useful information for the process of drug design. We have identified 15 ABC transporter genes from sub-families A, B, C and G, in D. immitis, by comparative genomic approaches and analyzed them for polymorphism. Whole genome sequencing data from four ML susceptible (SUS) and four loss of efficacy (LOE) pooled populations were used for single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotyping. Out of 231 SNPs identified in those 15 ABC transporter genes, 89 and 75 of them were specific to the SUS or LOE populations, respectively. A few of the SNPs identified may affect gene expression, protein function, substrate specificity or resistance development and may be useful for transporter inhibitor/anthelmintic drug design, or in order to anticipate resistance development. In the D. immitis genome, all ABC-A, -B, -C and -G transporter genes were identified. Within 15 ABC transporter genes identified in D. immitis, 231 SNP loci were found. Four exonic SNPs caused changes in predicted secondary structure of ABC proteins. D. immitis populations have low genetic variability among ABC transporter genes.
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Wang S, Zhang N, Zhang Z, Wang D, Yao Z, Zhang H, Ma J, Zheng B, Ren H, Liu S. Prevalence of Dirofilaria immitis infection in dogs in Henan province, central China. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016; 23:43. [PMID: 27739399 PMCID: PMC5782855 DOI: 10.1051/parasite/2016054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2016] [Accepted: 10/02/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The heartworm Dirofilaria immitis is the causative agent of cardiopulmonary dirofilariosis in dogs and cats, and also infects humans. However, there has been no study on dirofilariasis in dogs in central China. From March 2015 to February 2016, sera from 1176 randomly selected household dogs from Henan province, central China were examined for D. immitis antigen using the Canine Heartworm Antigen Test Kit. The overall seroprevalence of D. immitis in dogs in Henan province was 13% (155/1176). The prevalence was significantly higher in older dogs and dogs kept outdoors, compared to the younger ones and those sheltered indoors. No significant difference of prevalence was observed between sexes. The results suggest that the risk of exposure to D. immitis in dogs is high in Henan, and prophylaxis against the parasite is advisable to decrease the incidence of canine dirofilariosis in this region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Wang
- Department of Human Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, PR China
| | - Nian Zhang
- Department of Human Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, PR China - Xinxiang Assegal Medical Examination Institute, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, PR China
| | - Zhenchao Zhang
- Department of Human Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, PR China
| | - Dong Wang
- Department of Human Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, PR China
| | - Zhijun Yao
- Department of Human Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, PR China
| | - Haizhu Zhang
- Department of Human Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, PR China
| | - Jingbo Ma
- Department of Human Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, PR China
| | - Bin Zheng
- Department of Human Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, PR China
| | - Hongbin Ren
- Department of Human Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, PR China
| | - Shiguo Liu
- Department of Human Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, PR China
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Bowman DD, Liu Y, McMahan CS, Nordone SK, Yabsley MJ, Lund RB. Forecasting United States heartworm Dirofilaria immitis prevalence in dogs. Parasit Vectors 2016; 9:540. [PMID: 27724981 PMCID: PMC5057216 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-016-1804-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2016] [Accepted: 09/19/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background This paper forecasts next year’s canine heartworm prevalence in the United States from 16 climate, geographic and societal factors. The forecast’s construction and an assessment of its performance are described. Methods The forecast is based on a spatial-temporal conditional autoregressive model fitted to over 31 million antigen heartworm tests conducted in the 48 contiguous United States during 2011–2015. The forecast uses county-level data on 16 predictive factors, including temperature, precipitation, median household income, local forest and surface water coverage, and presence/absence of eight mosquito species. Non-static factors are extrapolated into the forthcoming year with various statistical methods. The fitted model and factor extrapolations are used to estimate next year’s regional prevalence. Results The correlation between the observed and model-estimated county-by-county heartworm prevalence for the 5-year period 2011–2015 is 0.727, demonstrating reasonable model accuracy. The correlation between 2015 observed and forecasted county-by-county heartworm prevalence is 0.940, demonstrating significant skill and showing that heartworm prevalence can be forecasted reasonably accurately. Conclusions The forecast presented herein can a priori alert veterinarians to areas expected to see higher than normal heartworm activity. The proposed methods may prove useful for forecasting other diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dwight D Bowman
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Yan Liu
- Department of Mathematical Sciences, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, USA
| | | | - Shila K Nordone
- Department of Molecular Biomedical Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Michael J Yabsley
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine and the Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, The University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Robert B Lund
- Department of Mathematical Sciences, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, USA.
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Mani T, Bourguinat C, Keller K, Ashraf S, Blagburn B, Prichard RK. Interaction of macrocyclic lactones with a Dirofilaria immitis P-glycoprotein. Int J Parasitol 2016; 46:631-40. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2016.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2016] [Revised: 04/04/2016] [Accepted: 04/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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Subcutaneous and Pulmonary Dirofilariasis with Evidence of Splenic Involvement. Case Rep Pulmonol 2016; 2016:8212387. [PMID: 27579206 PMCID: PMC4992791 DOI: 10.1155/2016/8212387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2016] [Revised: 07/07/2016] [Accepted: 07/14/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Cases of human dirofilariasis have been reported in several countries around the world, including a large number in the Atlantic and Gulf Coast regions of the United States. Most commonly, these cases have subcutaneous or pulmonary involvement; however, there have been few reports of dirofilariasis involving structures such as large vessels, mesentery, the spermatic cord, and liver. We present a case of an unusual presentation of human dirofilariasis presenting as a shoulder abscess and what is presumed to be pulmonary and splenic involvement in a 55-year-old female.
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Movilla R, García C, Siebert S, Roura X. Countrywide serological evaluation of canine prevalence for Anaplasma spp., Borrelia burgdorferi (sensu lato), Dirofilaria immitis and Ehrlichia canis in Mexico. Parasit Vectors 2016; 9:421. [PMID: 27474020 PMCID: PMC4966591 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-016-1686-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2016] [Accepted: 07/07/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Canine vector-borne diseases (CVBD) have become a major concern for canine and human public health. The aim of the study described here is to add epidemiological data regarding four pathogens responsible for CVBD, namely anaplasmosis, borreliosis, dirofilariosis and ehrlichiosis in a national survey conducted in Mexico. METHODS Seventy-four veterinary centres located in 21 federal Mexican states were asked to test dogs with clinical signs suspect for CVBD and healthy dogs, for detection of Dirofilaria immitis antigen and antibodies against Anaplasma spp., Borrelia burgdorferi (sensu lato) and Ehrlichia canis using the SNAP® 4DX® from IDEXX® Laboratories. RESULTS A total of 1706 dogs were tested, including 943 apparently healthy and 722 CVBD-suspect dogs. Infected dogs were 36.7 %. The highest percentages of infection with E. canis (51.0 %) and Anaplasma spp. (16.4 %) were obtained in the northwestern region, while D. immitis was most frequently found in the northeastern region of the country (8.9 %). Four dogs from the northwestern, northeastern, eastern and southeastern regions, respectively, were positive for B. burgdorferi (sensu lato). Northcentral regions showed lowest overall prevalence of infection (2.4 %). Co-infections were detected in 8.8 % of the dogs tested. Statistically significant lower positivity was found among dogs aged less than one year (23.2 %) and small-sized dogs (27.6 %), while higher prevalence of infection was found in dogs living outdoors (42.0 %), dogs with detectable tick infestation (43.3 %) and dogs that received treatment for tick-transmitted infections (58.8 %). Seropositivity was a risk factor for the presence of clinical signs as follows: Anaplasma spp. (OR = 2.63; 95 % CI: 1.88-3.67; P < 0.0001), D. immitis (OR = 2.52; 95 % CI: 1.61-3.95; P < 0.0001), E. canis (OR = 3.58; 95 % CI: 2.88-4.45; P < 0.0001), mixed infections (OR = 4.08; 95 % CI: 2.79-5.96; P < 0.0001), one or more agents (OR = 3.58; 95 % CI: 2.91-4.42; P < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS Canine serological evidence supports that dogs from Mexico are at risk of acquiring Anaplasma spp., D. immitis and/or E. canis, while B. burgdorferi (sensu lato) transmission is minimal in the country. Practitioners play a fundamental role in the detection and control of these diseases to protect dogs and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebeca Movilla
- Hospital Clínic Veterinari, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Carrer de l’Hospital, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carlos García
- Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Cuatitlán UNAM, Mexico Ciudad Universitaria, 04510 Mexico City D.F., Mexico
| | - Susanne Siebert
- Bayer Animal Health GmbH, 40789 Monheim and Marketing Companion Animal Products (CAP), InternationalBuilding 6210, 2.56, 51368 Leverkusen, Germany
| | - Xavier Roura
- Hospital Clínic Veterinari, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Carrer de l’Hospital, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain
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Brines C, Agbedanu P, Juelsgaard R, Carlson S, Brewer M. Aberrant migration of
Dirofilaria immitis
in the peritoneum of a dog. VETERINARY RECORD CASE REPORTS 2016. [DOI: 10.1136/vetreccr-2016-000335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Courtenay Brines
- The Ohio State University Veterinary Medical CenterColumbusOhioUSA
| | - Prince Agbedanu
- Department of Biomedical SciencesIowa State University College of Veterinary MedicineAmesIowaUSA
| | - Rachel Juelsgaard
- Department of Veterinary PathologyIowa State University College of Veterinary MedicineAmesIowaUSA
| | - Steve Carlson
- Department of Biomedical SciencesIowa State University College of Veterinary MedicineAmesIowaUSA
| | - Matthew Brewer
- Department of Veterinary PathologyIowa State University College of Veterinary MedicineAmesIowaUSA
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ABC-B transporter genes in Dirofilaria immitis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY-DRUGS AND DRUG RESISTANCE 2016; 6:116-24. [PMID: 27164440 PMCID: PMC4919315 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpddr.2016.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2015] [Revised: 04/01/2016] [Accepted: 04/06/2016] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Dirofilaria immitis is a filarial nematode causing infection and heartworm disease in dogs and other canids, cats, and occasionally in humans. Prevention with macrocyclic lactones (ML) is recommended during the mosquito transmission season. Recently, ML resistance has been reported. ABC-B transporter genes are thought to be involved in the mechanism of ML resistance in other nematodes. This study aimed to identify all the ABC-B transporter genes in D. immitis using as a reference the nDi.2.2 D. immitis whole genome, which is not completely annotated. Using bioinformatic tools and PCR amplification on pooled D. immitis genomic DNA and on pooled cDNA, nine ABC transporter genes including one pseudogene were characterized. Bioinformatic and phylogenetic analyses allowed identification of three P-glycoproteins (Pgps) (Dim-pgp-3 Dim-pgp-10, Dim-pgp-11), of two ABC-B half transporter genes (one ortholog of Cel-haf-4 and Cel-haf-9; and one ortholog of Cel-haf-1 and Cel-haf-3), of one ABC half transporter gene (ortholog of Cel-haf-5) that contained an ABC-C motif, and of one additional half transporter that would require functional study for characterization. The number of ABC-B transporter genes identified was lower than in Caenorhabditis elegans and Haemonchuscontortus. Further studies are needed to understand their possible role in ML resistance in D. immitis. These ABC transporters constitute a base for ML resistance investigation in D. immitis and advance our understanding of the molecular biology of this parasite. Identification of ABC-B full and half transporter genes in Dirofilaria immitis. Phylogenetic analysis of the D. immitis ABC-B transporter genes. Lower number of ABC-B transporter genes in D. immitis compared with Clade V nematodes.
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Dingoes (Canis dingo Meyer, 1793) continue to be an important reservoir host of Dirofilaria immitis in low density housing areas in Australia. Vet Parasitol 2015; 215:6-10. [PMID: 26790730 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2015.10.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2015] [Revised: 10/15/2015] [Accepted: 10/16/2015] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis) is a parasitic nematode responsible for canine and feline cardiopulmonary dirofilariasis and human zoonotic filariosis in both tropical and temperate regions throughout the world. Importantly, this study in the Wet Tropics of Far North Queensland found D. immitis remains at high prevalence (72.7%) in wild dingoes in low density housing areas in Australia. This prevalence is equivalent to the highest levels seen in wild dogs in Australia and represents an ongoing risk to domestic dogs, cats and humans. In contrast, in higher density residential areas prevalence was significantly lower (16.7%, p=0.001). It is possible that chemotherapeutic heartworm (HW) prevention in domestic dogs in these higher density housing areas is helping to control infection in the resident dingo population. Five dingoes killed in council control operations around Atherton, a non-endemic HW region in the Wet Tropics, were all negative for HW likely due to the colder climate of the region restricting transmission of the disease. This survey highlights the importance of dingoes as reservoir hosts of HW disease and that the subsequent risk of infection to companion animals and humans depends on local factors such as housing density, possibly linked to chemotherapeutic HW control in domestic dogs and climate. Our findings show that veterinary clinicians need to ensure that pet owners are aware of HW disease and do not become complacent about HW chemoprohylaxis in areas which support dingo populations.
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Uni S, Fukuda M, Agatsuma T, Bain O, Otsuka Y, Nakatani J, Matsubayashi M, Harada M, Omar H, Ramli R, Hashim R, Azirun MS, Takaoka H. Onchocerca takaokai n. sp. (Nematoda: Filarioidea) in Japanese wild boars (Sus scrofa leucomystax): Description and molecular identification of intradermal females. Parasitol Int 2015; 64:493-502. [PMID: 26165205 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2015.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2014] [Revised: 06/25/2015] [Accepted: 07/06/2015] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Human zoonotic onchocercosis is caused by Onchocerca dewittei japonica, parasitic in wild boars (Sus scrofa leucomystax) in Japan. Previously, microfilariae longer than those of Onchocerca dewittei japonica were observed in skin snips from wild boars during the study of O. dewittei japonica. Moreover, the third-stage larvae (L3) of these longer microfilariae were obtained from the blackfly Simulium bidentatum after experimental injections. Based on morphometric and molecular studies, similar L3 were found in blackflies during fieldwork in Oita, Japan. However, except for O. dewittei japonica, adult worms of Onchocerca have not been found in wild boars. In this study, we discovered adult females of a novel Onchocerca species in the skin of a wild boar in Oita, and named it Onchocerca takaokai n. sp. Females of this new species had longer microfilariae and differed from O. dewittei japonica in terms of their morphological characteristics and parasitic location. The molecular characteristics of the cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 and 12S rRNA genes of the new species were identical to those of the longer microfilariae and L3 previously detected, but they differed from those of O. dewittei japonica at the species level. However, both species indicated a close affinity among their congeners and Onchocerca ramachandrini, parasitic in the warthog in Africa, was basal in the Suidae cluster of the 12S rRNA tree.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shigehiko Uni
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Department of Parasitology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka City University, Osaka 545-8585, Japan.
| | - Masako Fukuda
- Research Promotion Institute, Oita University, Oita 879-5593, Japan
| | - Takeshi Agatsuma
- Department of Environmental Health Science, Kochi Medical School, Kochi University, Nankoku 783-8505, Japan
| | - Odile Bain
- Parasitologie comparée, UMR 7205 CNRS, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, 75231 Paris, France
| | - Yasushi Otsuka
- Research Center for the Pacific Islands, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-8580, Japan
| | - Jun Nakatani
- Agricultural Research Center, National Agriculture and Food Research Organization, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8666, Japan
| | - Makoto Matsubayashi
- Department of International Prevention of Epidemics, Division of Veterinary Science, Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Osaka Prefecture University, Osaka 598-8531, Japan
| | - Masashi Harada
- Laboratory Animal Center, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka City University, Osaka 545-8585, Japan
| | - Hasmahzaiti Omar
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Rosli Ramli
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Rosli Hashim
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Sofian Azirun
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Hiroyuki Takaoka
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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The emergence of macrocyclic lactone resistance in the canine heartworm, Dirofilaria immitis. Parasitology 2015; 142:1249-59. [PMID: 26040450 DOI: 10.1017/s003118201500061x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Prevention of heartworm disease caused by Dirofilaria immitis in domestic dogs and cats relies on a single drug class, the macrocyclic lactones (MLs). Recently, it has been demonstrated that ML-resistant D. immitis are circulating in the Mississippi Delta region of the USA, but the prevalence and impact of these resistant parasites remains unknown. We review published studies that demonstrated resistance in D.immitis, along with our current understanding of its mechanisms. Efforts to develop in vitro tests for resistance have not yet yielded a suitable assay, so testing infected animals for microfilariae that persist in the face of ML treatment may be the best current option. Since the vast majority of D. immitis populations continue to be drug-sensitive, protected dogs are likely to be infected with only a few parasites and experience relatively mild disease. In cats, infection with small numbers of worms can cause severe disease and so the clinical consequences of drug resistance may be more severe. Since melarsomine dihydrochloride, the drug used to remove adult worms, is not an ML, the ML-resistance should have no impact on our ability to treat diseased animals. A large refugium of heartworms that are not exposed to drugs exists in unprotected dogs and in wild canids, which may limit the development and spread of resistance alleles.
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Diaz JH. Increasing risks of human dirofilariasis in travelers. J Travel Med 2015; 22:116-23. [PMID: 25384527 DOI: 10.1111/jtm.12174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2014] [Revised: 07/27/2014] [Accepted: 08/26/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dirofilariasis is a zoonotic nematode infection of domestic and wild carnivores that can be transmitted to man by infected mosquitoes. METHODS Internet search engines were queried with the key words to examine case reports, series, and descriptive analyses of animal and human dirofilariasis to meet the objectives of this review to describe the increasing prevalence of animal and human dirofilariasis worldwide; to resolve misconceptions regarding the pathophysiology and outcomes of animal versus human dirofilariasis; and to recommend new strategies for the diagnosis, management, and prevention of human dirofilariasis in travelers. RESULTS Descriptive epidemiological studies in the United States and Europe have now established dirofilariasis as an emergent parasitic disease of dogs and man. Global warming has extended the mosquito-vector-borne transmission cycles, enzootic distributions, and canine microfilarial prevalences of the disease to non-endemic regions. CONCLUSIONS Travel medicine clinicians must remain vigilant regarding the possibilities of human pulmonary dirofilariasis when solitary "coin lesions" appear on screening chest X-rays or abdominal neuroimaging studies in asymptomatic patients without peripheral hypereosinophilia. The least invasive diagnostic methods are recommended. Future investigations should focus on conducting active epidemiological surveillance for dirofilariasis in humans and animals; on improving canine dirofilarial chemoprophylaxis; and on developing new, rapid molecular methods for diagnosing and differentiating human dirofilarial infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- James H Diaz
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center (LSUHSC), New Orleans, LA, USA; School of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center (LSUHSC), New Orleans, LA, USA
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Uni S, Fukuda M, Otsuka Y, Hiramatsu N, Yokobayashi K, Takahashi H, Murata S, Kusatake K, Morita E, Maruyama H, Hasegawa H, Shiwaku K, Ramli R, Azirun MS, Takaoka H. New zoonotic cases of Onchocerca dewittei japonica (Nematoda: Onchocercidae) in Honshu, Japan. Parasit Vectors 2015; 8:59. [PMID: 25623081 PMCID: PMC4323255 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-015-0655-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2014] [Accepted: 01/12/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Zoonotic infections with Onchocerca species are uncommon, and to date only 25 clinical cases have been reported worldwide. In Japan, five previous zoonotic infections were concentrated in Oita, Kyushu (the southern island), with one previous case in Hiroshima in the western part of Honshu (the main island). The causative agent in Japan was identified as Onchocerca dewittei japonica Uni, Bain & Takaoka, 2001 from Japanese wild boars (Sus scrofa leucomystax Temminck, 1842). Here we report two infections caused by a female and male O. dewittei japonica, respectively, among residents of Hiroshima and Shimane Prefectures in the western part of Honshu. Methods In both cases, nodules were surgically removed. The parasites in nodules were identified on the basis of their histopathological characteristics. Identification was confirmed by sequencing the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (cox1) gene from worms in the tissues used in the histological preparations. Results Case 1 was a 61-year-old woman from Hiroshima Prefecture who complained of a painful subcutaneous nodule on the back of her right hand. The causative agent was identified as a female O. dewittei japonica owing to transverse ridges on the cuticle and molecular analysis. Case 2 was a 78-year-old woman from Shimane Prefecture who had a painful nodule in the left temporal region. Histopathological characteristics and cox1 sequencing of the worm indicated that the causative agent was a male O. dewittei japonica. Conclusions For Cases 1 and 2, we diagnosed the causative agents as a female and male O. dewittei japonica, respectively. These findings indicate the spread of a zoonosis caused by O. dewittei japonica in the western part of Honshu, where wild boars have recently extended their habitats because of decreased annual snowfall, unused rice fields and a decline in the number of hunters in Japan. The O. dewittei japonica infection rate among wild boars was reported as 78% in Shimane Prefecture, in the western part of Honshu. Therefore, in the near future, zoonotic onchocercosis is likely to occur in Honshu as well as Kyushu, where wild boars, blackfly vectors and humans share the same habitat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shigehiko Uni
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. .,Department of Parasitology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka City University, Osaka, 545-8585, Japan.
| | - Masako Fukuda
- Research Promotion Institute, Oita University, Oita, 879-5593, Japan.
| | - Yasushi Otsuka
- Research Center for the Pacific Islands, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima, 890-8580, Japan.
| | | | | | | | - Susumu Murata
- Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine, Shimane University, Shimane, 693-8501, Japan.
| | - Kenji Kusatake
- Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine, Shimane University, Shimane, 693-8501, Japan.
| | - Eishin Morita
- Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine, Shimane University, Shimane, 693-8501, Japan.
| | - Haruhiko Maruyama
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Division of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, 889-1692, Japan.
| | - Hideo Hasegawa
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Oita University, Oita, 879-5593, Japan.
| | - Kuninori Shiwaku
- Department of Environmental and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Shimane University, Shimane, 693-8501, Japan.
| | - Rosli Ramli
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Mohd Sofian Azirun
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Hiroyuki Takaoka
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
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