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Cowie RH, Malik R, Morgan ER. Comparative biology of parasitic nematodes in the genus Angiostrongylus and related genera. ADVANCES IN PARASITOLOGY 2023; 121:65-197. [PMID: 37474239 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apar.2023.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
The rise to prominence of some Angiostrongylus species through associated emerging disease in humans and dogs has stimulated calls for a renewed focus on the biology of this genus and three related genera. Although significant research efforts have been made in recent years these have tended to focus on individual species and specific aspects such as diagnosis and treatment of disease or new records of occurrence and hosts. This comprehensive review takes a comparative approach, seeking commonalities and differences among species and asking such questions as: Which species belong to this and to closely related genera and how are they related? Why do only some species appear to be spreading geographically and what factors might underlie range expansion? Which animal species are involved in the life cycles as definitive, intermediate, paratenic and accidental hosts? How do parasite larvae find, infect and develop within these hosts? What are the consequences of infection for host health? How will climate change affect future spread and global health? Appreciating how species resemble and differ from each other shines a spotlight on knowledge gaps and provides provisional guidance on key species characteristics warranting detailed study. Similarities exist among species, including the basic life cycle and transmission processes, but important details such as host range, climatic requirements, migration patterns within hosts and disease mechanisms differ, with much more information available for A. cantonensis and A. vasorum than for other species. Nonetheless, comparison across Angiostrongylus reveals some common patterns. Historically narrow definitive host ranges are expanding with new knowledge, combining with very broad ranges of intermediate gastropod hosts and vertebrate and invertebrate paratenic and accidental hosts to provide the backdrop to complex interactions among climate, ecology and transmission that remain only partly understood, even for the species of dominant concern. Key outstanding questions concern larval dynamics and the potential for transmission outside trophic relations, relations between infection and disease severity in different hosts, and how global change is altering transmission beyond immediate impacts on development rate in gastropods. The concept of encounter and compatibility filters could help to explain differences in the relative importance of different gastropod species as intermediate hosts and determine the importance of host community composition and related environmental factors to transmission and range. Across the group, it remains unclear what, physiologically, immunologically or taxonomically, delimits definitive, accidental and paratenic hosts. Impacts of infection on definitive host fitness and consequences for population dynamics and transmission remain mostly unexplored across the genus. Continual updating and cross-referencing across species of Angiostrongylus and related genera is important to synthesise rapid advances in understanding of key traits and behaviours, especially in important Angiostrongylus species that are emerging causative agents of disease in humans and other animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert H Cowie
- Pacific Biosciences Research Center, University of Hawaii, Maile Way, Gilmore, Honolulu, HI, United States.
| | - Richard Malik
- Centre for Veterinary Education, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Eric R Morgan
- Institute for Global Food Security, Queen's University Belfast, Chlorine Gardens, Belfast, United Kingdom; School of Veterinary Science, University of Bristol, Langford House, Langford, North Somerset, United Kingdom
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Deng YP, Wang W, Fu YT, Nie Y, Xie Y, Liu GH. Morphological and molecular evidence reveals a new species of chewing louse Pancola ailurus n. sp. (Phthiraptera: Trichodectidae) from the endangered Chinese red panda Ailurus styani. Int J Parasitol Parasites Wildl 2022; 20:31-38. [PMID: 36619891 PMCID: PMC9811220 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2022.12.004] [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: 10/10/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Lice are six-legged, wingless, insect parasites of mammals and birds, and include two main functional groups: blood-sucking lice and chewing lice. However, it is still not clear whether the Chinese red panda Ailurus styani is infested with the parasitic louse. In the present study, we describe a new genus and a species of chewing louse, Pancola ailurus (Phthiraptera: Trichodectidae) based on morphological and molecular datasets. The morphological features showed that Pancola is closer to Paratrichodectes. The genetic divergence of cox1 and 12S rRNA among the Pancola ailurus n. sp. and other Trichodectidae lice was 29.7 - 34.6% and 38.9 - 43.6%, respectively. Phylogenetic analyses based on the available mitochondrial gene sequences showed that P. ailurus n. sp. is more closely related to Trichodectes canis and Geomydoecus aurei than to Felicola subrostratus and together nested within the family Trichodectidae. This study is the first record of parasitic lice from the endangered Chinese red panda A. styani and highlights the importance of integrating morphological and molecular datasets for the identification and discrimination of new louse species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan-Ping Deng
- Research Center for Parasites & Vectors, College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan Province, 410128, China
| | - Wei Wang
- The Centre for Bioinnovation, School of Science and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, QLD, 4556, Australia
| | - Yi-Tian Fu
- Research Center for Parasites & Vectors, College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan Province, 410128, China
| | - Yu Nie
- Research Center for Parasites & Vectors, College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan Province, 410128, China
| | - Yue Xie
- Department of Parasitology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, 611130, China,Corresponding author.
| | - Guo-Hua Liu
- Research Center for Parasites & Vectors, College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan Province, 410128, China,Corresponding author.
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Galietta V, Eleni C, Raso C, Cocumelli C, Friedrich KG, Di Cerbo P, Iurescia M, Diaconu EL, Alba P, De Liberato C. Systemic Infection by Angiostrongylus vasorum in a Fennec (Vulpeszerda) in an Italian Zoological Garden. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11090965. [PMID: 36145397 PMCID: PMC9505467 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11090965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Revised: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
This paper reported a case of a metastrongyloid nematode Angiostrongylus vasorum infection in a fennec (Vulpes zerda) kept in a zoo in central Italy. The fennec had shown paralysis of the hind limbs, anorexia, weakness and respiratory signs before death. Cardiomegaly and granulomatous pneumonia were the major anatomopathological findings. Inflammatory lesions associated with parasitic larvae were observed in the lungs, brain, liver, heart, spinal cord and kidney of the fennec at histology. A. vasorum diagnosis was confirmed by both morphological and molecular identification of adult worms recovered at necropsy. Fennecs are active predators and maintain their hunting behaviour in captivity. Hence, it is likely that the animal was exposed to infection by preying on parasitised gastropods, intermediate hosts of A. vasorum, entering zoo enclosures from the surrounding environment. This is the first report of A. vasorum systemic infection in a captive fennec (V. zerda) in a zoo in Italy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Galietta
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana “M. Aleandri”, Via Appia Nuova 1411, 00178 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0679099468
| | - Claudia Eleni
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana “M. Aleandri”, Via Appia Nuova 1411, 00178 Rome, Italy
| | - Caterina Raso
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana “M. Aleandri”, Via Appia Nuova 1411, 00178 Rome, Italy
| | - Cristiano Cocumelli
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana “M. Aleandri”, Via Appia Nuova 1411, 00178 Rome, Italy
| | | | - Pilar Di Cerbo
- Fondazione Bioparco, Viale del Giardino Zoologico 20, 00197 Rome, Italy
| | - Manuela Iurescia
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana “M. Aleandri”, Via Appia Nuova 1411, 00178 Rome, Italy
| | - Elena L. Diaconu
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana “M. Aleandri”, Via Appia Nuova 1411, 00178 Rome, Italy
| | - Patricia Alba
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana “M. Aleandri”, Via Appia Nuova 1411, 00178 Rome, Italy
| | - Claudio De Liberato
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana “M. Aleandri”, Via Appia Nuova 1411, 00178 Rome, Italy
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Sharma HP, Achhami B. Gastro-intestinal parasites of sympatric red panda and livestock in protected areas of Nepal. Vet Med Sci 2021; 8:568-577. [PMID: 34599791 PMCID: PMC8959333 DOI: 10.1002/vms3.651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Disease transmission among humans, domestic animals and wildlife can have profound consequences in human health, wildlife conservation and maintenance of biodiversity. The issue of disease transmission can be particularly important for threatened wildlife species, yet such information remains scarce due to logistic constraints and government regulation on animal handlings. The red panda (Ailurus fulgens) is one of the globally threatened species challenged with habitat fragmentation and human disturbance. In Nepal, livestock grazing is recognised as one of the major threats to the red panda. Aim We aimed to provide the first empirical data on gastro‐intestinal parasites for sympatric livestock and red panda from two geographically isolated regions in Nepal. Methods In this study, we systematically sampled, and examined the faecal of livestock and red panda in two separate protected areas to provide the first empirical data on their gastro‐intestinal parasite, including the prevalence, parasite richness and load. Results We documented 11 parasite taxa (7 nematodes, 2 cestodes, 1 trematode and 1 coccidian), of which 8 are shared by both livestock and red panda. Furthermore, parasite prevalence, parasite load and parasite richness were generally higher in the livestock than the red panda. Conclusion The data provided from this systematic survey on parasites of sympatric livestock and red panda in wild raises the concern about the potential role of livestock mediating disease dynamics in the red panda. Our study suggests that cross‐transmission of parasites between livestock and red panda are likely, and the livestock may be a competent agent bringing disease to both red panda and human. Therefore, managing human‐livestock‐wildlife contact to reduce disease risk to all groups should be a key component in conservation planning of protected areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hari Prasad Sharma
- Central Department of ZoologyTribhuvan UniversityKirtipurKathmanduNepal
- Nepal Zoological SocietyKathmanduNepal
| | - Bishnu Achhami
- Central Department of ZoologyTribhuvan UniversityKirtipurKathmanduNepal
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Fuehrer HP, Morelli S, Unterköfler MS, Bajer A, Bakran-Lebl K, Dwużnik-Szarek D, Farkas R, Grandi G, Heddergott M, Jokelainen P, Knific T, Leschnik M, Miterpáková M, Modrý D, Petersen HH, Skírnisson K, Vergles Rataj A, Schnyder M, Strube C. Dirofilaria spp. and Angiostrongylus vasorum: Current Risk of Spreading in Central and Northern Europe. Pathogens 2021; 10:1268. [PMID: 34684217 PMCID: PMC8537668 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10101268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Revised: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In the past few decades, the relevance of Dirofilaria immitis and Dirofilaria repens, causing cardiopulmonary and subcutaneous dirofilariosis in dogs and cats, and of Angiostrongylus vasorum, causing canine angiostrongylosis, has steadily increased in Central and Northern Europe. In this review, a summary of published articles and additional reports dealing with imported or autochthonous cases of these parasites is provided for Central (Austria, Czechia, Germany, Hungary, Luxemburg, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia, and Switzerland) and Northern (Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden) Europe. Research efforts focusing on Dirofilaria spp. and A. vasorum have varied by country, and cross-border studies are few. The housing conditions of dogs, pet movements, the spread of competent vectors, and climate change are important factors in the spread of these nematodes. Dogs kept outside overnight are a major factor for the establishment of Dirofilaria spp. However, the establishment of invasive, diurnal, synanthropic, competent mosquito vectors such as Aedes albopictus may also influence the establishment of Dirofilaria spp. The drivers of the spread of A. vasorum remain not fully understood, but it seems to be influenced by habitats shared with wild canids, dog relocation, and possibly climatic changes; its pattern of spreading appears to be similar in different countries. Both Dirofilaria spp. and A. vasorum merit further monitoring and research focus in Europe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hans-Peter Fuehrer
- Department of Pathobiology, Institute of Parasitology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria; (M.S.U.); (K.B.-L.)
| | - Simone Morelli
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy;
| | - Maria Sophia Unterköfler
- Department of Pathobiology, Institute of Parasitology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria; (M.S.U.); (K.B.-L.)
| | - Anna Bajer
- Department of Eco-Epidemiology of Parasitic Diseases, Institute of Developmental Biology and Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, University of Warsaw, Miecznikowa 1, 02-096 Warsaw, Poland; (A.B.); (D.D.-S.)
| | - Karin Bakran-Lebl
- Department of Pathobiology, Institute of Parasitology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria; (M.S.U.); (K.B.-L.)
| | - Dorota Dwużnik-Szarek
- Department of Eco-Epidemiology of Parasitic Diseases, Institute of Developmental Biology and Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, University of Warsaw, Miecznikowa 1, 02-096 Warsaw, Poland; (A.B.); (D.D.-S.)
| | - Róbert Farkas
- Department of Parasitology and Zoology, University of Veterinary Medicine, 1078 Budapest, Hungary;
| | - Giulio Grandi
- Section for Parasitology, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Veterinary Public Health, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), 750 07 Uppsala, Sweden;
- Department of Microbiology, National Veterinary Institute (SVA), 756 51 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Mike Heddergott
- Department of Zoology, Musée National d’Historire Naturelle, 25, Rue Münster, 2160 Luxembourg, Luxembourg;
| | - Pikka Jokelainen
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Infectious Disease Preparedness, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, DK-2300 Copenhagen S, Denmark;
| | - Tanja Knific
- Institute of Food Safety, Feed and Environment, Veterinary Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Gerbičeva 60, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia;
| | - Michael Leschnik
- Clinical Unit of Internal Medicine Small Animals, Department/Universitätsklinik für Kleintiere und Pferde, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria;
| | - Martina Miterpáková
- Institute of Parasitology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Hlinkova 3, 040 01 Košice, Slovakia;
| | - David Modrý
- Biology Center, Institute of Parasitology, Czech Academy of Sciences, 37005 Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic;
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources/CINeZ, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, 16500 Praha-Suchdol, Czech Republic
- Department of Botany and Zoology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, 61137 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Heidi Huus Petersen
- Centre for Diagnostic, Department of Health Technology, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kongens Lyngby, Denmark;
| | - Karl Skírnisson
- Institute for Experimental Pathology at Keldur, University of Iceland, Keldnavegur 3, 112 Reykjavik, Iceland;
| | - Aleksandra Vergles Rataj
- Institute of Microbiology and Parasitology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Gerbičeva 60, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia;
| | - Manuela Schnyder
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, 8057 Zürich, Switzerland;
| | - Christina Strube
- Centre for Infection Medicine, Institute for Parasitology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, 30559 Hannover, Germany;
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Morgan ER, Modry D, Paredes-Esquivel C, Foronda P, Traversa D. Angiostrongylosis in Animals and Humans in Europe. Pathogens 2021; 10:1236. [PMID: 34684185 PMCID: PMC8538298 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10101236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Revised: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Lungworms in the genus Angiostrongylus cause disease in animals and humans. The spread of Angiostrongylus vasorum within Europe and the recent establishment of Angiostrongylus cantonensis increase the relevance of these species to veterinary and medical practitioners, and to researchers in parasitology, epidemiology, veterinary science and ecology. This review introduces the key members of the genus present in Europe and their impacts on health, and updates the current epidemiological situation. Expansion of A. vasorum from localized pockets to wide distribution across the continent has been confirmed by a rising prevalence in foxes and increasing reports of infection and disease in dogs, while the list of carnivore and mustelid definitive hosts continues to grow. The tropically distributed rat lungworm A. cantonensis, meanwhile, has been recorded on islands south of Europe, previously the Canary Islands, and now also the Balearic Islands, although so far with limited evidence of zoonotic disease. Other members of the genus, namely, A. chabaudi, A. daskalovi and A. dujardini, are native to Europe and mainly infect wildlife, with unknown consequences for populations, although spill-over can occur into domestic animals and those in zoological collections. The epidemiology of angiostrongylosis is complex, and further research is needed on parasite maintenance in sylvatic hosts, and on the roles of ecology, behaviour and genetics in disease emergence. Improved surveillance in animals and humans is also required to support risk assessments and management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric R. Morgan
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast BT9 5DL, UK
| | - David Modry
- Biology Center, Institute of Parasitology, Czech Academy of Sciences, 37005 Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic;
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources/CINeZ, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, 16500 Praha-Suchdol, Czech Republic
- Department of Botany and Zoology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, 61137 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Claudia Paredes-Esquivel
- Applied Zoology and Animal Conservation Group, University of the Balearic Islands, 07122 Palma de Mallorca, Spain;
| | - Pilar Foronda
- University Institute of Tropical Diseases and Public Health, University La Laguna, Tenerife, Canary Islands, 38200 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain;
| | - Donato Traversa
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy;
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PRESUMPTIVE CONGENITAL HYPOTHYROIDISM IN RED PANDAS ( AILURUS FULGENS FULGENS) FROM FOUR SUCCESSIVE LITTERS. J Zoo Wildl Med 2021; 52:795-805. [PMID: 34130428 DOI: 10.1638/2020-0122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
High neonatal mortality among red pandas (Ailurus fulgens) challenges the long-term sustainability of the Species Survival Plan population. Congenital hypothyroidism (CH) is a rare condition in domestic animals, typically due to an inherited genetic defect. Nongoitrous CH was presumptively diagnosed in 75% (n = 6/8) of red panda neonates from four successive litters, with a common sire and two closely related dams. Antemortem diagnosis of CH was made in three cubs (n = 3/6) based on elevated thyroid stimulating hormone and decreased free thyroxine and total thyroxine levels. Affected cubs also had suggestive clinical signs, which included delayed growth with cretinous dwarf appearance, atonic bladder, delayed gastrointestinal motility, hypercholesterolemia, and hypocalcemia. With sodium levothyroxine therapy, two of the three cubs developed into normal adult red pandas in terms of body size, appearance, and behavior. On necropsy cubs (n = 4) were small with varying degrees of cretin dwarf appearance and hypoplastic thyroids with reduced to no colloid in follicles. These cases demonstrate the importance of collecting thyroid tissue, (or proximal trachea/larynx if gross visualization not possible), in neonates for histopathology. Further investigation into the role of thyroid disease in neonatal red panda mortality is warranted.
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Carrillo Bilbao GA, Navarro JC, Garigliany MM, Martin-Solano S, Minda E, Benítez-Ortiz W, Saegerman C. Molecular Identification of Plasmodium falciparum from Captive Non-Human Primates in the Western Amazon Ecuador. Pathogens 2021; 10:791. [PMID: 34206700 PMCID: PMC8308908 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10070791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2021] [Revised: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Malaria is a disease caused by hemoparasites of the Plasmodium genus. Non-human primates (NHP) are hosts of Plasmodium sp. around the world. Several studies have demonstrated that Plasmodium sp. emerged from Africa. However, little information is currently available about Plasmodium falciparum in the neotropical NHP and even less in Ecuador. Indeed, the objective of our study was to identify by molecular phylogenetic analyses the Plasmodium species associated with NHP from the Western Amazon region of Ecuador, and to design a molecular taxonomy protocol to use in the NHP disease ecology. Methods: We extracted DNA from faecal samples (n = 26) from nine species of captive (n = 19) and free-ranging (n = 7) NHP, collected from 2011 to 2019 in the Western Amazon region of Ecuador. Results: Using a pan-Plasmodium PCR, we obtained one positive sample from an adult female Leontocebus lagonotus. A maximum likelihood phylogenetic analysis showed that this sequence unequivocally clustered with Plasmodium falciparum. Conclusions: The identification of Plasmodium sp. in NHP of the Ecuadorian Amazon would be essential to identify their role as potential zoonotic reservoirs, and it is also important to identify their origin in wildlife and their transmission in captive NHP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Alberto Carrillo Bilbao
- Instituto de Salud Pública y Zoonosis (CIZ), Universidad Central del Ecuador, Quito 170521, Ecuador; (G.A.C.B.); (S.M.-S.); (E.M.); (W.B.-O.)
- Research Unit of Epidemiology and Risk Analysis Applied to Veterinary Sciences (UREAR-ULg), Fundamental and Applied Research for Animal and Health (FARAH) Center, Department of Infections and Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liège, B-4000 Liège, Belgium
| | - Juan-Carlos Navarro
- Grupo de Investigación en Enfermedades Emergentes, Ecoepidemiología y Biodiversidad, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Internacional SEK, Quito 170107, Ecuador;
| | - Mutien-Marie Garigliany
- Department of Pathology, Fundamental and Applied Research for Animal and Health (FARAH) Center, Liège University, B-4000 Liège, Belgium;
- Department of Animal Pathology, Liège University, B-4000 Liège, Belgium
| | - Sarah Martin-Solano
- Instituto de Salud Pública y Zoonosis (CIZ), Universidad Central del Ecuador, Quito 170521, Ecuador; (G.A.C.B.); (S.M.-S.); (E.M.); (W.B.-O.)
- Grupo de Investigación en Sanidad Animal y Humana (GISAH), Carrera Ingeniería en Biotecnología, Departamento de Ciencias de la Vida y la Agricultura, Universidad de las Fuerzas Armadas—ESPE, Sangolquí 171103, Ecuador
| | - Elizabeth Minda
- Instituto de Salud Pública y Zoonosis (CIZ), Universidad Central del Ecuador, Quito 170521, Ecuador; (G.A.C.B.); (S.M.-S.); (E.M.); (W.B.-O.)
| | - Washington Benítez-Ortiz
- Instituto de Salud Pública y Zoonosis (CIZ), Universidad Central del Ecuador, Quito 170521, Ecuador; (G.A.C.B.); (S.M.-S.); (E.M.); (W.B.-O.)
| | - Claude Saegerman
- Research Unit of Epidemiology and Risk Analysis Applied to Veterinary Sciences (UREAR-ULg), Fundamental and Applied Research for Animal and Health (FARAH) Center, Department of Infections and Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liège, B-4000 Liège, Belgium
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Stunžėnas V, Binkienė R. Description of Crenosoma vismani n. sp., parasitic in the lungs of Lynx lynx (L.) (Carnivora: Felidae), with identification key to the species of the genus Crenosoma Molin, 1861 (Nematoda: Crenosomatidae). Syst Parasitol 2020; 98:73-83. [PMID: 33184731 DOI: 10.1007/s11230-020-09961-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
A new species of Crenosoma Molin, 1861 is described from the lungs of the Eurasian lynx, Lynx lynx (L.) (Carnivora: Felidae). Crenosoma vismani n. sp. differs from other species of the genus in the morphology of the male copulatory organs (two ventral rays originating from a common stem; three lateral rays with common stem; gubernaculum 79-92 μm long, well developed, spoon-shaped; spicules 232-253 μm long, slightly curved, with robust dorsal appendage) and a vulva with rounded, prominent vulvar cuticular appendage is located in middle region of body in females. An analysis of the morphology and life-cycle data for Crenosoma petrowi Morozov, 1939 from Ursus americanus Pallas indicate that this nematode should be described as a new species. The validity of Crenosoma schulzi Gagarin, 1958 is resurrected. A new identification key for the species of Crenosoma is provided. Published records of the genus Crenosoma from definitive hosts and patterns of host specificity are presented. Morphological data revealed that the genus Crenosoma should contain 15 species (14 with valid names) with different host specificity, ranging from oioxenous to euryxenous. However, a review of the current genetic data indicates that the actual number of Crenosoma spp. is greater, and the host range is still unknown, even in Europe.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rasa Binkienė
- Nature Research Centre, Akademijos str. 2, 08412, Vilnius, Lithuania
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Tayyrov A, Schnetzler M, Gillis-Germitsch N, Schnyder M. Genetic diversity of the cardiopulmonary canid nematode Angiostrongylus vasorum within and between rural and urban fox populations. INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2020; 87:104618. [PMID: 33188914 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2020.104618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Revised: 10/24/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Angiostrongylus vasorum is an emerging parasitic cardiopulmonary nematode of dogs, foxes, and other canids. In dogs, the infection causes respiratory and bleeding disorders along with other clinical signs collectively known as canine angiostrongylosis, while foxes represent an important wildlife reservoir. Despite the spread of A. vasorum across various countries in Europe and the Americas, little is known about the genetic diversity of A. vasorum populations at a local level in a highly endemic area. Thus, in the present study, we investigated the genetic diversity of 323 adult A. vasorum nematodes from 64 foxes living in the canton of Zurich, Switzerland. Among those, 279 worms isolated from 20 foxes were analyzed separately to investigate the genetic diversity of multiple worms within individual foxes. Part of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (mtCOI) gene was amplified and sequenced. Overall, 16 mitochondrial haplotypes were identified. The analysis of multiple worms per host revealed 12 haplotypes, with up to 5 different haplotypes in single individuals. Higher haplotype diversity (n = 10) of nematodes from foxes of urban areas than in rural areas (n = 7) was observed, with 5 shared haplotypes. Comparing our data with published GenBank sequences, five haplotypes were found to be unique within the Zurich nematode population. Interestingly, A. vasorum nematodes obtained from foxes in London and Zurich shared the same dominating haplotype. Further studies are needed to clarify if this haplotype has a different pathogenicity that may contribute to its dominance. Our findings show the importance of foxes as a reservoir for genetic parasite recombination and indicate that high fox population densities in urban areas with small and overlapping home ranges allow multiple infection events that lead to high genetic variability of A. vasorum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annageldi Tayyrov
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse-Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 266a, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Michèle Schnetzler
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse-Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 266a, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Nina Gillis-Germitsch
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse-Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 266a, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland; Graduate School for Cellular and Biomedical Sciences, University of Bern, Switzerland
| | - Manuela Schnyder
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse-Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 266a, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland.
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Clinical crenosomosis in a black bear (Ursus americanus). VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY- REGIONAL STUDIES AND REPORTS 2020; 20:100380. [PMID: 32448529 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2020.100380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2019] [Revised: 01/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
An orphaned black bear (Ursus americanus) cub, estimated to be 9 months-of-age was presented to a wildlife rehabilitation facility in December of 2016. The cub was afebrile, under-weight (6.8 kg) and had a cough condition. Centrifugal sugar fecal flotation examination failed to detect any gastrointestinal helminth or protozoan parasites, but revealed the presence of first-stage nematode larvae (L1). Large numbers of L1 (>8000 L1/g) identified as Crenosoma sp. based on morphology were recovered using the Baermann technique. Three species (Crenosoma petrowi, Crenosoma potos, Crenosoma vulpis) have been reported from black bears. Based on larval length measurements (range = 253-277 μm; mean = 263 μm; n = 8), the L1 were tentatively identified as C. petrowi. Further molecular characterization using Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and DNA sequencing of the small subunit (SSU) RNA gene and two regions of the large subunit (LSU) rRNA gene did not match any submissions in GenBank, but were most similar to Crenosoma mephiditis. There is a paucity of molecular data for members of the genus Crenosoma, with only information for Crenosoma vulpis (red fox), C. mephitidis (skunks), Crenosoma striatum (hedgehog) and Crenosoma sp. (red panda) in GenBank. Molecular analysis eliminates C. vulpis as a possibility in this case but due to the lack of submissions in GenBank, the identification of the L1 as C. petrowi based on length measurements could not be confirmed. Receiving in total, three separate courses of treatment with fenbendazole (50 mg/kg, oral, once a day for 3 days), fecal larval shedding ceased and clinical signs resolved. The black bear cub was released into the wild in June 2017. This is the first report of clinical chronic respiratory disease due to Crenosoma sp. infection in a black bear.
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Gavrilović P, Marinković D, Vidanović D, Dobrosavljević I, Gavrilović A. Are golden jackals (Canis aureus) definitive hosts for Angiostrongylus vasorum? Transbound Emerg Dis 2019; 66:2305-2310. [PMID: 31254445 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.13284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2019] [Revised: 05/28/2019] [Accepted: 06/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Angiostrongylosis caused by Angiostrongylus vasorum is an emerging disease in Europe. Recent reports have shown that, besides the red fox (Vulpes vulpes) recognized as the main definitive host and reservoir for the parasite, the role of the definitive host can be taken by a range of mammals. We considered that, due to the rapid large-scale expansion of its populations in Europe, the golden jackal (Canis aureus) could assume an important role in the epidemiology of the disease. The aim of the investigations was to explore the role of the golden jackal as the definitive host for A. vasorum. Sixty-three golden jackals, legally hunted in lowlands around the Danube River in Serbia recognized as the core area of the species' distribution in Europe, were subjected to patho-morphological and parasitological examination. The adult forms of A. vasorum were detected in the pulmonary arteries in six golden jackals with gross lesions manifested in the lungs. The finding of first stage larvae (L1) of A. vasorum in microscopic smears of the lung tissue altered by infection, which was consistent with the presence of adult parasites and manifestation of gross lesions in the lungs, confirms the successful reproduction of the parasite in the golden jackal. Migration of L1 from the blood vessels to the airways was confirmed by histopathology and, subsequently, their shedding was demonstrated by the Baermann method. The results support the hypothesis that the golden jackal acts as a suitable definitive host for A. vasorum. As a definitive host with a large-scale expansion of its populations in Europe, the golden jackal may be an important part of the parasite's host repertoire by spreading the parasite into previously non-endemic areas and by being an additional definitive host in endemic areas of vulpine angiostrongylosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pavle Gavrilović
- Department of Pathology and Parasitology, Veterinary Specialized Institute 'Pančevo', Pančevo, Serbia
| | - Darko Marinković
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Pathology, Belgrade University, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Dejan Vidanović
- Department of Laboratory Diagnostics, Veterinary Specialized Institute 'Kraljevo', Kraljevo, Serbia
| | - Ivan Dobrosavljević
- Department of Pathology, Veterinary Specialized Institute 'Požarevac', Požarevac, Serbia
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Oc Byrne J, Byrne AW, Zintl A, Jankowska K, Coulange E, de Waal T, McCarthy G, O'Keeffe J, Hamnes IS, Fogarty U. Identification and epidemiological analysis of Perostrongylus falciformis infestation in Irish badgers. Ir Vet J 2019; 72:7. [PMID: 31333818 PMCID: PMC6617904 DOI: 10.1186/s13620-019-0144-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2018] [Accepted: 06/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The lungworm, Perostrongylus falciformis (fomerly known as Aelurostrongylus falciformis) has been identified in badgers (Meles meles) in Britain, the Russian Federation, Italy, Norway, Poland, Ukraine, Bosnia Herzegovina and Romania, while Aelurostrongylus pridhami has been reported from badgers in Spain. Results Pulmonary tissue from 1580 Irish badgers was examined and an estimated prevalence of 32.09% (95% CI: 29.79–34.45%) of this parasite was detected. Confirmation of its occurrence was made by PCR analysis on a subset of the population. Conclusion Infestation was widely distributed throughout the Republic of Ireland, with a trend towards higher infestation risk in western versus eastern counties. In addition males were at a higher risk of infestation than females and juveniles were at a significantly higher risk than adult badgers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Andrew W Byrne
- 2Veterinary Sciences Division, Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI), Stoney Road, Belfast, BT4 3SD Northern Ireland
| | - Annetta Zintl
- 3UCD Veterinary Sciences Centre, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Karolina Jankowska
- 3UCD Veterinary Sciences Centre, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Theo de Waal
- 3UCD Veterinary Sciences Centre, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Grainne McCarthy
- 3UCD Veterinary Sciences Centre, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - James O'Keeffe
- Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM), Dublin, Republic of Ireland
| | - Inger S Hamnes
- 6Section of Parasitology, Norwegian Veterinary Institute, Sentrum, NO-0106 Oslo, Norway
| | - Ursula Fogarty
- 1Irish Equine Centre, Johnstown, Naas, County Kildare Ireland
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Deak G, Gillis-Germitsch N, Ionică AM, Mara A, Păstrav IR, Cazan CD, Ioniță M, Mitrea IL, Răileanu C, Bărburaș D, Nedișan M, Oachiș R, Cozma V, Schaper R, Schnyder M, Mihalca AD. The first seroepidemiological survey for Angiostrongylus vasorum in domestic dogs from Romania. Parasit Vectors 2019; 12:224. [PMID: 31088513 PMCID: PMC6515677 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-019-3481-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2019] [Accepted: 05/03/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Angiostrongylus vasorum is a metastrongyloid nematode localized in the right heart and the pulmonary arteries of domestic dogs. The number of reports in Europe has recently increased, presumably as a consequence of a growing awareness among clinicians, animal owners and researchers, but also due to a growing incidence and territorial spread. So far, no studies have been conducted to assess the prevalence and distribution of A. vasorum in domestic dogs in Romania, and the awareness among veterinarians is limited or absent. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the countrywide seroprevalence of circulating antigens of A. vasorum and specific antibodies against A. vasorum in domestic dogs from Romania. Methods Between November 2016 and July 2017, blood was sampled from a total of 1545 domestic dogs from 23 counties of Romania. Details about their gender, age, breed, housing, use and origin were collected. All serum samples were tested for the presence of A. vasorum circulating antigens (AG) using monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies in a sandwich ELISA. Additionally, a sandwich ELISA using A. vasorum adult somatic antigen purified by monoclonal antibodies was used for specific antibody (AB) detection. Results A total of 33 dogs (2.14%, 95% CI: 1.82–3.56%) were seropositive for A. vasorum antigen or antibodies against the parasite. Three dogs were positive for antigen only (0.19%, 95% CI: 0.07–0.57%) and 30 dogs (1.94%, 95% CI: 1.36–2.76%) were positive for antibodies only. No dog was positive for both tests. The overall prevalence (AB or AG) and the AB prevalence were significantly higher in pure breed dogs compared to mixed breeds and mongrel dogs (P < 0.05) and in shepherd dogs compared to other groups (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference between males and females, between urban and rural dogs, between dogs with unrestricted access and with restricted access to the environment, and between dogs living outdoors and indoors. Conclusions Our data suggest that the disease is present in Romania in dogs, as it was previously demonstrated in foxes. However, so far, no clinical case has been reported in the country and this may be related to a low awareness among vets. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13071-019-3481-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgiana Deak
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
| | - Nina Gillis-Germitsch
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse-Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Angela Monica Ionică
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Angela Mara
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Ioana Raluca Păstrav
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Cristina Daniela Cazan
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Mariana Ioniță
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases & Animal Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agronomic Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ioan Liviu Mitrea
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases & Animal Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agronomic Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Cristian Răileanu
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Iaşi, Romania.,Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Institute of Infectology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institute, Riems, Germany
| | - Diana Bărburaș
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Maria Nedișan
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | | | - Vasile Cozma
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | | | - Manuela Schnyder
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse-Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Andrei Daniel Mihalca
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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Gillis-Germitsch N, Manser MB, Hilbe M, Schnyder M. Meerkats ( Suricata suricatta), a new definitive host of the canid nematode Angiostrongylus vasorum. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY-PARASITES AND WILDLIFE 2017; 6:349-353. [PMID: 29379713 PMCID: PMC5779638 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2017.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2017] [Revised: 10/13/2017] [Accepted: 10/17/2017] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Angiostronglyus vasorum is a cardiopulmonary nematode infecting mainly canids such as dogs (Canis familiaris) and foxes (Vulpes vulpes). Natural infections have also been reported in mustelids and red pandas (Ailurus fulgens fulgens). We report the occurrence of natural A. vasorum infections in a group of captive meerkats (Suricata suricatta), housed at a university facility in Switzerland. A. vasorum first-stage larvae (L1) were initially identified in a pooled faecal sample. Individual samples, investigated with the Baermann-Wetzel technique, revealed that 41% (7/17) of the meerkats were infected, with ranges of 2–125 L1/g faeces. PCR and sequencing of part of the ITS-2 region resulted in 100% identity with A. vasorum. Infected animals did not show clinical signs. One meerkat died two days after diagnosis. Upon necropsy one adult specimen was recovered; histological examination of the lung revealed granulomatous pneumonia caused by A. vasorum larvae and eggs as well as intima and media hyperplasia and isolated arteriosclerosis of larger lung vessels. However, the cause of death was a spleen rupture with associated blood loss. All meerkats were topically treated with 10 mg imidacloprid/2.5 mg moxidectin per animal, after which they became negative in all follow up faecal examinations. Potential intermediate (gastropods) and paratenic hosts (birds) were collected from within or outside the meerkats enclosure. Gastropods were examined by PCR and bird samples by digestion. Four out of 193 (2.1%) gastropod samples were positive for A. vasorum, whereas none of the bird samples were positive. Meerkats, belonging to the Herpestidae, therefore are suitable definitive hosts for A. vasorum, with production and excretion of live L1. Meerkats kept in captivity in areas where A. vasorum is endemic and with potential contact to intermediate hosts are at risk of infection. Regular faecal examinations including Baermann-Wetzel technique should be considered. Meerkats are suitable definitive hosts for Angiostrongylus vasorum. This is the first case of A. vasorum in the Herpestidae family. A. vasorum larvae and eggs caused granulomatous pneumonia in an infected meerkat. 2% of gastropods around the meerkats enclosure were positive for A. vasorum L3. Captive animal species in areas where A. vasorum is endemic are at risk of infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Gillis-Germitsch
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse-Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 266a, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Marta B Manser
- Department of Evolutionary Biology and Environmental Studies, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Monika Hilbe
- Institute of Veterinary Pathology, Vetsuisse-Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 268, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Manuela Schnyder
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse-Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 266a, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
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Bista D, Shrestha S, Kunwar AJ, Acharya S, Jnawali SR, Acharya KP. Status of gastrointestinal parasites in Red Panda of Nepal. PeerJ 2017; 5:e3767. [PMID: 28894643 PMCID: PMC5591639 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.3767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2017] [Accepted: 08/15/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Red pandas are known to be highly susceptible to endoparasites, which can have a prominent impact on the population dynamics of this endangered species. There are very limited published reports on prevalence and risk of parasites in wild populations of red panda, especially localized reports. This study attempts to provide an in-depth insight of the status of endoparasites in red pandas, which is critical for strengthening conservation efforts. A total of 272 fecal samples were collected through systematic sampling across the red panda distribution range in Nepal and coprological examination was completed using standard techniques. It was followed by an estimation of prevalence and mean intensity of parasites, as well as statistical analysis, which was carried out using R statistical software. Parasite prevalence was documented in 90.80% (n = 247) out of 272 samples examined which includes seven different species along with three genera of parasites belonging to Protozoans (3 species), Cestodes (1 genus, 1 species) and Nematodes (2 genera, 3 species). Nematodes predominated in all infected samples (87.62%). Prevalence of Ancyclostoma duodenale (n = 227, 70.06%), having a mean intensity of 3.45 ± 2.88 individuals per sample, was observed, followed by Ascaris lumbricoides (n = 19, 5.86%) and Entamoeba histolytica (n = 24, 7.41%). Eight variables for assessing the determinants of infestation were tested: protected areas; non-protected areas; aspect; elevation; slope; and distance to water sources, herding stations, and settlements. Only the settlement displayed significant association (β = −1534e−04, t = − 2.192, p = 0.0293) though each parasite species displayed dissimilar association with different variables. This study indicates the urgent need of improving existing herding practice through habitat zonation, rotational grazing, medication of livestock, and prohibition of open defecation within and around red panda habitat.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ajaya Jang Kunwar
- Kathmandu Center for Genomics and Research Laboratory, Gwarko, Lalitpur, Nepal
| | | | | | - Krishna Prasad Acharya
- Department of Forests, Ministry of Forest and Soil Conservation, Government of Nepal, Babarmahal, Kathmandu, Nepal
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Kubiak M, Stidworthy MF, Sharpe S. Angiostrongylus
‐associated pneumonia in a red panda (
Ailurus fulgens
). VETERINARY RECORD CASE REPORTS 2016. [DOI: 10.1136/vetreccr-2016-000305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Marie Kubiak
- Zoo and Exotic Animal DepartmentManor VetsBirminghamWest MidlandsUK
| | - Mark Frederick Stidworthy
- Department of PathologyInternational Zoo Veterinary GroupKeighleyWest YorkshireUK
- IZVG PathologyLeedsWest YorkshireUK
| | - Sam Sharpe
- Department of Veterinary Diagnostic ServicesCollege of Medicine, Veterinary and Life SciencesUniversity of GlasgowGlasgowUK
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RETROSPECTIVE ANALYSIS OF MORTALITY IN THE NORTH AMERICAN CAPTIVE RED PANDA (AILURUS FULGENS) POPULATION, 1992-2012. J Zoo Wildl Med 2015; 46:779-88. [PMID: 26667534 DOI: 10.1638/2014-0166.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Red pandas ( Ailurus fulgens ) are managed as captive populations in both North America and Europe. Regular review of pathology reports is a useful tool for developing veterinary care and husbandry strategies for such populations. Though thorough pathology reviews have been conducted for the European studbook, the North American population has not been reviewed similarly until now. Complete gross and histopathology reports were requested from institutions holding red pandas that died during 1992 through 2012 (n = 530), and reports were received for 95.8% of the individuals, including full necropsy records for 366 red pandas. These reports were classified by subspecies, gender, and age, then reviewed for primary cause of death and secondary pathological findings. A substantial portion of the deaths (40.2%) were neonates (<30 days of age). In both neonatal and juvenile (age = 31-365 days) animals, pneumonia was the most common cause of death. In adult (age = 366 days-10 yr) and geriatric red pandas (age >10 yr), cardiovascular disease was the most common cause of death. Renal disease and gastrointestinal disease also were common pathologic findings in adult and geriatric animals. These findings suggest that stress associated with captivity and husbandry practices, including those associated with social, environmental, and nutritional conditions, may contribute to immune and cardiovascular pathologies, and other common necropsy findings.
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Elsheikha HM, Holmes SA, Wright I, Morgan ER, Lacher DW. Recent advances in the epidemiology, clinical and diagnostic features, and control of canine cardio-pulmonary angiostrongylosis. Vet Res 2014; 45:92. [PMID: 25283220 PMCID: PMC4189173 DOI: 10.1186/s13567-014-0092-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2014] [Accepted: 08/21/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this review is to provide a comprehensive update on the biology, epidemiology, clinical features, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of canine cardio-pulmonary angiostrongylosis. This cardiopulmonary disease is caused by infection by the metastrongyloid nematode Angiostrongylus vasorum. The parasite has an indirect life cycle that involves at least two different hosts, gastropod molluscs (intermediate host) and canids (definitive host). A. vasorum represents a common and serious problem for dogs in areas of endemicity, and because of the expansion of its geographical boundaries to many areas where it was absent or uncommon; its global burden is escalating. A. vasorum infection in dogs can result in serious disorders with potentially fatal consequences. Diagnosis in the live patient depends on faecal analysis, PCR or blood testing for parasite antigens or anti-parasite antibodies. Identification of parasites in fluids and tissues is rarely possible except post mortem, while diagnostic imaging and clinical examinations do not lead to a definitive diagnosis. Treatment normally requires the administration of anthelmintic drugs, and sometimes supportive therapy for complications resulting from infection.
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Panayotova-Pencheva MS. Parasites in Captive Animals: A Review of Studies in Some European Zoos. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/j.zoolgart.2013.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Parasite epidemiology in a changing world: can molecular phylogeography help us tell the wood from the trees? Parasitology 2012; 139:1924-38. [PMID: 22917112 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182012001060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
SUMMARY Molecular phylogeography has revolutionised our ability to infer past biogeographic events from cross-sectional data on current parasite populations. In ecological parasitology, this approach has been used to address fundamental questions concerning host-parasite co-evolution and geographic patterns of spread, and has raised many technical issues and problems of interpretation. For applied parasitologists, the added complexity inherent in adding population genetic structure to perceived parasite distributions can sometimes seem to cloud rather than clarify approaches to control. In this paper, we use case studies firstly to illustrate the potential extent of cryptic diversity in parasite and parasitoid populations, secondly to consider how anthropogenic influences including movement of domestic animals affect the geographic distribution and host associations of parasite genotypes, and thirdly to explore the applied relevance of these processes to parasites of socio-economic importance. The contribution of phylogeographic approaches to deeper understanding of parasite biology in these cases is assessed. Thus, molecular data on the emerging parasites Angiostrongylus vasorum in dogs and wild canids, and the myiasis-causing flies Lucilia spp. in sheep and Cochliomyia hominovorax in humans, lead to clear implications for control efforts to limit global spread. Broader applications of molecular phylogeography to understanding parasite distributions in an era of rapid global change are also discussed.
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Clinical implications of infection with a novel metastrongyloid species in the red panda (Ailurus fulgens). J Zoo Wildl Med 2012; 43:283-8. [PMID: 22779231 DOI: 10.1638/2011-0100.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
In a recent survey, 30% of the European red panda (Ailurus fulgens) population was found to be infected with a newly discovered metastrongyloid nematode. In a following prospective study, four naturally infected captive-bred red pandas infected with this parasite were examined and compared with two uninfected control animals. On clinical examination, no abnormalities were detected with respect to vital parameters and cardiovascular system in all six examined animals. Similarly, few and nonspecific changes were recorded on serum biochemistry. No changes on pulmonary pattern were noted on thoracic radiographs. Vertebral heart scores were between 7.2 to 8.6, and no difference was noted between infected and control animals. Two animals had slightly prolonged clotting time and reaction time on thromboelastography but not likely to be of clinical relevance. In conclusion, infection with the newly identified metastrongyloid nematode in the red pandas seems to have little or no clinical importance.
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Morgan ER, Jefferies R, van Otterdijk L, McEniry RB, Allen F, Bakewell M, Shaw SE. Angiostrongylus vasorum infection in dogs: Presentation and risk factors. Vet Parasitol 2010; 173:255-61. [PMID: 20692767 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2010.06.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2010] [Revised: 06/17/2010] [Accepted: 06/25/2010] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Infection with the nematode Angiostrongylus vasorum is an emerging cause of canine disease in Europe and part of North America, yet published data on its epidemiology in endemic areas are lacking. This study tested faecal samples from 897 dogs attending veterinary practices in the southern part of Great Britain, a long standing endemic focus. Among 790 dogs presenting with respiratory or other signs broadly suggestive of angiostrongylosis, 16% tested positive on a single Baermann's examination, compared with 2% of healthy dogs in the same catchment areas. Risk factors for positive tests included age (higher risk in younger dogs), season (more cases earlier in the calendar year), and worming history (lower risk if given milbemycin oxime in the past 12 weeks). Sex, neutering status and breed were not significant in terms of risk of testing positive. The most common clinical signs in infected dogs were respiratory, along with non-specific signs such as lethargy and exercise intolerance, while bleeding, neurological and gastrointestinal signs were also recorded. Around half the dogs sampled that showed signs of extra-pulmonary disease also had respiratory signs. Direct faecal smears and Baermann's tests read after one hour detected 56% and 83% of diagnosed cases respectively. The data confirm that A. vasorum is commonly associated with disease in endemic areas, which manifests with a broad range of signs at primary care level. Information on risk factors is useful in diagnosis and control, and forms a basis for further epidemiological investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- E R Morgan
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol, UK.
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