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Carbonara M, Mendoza-Roldan JA, Bezerra-Santos MA, de Abreu Teles PP, Lia RP, Locantore F, Iatta R, Volf P, Otranto D. Leishmania spp. in equids and their potential vectors in endemic areas of canine leishmaniasis. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2024; 18:e0012290. [PMID: 39024365 PMCID: PMC11257397 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0012290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Equids may be infected by zoonotic Leishmania spp., including Leishmania infantum, in regions where canine leishmaniasis (CanL) is endemic, and Leishmania martiniquensis, which has been reported in horses from Central Europe. This study was designed to evaluate the occurrence of both Leishmania spp. among equids living in CanL endemic areas of Italy, as well as to identify dipteran vectors from the same habitats. From March to October 2023, blood, serum and tissue samples from skin lesions were collected from equids (n = 98; n = 56 donkeys and n = 42 horses) living in Italy, as well as sand flies and biting midges. Blood samples (n = 98) and skin lesions (n = 56) were tested for Leishmania spp. by conventional and real time PCRs and sera were tested by immunofluorescence antibody tests (IFAT) for both L. infantum and L. martiniquensis. Insects were morphologically identified, and female specimens (n = 268 sand flies, n = 7 biting midges) analyzed for Leishmania DNA, as well as engorged sand flies (n = 16) for blood-meal detection. Two animals with skin lesions (i.e., one donkey and one horse) scored positive for Leishmania spp. DNA, and 19 animals (i.e., 19.4%; n = 13 donkeys and n = 6 horses) were seropositive for L. infantum, with five of them also for L. martiniquensis. Most seropositive animals had no dermatological lesions (i.e., 68.4%) while both animals molecularly positive for Leishmania spp. scored seronegative. Of the 356 sand flies collected, 12 females (i.e., n = 8 Sergentomyia minuta; n = 3 Phlebotomus perniciosus, n = 1 Phlebotomus perfiliewi) were positive for Leishmania spp. DNA, and one out of seven biting midges collected was DNA-positive for L. infantum. Moreover, engorged sand flies scored positive for human and equine DNA. Data suggest that equids living in CanL endemic areas are exposed to Leishmania spp., but their role in the circulation of the parasite needs further investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Roberta Iatta
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Petr Volf
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Domenico Otranto
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari, Valenzano, Italy
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR China
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2
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Martínez-Sáez L, Dulac Q, Montaner-Angoiti E, Marín-García PJ, Llobat L. Prevalence and Factors Related to Leishmania infantum Infection in Healthy Horses ( Equus caballus) from Eastern Spain. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2889. [PMID: 37760289 PMCID: PMC10525090 DOI: 10.3390/ani13182889] [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: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Leishmaniosis is a zoonosis caused by Leishmania spp., an intracellular protozoan parasite. This parasite is transmitted by sandflies, and the disease is endemic in the Mediterranean basin. In recent years, the number of species which could be a reservoir of the parasite is increased. One of the most relevant species is the horse, due to their contact with humans and ability to control the disease, thus being a possible silent reservoir. In this study, we have analyzed the prevalence and factors related to L. infantum infection in healthy horses in the Mediterranean region. Epidemiological data and serum samples were obtained from 167 apparently healthy horses, and the presence of L. infantum was evaluated via the ELISA method and real-time PCR. The results show 27.5% of prevalence and that the main factors related to infection are equine breed, morphotype, outdoor living, use, and season. In conclusion, the prevalence of L. infantum infection in apparently healthy horses from eastern Spain (Mediterranean basin) is elevated. To control this zoonosis, it would be advisable to carry out more studies on this and other species that could be silent reservoirs of the parasite, as well as carry out measures such as the use of repellents on a regular basis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lola Martínez-Sáez
- Molecular Mechanisms of Zoonotic Diseases (MMOPS) Research Group, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, 46115 Valencia, Spain; (L.M.-S.); (Q.D.); (E.M.-A.)
| | - Quentin Dulac
- Molecular Mechanisms of Zoonotic Diseases (MMOPS) Research Group, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, 46115 Valencia, Spain; (L.M.-S.); (Q.D.); (E.M.-A.)
| | - Esperanza Montaner-Angoiti
- Molecular Mechanisms of Zoonotic Diseases (MMOPS) Research Group, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, 46115 Valencia, Spain; (L.M.-S.); (Q.D.); (E.M.-A.)
| | - Pablo Jesús Marín-García
- Department of Animal Production and Health, Veterinary Public Health and Food Science and Technology (PASASPTA), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, 46115 Valencia, Spain;
| | - Lola Llobat
- Molecular Mechanisms of Zoonotic Diseases (MMOPS) Research Group, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, 46115 Valencia, Spain; (L.M.-S.); (Q.D.); (E.M.-A.)
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3
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Gazzonis AL, Morganti G, Porcellato I, Roccabianca P, Avallone G, Gavaudan S, Canonico C, Rigamonti G, Brachelente C, Veronesi F. Detection of Leishmania spp. in Chronic Dermatitis: Retrospective Study in Exposed Horse Populations. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11060634. [PMID: 35745488 PMCID: PMC9227255 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11060634] [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: 04/22/2022] [Revised: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Leishmania infantum is a protozoan causing human zoonotic visceral leishmaniasis (ZVL) and visceral–cutaneous canine leishmaniosis (CanL) in the Mediterranean Basin. L. infantum is able to infect a large number of wild and domestic species, including cats, dogs, and horses. Since the 1990s, clinical cases of equine leishmaniasis (EL), typically characterized by cutaneous forms, have been increasingly diagnosed worldwide. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the presence of clinical forms of EL in CanL-endemic areas in Italy, where exposure of equine populations was ascertained from recent serological surveys. For this purpose, formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded skin biopsies of 47 horses presenting chronic dermatitis compatible with EL were retrospectively selected for the study and subjected to conventional and q-PCR. A singular positivity for L. infantum was found; BLAST analysis of sequence amplicons revealed a 99–100% homology with L. infantum sequences. The histological examination revealed a nodular lymphoplasmacytic and histiocytic infiltrate; immunohistochemistry showed rare macrophages containing numerous positive amastigotes. The present retrospective study reports, for the first time, a case of a cutaneous lesion by L. infantum occurring in an Italian horse. Pathological and healthy skin samples should be investigated on a larger scale to provide information on the potential clinical impact of EL in the practice, and to define the role of horses in epidemiological ZVL and CanL scenarios.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Libera Gazzonis
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via dell’Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy; (A.L.G.); (P.R.)
| | - Giulia Morganti
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, Via San Costanzo 4, 06126 Perugia, Italy; (G.M.); (I.P.); (G.R.); (F.V.)
| | - Ilaria Porcellato
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, Via San Costanzo 4, 06126 Perugia, Italy; (G.M.); (I.P.); (G.R.); (F.V.)
| | - Paola Roccabianca
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via dell’Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy; (A.L.G.); (P.R.)
| | - Giancarlo Avallone
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064 Bologna, Italy;
| | - Stefano Gavaudan
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell’Umbria e delle Marche, Via Varano 286, 60100 Ancona, Italy; (S.G.); (C.C.)
| | - Cristina Canonico
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell’Umbria e delle Marche, Via Varano 286, 60100 Ancona, Italy; (S.G.); (C.C.)
| | - Giulia Rigamonti
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, Via San Costanzo 4, 06126 Perugia, Italy; (G.M.); (I.P.); (G.R.); (F.V.)
| | - Chiara Brachelente
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, Via San Costanzo 4, 06126 Perugia, Italy; (G.M.); (I.P.); (G.R.); (F.V.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Fabrizia Veronesi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, Via San Costanzo 4, 06126 Perugia, Italy; (G.M.); (I.P.); (G.R.); (F.V.)
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4
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Ortega-García MV, Salguero FJ, García N, Domínguez M, Moreno I, Berrocal A. Equine infection with Leishmania spp. in Costa Rica: Study of five cases. Vet Med Sci 2021; 7:2234-2239. [PMID: 34342158 PMCID: PMC8604103 DOI: 10.1002/vms3.587] [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] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cutaneous forms of leishmaniosis due to Leishmania braziliensis have been reported in horses in the New World. Domestic animals play a role in the transmission of the disease. In Costa Rica, human cases of L. braziliensis, L. panamensis and L. infantum have been reported. OBJECTIVES The present report describes five cases of equine cutaneous leishmaniosis in Costa Rica. The aetiological diagnosis was based on the presence of the parasite within the lesions. METHODS Skin biopsies were used to perform histopathological analyses of the lesions. Immunohistochemistry was used to detect the presence of the Leishmania spp. antigens in tissue sections. Laser-capture micro-dissection and quantitative real-time PCR techniques were carried out to detect the pathogen nucleic acid within the microscopic lesions. RESULTS Histopathological analyses showed a granulomatous inflammation within the dermis, with multi-nucleated giant cells, macrophages, lymphocytes and few neutrophils and eosinophils. We detected the parasite by immunohistochemistry, using a rabbit polyclonal antibody raised against Leishmania spp. However, we could not identify Leishmania spp. by quantitative real-time PCR in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissues, using specific primers for the conserved region in the minicircle of the Leishmania DNA kinetoplast. CONCLUSIONS Our results emphasise the importance of Leishmania spp. not only as a causative agent of equine cutaneous disease in the New World, but also as a possible emerging pathogen. Leishmaniosis is one of the most prevalent parasitic public health problems worldwide, and equines may have a role in the epidemiology of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Victoria Ortega-García
- Subdirección de Sistemas Terrestres, Instituto Nacional de Técnica Aeroespacial (INTA)-Campus La Marañosa, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Nerea García
- Centro de Vigilancia Sanitaria Veterinaria (VISAVET), Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Mercedes Domínguez
- Unidad de Inmunología Microbiana, Área de Inmunología, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Inmaculada Moreno
- Unidad de Inmunología Microbiana, Área de Inmunología, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
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5
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Cardoso L, Schallig H, Persichetti MF, Pennisi MG. New Epidemiological Aspects of Animal Leishmaniosis in Europe: The Role of Vertebrate Hosts Other Than Dogs. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10030307. [PMID: 33800782 PMCID: PMC8000700 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10030307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Revised: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Infection with Leishmania parasites can lead to severe disease in humans and dogs, which act as a reservoir in zoonotic transmission. An increasing number of reports suggest that leishmaniosis is not restricted to dogs, but also affects many other mammalian and avian species. Consequently, this expands the potential reservoir and is of great public and veterinary health concern. The present study reviews, based on a comprehensive search of scientific literature published from 1 January 2001 to 31 December 2020, the currently available information on animal leishmaniosis in vertebrates in Europe, other than dogs and humans. This review provides an exhaustive list of mammals and birds in which infections with or exposure to Leishmania parasites have been detected in European countries. Most cases are reported from the Mediterranean region. Domestic animals, in particular cats, pose a concern because of close contact with humans. The wildlife reservoir is less likely to contribute to zoonotic transmission, with the exception of hares. This potentially large reservoir needs to be taken into account when developing control measures for zoonotic leishmaniosis. From a veterinary point of view, it is important that veterinarians are better aware of leishmaniosis and trained in its management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luís Cardoso
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, and Animal and Veterinary Research Centre (CECAV), University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro (UTAD), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- Correspondence:
| | - Henk Schallig
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Experimental Parasitology Section, Amsterdam University Medical Centres, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - Maria Flaminia Persichetti
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario Annunziata, 98168 Messina, Italy; (M.F.P.); (M.G.P.)
| | - Maria Grazia Pennisi
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario Annunziata, 98168 Messina, Italy; (M.F.P.); (M.G.P.)
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Leonel JAF, Tannihão B, Arantes JA, Vioti G, Benassi JC, Brandi RA, Ferreira HL, Keid LB, Soares RM, Oliveira TMFDS. Detection of Leishmania infantum DNA in blood samples of horses (Equus caballus) and donkeys (Equus asinus) by PCR. Rev Inst Med Trop Sao Paulo 2021; 63:e12. [PMID: 33533815 PMCID: PMC7845934 DOI: 10.1590/s1678-9946202163012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a neglected tropical disease caused by the Leishmania infantum parasite. The protozoan is able to infect several domestic and wild mammals. Since the first report on Leishmania spp. infection in horses in South America, leishmaniasis in equids has been highlighted in Brazil. A molecular epidemiological survey was carried out to verify the occurrence of Leishmania spp. DNA in horses and donkeys, in leishmaniases endemic areas in Sao Paulo State, Brazil. To this end, blood samples were obtained from 107 horses and 36 donkeys and subjected to DNA extraction followed by PCR targeting the ITS-1 region. Among the horses and donkeys, 1.87% (2/107) and 8.33% (3/36) were positive by PCR, respectively. The DNA sequencing of the ITS-1 amplification products confirmed L. infantum DNA in these animals. Our results suggest that horses and donkeys from non-VL and VL endemic areas of São Paulo State may be infected by the parasite.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Augusto Franco Leonel
- Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Zootecnia e Engenharia de Alimentos, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Laboratório de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva Aplicada, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil.,Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Saúde Animal, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Epidemiologia Experimental Aplicada às Zoonoses, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Bruna Tannihão
- Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Zootecnia e Engenharia de Alimentos, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Laboratório de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva Aplicada, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Julia Assis Arantes
- Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Zootecnia e Engenharia de Alimentos, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biociência Animal, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Geovanna Vioti
- Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Zootecnia e Engenharia de Alimentos, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Laboratório de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva Aplicada, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil.,Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Saúde Animal, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Epidemiologia Experimental Aplicada às Zoonoses, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Julia Cristina Benassi
- Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Zootecnia e Engenharia de Alimentos, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Laboratório de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva Aplicada, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Roberta Ariboni Brandi
- Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Zootecnia e Engenharia de Alimentos, Departamento de Zootecnia, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Helena Lage Ferreira
- Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Zootecnia e Engenharia de Alimentos, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Laboratório de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva Aplicada, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil.,Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Saúde Animal, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Epidemiologia Experimental Aplicada às Zoonoses, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Lara Borges Keid
- Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Zootecnia e Engenharia de Alimentos, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Laboratório de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva Aplicada, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil.,Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Saúde Animal, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Epidemiologia Experimental Aplicada às Zoonoses, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo Martins Soares
- Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Saúde Animal, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Epidemiologia Experimental Aplicada às Zoonoses, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil.,Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Saúde Animal, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Trícia Maria Ferreira de Sousa Oliveira
- Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Zootecnia e Engenharia de Alimentos, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Laboratório de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva Aplicada, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil.,Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Saúde Animal, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Epidemiologia Experimental Aplicada às Zoonoses, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
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Gazzonis AL, Bertero F, Moretta I, Morganti G, Mortarino M, Villa L, Zanzani SA, Morandi B, Rinnovati R, Vitale F, Manfredi MT, Cardoso L, Veronesi F. Detecting antibodies to Leishmania infantum in horses from areas with different epizooticity levels of canine leishmaniosis and a retrospective revision of Italian data. Parasit Vectors 2020; 13:530. [PMID: 33092640 PMCID: PMC7583181 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-020-04385-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Leishmania infantum is a vector-borne pathogen endemic in countries in the Mediterranean basin, including Italy. Dogs act as the primary reservoir for this parasite, but other animal species may also be infected. Low-to-moderate seroprevalence levels of infection have been reported in apparent healthy equine populations in southern Europe, reinforcing the importance of exploring those species, including horses, that act as a food source for vectors and may thus participate in the epizoological scenario of canine leishmaniosis (CanL) and zoonotic visceral leishmaniosis (ZVL). Since little is known regarding the exposure to L. infantum in horses in Italy, we assessed the seroprevalence in healthy equine populations from different CanL endemic areas. Methods The survey was conducted on 660 apparently healthy horses distributed throughout central and northern regions of Italy between 2016 and 2019. Blood samples were collected and the presence of anti-Leishmania antibodies (IgG) was investigated by the immunofluorescence antibody test. Information on the location and altitude of the stables, along with the horses’ breed, age, sex, and reproductive status was obtained by filling in a questionnaire. This was then used for statistical analysis by generalized linear models to explore risk factors associated with seroreactivity to L. infantum. Results An average seroprevalence of 13.9% was detected for L. infantum in the equine populations investigated, with statistically significant associations between seroprevalence, geographical variables (northern vs central Italy, origin and altitude) and individual factors (i.e. age and breed morphotype). Conclusions Our results highlight that horses are frequently exposed to L. infantum. Further prevalence surveys in horses, also using direct methods (e.g. PCR), are warranted to clarify the role of these hosts in the epidemiology of Leishmania in Italy.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Libera Gazzonis
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Università Degli Studi Di Milano, Via dell'Università 6, 26900, Lodi, Italy
| | - Filippo Bertero
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, Via S. Costanzo 4, 06126, Perugia, Italy
| | - Iolanda Moretta
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, Via S. Costanzo 4, 06126, Perugia, Italy
| | - Giulia Morganti
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, Via S. Costanzo 4, 06126, Perugia, Italy
| | - Michele Mortarino
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Università Degli Studi Di Milano, Via dell'Università 6, 26900, Lodi, Italy
| | - Luca Villa
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Università Degli Studi Di Milano, Via dell'Università 6, 26900, Lodi, Italy
| | - Sergio Aurelio Zanzani
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Università Degli Studi Di Milano, Via dell'Università 6, 26900, Lodi, Italy
| | - Benedetto Morandi
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum, Università Degli Studi Di Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064, Ozzano dell'Emilia, Bologna, Italy
| | - Riccardo Rinnovati
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum, Università Degli Studi Di Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064, Ozzano dell'Emilia, Bologna, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Vitale
- National Reference Center for Leishmaniasis (C.Re.Na.L.), Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale Della Sicilia, Via Gino Marinuzzi 3, 90129, Palermo, Italy
| | - Maria Teresa Manfredi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Università Degli Studi Di Milano, Via dell'Università 6, 26900, Lodi, Italy.
| | - Luis Cardoso
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, and Animal and Veterinary Research Centre, University of Trás-Os-Montes E Alto Douro (UTAD), Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Fabrizia Veronesi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, Via S. Costanzo 4, 06126, Perugia, Italy
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8
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Limeira CH, Alves CJ, Azevedo SSD, Santos CDSAB, Melo MAD, Soares RR, Barnabé NNDC, Rodrigues GDQ. Clinical aspects and diagnosis of leishmaniasis in equids: a systematic review and meta-analysis. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 28:574-581. [PMID: 31596317 DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612019074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2019] [Accepted: 08/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Leishmaniases are a group of diseases of zoonotic importance caused by over 20 species of protozoa of the genus Leishmania, in which domestic dogs are considered to be the main reservoir for the disease. However, the involvement of other vertebrates as reservoirs for these parasites has also been investigated. Therefore, the objective of the present study was to carry out a systematic review with meta-analysis on occurrences of leishmaniasis in equids. The case reports described animals with cutaneous symptoms of leishmaniasis (papules, nodules, ulcers or crusts) that regressed spontaneously, located mainly on the head and limbs, from which three species of protozoa were identified in the lesions: Leishmania braziliensis, Leishmania infantum and Leishmania siamensis. In turn, the meta-analysis showed a combined prevalence of 25%, although with high heterogeneity among the studies, which was attributed to the use of different methods for diagnosing the disease. Leishmaniasis in equids is a benign disease but it should be included in the differential diagnosis of cutaneous diseases among these species. Seroepidemiological studies are important in investigating and monitoring suspected exposure of these hosts to the parasite, especially in endemic areas. However, there is also a need to standardize diagnostic methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clécio Henrique Limeira
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciência e Saúde Animal, Centro de Saúde e Tecnologia Rural, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande - UFCG, Patos, PB, Brasil.,Instituto Federal de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia do Pará - IFPA, Santarém, PA, Brasil
| | - Clebert José Alves
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciência e Saúde Animal, Centro de Saúde e Tecnologia Rural, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande - UFCG, Patos, PB, Brasil
| | - Sérgio Santos de Azevedo
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciência e Saúde Animal, Centro de Saúde e Tecnologia Rural, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande - UFCG, Patos, PB, Brasil
| | | | - Marcia Almeida de Melo
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciência e Saúde Animal, Centro de Saúde e Tecnologia Rural, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande - UFCG, Patos, PB, Brasil
| | - Rafael Rodrigues Soares
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciência e Saúde Animal, Centro de Saúde e Tecnologia Rural, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande - UFCG, Patos, PB, Brasil
| | - Nathanael Natércio da Costa Barnabé
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciência e Saúde Animal, Centro de Saúde e Tecnologia Rural, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande - UFCG, Patos, PB, Brasil
| | - Gabriel de Queiroz Rodrigues
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciência e Saúde Animal, Centro de Saúde e Tecnologia Rural, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande - UFCG, Patos, PB, Brasil
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Escobar TA, Dowich G, Dos Santos TP, Zuravski L, Duarte CA, Lübeck I, Manfredini V. Assessment of Leishmania infantum infection in equine populations in a canine visceral leishmaniosis transmission area. BMC Vet Res 2019; 15:381. [PMID: 31666069 PMCID: PMC6821015 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-019-2108-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2019] [Accepted: 09/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Leishmaniosis, zoonosis that produces significant public health impacts, is caused by Leishmania infantum. Canines are the main domestic reservoir and, besides humans, other species of mammals could be infected when living in endemic areas. In this study, we detected equine Leishmania infantum infections in a canine visceral leishmaniosis transmission area and evaluated the clinical, haematological, biochemical and oxidative stress disorders. This study was conducted in Uruguaiana, Rio Grande do Sul, south of Brazil. Peripheral blood samples were collected from 124 animals (98 horses and 26 dogs) of both genders and several breeds after they underwent general and dermatologic examinations. RESULTS Twenty five Leishmania infantum infected animals (20.16%), 14 horses and 11 dogs were detected by PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) amplification of kinetoplast DNA regions with 96% homology to Leishmania infantum (GenBank Accession No. L 19877.1). The clinical and haematological alterations of infected equines were skin lesions, nodules, lymphadenopathy, decreased levels in red blood cells and haematocrit (p < 0.05) and increase in urea serum concentration (p < 0.05), while CVL presented a decrease in red blood cells counts (p < 0.05), increase in lymphocytes (p < 0.05), and decrease in neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (p < 0.05). Oxidative stress markers of plasma protein carbonyl and plasma lipid peroxidation were not statistically significant (p > 0.05) in both species. CONCLUSIONS To our knowledge, this has been the first leishmaniosis equine survey performed in south of Brazil, caused by Leishmania infantum that were able to initially identify haematological and biochemical changes in the species, even in asymptomatic animals. We present evidence supporting those findings of haematological and biochemical changes could be related to infection. Surprisingly, the clinical manifestations of equine infection were similar to those found in canine visceral leishmaniosis. The equine population could be play an important role in the cycle of leishmaniosis in south Brazil and consequently indicates a great risk of public health. This evaluation of infected animals is important to establish the clinical and laboratory parameters involved in the disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taiane Acunha Escobar
- Biochemistry Postgraduate Program, Federal University of Pampa, 118 BR 472, Uruguaiana, Rio Grande do Sul, Km 592, Brazil.
| | - Gabriela Dowich
- Animal Science, Postgraduate, Federal University of Pampa, 118 BR 472, Uruguaiana, Rio Grande do Sul, Km 592, Brazil
| | | | - Luísa Zuravski
- Biochemistry Postgraduate Program, Federal University of Pampa, 118 BR 472, Uruguaiana, Rio Grande do Sul, Km 592, Brazil
| | - Claudia Acosta Duarte
- Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Pampa, 118, BR 472, Uruguaiana, Rio Grande do Sul, Km 592, Brazil
| | - Irina Lübeck
- Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Pampa, 118, BR 472, Uruguaiana, Rio Grande do Sul, Km 592, Brazil
| | - Vanusa Manfredini
- Biochemistry Postgraduate Program, Federal University of Pampa, 118 BR 472, Uruguaiana, Rio Grande do Sul, Km 592, Brazil
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10
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Acunha Escobar T, Dowich G, Cantele LC, Zuravski L, Ferrareze PAG, Duarte CA, Kmetzsch Rosa E Silva L, Lübeck I, Manfredini V. Molecular detection of Leishmania spp. in Brazilian cross-border south region mammalian hosts. Transbound Emerg Dis 2019; 67:476-480. [PMID: 31536676 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.13361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2019] [Revised: 08/11/2019] [Accepted: 09/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Visceral leishmaniasis is an endemic zoonotic disease identified especially in developing territories. Brazil's northeast, southeast and midwest have been endemic for several years; currently, the infection is spreading to the south. Dogs are the main reservoirs; however, other mammal species have also been infected. Herein, we have identified the infecting Leishmania species in dogs and horses from the south of Brazil, a new outbreak of the infection. Blood samples were collected in the urban area of Uruguaiana city. DNA was extracted from peripheral blood, kinetoplast DNA (kDNA) and ribosomal DNA (rDNA) fragments were obtained by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequenced. Out of 123 samples, 25 of them (14 dogs and 11 horses) were positive for Leishmania spp. Sequence alignment and phylogenetic analysis revealed that the kDNA in positive samples was similar to four species previously reported: L. infantum/L. chagasi, L. donovani, L. major. Despite kDNA minicircles regions are very useful due to high sensitivity to Leishmania spp. DNA detection, the sequence polymorphism among minicircles can be an obstacle to interspecific differentiation. Our results suggest that these strains are circulating in Brazil south region cross-border and indicate the susceptibility of new outbreak for visceral leishmaniasis infection in horses domiciled in endemic region for canine and human visceral leishmaniasis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Lívia Kmetzsch Rosa E Silva
- Molecular Biology and e Biotechnology, Biosciences Institute, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
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11
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Mhadhbi M, Sassi A. Infection of the equine population by Leishmania parasites. Equine Vet J 2019; 52:28-33. [PMID: 31498914 DOI: 10.1111/evj.13178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2019] [Accepted: 08/29/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Infection of equids by Leishmania (L.) parasites was previously described in both the Old and New World, particularly in Central and South America. Equine cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is caused by the Leishmania species, L. Viannia (V.) braziliensis and L. infantum, previously identified in humans and other parasite hosts living in the same geographic endemic areas. Sporadic autochthonous clinical cases, with no travel history, were documented in several countries including Germany, Portugal, Spain, Texas and Brazil; L. infantum and L. (Mundinia) martiniquensis were the infectious species. Prevalence of subclinical infections is extremely low and CL is observed in only a small proportion of infected animals with the appearance of single or multiple cutaneous lesions located on the head, external ear, scrotum, legs and the neck. To date, there has been no report of visceral abnormalities. However, the mild clinical profile of the disease and its spontaneous regression may indicate that skin lesions related to Leishmania infection is underdiagnosed. Importantly, although the prevalence of Leishmania infections in the equine population is low, a risk may rise from its potential involvement in the parasite transmission cycles as a source of infection for phlebotomine vectors and susceptible mammalian hosts. This review article summarises our current knowledge of the epidemiology, clinical presentation and diagnosis of Leishmania-infected equids.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Mhadhbi
- Laboratory of Parasitology, National School of Veterinary Medicine, University La Manouba, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - A Sassi
- Laboratory of BioInformatics, BioMathematics and BioStatistics, LR16 IPT09, Institute Pasteur of Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
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12
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Serological and Molecular Findings of Leishmania Infection in Healthy Donkeys ( Equus asinus) from a Canine Leishmaniosis Endemic Focus in Tuscany, Italy: A Preliminary Report. Pathogens 2019; 8:pathogens8030099. [PMID: 31323973 PMCID: PMC6789632 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens8030099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2019] [Revised: 07/04/2019] [Accepted: 07/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Leishmania parasites are considered to be emergent zoonotic pathogens, which is a new concept regarding their epidemiology and the identification of novel animal hosts. The present study is the first in Italy to evaluate anti Leishmania seroprevalence, and the first in Europe to detect parasite DNA in donkeys' blood. The study was performed on jennies living in a Leishmania infantum endemic area of Central Italy. One hundred and ten blood samples were obtained from 67 healthy lactating Amiatina jennies that were semi-extensively reared in Tuscany. When possible, more than one sample was subsequently obtained from the same subject. All samples were processed by immunofluorescence antibody test (IFAT) and by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). For the results, 11 out of 30 animals (36.7%) showed positive scores under IFAT. In addition, 22 out of the other 37 jennies had positive scores, also. The animals showed titers ranging from 40 to 320. Furthermore, 2 subjects that were submitted for 2 and 3 blood samplings, both had more than one positive score. Moreover, 2 seropositive animals were positive for Leishmania DNA. Donkeys are considered to be a preferred source for a sandfly blood meal, even if clinical leishmaniosis has never been reported in Europe for this animal species. In the view of these facts, our preliminary findings would suggest the role of donkey as a potential reservoir for this protozoan agent. Additional studies would be welcome to elucidate the role of the donkey in Leishmania epidemiology of CanL endemic areas and to confirm the preliminary findings and the hypothesis proposed here.
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13
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Rodrigues FT, Pereira C, Dubey JP, Nóvoa M, Quaresma M, Schallig H, Cardoso L, Lopes AP. Seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii and Leishmania spp. in domestic donkeys from Portugal. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 28:172-176. [PMID: 30892383 DOI: 10.1590/s1984-296120180091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2018] [Accepted: 11/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii and Leishmania infantum are zoonotic protozoal parasites. Serum samples were obtained from 186 donkeys (Equus africanus asinus) from Portugal and assessed for antibodies to T. gondii by the modified agglutination test (MAT). For titration of antibodies to Leishmania spp. the direct agglutination test was used (DAT). Eleven donkeys were seropositive for T. gondii with titres of 20 (n = 7), 80 (n = 2), 640 (n = 1) and ≥ 2560 (n = 1). One donkey was seropositive for Leishmania spp. (titre of 800). Donkeys in Portugal are exposed to and can be infected with T. gondii and Leishmania spp.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filipa Teixeira Rodrigues
- Laboratório de Parasitologia, Departamento de Ciências Veterinárias, Escola de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro - UTAD, Vila Real, Portugal.,Clínica Veterinária VetSantiago, Bragança, Portugal.,Centro de Ciência Animal e Veterinária - CECAV, Universidade de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro - UTAD, Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Catarina Pereira
- Laboratório de Parasitologia, Departamento de Ciências Veterinárias, Escola de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro - UTAD, Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Jitender Prakash Dubey
- Animal Parasitic Diseases Laboratory, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, MD, United States of America
| | - Miguel Nóvoa
- Associação para o Estudo e Protecção do Gado Asinino - AEPGA, Miranda do Douro, Portugal
| | - Miguel Quaresma
- Centro de Ciência Animal e Veterinária - CECAV, Universidade de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro - UTAD, Vila Real, Portugal.,Associação para o Estudo e Protecção do Gado Asinino - AEPGA, Miranda do Douro, Portugal.,Hospital Veterinário, Universidade de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro - UTAD, Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Henk Schallig
- Academic Medical Center, Department of Medical Microbiology, Parasitology Unit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Luís Cardoso
- Laboratório de Parasitologia, Departamento de Ciências Veterinárias, Escola de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro - UTAD, Vila Real, Portugal.,Centro de Ciência Animal e Veterinária - CECAV, Universidade de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro - UTAD, Vila Real, Portugal.,Hospital Veterinário, Universidade de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro - UTAD, Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Ana Patrícia Lopes
- Laboratório de Parasitologia, Departamento de Ciências Veterinárias, Escola de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro - UTAD, Vila Real, Portugal.,Centro de Ciência Animal e Veterinária - CECAV, Universidade de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro - UTAD, Vila Real, Portugal
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14
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Benassi JC, Benvenga GU, Ferreira HL, Soares RM, Silva DT, Pereira VF, Ruiz VLA, Oliveira TMFDS. Molecular and serological detection of Leishmania spp. in horses from an endemic area for canine visceral leishmaniasis in southeastern Brazil. PESQUISA VETERINARIA BRASILEIRA 2018. [DOI: 10.1590/1678-5150-pvb-5214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT: This study aimed to verify the occurrence of Leishmania spp. and Leishmania (Leishmania) infantum in horses from a visceral leishmaniasis endemic area in Brazil. DNA samples from blood and conjunctival swab (CS) were tested by PCR and Indirect Immunofluorescence Antibody Test (IFAT). Although none of the horses was clinically sick, animals infected by Leishmania spp. were found and some could be characterized as infected by L. (L.) infantum. From 40 horses, 100% of the animals were positive by blood PCR, 90% (36/40) by CS PCR, and 2.5% (01/40) in serodiagnosis, by IFAT. Six from these 40 horses were L. (L.) infantum positive by blood PCR. Direct sequencing and analysis of amplicons resulted in a sequence to evolutionary analysis. Results indicate the presence of Leishmania spp. and L. (L.) infantum infecting healthy horses in Brazil. The presence of Leishmania spp. and L. (L.) infantum DNA in asymptomatic horses suggests that they can be important reservoirs of these parasites, a highly relevant finding for the epidemiological surveillance of the diseases they cause.
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15
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Miró G, Troyano A, Montoya A, Fariñas F, Fermín ML, Flores L, Rojo C, Checa R, Gálvez R, Marino V, Fragío C, Martínez-Nevado E. First report of Leishmania infantum infection in the endangered orangutan (Pongo pygmaeus pygmaeus) in Madrid, Spain. Parasit Vectors 2018; 11:185. [PMID: 29554944 PMCID: PMC5859647 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-018-2772-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2017] [Accepted: 03/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Some wild animals have been recognized as potential reservoirs of Leishmania infantum infection (e.g. carnivores, lagomorphs, rodents, etc.). Leishmania infantum was also identified infecting humans and lagomorphs (i.e. hares and rabbits) over the period of 2009–2016, with the latter acting as the main reservoirs involved in the human leishmaniosis outbreak in Madrid. Results Two cases of clinical leishmaniosis are reported in orangutans (Pongo pygmaeus pygmaeus) housed at two different centres in Madrid. The first is the case of a 36-year-old male orangutan with severe weight loss and apathy. A complete blood count and biochemical profile revealed anaemia, neutropenia, hypoalbuminaemia and elevated transaminases. Hepato-splenomegaly was also observed. Four months later, due to worsening of clinical signs (mainly bilateral epistaxis), blood and bone marrow samples were collected. Amastigotes of L. infantum were detected in macrophages from a bone marrow aspirate and by specific polymerase chain reaction. The second case was a 34-year-old female orangutan with severe weight loss and apathy and no other apparent clinical signs. A complete blood count and biochemical profile revealed anaemia, pancytopenia and hypoalbuminaemia. Splenomegaly and pericardial effusion were also observed. As leishmaniosis was included in the differential diagnosis, both blood and bone marrow samples were collected. Leishmania infantum infection was confirmed by microscopy, molecular diagnosis and serology (immunofluorescence antibody test). Both animals were treated daily with oral miltefosine for 28 days; allopurinol was also given uninterruptedly in Case 2 for at least 6 months. During follow-up, though good clinical recovery was clear, a lack of parasitological cure was confirmed molecularly in both blood and bone marrow samples from the two orangutans. In both habitats, the presence of the sand fly vector identified as Phlebotomus perniciosus was confirmed. Conclusions To our knowledge, this is the first report of L. infantum infection in great apes and in the endangered species P. p. pygmaeus. We are presently looking for L. infantum in other non-human primates living in the same peri-urban areas. If detected, we will examine the impacts of this serious disease on these critically endangered species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guadalupe Miró
- Department of Animal Health, Veterinary Faculty, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Amelia Troyano
- Centro de Rescate de Primates "RAINFER", Fuente del Saz, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Montoya
- Department of Animal Health, Veterinary Faculty, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Fernando Fariñas
- Institute of Clinical Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Málaga, Spain
| | - Ma Luisa Fermín
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Veterinary Faculty, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Luís Flores
- Centre de Rehabilitation des Primates de Lwiro, Lwiro Village, South Kivu, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Carlos Rojo
- Zoo de Madrid, Casa de Campo s/n, 28011, Madrid, Spain
| | - Rocío Checa
- Department of Animal Health, Veterinary Faculty, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Rosa Gálvez
- Department of Animal Health, Veterinary Faculty, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Valentina Marino
- Department of Animal Health, Veterinary Faculty, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Cristina Fragío
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Veterinary Faculty, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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LEISHMANIA INFANTUM INFECTION IN BENNETT'S WALLABIES (MACROPUS RUFOGRISEUS RUFOGRISEUS) IN A SPANISH WILDLIFE PARK. J Zoo Wildl Med 2016; 47:586-93. [PMID: 27468032 DOI: 10.1638/2014-0216.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Although dogs are the main reservoir for human Leishmania infantum infection, the disease has also been reported in other domestic and wild mammals. In 2011, a fatal case of naturally acquired leishmaniosis was described for the first time in a Bennett's wallaby (Macropus rufogriseus rufogriseus) kept in a wildlife park in Madrid (Spain). This study was designed to assess the infection status of twelve Bennett's wallabies in the same park one year after this incident. Phlebotomus perniciosus, the main vector of L. infantum in Spain, was screened for using sticky and Centers for Disease Control miniature light traps. L. infantum infection was confirmed by molecular diagnosis in four animals, but only one wallaby returned a positive serology result. The presence of the sand fly vector was also confirmed in this habitat. These results suggest that the first case of L. infantum in a wallaby in this park was not an isolated incident and stress the need for further work to determine the role of this parasite in the morbidity and mortality of these macropods. Madrid was recently the scene of an outbreak of human cutaneous and visceral leishmaniosis. Epidemiological studies have so far revealed the widespread presence of L. infantum infection in animals other than the dog. Our ongoing work suggests a risk of L. infantum infection not only among captive animals in Madrid, but also among threatened species or even species that are already extinct in the wild.
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Aharonson-Raz K, Baneth G, Lopes AP, Brancal H, Schallig H, Cardoso L, Steinman A. Low Seroprevalence ofLeishmania infantumandToxoplasma gondiiin the Horse Population in Israel. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2015; 15:726-31. [DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2015.1826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Karin Aharonson-Raz
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Gad Baneth
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Ana Patrícia Lopes
- Department of Veterinary Sciences and Animal and Veterinary Research Centre, School of Agrarian and Veterinary Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro (UTAD), Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Hugo Brancal
- Veterinary Clinic of Covilhã, Quinta das Ferreiras, Boidobra, Covilhã, Portugal
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal
- Agrarian College, Polytechnic Institute of Castelo Branco, Castelo Branco, Portugal
| | - Henk Schallig
- Department of Biomedical Research, Koninklijk Instituut voor de Tropen (KIT)/Royal Tropical Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Luís Cardoso
- Department of Veterinary Sciences and Animal and Veterinary Research Centre, School of Agrarian and Veterinary Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro (UTAD), Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Amir Steinman
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University, Rehovot, Israel
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