1
|
García-Livia K, Reyes R, Amaro-Ramos V, Baz-González E, Martin-Carrillo N, Rodríguez-Ponce E, Foronda P. Metastrongyloid Infection with Aelurostrongylus abstrusus, Troglostrongylus brevior, Oslerus rostratus and Angiostrongylus chabaudi in Feral Cats from the Canary Islands (Spain). Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2168. [PMID: 37443966 DOI: 10.3390/ani13132168] [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: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Lungworms are a major cause of feline respiratory disease, frequently underdiagnosed due to its presentation of symptoms being similar to that of other feline respiratory pathologies. Epidemiological data about these nematodes are scarce in the Canary Islands (Spain). Given the veterinary importance of these parasites, the aim of the present study was to improve the current epidemiological knowledge of the lungworm species that could be affecting feral cats in this archipelago. A total of 29 feral cats from La Gomera were analyzed. The respiratory tract of each animal was inspected and the nematodes obtained were identified by morphological keys and molecular techniques. Metastrongylids were detected to be widely distributed throughout the island with a prevalence of 55.2% (16/29). The species Aelurostrongylus abstrusus, Troglostrongylus brevior, Oslerus rostratus and Angiostrongylus chabaudi were identified. Also, coinfections with A. chabaudi and O. rostratus were detected in two animals. The present study shows a high diversity of lungworms in feral cats in La Gomera, with the first report of A. chabaudi and T. brevior for the Canary Archipelago and the first citation of A. chabaudi in cats for Spain. The wide distribution and high prevalence found in this study indicate a high risk of exposure to pulmonary infections in cats.
Collapse
Grants
- ProID2021010013 Consejería de Economía, Industria, Comercio y Conocimiento, Gobierno de Canarias
- ProID2021010013 FEDER-FSE Canarias 2014-2020, "Programa de Apoyo a la Investigación María del Carmen Betencourt y Molina"
- agreement "Estudio de patógenos en aves migratorias y en especies exóticas en un escenario de cambio climático" Consejería de Transición Ecológica, Lucha contra el Cambio Climático y Planificación Territorial, Gobierno de Canarias
- Becas M-ULL, 2019 Spanish Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities
- Becas M-ULL, 2019 Universidad de La Laguna
- FPI predoctoral scholarship TESIS2021010056 Agencia Canaria de Investigación, Innovación y Sociedad de la Información de la Consejería de Economía, Conocimiento y Empleo
- FPI predoctoral scholarship TESIS2021010056 Fondo Social Europeo (FSE) Programa Operativo integrado de Canarias 2014-2020, Eje 3 Tema Prioritario 74 (85%)
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katherine García-Livia
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias (IUETSPC), Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Avda. Astrofísico F. Sánchez s/n, 38203 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
- Department Obstetricia y Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Legal y Forense y Parasitología, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Avda. Astrofísico F. Sánchez s/n, 38203 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
- Programa de Doctorado en Biodiversidad y Conservación, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Avda. Astrofísico F. Sánchez s/n, 38203 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
| | - Ricardo Reyes
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias (IUETSPC), Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Avda. Astrofísico F. Sánchez s/n, 38203 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
- Department Bioquímica, Microbiología, Biología Celular y Genética, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Avda. Astrofísico F. Sánchez s/n, 38203 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
| | - Virginia Amaro-Ramos
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias (IUETSPC), Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Avda. Astrofísico F. Sánchez s/n, 38203 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
- Department Obstetricia y Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Legal y Forense y Parasitología, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Avda. Astrofísico F. Sánchez s/n, 38203 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
- Programa de Doctorado en Ciencias Médicas y Farmacéuticas, Desarrollo y Calidad de Vida, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Avda. Astrofísico F. Sánchez s/n, 38203 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
| | - Edgar Baz-González
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias (IUETSPC), Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Avda. Astrofísico F. Sánchez s/n, 38203 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
- Department Obstetricia y Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Legal y Forense y Parasitología, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Avda. Astrofísico F. Sánchez s/n, 38203 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
- Programa de Doctorado en Ciencias Médicas y Farmacéuticas, Desarrollo y Calidad de Vida, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Avda. Astrofísico F. Sánchez s/n, 38203 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
| | - Natalia Martin-Carrillo
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias (IUETSPC), Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Avda. Astrofísico F. Sánchez s/n, 38203 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
- Department Obstetricia y Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Legal y Forense y Parasitología, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Avda. Astrofísico F. Sánchez s/n, 38203 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
- Programa de Doctorado en Ciencias Médicas y Farmacéuticas, Desarrollo y Calidad de Vida, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Avda. Astrofísico F. Sánchez s/n, 38203 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
| | - Eligia Rodríguez-Ponce
- Department Patología Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (ULPGC), Trasmontaña, Arucas, s/n, 35413 Las Palmas, Spain
| | - Pilar Foronda
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias (IUETSPC), Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Avda. Astrofísico F. Sánchez s/n, 38203 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
- Department Obstetricia y Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Legal y Forense y Parasitología, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Avda. Astrofísico F. Sánchez s/n, 38203 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Veronesi F, Deak G, Diakou A. Wild Mesocarnivores as Reservoirs of Endoparasites Causing Important Zoonoses and Emerging Bridging Infections across Europe. Pathogens 2023; 12:pathogens12020178. [PMID: 36839450 PMCID: PMC9964259 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12020178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Mesocarnivores are small- or mid-sized carnivore species that display a variety of ecologies and behaviours. In Europe, wild mesocarnivores are represented by the red fox (Vulpes vulpes), the golden jackal (Canis aureus), the European wildcat (Felis silvestris), the Mustelidae of the genera Meles, Martes, Mustela, Lutra, the invasive species of raccoon dog (Nyctereutes procyonoides), raccoons (Procyon lotor), and American mink (Neogale vison). These abundant animals thrive in various habitats and often develop their activity close to human settlements. Thus, they may play an important role in the introduction, maintenance, and transmission of major parasitic zoonoses and promote bridging infections with domestic animals. Against this background, this article reports and discusses some of the most important endoparasites of wild mesocarnivores living in Europe, on the basis of their actual role as reservoirs, spreaders, or sentinels. The data derived from epizootiological studies in different European countries, and the proven or speculated implications of the detected endoparasites in human and domestic animals' health, are discussed. Through older and recent literature review, the state-of-the-art knowledge on the occurrence and prevalence of the parasites under consideration is presented, showing further, warranted investigations and the need for surveillance and vigilance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fabrizia Veronesi
- Parasitology Laboratory of the University Teaching Hospital, Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, 06124 Perugia, Italy
- Correspondence: (F.V.); (G.D.); (A.D.)
| | - Georgiana Deak
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Correspondence: (F.V.); (G.D.); (A.D.)
| | - Anastasia Diakou
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Correspondence: (F.V.); (G.D.); (A.D.)
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
New Insights into Gastrointestinal and Pulmonary Parasitofauna of Wild Eurasian lynx ( Lynx lynx) in the Harz Mountains of Germany. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10121650. [PMID: 34959605 PMCID: PMC8708128 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10121650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Revised: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx) represents an endangered wild felid species. In Germany, it currently occurs in three isolated populations in and around the Harz Mountains, the Palatinate Forest and the Bavarian Forest. Lynx parasitic infections affect animal health and might have an influence on population performance. Therefore, we investigated the protozoan and helminth fauna of free-ranging Eurasian lynx of the Harz population with emphasis on zoonotic parasites. Individual scat samples (n = 24) were collected from wild animals between 2019 and 2021 in the Harz National Park and surrounding areas. In total, 15 taxa of endoparasites were detected, including seven nematodes (i.e., Aelurostrongylus abstrusus, Angiostrongylus spp., Uncinaria stenocephala, Toxascaris leonina, Toxocara cati, Cylicospirura spp. and Capillaria spp.), one cestode (Diphyllobothriidae) and one trematode (Heterophylidae) as well as six protozoans (i.e., Cystoisospora rivolta, Cystoisospora felis, Toxoplasma gondii/Hammondia spp., Sarcocystis spp., Giardia intestinalis and Cryptosporidium spp.). Moreover, first-stage larvae (L1) of spurious lungworm, Protostrongylus pulmonalis, originating from lagomorph preys were identified. This work represents the first report on patent A. abstrusus and Angiostrongylus spp. infections in wild German Eurasian lynxes. Some of the identified parasites represent relevant pathogens for lynxes, circulating between these carnivorous definitive hosts and a variety of mammalian and invertebrate intermediate hosts, e.g., Sarcocystis spp., T. gondii/Hammondia spp., T. cati, T. leonina, A. abstrusus and Angiostrongylus spp., while others are considered exclusively pathogenic for wild felids (e.g., Cylicospirura spp., C. rivolta, C. felis). This study provides insights in the occurrence of zooanthroponotically relevant metazoan (i.e., T. cati and U. stenocephala) and protozoan (i.e., G. intestinalis) species in free-ranging lynx. The present work should be considered as a baseline study for future monitoring surveys on endoparasites circulating in wild Eurasian lynx for appropriate management practices in lynx conservation strategies in Europe.
Collapse
|
5
|
Morelli S, Diakou A, Di Cesare A, Colombo M, Traversa D. Canine and Feline Parasitology: Analogies, Differences, and Relevance for Human Health. Clin Microbiol Rev 2021; 34:e0026620. [PMID: 34378954 PMCID: PMC8404700 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00266-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Cats and dogs are treated as family members by most pet owners. Therefore, a high quality of veterinary care and preventive medicine is imperative for animal health and welfare and for the protection of humans from zoonotic pathogens. There is a general perception of cats being treated as "small dogs," especially in the field of clinical parasitology. As a result, several important differences between the two animal species are not taken into proper consideration and are often overlooked. Dogs and cats are profoundly different under evolutionary, biological, ethological, behavioral, and immunological standpoints. These differences impact clinical features, diagnosis, and control of canine and feline parasites and transmission risk for humans. This review outlines the most common parasitoses and vector-borne diseases of dogs and cats, with a focus on major convergences and divergences, and discusses parasites that have (i) evolved based on different preys for dogs and cats, (ii) adapted due to different immunological or behavioral animal profiles, and (iii) developed more similarities than differences in canine and feline infections and associated diseases. Differences, similarities, and peculiarities of canine and feline parasitology are herein reviewed in three macrosections: (i) carnivorism, vegetarianism, anatomy, genetics, and parasites, (ii) evolutionary adaptation of nematodes, including veterinary reconsideration and zoonotic importance, and (iii) behavior and immune system driving ectoparasites and transmitted diseases. Emphasis is given to provide further steps toward a more accurate evaluation of canine and feline parasitology in a changing world in terms of public health relevance and One Health approach.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Simone Morelli
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Anastasia Diakou
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Angela Di Cesare
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | | | - Donato Traversa
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Kulmer LM, Unterköfler MS, Fuehrer HP, Janovska V, Pagac M, Svoboda M, Venco L, Leschnik M. First Autochthonous Infection of a Cat with Dirofilaria immitis in Austria. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10091104. [PMID: 34578137 PMCID: PMC8466588 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10091104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
This case report is about a seven-year-old male neutered European Shorthair cat infected by Dirofilaria immitis as the first reported autochthonous Dirofilaria immitis infection in Austria. There was no history of periods abroad. Echocardiography showed suspected D. immitis in the right cardiac chamber with increased pulmonary pressure and ascites. Surgical removal of the heartworms was performed. Twenty adult heartworms were removed by transvenous jugular approach under general anesthesia and stored in 4% formalin. Five out of 20 specimens were examined via light and stereomicroscopy and feline heartworm infection was confirmed. Amplification of a 203 bp or 724 bp fragment of the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I gene was unsuccessful. After surgery the cat developed acute renal failure but recovered quickly. One year later, the cat underwent a control examination including echocardiography and blood work. There were no more D. immitis detectable at echocardiography. Lung pressure was mildly increased. Complete blood count and creatinine were unremarkable. The Knott's test and Dirofilaria-Antigen-test produced negative results. The cat did not show any clinical signs during the follow-up period. The aim of this case report is to highlight the growing risk of acquiring infection with D. immitis not only for Austrian dogs, but also for cats. This case report represents the first report of autochthonous D. immitis infection in Austria. Moreover, even if the prognosis in cats with caval syndrome due to feline heartworm disease is guarded to poor, surgical removal of the filariae can be a successful treatment option.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lisa-Maria Kulmer
- University Hospital for Small Animals, Department for Companion Animals and Horses, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, 1210 Vienna, Austria;
- Correspondence:
| | - Maria Sophia Unterköfler
- Department of Pathobiology, Institute of Parasitology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, 1210 Vienna, Austria; (M.S.U.); (H.-P.F.)
| | - Hans-Peter Fuehrer
- Department of Pathobiology, Institute of Parasitology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, 1210 Vienna, Austria; (M.S.U.); (H.-P.F.)
| | - Varvara Janovska
- Veterinary Hospital Parndorf, 7111 Burgenland, Austria; (V.J.); (M.P.); (M.S.)
| | - Matus Pagac
- Veterinary Hospital Parndorf, 7111 Burgenland, Austria; (V.J.); (M.P.); (M.S.)
| | - Michaela Svoboda
- Veterinary Hospital Parndorf, 7111 Burgenland, Austria; (V.J.); (M.P.); (M.S.)
| | - Luigi Venco
- Veterinary Hospital Città di Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy;
| | - Michael Leschnik
- University Hospital for Small Animals, Department for Companion Animals and Horses, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, 1210 Vienna, Austria;
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Diakou A, Migli D, Dimzas D, Morelli S, Di Cesare A, Youlatos D, Lymberakis P, Traversa D. Endoparasites of European Wildcats ( Felis silvestris) in Greece. PATHOGENS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 10:pathogens10050594. [PMID: 34068209 PMCID: PMC8153176 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10050594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Revised: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The European wildcat (Felis silvestris) is the only wild felid living in Greece. Wildcat populations are declining due to anthropogenic and phenological unfavourable conditions, and parasites may have an additional negative impact. In the present study, the occurrence of endoparasites in wildcats in Greece and the potential threats posed to wildcats, domestic animals, and humans in the study areas has been investigated. In a six-year period, 23 road-killed wildcats and 62 wildcat faecal samples were collected from different areas of the country. Necropsy for the detection of endoparasites and standard parasitological examinations of faecal samples were performed. Parasites were morphologically identified and, in selected cases, molecularly analysed. All necropsied wildcats (100%) were infected by three to 10 different parasite taxa, with the most prevalent being Taenia taeniaeformis (73.9%), Toxocara cati (60.9%), Angiostrongylus chabaudi (56.5%), Ancylostoma tubaeforme (39.1%), Cylicospirura spp. (34.8%), Troglostrongylus brevior (34.8%), and Capillaria aerophila (33.8%). Of the 62 faecal samples examined, 53 (85.5%) were positive for one or more parasite elements (larvae, eggs, or oocysts). The most frequent were T. cati (45.2%), A. chabaudi (29%), C. aerophila (24.2%), and Ancylostomatidae (17.7%). This is the first survey on endoparasites affecting wildcats in Greece. Some of the parasites here found are frequent in domestic and wild felids, while others, i.e., Oslerus rostratus and Cylicospirura petrowi, were described for the first time in the European wildcat. Most of them have a significant pathogenic potential, causing severe to hazardous diseases to infected felids and some, under specific circumstances, can also threaten human health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia Diakou
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece;
- Correspondence:
| | - Despina Migli
- School of Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece; (D.M.); (D.Y.)
| | - Dimitris Dimzas
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Simone Morelli
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University Teaching Veterinary Hospital, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy; (S.M.); (A.D.C.); (D.T.)
| | - Angela Di Cesare
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University Teaching Veterinary Hospital, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy; (S.M.); (A.D.C.); (D.T.)
| | - Dionisios Youlatos
- School of Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece; (D.M.); (D.Y.)
| | - Petros Lymberakis
- Natural History Museum of Crete, School of Sciences and Engineering, University of Crete, Knossou Avenue, 71409 Irakleio, Greece;
| | - Donato Traversa
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University Teaching Veterinary Hospital, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy; (S.M.); (A.D.C.); (D.T.)
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Felid Cardiopulmonary Nematodes: Dilemmas Solved and New Questions Posed. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10010030. [PMID: 33401704 PMCID: PMC7824321 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10010030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Revised: 12/28/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
In the past decade cardiopulmonary nematodes affecting felids have become a core research topic in small animal parasitology. In the late 2000s, an increase in studies was followed by unexpected findings in the early 2010s, which have stimulated research teams to start investigating these intriguing parasites. Prolific scientific debate and exchanges have then fostered field and laboratory studies and epi-zootiological surveys. New data have improved basic and applied knowledge, solved dilemmas and posed new questions. This article discusses the past and present background to felid cardiopulmonary nematodes after the last few years of intense scientific research. New data which have demonstrated the key role of Aelurostrongylus abstrusus and Troglostrongylus brevior in causing respiratory infections in domestic cats, and on the nil to negligible current importance of other species, i.e., Troglostrongylus subcrenatus, Oslerus rostratus and Angiostrongylus chabaudi, are presented. Biological information and hypothesized alternative routes of infection are analysed and discussed. Novel identification and taxonomical data and issues are reported and commented upon. On the whole, recent biological, ecological and epi-zootiological information on felid meta-strongyloids is critically analysed, with the aim to answer outstanding questions, stimulate future studies, and underline new research perspectives.
Collapse
|
9
|
Dimzas D, Morelli S, Traversa D, Di Cesare A, Van Bourgonie YR, Breugelmans K, Backeljau T, di Regalbono AF, Diakou A. Intermediate gastropod hosts of major feline cardiopulmonary nematodes in an area of wildcat and domestic cat sympatry in Greece. Parasit Vectors 2020; 13:345. [PMID: 32650821 PMCID: PMC7350685 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-020-04213-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The metastrongyloid nematodes Aelurostrongylus abstrusus, Troglostrongylus brevior and Angiostrongylus chabaudi are cardiopulmonary parasites affecting domestic cats (Felis catus) and wildcats (Felis silvestris). Although knowledge on these nematodes has been improved in the past years, gaps in our knowledge of their distribution and role of gastropods as intermediate hosts in Europe still exist. This study reports on the presence of these nematodes and their intermediate hosts in an area in Greece where domestic cats and wildcats occur in sympatry. Methods Terrestrial gastropods were collected in the field and identified morphologically and by mitochondrial DNA-sequence analysis. Metastrongyloid larvae were detected by artificial digestion, morphologically identified to the species and stage level and their identity was molecularly confirmed. Results Aelurostrongylus abstrusus was found in the snails Massylaea vermiculata and Helix lucorum, T. brevior in the slug Tandonia sp., and A. chabaudi in the slug Limax sp. and the snails H. lucorum and M. vermiculata. Conclusions To the best of our knowledge this study provides the first reports of (i) terrestrial gastropods being naturally infected with A. chabaudi, (ii) T. brevior naturally infecting terrestrial gastropods in Europe, and (iii) A. abstrusus naturally infecting terrestrial gastropods in Greece. Furthermore, the present study describes for the first time developmental stages of A. chabaudi and T. brevior in naturally infected gastropods. The biological characteristics of various intermediate gastropod hosts that could influence the distribution and expansion of feline cardiopulmonary nematodes are discussed, along with epizootiological implications and perspectives.![]()
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dimitris Dimzas
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Simone Morelli
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Teaching Veterinary Hospital, 64100, Teramo, Italy
| | - Donato Traversa
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Teaching Veterinary Hospital, 64100, Teramo, Italy
| | - Angela Di Cesare
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Teaching Veterinary Hospital, 64100, Teramo, Italy
| | - Yoo Ree Van Bourgonie
- Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences (BopCo - LifeWatch Belgium), 1000, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Karin Breugelmans
- Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences (BopCo - LifeWatch Belgium), 1000, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Thierry Backeljau
- Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences (BopCo - LifeWatch Belgium), 1000, Brussels, Belgium.,Evolutionary Ecology Group, Department of Biology, University of Antwerp, 2610, Antwerp, Belgium
| | | | - Anastasia Diakou
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124, Thessaloniki, Greece.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Pennisi MG, Tasker S, Hartmann K, Belák S, Addie D, Boucraut-Baralon C, Egberink H, Frymus T, Hofmann-Lehmann R, Hosie M, Lloret A, Marsilio F, Thiry E, Truyen U, Möstl K. Dirofilarioses in cats: European guidelines from the ABCD on prevention and management. J Feline Med Surg 2020; 22:442-451. [PMID: 32326862 PMCID: PMC11132531 DOI: 10.1177/1098612x20917601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OVERVIEW Dirofilaria immitis and Dirofilaria repens are the most important filarial worms, causing heartworm disease and subcutaneous dirofilariosis, respectively. D repens is currently considered an emerging zoonotic agent in Europe. LIFE CYCLE AND INFECTION Filarial worms infect mainly dogs, but also cats, ferrets, wild carnivores and humans. The life cycle involves an intermediate mosquito host. Compared with dogs, cats are imperfect hosts for dirofilarial worms. After inoculation, only a low number of L3 larvae develop to the adult stage in a small percentage of cats. Heartworm disease in cats may be associated with severe pulmonary thromboembolism and an eosinophilic inflammatory response in the lungs, potentially leading to sudden death. Otherwise self-cure occurs in most cases after 18-48 months. Subcutaneous dirofilariosis may present as subcutaneous nodules or dermatitis. DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT Diagnosis in cats is more difficult compared with dogs and needs a multistep approach (antigen and antibody tests, as well as diagnostic imaging). Cats with acute heartworm disease require stabilisation within an intensive care unit. Cats with respiratory signs or suggestive radiographic changes should receive prednisolone and follow-up with a similar multistep approach. Adulticidal therapy is not safe in cats. PREVENTION In endemic areas cats should receive year-round chemoprophylaxis from 2 months of age.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Séverine Tasker
- European Advisory Board on Cat Diseases www.abcdcatsvets.org
| | - Katrin Hartmann
- European Advisory Board on Cat Diseases www.abcdcatsvets.org
| | - Sándor Belák
- European Advisory Board on Cat Diseases www.abcdcatsvets.org
| | - Diane Addie
- European Advisory Board on Cat Diseases www.abcdcatsvets.org
| | | | - Herman Egberink
- European Advisory Board on Cat Diseases www.abcdcatsvets.org
| | - Tadeusz Frymus
- European Advisory Board on Cat Diseases www.abcdcatsvets.org
| | | | - Margaret Hosie
- European Advisory Board on Cat Diseases www.abcdcatsvets.org
| | - Albert Lloret
- European Advisory Board on Cat Diseases www.abcdcatsvets.org
| | - Fulvio Marsilio
- European Advisory Board on Cat Diseases www.abcdcatsvets.org
| | - Etienne Thiry
- European Advisory Board on Cat Diseases www.abcdcatsvets.org
| | - Uwe Truyen
- European Advisory Board on Cat Diseases www.abcdcatsvets.org
| | - Karin Möstl
- European Advisory Board on Cat Diseases www.abcdcatsvets.org
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Di Cesare A, Morelli S, Colombo M, Simonato G, Veronesi F, Marcer F, Diakou A, D'Angelosante R, Pantchev N, Psaralexi E, Traversa D. Is Angiostrongylosis a Realistic Threat for Domestic Cats? Front Vet Sci 2020; 7:195. [PMID: 32351980 PMCID: PMC7174740 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2020.00195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Accepted: 03/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Three species of Angiostrongylus have been found in felids thus far, i.e., Angiostrongylus chabaudi, Angiostrongylus felineus and Angiostrongylus vasorum. Angiostrongylus chabaudi lives in the right heart and pulmonary arteries of the definitive natural host, the European wildcat (Felis silvestris), and non-patent infections have been reported in domestic cats (Felis catus). Angiostrongylus felineus, described in the Puma yaguarondi (Herpailurus yagouaroundi), has never been reported in domestic felids, while recently a non-patent infection by A. vasorum was unequivocally described in a F. catus. Nonetheless, epizootiological and clinical relevance of angiostrongylosis in domestic cats are practically unknown. This study investigated whether cases of angiostrongylosis may be missed in cats living in areas enzootic for Angiostrongylus spp. and other metastrongyloids. Overall, 100 cats that were either positive (n.50) or negative (n.50) for metastrongyloid larvae at the Baermann's test, were examined for Angiostrongylus spp. with DNA-based methods and with the serological test Angio Detect™ for circulating antigen. The PCR analysis confirmed the copromicroscopy results, where 25 cats scored positive for Aelurostrongylus abstrusus, 16 for Troglostrongylus brevior and 9 for both, while no cats were positive for Angiostrongylus-like larvae, including A. chabaudi. None of the 100 sera samples scored positive at the Angio Detect™ test. These data suggest that currently feline angiostrongylosis is a minor parasitosis for domestic cats. Nevertheless, it cannot be excluded that the epizootiological drivers which have favored the spillover of A. vasorum and T. brevior from wildlife to dogs and cats, could promote the emergence of feline angiostrongylosis, with an unpredictable health impact.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Angela Di Cesare
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Simone Morelli
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | | | - Giulia Simonato
- Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Fabrizia Veronesi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Federica Marcer
- Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Anastasia Diakou
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | | | | | - Evanthia Psaralexi
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Donato Traversa
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Diakou A, Dimzas D, Astaras C, Savvas I, Di Cesare A, Morelli S, Neofitos Κ, Migli D, Traversa D. Clinical investigations and treatment outcome in a European wildcat (Felis silvestris silvestris) infected by cardio-pulmonary nematodes. VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY- REGIONAL STUDIES AND REPORTS 2020; 19:100357. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2019.100357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2019] [Revised: 10/28/2019] [Accepted: 11/27/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
|
13
|
Wulcan JM, Timmins A, Dennis MM, Thrall MA, Lejeune M, Abdu A, Ketzis JK. First report of Aelurostrongylus abstrusus in St. Kitts. VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY- REGIONAL STUDIES AND REPORTS 2019; 19:100366. [PMID: 32057393 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2019.100366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2019] [Revised: 12/08/2019] [Accepted: 12/09/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
A 4-month-old intact male domestic shorthair kitten living in St Kitts, West Indies presented with respiratory distress, cachexia, and mucopurulent nasal discharge. Thoracic radiographs revealed a diaphragmatic hernia. The diaphragmatic hernia as well as subpleural pulmonary nodules suspicious for verminous pneumonia were identified during a postmortem examination. Histology showed multifocal to coalescing pyogranulomatous and eosinophilic pneumonia centered on larvae and morulated eggs. The lesion and nematode morphology were consistent with Aelurostrongylus abstrusus. Although Aelurostrongylus abstrusus has been reported worldwide, this is the first report of a metastrongyloid lungworm in cats in St. Kitts and for the West Indies. This case report should increase the awareness of A. abstrusus pneumonia in cats from St. Kitts and other locations in the eastern Caribbean.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Judit M Wulcan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, PO Box 338, Basseterre, West Indies, Saint Kitts and Nevis.
| | - Afton Timmins
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, PO Box 338, Basseterre, West Indies, Saint Kitts and Nevis.
| | - Michelle M Dennis
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, PO Box 338, Basseterre, West Indies, Saint Kitts and Nevis.
| | - Mary Anna Thrall
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, PO Box 338, Basseterre, West Indies, Saint Kitts and Nevis.
| | - Manigandan Lejeune
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, Animal Health Diagnostic Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, 240 Farrier Road, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Amira Abdu
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, Animal Health Diagnostic Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, 240 Farrier Road, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA; Department of Parasitology, Assiut University, 71515 Libraries Street, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Jennifer K Ketzis
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, PO Box 338, Basseterre, West Indies, Saint Kitts and Nevis
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Co-infection with Angiostrongylus chabaudi and Dirofilaria immitis in a wildcat, Felis silvestris from Romania – a case report. ACTA VET BRNO 2019. [DOI: 10.2754/avb201988030303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Dirofilaria immitis is a worldwide spread nematode affecting the pulmonary artery and the heart of dogs (rarely reported in cats), especially in areas where the dogs show a high prevalence of infection. Angiostrongylus chabaudi is, in turn, a cardiopulmonary nematode of felids identified in several southern European countries and Germany. Co-infections of Dirofilaria immitis and Angiostrongylus spp. are known only in canids. We report a case of D. immitis and A. chabaudi co-infection in a road-killed wildcat originating from Southeastern Romania. Overall, 17 nematodes were collected from the pulmonary arteries of the wildcat and were morphologically identified as A. chabaudi (2 males and 15 females). Another nematode was collected from the right ventricle and identified as adult male D. immitis. Genomic DNA was extracted from one nematode of each of the two species and a fragment of the cox1 gene was amplified and sequenced. The sequences obtained from the nematodes showed 100% similarity to a sequence of A. chabaudi isolated from Romania (Accession number KU521521) and to various D. immitis sequences from Europe, Asia and Australia (e.g. KT716014, EU159111, AJ537512). This is the first report of A. chabaudi and D. immitis co-infection in a felid, revealing the possibility of similar situations in domestic cats. This requires a more in-depth clinical and laboratory examination of animals with respiratory and cardiac symptoms.
Collapse
|
15
|
Severe Verminous Pneumonia Caused by Natural Mixed Infection with Aelurostrongylus abstrusus and Angiostrongylus chabaudi in a European Wildcat from Western Balkan Area. Acta Parasitol 2019; 64:411-417. [PMID: 30756237 DOI: 10.2478/s11686-019-00029-9] [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: 11/27/2018] [Accepted: 01/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Aelurostrongylus abstrusus (Railliet, 1898) and Angiostrongylus chabaudi (Biocca, 1957) are important cardiopulmonary metastrongyloids in felids. This case report describes, for the first time, a natural and patent mixed infection caused by A. abstrusus and A. chabaudi in a European wildcat (Felis silvestris silvestris) from Bosnia and Herzegovina. Most important, this is a rare report of fatal parasitism in wildlife, involving a severe verminous bronchopneumonia and gastrointestinal nematode and cestode infection with Toxocara cati, Taenia taeniaeformis, Aonchotheca putorii, and Ancylostoma spp. RESULTS Emphasis is set to detailed description of granulomatous, interstitial verminous bronchopneumonia, morphological description of A. abstrusus and A. chabaudi, and molecular confirmation of diagnosis by triplex PCR. CONCLUSION The data provided in this study contribute to the knowledge on the epizootiology and pathological effect of these neglected metastrongyloids in European wildcat.
Collapse
|
16
|
Annotated catalogue of species of Angiostrongylus and the related genera Gallegostrongylus, Rodentocaulus and Stefanskostrongylus (Nematoda: Metastrongyloidea, Angiostrongylidae). J Helminthol 2019; 93:389-423. [PMID: 31064435 DOI: 10.1017/s0022149x19000270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
This catalogue is concerned with the closely related angiostrongylid genera Angiostrongylus, Gallegostrongylus, Rodentocaulus and Stefanskostrongylus. Three species, Angiostrongylus cantonensis, A. costaricensis and A. vasorum, have attracted most attention because of their importance in human and domestic animal disease. Many of the remaining species are poorly known and the number of valid taxa is unclear. The catalogue lists all nomenclaturally available and unavailable genus-group and species-group names that have been applied to the above genera and the species included in them, indicating their current nomenclatural status and providing the rigorous nomenclatural basis for future work. The catalogue lists 14 published and nomenclaturally available genus-group names, with the above four treated as valid, the other ten being junior synonyms. There are 42 published species-group names: 36 are valid, two are junior synonyms, four are nomenclaturally unavailable. One additional species, described in Chabaudistrongylus (synonym of Angiostrongylus), is listed as incertae sedis in Angiostrongylidae. Also listed are two unpublished collection names. The catalogue provides bibliographic details for all published names, and for available names provides locations of type material, details of type localities, geographic distributions and details of type and other hosts, both definitive and intermediate, to the extent known. The catalogue is a work of nomenclature, not a revisionary taxonomic work. No new names or new combinations are proposed. The apparently new family-group synonymy of Cardionematinae with Angiostrongylidae is introduced, as are four genus-group synonymies, three with Angiostrongylus and one with Stefaskostrongylus.
Collapse
|
17
|
Penagos-Tabares F, Lange MK, Chaparro-Gutiérrez JJ, Taubert A, Hermosilla C. Angiostrongylus vasorum and Aelurostrongylus abstrusus: Neglected and underestimated parasites in South America. Parasit Vectors 2018; 11:208. [PMID: 29587811 PMCID: PMC5870519 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-018-2765-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2017] [Accepted: 03/04/2018] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The gastropod-borne nematodes Angiostrongylus vasorum and Aelurostrongylus abstrusus are global causes of cardio/pulmonary diseases in dogs and cats. In the last decade, the number of reports on canine and feline lungworms has increased in several areas of Europe and North America. The unspecific clinical signs and prolonged course of these diseases often renders diagnosis challenging. Both infections are considered as emerging and underestimated causes of disease in domestic pets. In South America, little information is available on these diseases, apart from occasional reports proving the principle presence of A. vasorum and A. abstrusus. Thus, the purpose of this review is to summarize reports on infections in both domestic and wildlife animals in South America and to increase the awareness on gastropod-borne metastrongyloid parasites, which also include important zoonotic species, such as A. cantonensis and A. costaricensis. This review highlights the usefulness of diagnostic tools, such as the Baermann funnel technique, serology and PCR, and proposes to include these routinely on cases with clinical suspicion for lungworm infections. Future national epidemiological surveys are recommended to be conducted to gain a deeper insight into the actual epidemiological situation of gastropod-borne parasitoses in South America.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Felipe Penagos-Tabares
- Institute of Parasitology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392, Giessen, Germany. .,CIBAV Research Group, Veterinary Medicine School, University of Antioquia, 050034, Medellin, Colombia.
| | - Malin K Lange
- Institute of Parasitology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | | | - Anja Taubert
- Institute of Parasitology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - Carlos Hermosilla
- Institute of Parasitology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Deak G, Ionică AM, Mihalca AD, Gherman CM. Troglostrongylus brevior: a new parasite for Romania. Parasit Vectors 2017; 10:599. [PMID: 29208009 PMCID: PMC5717812 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-017-2551-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2017] [Accepted: 11/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The genus Troglostrongylus includes nematodes infecting domestic and wild felids. Troglostrongylus brevior was described six decades ago in Palestine and subsequently reported in some European countries (Italy, Spain, Greece, Bulgaria, and Bosnia and Herzegovina). As the diagnosis by the first-stage larvae (L1) may be challenging, there is a possibility of confusion with Aelurostrongylus abstrusus. Hence, the knowledge on the distribution of this neglected feline parasite is still scarce. The present paper reports the first case of T. brevior infection in Romania. In July 2017, a road-killed juvenile male Felis silvestris, was found in in Covasna County, Romania. A full necropsy was performed and the nematodes were collected from the trachea and bronchioles. Parasites were sexed and identified to species level, based on morphometrical features. A classical Baermann method was performed on the lungs and the faeces to collect the metastrongyloid larvae. Genomic DNA was extracted from an adult female nematode. Molecular identification was accomplished with a PCR assay targeting the ITS2 of the rRNA gene. Results Two males and one female nematodes were found in the trachea and bronchioles. They were morphologically and molecularly identified as T. brevior. The first-stage larvae (L1) recovered from the lung tissue and faeces were morphologically consistent with those of T. brevior. No other pulmonary nematodes were identified and no gross pulmonary lesions were observed. Conclusions This paper represents the first report of Troglostrongylus brevior infection in Romania, so far representing the second northernmost location for this genus in Europe. The diversity of species infecting wild and domestic felids and the differences regarding the clinical significance of these nematodes highlight the need for a more intense surveillance and proper diagnosis of feline lungworm infections, especially in countries where more species were demonstrated to be present. Furthermore, an increased awareness between clinicians is needed for a correct diagnostic approach to feline lungworm diagnosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Georgiana Deak
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Calea Mănăștur 3-5, 400372, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
| | - Angela Monica Ionică
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Calea Mănăștur 3-5, 400372, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Andrei Daniel Mihalca
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Calea Mănăștur 3-5, 400372, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Călin Mircea Gherman
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Calea Mănăștur 3-5, 400372, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Larval development of Angiostrongylus chabaudi, the causative agent of feline angiostrongylosis, in the snail Cornu aspersum. Parasitology 2017; 144:1922-1930. [PMID: 28805181 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182017001433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Nematodes of the Angiostrongylidae family, such as Angiostrongylus vasorum and Angiostrongylus cantonensis, may cause potentially life-threatening diseases in several mammal species. Alongside these well-known species, Angiostrongylus chabaudi has been recently found affecting the cardiopulmonary system of domestic and wild cats from Italy, Germany, Greece, Romania and Bulgaria. Nonetheless, significant gaps in the understanding of A. chabaudi epidemiology include the lack of information of species acting as intermediate host and of the morphological description of larval stages. Cornu aspersum (n = 30) land snails were infected with 100 first-stage larvae of A. chabaudi collected from a naturally infected wildcat in Romania. Larvae at different developmental stages were found in 29 out of 30 (96·7%) infected snails and a total of 282 (mean 9·8 ± 3·02 larvae per each specimen) were collected from the gastropods. Here we demonstrate that A. chabaudi develops in snails and report C. aspersum as potential intermediate host for this parasitic nematode. Findings of this study are central to understand the ecological features of feline angiostrongylosis and its epidemiology within paratenic and intermediate hosts.
Collapse
|
20
|
Giannelli A, Capelli G, Joachim A, Hinney B, Losson B, Kirkova Z, René-Martellet M, Papadopoulos E, Farkas R, Napoli E, Brianti E, Tamponi C, Varcasia A, Margarida Alho A, Madeira de Carvalho L, Cardoso L, Maia C, Mircean V, Mihalca AD, Miró G, Schnyder M, Cantacessi C, Colella V, Cavalera MA, Latrofa MS, Annoscia G, Knaus M, Halos L, Beugnet F, Otranto D. Lungworms and gastrointestinal parasites of domestic cats: a European perspective. Int J Parasitol 2017; 47:517-528. [PMID: 28455237 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2017.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2016] [Revised: 02/23/2017] [Accepted: 02/24/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
With the exception of Aelurostrongylus abstrusus, feline lungworms have been poorly studied. Information on their distribution is patchy and mostly limited to case reports. In this study, the occurrence of feline lungworms and co-infecting gastrointestinal parasites has been investigated in 12 European countries (i.e. Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, France, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Portugal, Romania, Spain, Switzerland and the United Kingdom). An average of 10 domestic cats, with regular outdoor access, was sampled each month for 12months, and freshly passed faeces were collected. Stools were processed using a McMaster assay and a quantitative Baermann-Wetzel method. Animals positive for lungworms and/or gastrointestinal parasites were treated with a formulation containing fipronil, (S)-methoprene, eprinomectin, and praziquantel (Broadline®, Merial), and re-sampled 28days post-treatment. The association between lungworm infection and risk factors was analysed using statistical medians/means and the efficacy of the treatment against each lungworm species was assessed. Of 1990 cats sampled, 613 (30.8%) were positive for at least one parasite, while 210 (10.6%) were infected by lungworms. The prevalence of lungworm infection varied between the sampled sites, with the highest recorded in Bulgaria (35.8%) and the lowest in Switzerland (0.8%). None of the cats from Austria or the United Kingdom were infected by lungworms. Aelurostrongylus abstrusus was the species most frequently detected (78.1%), followed by Troglostrongylus brevior (19.5%), Eucoleus aerophilus (14.8%) and Oslerus rostratus (3.8%). The overall efficacy of the treatment was 99% for A. abstrusus and 100% for T. brevior, O. rostratus and E. aerophilus. Data presented provide a comprehensive account of the diagnosis, epidemiology and treatment of feline lungworms in Europe, as well as of the occurrence of co-infections by gastrointestinal parasites.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Animals
- Cat Diseases/drug therapy
- Cat Diseases/epidemiology
- Cat Diseases/parasitology
- Cats
- DNA, Helminth/chemistry
- Europe/epidemiology
- Feces/parasitology
- Female
- Intestinal Diseases, Parasitic/drug therapy
- Intestinal Diseases, Parasitic/epidemiology
- Intestinal Diseases, Parasitic/parasitology
- Intestinal Diseases, Parasitic/veterinary
- Larva/anatomy & histology
- Lung Diseases, Parasitic/drug therapy
- Lung Diseases, Parasitic/epidemiology
- Lung Diseases, Parasitic/parasitology
- Lung Diseases, Parasitic/veterinary
- Male
- Metastrongyloidea/classification
- Metastrongyloidea/genetics
- Metastrongyloidea/isolation & purification
- Parasitic Diseases, Animal/drug therapy
- Parasitic Diseases, Animal/epidemiology
- Parasitic Diseases, Animal/parasitology
- Prevalence
- Risk Factors
- Strongylida Infections/drug therapy
- Strongylida Infections/epidemiology
- Strongylida Infections/parasitology
- Strongylida Infections/veterinary
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alessio Giannelli
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università di Bari, 70010 Valenzano, Bari, Italy
| | - Gioia Capelli
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, 35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - Anja Joachim
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine, A-1210 Vienna, Austria
| | - Barbara Hinney
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine, A-1210 Vienna, Austria
| | - Bertrand Losson
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liège, B-4000 Liège, Belgium
| | - Zvezdelina Kirkova
- Department of Parasitology, Trakia University, 6000 Stara Zagora, Bulgaria
| | - Magalie René-Martellet
- Laboratoirede Parasitologie et Maladies Parasitaires, VetAgro Sup campus vétérinaire de Lyon, UR 0346 EPIA, INRA, 69280 Marcy l'Etoile, France
| | - Elias Papadopoulos
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Aristotle University, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Róbert Farkas
- Department of Parasitology and Zoology, University of Veterinary Medicine, 1078 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Ettore Napoli
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie, Università di Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Emanuele Brianti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie, Università di Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Claudia Tamponi
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università di Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Antonio Varcasia
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università di Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Ana Margarida Alho
- Interdisciplinary Animal Health Research Centre (CIISA), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Luís Madeira de Carvalho
- Interdisciplinary Animal Health Research Centre (CIISA), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Luís Cardoso
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro (UTAD), 5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Carla Maia
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine, GHTM, Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical, IHMT, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, UNL, 1349-008 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Viorica Mircean
- Department of Parasitology, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Andrei Daniel Mihalca
- Department of Parasitology, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Guadalupe Miró
- Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Manuela Schnyder
- Institute of Parasitology University of Zurich, 8006 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Cinzia Cantacessi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, CB3 0ES Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Vito Colella
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università di Bari, 70010 Valenzano, Bari, Italy
| | | | | | - Giada Annoscia
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università di Bari, 70010 Valenzano, Bari, Italy
| | - Martin Knaus
- Merial GmbH, Kathrinenhof Research Center, 83101 Rohrdorf, Germany
| | - Lénaïg Halos
- Merial SAS, 29 Avenue Tony Garnier, 69007 Lyon, France
| | | | - Domenico Otranto
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università di Bari, 70010 Valenzano, Bari, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Traversa D, Veronesi F, Diakou A, Iorio R, Simonato G, Marcer F, Di Cesare A. Mitochondrial haplotypes of Aelurostrongylus abstrusus and Troglostrongylus brevior (Nematoda, Metastrongyloidea) from domestic and wild felids. Parasitol Res 2017; 116:1227-1235. [PMID: 28197762 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-017-5399-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2017] [Accepted: 02/03/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The lungworm Aelurostrongylus abstrusus is the most important respiratory parasite of domestic cats. Pulmonary aelurostrongylosis has been reported in wild felids, though unequivocally evidence of wildlife infection by A. abstrusus is scant. Recently, Troglostrongylus brevior, a lungworm usually infecting wild felids, has been described in domestic cats from Mediterranean areas. The present work evaluates the sequence variation of an informative region within the gene encoding the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 of A. abstrusus and T. brevior, in order to provide novel information on the genetic make-up of these lungworms. Parasitic stages of A. abstrusus and T. brevior were collected from domestic and wild hosts (i.e., domestic cat, European wildcat, caracal, serval, and lion) from Italy, Greece, and South Africa. Five (HI-HV) and four (HI-HIV) haplotypes were recorded for A. abstrusus and T. brevior, respectively, mostly shared between domestic and wild felids in different geographical areas. The phylogenetic analysis showed that all haplotypes of A. abstrusus and T. brevior clustered as monophyletic groups with a strong nodal support, indicating that all haplotypes identified were distinct from each other. All sequence types represent two distinct species, A. abstrusus and T. brevior, and these genetic convergences are also detected within and among populations of these nematodes, irrespective of their hosts and geographical origin. The occurrence of A. abstrusus and T. brevior haplotypes in different hosts from the same regions and between different countries indicates that the same lungworm populations circulate in domestic and wild hosts under the same routes of transmission.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Donato Traversa
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Località Piano D'Accio, snc, Teramo, Italy.
| | - Fabrizia Veronesi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine of Perugia, Via San Costanzo 4, 06126, Perugia, Italy
| | - Anastasia Diakou
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Raffaella Iorio
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Località Piano D'Accio, snc, Teramo, Italy
| | - Giulia Simonato
- Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padua, Viale dell'Università 16, Legnaro, Padua, Italy
| | - Federica Marcer
- Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padua, Viale dell'Università 16, Legnaro, Padua, Italy
| | - Angela Di Cesare
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Località Piano D'Accio, snc, Teramo, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Deak G, Gherman CM, Ionică AM, Daskalaki AA, Matei IA, D'Amico G, Domşa C, Pantchev N, Mihalca AD, Cozma V. Use of a commercial serologic test for Angiostrongylus vasorum for the detection of A. chabaudi in wildcats and A. daskalovi in badgers. Vet Parasitol 2016; 233:107-110. [PMID: 28043379 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2016.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2016] [Revised: 12/04/2016] [Accepted: 12/10/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Three species of the genus Angiostrongylus are known to infect European carnivores: A. vasorum (mainly in canids but also in other carnivores), A. chabaudi (in felids) and A. daskalovi (in mustelids). A. vasorum is responsible for clinically severe disease in domestic dogs, most commonly diagnosed based on fecal examination and serological detection of circulating antigens. Considering the poorly known host range and the challenging larval differentiation in the feces between the three species of Angiostrongylus infecting European carnivores, our aim was to evaluate the cross-reactivity of A. chabaudi and A. daskalovi with A. vasorum using a commercial serologic test developed for domestic dogs. Badgers (Meles meles) (n=10) and wildcats (Felis silvestris) (n=8) were examined between 2015 and 2016 by full parasitological necropsy with subsequent morphological and molecular identification of nematodes and by serology, using IDEXX Angio Detect™ tests. Five out of the ten badgers and two out of the eight wildcats were harboring nematodes in the pulmonary arteries. All nematodes were identified morphologically as A. daskalovi in badgers and A. chabaudi in wildcats, respectively. Serological examination of the plasma samples revealed the positivity of the same animals as found in necropsy. None of the animals negative at necropsy was positive at serology. The 100% correlation between the necropsy results and the serologic positivity to IDEXX Angio Detect™ in badgers infected with A. daskalovi and wildcats infected with A. chabaudi suggest that these rapid tests are able to identify circulating antigens of all species of Angiostrongylus found in European carnivores: A. vasorum, A. daskalovi and A. chabaudi. The possibility for future in-clinic use of this test in domestic cats should be further investigated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Georgiana Deak
- University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Calea Mănăștur 3-5, Cluj-Napoca 400372, Romania
| | - Călin Mircea Gherman
- University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Calea Mănăștur 3-5, Cluj-Napoca 400372, Romania.
| | - Angela Monica Ionică
- University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Calea Mănăștur 3-5, Cluj-Napoca 400372, Romania
| | - Aikaterini Alexandra Daskalaki
- University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Calea Mănăștur 3-5, Cluj-Napoca 400372, Romania
| | - Ioana Adriana Matei
- University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Calea Mănăștur 3-5, Cluj-Napoca 400372, Romania
| | - Gianluca D'Amico
- University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Calea Mănăștur 3-5, Cluj-Napoca 400372, Romania
| | - Cristian Domşa
- University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Calea Mănăștur 3-5, Cluj-Napoca 400372, Romania
| | - Nikola Pantchev
- IDEXX Laboratories, Moerikestr. 28/3, D-71636 Ludwigsburg, Germany
| | - Andrei Daniel Mihalca
- University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Calea Mănăștur 3-5, Cluj-Napoca 400372, Romania
| | - Vasile Cozma
- University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Calea Mănăștur 3-5, Cluj-Napoca 400372, Romania
| |
Collapse
|