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Pekmezci D, Yildirim A, Kot ZN, Konacoglu GN, Duzlu O, Yetismis G, Uslu S, Toz S, Ozbel Y, Inci A, Pekmezci GZ. First Molecular Evidence of Leishmania Infantum in Domestic Cats and Associated Risk Factors from the Black Sea Region of Türkiye. Acta Parasitol 2024; 69:1547-1554. [PMID: 39164546 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-024-00885-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/30/2024] [Indexed: 08/22/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE The objectives of the present study are to determine the molecular prevalence of Leishmania spp. in the owned domestic cats in the Black Sea Region of Türkiye and analyze the associated risk factors in FeL. METHODS Conjunctival swabs (CS), blood, demographic, and clinical data were collected from 150 owned cats brought to the Veterinary Teaching Hospital during 2020-2022. Leishmania kinetoplast DNA (kDNA) from CS was screened by TaqMan Real-Time PCR (qPCR) with the genus-specific primers and a probe. RESULTS All qPCR positive products were also amplified and sequenced to identify Leishmania species by ITS1 primers. Molecular prevalence of L. infantum found as 12.6% (19/150) in the observed cats in the Black Sea Region of Türkiye. There was a significant difference (p < 0.05) between neutered and intact cats with regarding to L. infantum positivity. Intact cats found to be 0.368 times more prone to be L. infantum-positive (L+). Dermatological lesions were found the most common (26.3%) problems in the L + cats. The median leucocyte count was the only parameter that was found statistically (p < 0.05) lower in the L + group (6.60) than the negative group (L-) (8.96), when comparing the WBC, NEU/LYM, MONO/LYM, EOS/LYM and PLT/LYM values. CONCLUSION This study presented the molecular occurrence of FeL in the Black Sea Region of Türkiye for the first time indicating that the carrier status of the cats makes them alternative reservoirs for possible zoonotic transmission of L. infantum in this zone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Didem Pekmezci
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ondokuz Mayis, Samsun, Turkey.
| | - Alparslan Yildirim
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Erciyes, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Zeynep Nurselin Kot
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ondokuz Mayis, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Gamze Nur Konacoglu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ondokuz Mayis, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Onder Duzlu
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Erciyes, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Gamze Yetismis
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Erciyes, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Sadullah Uslu
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Erciyes, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Seray Toz
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ege, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Yusuf Ozbel
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ege, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Abdullah Inci
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Erciyes, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Gokmen Zafer Pekmezci
- Preclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ondokuz Mayis, Samsun, Turkey
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Lima CM, Bourquia M, Zahri A, Haissen N, Santarém N, Cardoso L, Cordeiro da Silva A. Veterinary perspectives on the urbanization of leishmaniosis in Morocco. Parasit Vectors 2024; 17:348. [PMID: 39160608 PMCID: PMC11334585 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-024-06411-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 08/21/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Leishmaniosis caused by Leishmania infantum, L. major and L. tropica is endemic in Morocco. Growing evidence of both human and canine Leishmania infections in urban centres has been reported. Since many forms of the disease are zoonotic, veterinarians play an important role in leishmaniosis control by intervening at the parasite host level. This study aimed to bring together One Health principles to connect canine and feline leishmaniosis epidemiology within urban centres of Morocco (Rabat and Fez) and assess the level of awareness of Moroccan veterinarians about facing this threat. METHODS A molecular survey was conducted for Leishmania DNA detection in canine (n = 155) and feline (n = 32) whole-blood samples. Three conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) protocols were implemented. The first PCR aimed at identifying infected animals by targeting Leishmania spp. kinetoplast minicircle DNA (kDNA). The second and third PCR targeted the Leishmania internal transcribed spacer region (ITS-1) and the Leishmania small subunit ribosomal RNA (SSUrRNA) gene, respectively, aiming at identification of the infecting species after Sanger sequencing-positive amplicons. Total immunoglobulin G (IgG) against Leishmania spp. was evaluated in 125 dogs by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) using an in-house protocol, including three Leishmania-specific antigens (SPLA, rKDDR and LicTXNPx). Sera from 25 cats were screened for total IgG to Leishmania spp. by an indirect immunofluorescence antibody test (IFAT). An online questionnaire was presented to Moroccan veterinarians addressing their knowledge and practices towards animal leishmaniosis. RESULTS Overall, 19.4% of the dogs tested positive for Leishmania kDNA and ITS-1 and sequencing revealed infection with L. infantum among PCR-positive dogs. These animals presented a wide range of ELISA seropositivity results (16.7%, 34.9% and 51.6%) according to the tested antigens (rKDDR, SPLA and LicTXNPx, respectively). Use of kDNA-PCR revealed 12.5% cats positive to Leishmania spp. otherwise found to be seronegative by IFAT. CONCLUSIONS A considerable prevalence of infection was identified in dogs from urban centres of Morocco. Additionally, this is the first report of feline infection with Leishmania spp. in this country and in urban settings. Moroccan veterinarians are aware that animal leishmaniosis is endemic in Morocco, representing a public health threat, and are knowledgeable about canine leishmaniosis diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara M Lima
- Host-Parasite Interaction Group, i3S, Institute for Research and Innovation in Health, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Microbiology Laboratory, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Maria Bourquia
- Unité de Parasitologie et Maladies Parasitaires, Département de Pathologie et Santé Publique Vétérinaires, Institut Agronomique et Vétérinaire Hassan II, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Abderrahmane Zahri
- Unité de Parasitologie et Maladies Parasitaires, Département de Pathologie et Santé Publique Vétérinaires, Institut Agronomique et Vétérinaire Hassan II, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Nada Haissen
- Unité de Parasitologie et Maladies Parasitaires, Département de Pathologie et Santé Publique Vétérinaires, Institut Agronomique et Vétérinaire Hassan II, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Nuno Santarém
- Host-Parasite Interaction Group, i3S, Institute for Research and Innovation in Health, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Microbiology Laboratory, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Luís Cardoso
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, and Animal and Veterinary Research Centre (CECAV), University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Vila Real, Portugal.
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS), Vila Real, Portugal.
| | - Anabela Cordeiro da Silva
- Host-Parasite Interaction Group, i3S, Institute for Research and Innovation in Health, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Microbiology Laboratory, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
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Carbonara M, Iatta R, Miró G, Montoya A, Benelli G, Mendoza-Roldan JA, Papadopoulos E, Lima C, Bouhsira E, Nachum-Biala Y, Decaro N, Schunack B, Baneth G, Otranto D. Feline leishmaniosis in the Mediterranean Basin: a multicenter study. Parasit Vectors 2024; 17:346. [PMID: 39160611 PMCID: PMC11331770 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-024-06419-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 08/21/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cats are now recognized as competent hosts for Leishmania infantum and a blood source for sand fly vectors. Although canine leishmaniosis (CanL) is endemic in Mediterranean Basin countries, large-scale epidemiological studies are lacking for feline leishmaniosis (FeL). This study aimed to assess the prevalence of L. infantum infections, associated risk factors, clinical signs, and clinicopathological abnormalities in domestic cat populations from six Mediterranean Basin countries. METHODS From 2019 to 2022, blood and serum samples of cats (n = 2067) living in Italy (n = 300), Greece (n = 297), Portugal (n = 295), France (n = 231), Israel (n = 313), and Spain (n = 631) were collected along with animal data (i.e., age, sex, breed, housing conditions, and geographical origin), clinical signs, and laboratory blood test parameters. Cats were grouped according to their age as kittens (up to 1 year), young (older than 1 and younger than 7 years), mature (between 7 and 10 years), and senior (older than 10 years). Serum samples were tested for L. infantum by immunofluorescence antibody test (IFAT) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and blood samples of seropositive cats were tested for L. infantum kinetoplast deoxyribonucleic acid (kDNA). Viral infection by feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and feline leukemia virus (FeLV) was molecularly addressed in all cats enrolled. Statistical analysis was performed to evaluate the association between the risk of L. infantum infection and independent variables, and among co-infection of L. infantum with FIV and/or FeLV, clinical signs, and clinicopathological abnormalities. RESULTS Overall, 17.3% (358/2067) of cats scored positive for L. infantum by serological tests. Specifically, 24.7% were from Portugal, 23.2% from Greece, 16.6% from Israel, 15% from Spain, 13.3% from France, and 12.6% from Italy. Leishmania infantum DNA was detected in 15 seropositive animals. Housing condition and FIV infection proved to be risk factors for FeL. Leishmania seropositivity was significantly associated with weight loss, lymphadenomegaly, gingivostomatitis, and oral ulcers, as well as with reduced albumin and albumin/globulin ratio, increased total globulins and total proteins, leukocytosis, and thrombocytosis. CONCLUSIONS This study provides, for the first time, a large-scale epidemiological survey on FeL and its clinical presentation, revealing that L. infantum circulates among domestic cats, especially shelter/free-roaming and FIV-infected animals, living in CanL endemic countries of the Mediterranean Basin.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Roberta Iatta
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Guadalupe Miró
- Animal Health Department, Veterinary Faculty, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Montoya
- Animal Health Department, Veterinary Faculty, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Giovanni Benelli
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Elias Papadopoulos
- Department of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases and Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Clara Lima
- Department of Biological Sciences, Microbiology Laboratory, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Emilie Bouhsira
- InTheres, Université de Toulouse, INRAE, ENVT, Toulouse, France
| | | | - Nicola Decaro
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | | | - Gad Baneth
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Hebrew University, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Domenico Otranto
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari, Bari, Italy.
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.
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Donato G, Caspanello T, Caprì A, De Majo M, Iannelli NM, Rosace F, Bruno F, Castelli G, Pennisi MG, Masucci M. The erythrocyte sedimentation rate and other markers of inflammation in cats tested for Leishmania infantum and feline immunodeficiency virus antibodies. Parasit Vectors 2024; 17:324. [PMID: 39080701 PMCID: PMC11290220 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-024-06396-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In endemic areas, Leishmania infantum and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) co-infection occurs in cats, and may favour a progressive course of feline leishmaniosis. Abnormalities in serum protein fractions have been reported, but inflammation markers have scarcely been studied. Erythrocyte sediment rate (ESR) is a marker of inflammation that is poorly used in veterinary medicine, but it has been evaluated in EDTA blood using a recently introduced automatic device. We studied ESR and a pool of feline markers of inflammation (MoI) in cats L. infantum (Li+) and/or FIV antibody-positive (Li+FIV+/FIV+) with the aims (a) to evaluate ESR as MoI in cats with the infectious and clinical conditions considered and (b) to provide data about a pool of MoI never investigated in the feline infections studied and in other cat diseases before. METHODS This prospective controlled study included 35 study group cats (Li+, n = 20; FIV +, n = 8; Li+FIV+, n = 7) and ten healthy antibody-negative control cats. Clinical findings at physical examination and selected clinical pathological abnormalities related to inflammation were statistically analysed in relation to the infectious status and ESR values. RESULTS ESR values were higher in Li+, FIV+, and Li+FIV+ cats compared with control cats, and 40% of the study group cats had ESR values above the reference interval (RI). ESR positively correlated with some positive MoI and negatively with some negative MoI studied. Additionally, a higher prevalence of ESR values above the RI has been detected in cats with hypoalbuminemia or hypergammaglobulinemia and higher ESR values were measured in cats with serum protein electrophoresis (SPE) fraction abnormalities. Correlations were also found with erythrocytes, hemoglobin, hematocrit and some erythrocyte indices. FIV+ and Li+FIV+ cats had a higher prevalence of increased ESR values, and almost all had SPE abnormalities and more severe clinical presentations compared with Li+ cats. CONCLUSIONS Abnormal levels of MoI were found in almost all parameters studied, particularly in FIV+ and Li+FIV+ cats. Also, ESR can be used as a marker of inflammation in cats with L. infantum and/or FIV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Donato
- Università di Messina, Messina, Italy
- ASC "I Periodeuti", Reggio Calabria, Italy
| | - Tiziana Caspanello
- Università di Messina, Messina, Italy
- ASC "I Periodeuti", Reggio Calabria, Italy
| | - Alessandra Caprì
- ASC "I Periodeuti", Reggio Calabria, Italy
- Clinica Veterinaria Camagna-VetPartners, Reggio Calabria, Italy
| | - Massimo De Majo
- Università di Messina, Messina, Italy
- ASC "I Periodeuti", Reggio Calabria, Italy
| | - Nicola Maria Iannelli
- Università di Messina, Messina, Italy
- ASC "I Periodeuti", Reggio Calabria, Italy
- Clinica Veterinaria Camagna-VetPartners, Reggio Calabria, Italy
| | - Flavia Rosace
- Università di Messina, Messina, Italy
- ASC "I Periodeuti", Reggio Calabria, Italy
- Clinica Veterinaria Camagna-VetPartners, Reggio Calabria, Italy
| | - Federica Bruno
- National Reference Center for Leishmaniasis (C.Re.Na.L.), Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia, Palermo, Italy
| | - Germano Castelli
- National Reference Center for Leishmaniasis (C.Re.Na.L.), Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia, Palermo, Italy
| | | | - Marisa Masucci
- Università di Messina, Messina, Italy
- ASC "I Periodeuti", Reggio Calabria, Italy
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Barbosa WZ, Magalhães KA, Pussi KF, Lima MSDC, Neitzke-Abreu HC. Feline immunodeficiency virus, feline leukemia virus and Leishmania spp. prevalence in cats from shelters in Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA = BRAZILIAN JOURNAL OF VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY : ORGAO OFICIAL DO COLEGIO BRASILEIRO DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA 2024; 33:e006324. [PMID: 38958295 PMCID: PMC11253815 DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612024035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
Diseases such as those caused by feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and feline leukemia virus (FeLV) represent health problems for cats. Feline leishmaniasis (FL) has been reported in several cities across the country. The objective was to carry out a clinical-epidemiological and laboratory study of FIV, FeLV and FL in cats from shelters in Dourados, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. Blood samples and swabs from the conjunctival and nasal mucosa were obtained from 75 cats, from four animal shelters. Serology for FIV and FeLV was performed. For Leishmania, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed on blood, conjunctiva and nasal mucosa. In the immunochromatographic serological test, seven cats tested positive for FIV and none for FeLV. No samples was positive in PCR for Leishmania. The study showed that despite the presence of human and canine leishmaniasis in the studied region, Leishmania spp. were absent in the cats studied. To avoid an increase in contagion in shelters, it is essential isolate cats with FIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Walderson Zuza Barbosa
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Faculdade de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal da Grande Dourados – UFGD, Dourados, MS, Brasil
| | - Karen Araújo Magalhães
- Faculdade de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal da Grande Dourados – UFGD, Dourados, MS, Brasil
| | - Kamily Fagundes Pussi
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Faculdade de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal da Grande Dourados – UFGD, Dourados, MS, Brasil
| | | | - Herintha Coeto Neitzke-Abreu
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Faculdade de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal da Grande Dourados – UFGD, Dourados, MS, Brasil
- Faculdade de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal da Grande Dourados – UFGD, Dourados, MS, Brasil
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Nascimento LFDJ, Amado-Gomes AC, Dantas-Torres F, Santos FLN, Neres WDS, Filho PEDS, Santos MT, Silva JRS, Resende CF, Dos Reis JKP, Jain S, Cunha JLR, Fujiwara RT, Dolabella SS. Feline leishmaniasis in an animal shelter in northeastern Brazil: Clinical aspects, coinfections, molecular detection, and serological study of a new recombinant protein. Res Vet Sci 2024; 172:105256. [PMID: 38613921 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2024.105256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2024]
Abstract
Infection and clinical cases of leishmaniasis caused by Leishmania infantum in cats have been increasingly reported in several countries, including Brazil. In this study, we used an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and an immunochromatographic test (ICT) based on a recombinant antigen (rKDDR-plus) to detect anti-Leishmania antibodies in cats from an animal shelter in northeastern Brazil. We compared the results with an ELISA using L. infantum crude antigen (ELISA-CA). We also investigated the presence of Leishmania DNA in blood or ocular conjunctival samples as well as the association between Leishmania PCR positivity and serological positivity to feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), feline leukemia virus (FeLV) and Toxoplasma gondii. Concerning serological assays, a higher positivity was detected using the ICT-rKDDR-plus (7.5%; 7/93) as compared to ELISA-rKDDR-plus (5.4%; 5/93) and ELISA-CA (4.3%; 4/93). Upon PCR testing, 52.7% (49/93) of the ocular conjunctival swabs and 48.3% (44/91) of the blood samples were positive. Together, PCR and serological testing revealed overall positivities of 73.1% (68/93) and 12.9% (12/93), respectively. Among PCR-positive samples, 45.5% (31/68) showed co-infection with FIV, 17.6% (12/68) with FeLV, and 82.3% (56/68) with T. gondii. More than half of the PCR-positive cats showed at least one clinical sign suggestive of leishmaniasis (58.8%; 40/68) and dermatological signs were the most frequent ones (45.5%; 31/68). Both tests employing the recombinant antigen rKDDR-plus (i.e., ICT-rKDDR-plus and ELISA-rKDDR-plus) detected more positive cats than the ELISA-CA but presented low overall accuracy. PCR testing using either blood or ocular conjunctival samples detected much more positive cats than serological tests.
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MESH Headings
- Cats
- Animals
- Cat Diseases/diagnosis
- Cat Diseases/parasitology
- Cat Diseases/virology
- Cat Diseases/blood
- Cat Diseases/epidemiology
- Brazil/epidemiology
- Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay/veterinary
- Immunodeficiency Virus, Feline/isolation & purification
- Coinfection/veterinary
- Coinfection/parasitology
- Coinfection/epidemiology
- Coinfection/virology
- Leishmania infantum/isolation & purification
- Leukemia Virus, Feline/genetics
- Leukemia Virus, Feline/immunology
- Recombinant Proteins
- Male
- Female
- Toxoplasma
- Antibodies, Protozoan/blood
- Leishmaniasis, Visceral/veterinary
- Leishmaniasis, Visceral/diagnosis
- Leishmaniasis, Visceral/epidemiology
- Leishmaniasis, Visceral/blood
- Polymerase Chain Reaction/veterinary
- Toxoplasmosis, Animal/diagnosis
- Toxoplasmosis, Animal/epidemiology
- Toxoplasmosis, Animal/blood
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Fred Luciano Neves Santos
- Integrated Translational Program in Chagas Disease from Fiocruz (Fio-Chagas), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz-RJ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Advanced Public Health Laboratory, Gonçalo Moniz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Salvador, Brazil
| | - Wemerson de Santana Neres
- Graduate Program in Physiological Sciences, Federal University of Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, Brazil
| | | | - Mariana Tibúrcio Santos
- Graduate Program in Parasite Biology, Federal University of Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, Brazil
| | | | - Cláudia Fideles Resende
- Department of Veterinary Preventive Medicine, Veterinary School, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | | | - Sona Jain
- Graduate Program in Parasite Biology, Federal University of Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, Brazil; Graduate Program in Industrial Biotechnology, Tiradentes University, SE, Brazil
| | - João Luís Reis Cunha
- York Biomedical Research Institute and Department of Biology, University of York, York, United Kingdom
| | - Ricardo Toshio Fujiwara
- Graduate Program in Parasite Biology, Federal University of Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, Brazil; Department of Parasitology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.
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Tsakmakidis I, Lefkaditis M, Zaralis K, Arsenos G. Alternative hosts of Leishmania infantum: a neglected parasite in Europe. Trop Anim Health Prod 2024; 56:128. [PMID: 38630347 PMCID: PMC11189345 DOI: 10.1007/s11250-024-03978-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
Multi-host pathogens that infect various animal species and humans are considered of great importance for public and animal health. Leishmania spp. parasites are a characteristic example of such pathogens. Although leishmaniosis in humans is endemic for about 100 countries around the world it is classified as a neglected tropical disease. There are three main forms of leishmaniosis in humans: cutaneous (CL), visceral (VL) and mucocutaneous leishmaniosis (MCL). Each year, about 30,000 new cases of VL and more than 1 million new cases of CL are recorded. In Europe L. infantum is the dominant species with dogs being reservoir hosts. Apart from dogs, infection has been recorded in various animals, which suggests that other species could play a role in the maintenance of the parasite in nature. Herein we provide an in-depth review of the literature with respect to studies that deal with Leishmania infantum infections in domestic and wild animal species in Europe. Given the fact that domesticated and wild animals could contribute to the incidences of leishmaniosis in humans, the aim of this paper is to provide a comprehensive review which could potentially be used for the development of measures when it comes to the control of the Leishmania infantum parasite.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis Tsakmakidis
- School of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Agriculture, University of Western Macedonia, end of Kontopoulou str, Florina, 53100, Greece
| | | | - Konstantinos Zaralis
- School of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Agriculture, University of Western Macedonia, end of Kontopoulou str, Florina, 53100, Greece.
| | - Georgios Arsenos
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
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Bezerra JAB, Haisi A, Rocha GDS, Lima SG, Brasil AWDL, Tomaz KLR, Fornazari F, Langoni H, Araújo Junior JP, Antunes JMADP, de Azevedo SS. Coinfection with Leishmania infantum and Toxoplasma gondii in Domestic Cats from a Region with a High Prevalence of Feline Immunodeficiency Virus. Microorganisms 2023; 12:71. [PMID: 38257898 PMCID: PMC10820695 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12010071] [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: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the coinfection of feline retroviruses (feline immunodeficiency virus-FIV, and the feline leukemia virus-FeLV) with Leishmania infantum and Toxoplasma gondii and the factors associated with these pathogens in domestic cats from Mossoró, a city endemic for canine and human leishmaniasis situated in the semiarid region of Northeast Brazil. Blood samples from 120 cats were collected, and an epidemiological questionnaire was applied to investigate the risk factors associated with the infections. Retroviruses, L. infantum, and T. gondii infections were assessed using a point-of-care ELISA and quantitative PCR (qPCR), indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT) and qPCR, and IFAT, respectively. The overall seroprevalences observed were 35% (95% CI = 27.0-43.8%) for FIV, 0.8% (95% CI = 0.1-4.5%) for FeLV, 25.8% (95% CI = 18.8-34.3%) for T. gondii, and 4.2% (95% CI = 1.7-9.3%) for L. infantum. Coinfection with FIV and L. infantum was observed in 2.5% (3/120) of the assessed cats, while 12.5% (15/120) were coinfected with FIV and T. gondii. No significant association was found among the investigated agents (p > 0.05). The factors associated with FIV infection in the multivariable analysis were male sex and age above 78 months. The findings of this study demonstrated a high rate of FIV infection in cats from the Brazilian semiarid region and the exposure of these animals to zoonotic and opportunistic agents. Due to the immunosuppressive potential of FIV, cats infected with this retrovirus should be screened for coinfections with L. infantum and T. gondii, and preventative measures should be adopted.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Artur Brilhante Bezerra
- Centro de Saúde e Tecnologia Rural, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande (UFCG), Av. Universitária, s/n, Santa Cecília, Patos 58708-110, Brazil;
| | - Amanda Haisi
- Instituto de Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Alameda das Tecomarias, s/n, Chácara Capão Bonito, Botucatu 18607-440, Brazil; (A.H.); (J.P.A.J.)
| | - Gabrielle dos Santos Rocha
- Departamento de Produção Animal e Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Rua Prof. Doutor Walter Mauricio Correa, s/n, Rubião Júnior, Botucatu 18618-681, Brazil; (G.d.S.R.); (S.G.L.); (F.F.); (H.L.)
| | - Suellen Gonçalves Lima
- Departamento de Produção Animal e Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Rua Prof. Doutor Walter Mauricio Correa, s/n, Rubião Júnior, Botucatu 18618-681, Brazil; (G.d.S.R.); (S.G.L.); (F.F.); (H.L.)
| | - Arthur Willian de Lima Brasil
- Departamento de Morfologia, Universidade Federal da Paraíba (UFPB), Cidade Universitária, s/n, Campus I, Castelo Branco, João Pessoa 58051-900, Brazil;
| | - Klívio Loreno Raulino Tomaz
- Hospital Veterinário Jerônimo Dix-Huit Rosado Maia, Universidade Federal Rural do Semi-Árido (UFERSA), Av. Francisco Mota, 572, Costa e Silva, Mossoro 59625-900, Brazil;
| | - Felipe Fornazari
- Departamento de Produção Animal e Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Rua Prof. Doutor Walter Mauricio Correa, s/n, Rubião Júnior, Botucatu 18618-681, Brazil; (G.d.S.R.); (S.G.L.); (F.F.); (H.L.)
| | - Helio Langoni
- Departamento de Produção Animal e Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Rua Prof. Doutor Walter Mauricio Correa, s/n, Rubião Júnior, Botucatu 18618-681, Brazil; (G.d.S.R.); (S.G.L.); (F.F.); (H.L.)
| | - João Pessoa Araújo Junior
- Instituto de Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Alameda das Tecomarias, s/n, Chácara Capão Bonito, Botucatu 18607-440, Brazil; (A.H.); (J.P.A.J.)
| | - João Marcelo Azevedo de Paula Antunes
- Hospital Veterinário Jerônimo Dix-Huit Rosado Maia, Universidade Federal Rural do Semi-Árido (UFERSA), Av. Francisco Mota, 572, Costa e Silva, Mossoro 59625-900, Brazil;
| | - Sérgio Santos de Azevedo
- Centro de Saúde e Tecnologia Rural, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande (UFCG), Av. Universitária, s/n, Santa Cecília, Patos 58708-110, Brazil;
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9
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Villanueva-Saz S, Martínez M, Nijhof AM, Gerst B, Gentil M, Müller E, Fernández A, González A, Yusuf MSM, Greco G, Verde M, Sgroi G, Lacasta D, Marteles D, Trotta M, Schäfer I. Molecular survey on vector-borne pathogens in clinically healthy stray cats in Zaragoza (Spain). Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:428. [PMID: 37986028 PMCID: PMC10662132 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-06046-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Europe, feline vector-borne infections are gaining importance because of the changing climate, expanding habitats of potential vectors and expanding pathogen reservoirs. The main objective of this study was to assess the prevalence of vector-borne pathogens (VBPs) in stray cats in Zaragoza, Spain, and to investigate potential risk factors for infection, including feline leukaemia virus (FeLV) and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV). METHODS Blood samples from stray cats presented to the veterinary faculty in Zaragoza between February 2020 and 2022 were tested by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for the presence of Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Anaplasma platys, Bartonella henselae, Ehrlichia canis, Rickettsia spp., haemotropic Mycoplasma spp., Hepatozoon spp., Leishmania infantum, piroplasms and microfilariae at the LABOKLIN laboratory. The cats were also tested for FeLV and FIV by PCR. RESULTS Nearly half of the cats (158/332, 47.6%) were positive for at least one VBP. Hepatozoon spp. were detected in 25.6%, haemotropic Mycoplasma spp. in 22.9%, B. henselae in 9.3% and L. infantum in 2.1% of the cats. Male sex had a statistically significant association with test results for haemotropic Mycoplasma spp. (odds ratio 1.38 [1.21;1.57]); regionality with Hepatozoon spp., B. henseale and FIV; and seasonality with Hepatozoon spp., haemotropic Mycoplasma spp., L. infantum and FeLV (P ≤ 0.05 each). A strong positive correlation was reported for the amount of rainfall and the number of cats that tested positive for Hepatozoon spp. (ρ = 753, P = 0.05). None of the cats tested positive for A. phagocytophilum, A. platys, E. canis, Rickettsia spp., piroplasms, or microfilariae. Co-infections with multiple VBPs were detected in 56 out of 332 cats (16.9%). Thirty-one of the 332 cats included in the study (9.3%) tested positive for FeLV (6.9%) and for FIV (3.6%). In 20/31 cats (64.5%) that tested positive for FeLV/FIV, coinfections with VBP were detected (P = 0.048, OR 2.15 [0.99; 4.64]). CONCLUSIONS VBPs were frequently detected in stray cats in Zaragoza. In particular, regionality and seasonality had a statistically significant association with PCR results for most VBPs included in the study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Villanueva-Saz
- Immunology Laboratory, Zaragoza Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain.
- Animal Pathology Department, Zaragoza Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain.
- Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón‑IA2 (Universidad de Saragossa‑CITA), Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain.
| | - Marivi Martínez
- Immunology Laboratory, Zaragoza Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
- Animal Pathology Department, Zaragoza Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Ard M Nijhof
- Institute for Parasitology and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Robert-Von-Ostertag-Straße 7, 14163, Berlin, Germany
- Veterinary Centre for Resistance Research, Freie Universität Berlin, 14163, Berlin, Germany
| | - Bastian Gerst
- Institute for Parasitology and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Robert-Von-Ostertag-Straße 7, 14163, Berlin, Germany
- Veterinary Centre for Resistance Research, Freie Universität Berlin, 14163, Berlin, Germany
| | - Michaela Gentil
- LABOKLIN GmbH and Co. KG, Steubenstraße 4, 97688, Bad Kissingen, Germany
| | - Elisabeth Müller
- LABOKLIN GmbH and Co. KG, Steubenstraße 4, 97688, Bad Kissingen, Germany
| | - Antonio Fernández
- Immunology Laboratory, Zaragoza Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
- Animal Pathology Department, Zaragoza Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Ana González
- Hospital Veterinario Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Mohamed Sh Mohamud Yusuf
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", 70010, Valenzano, Metropolitan City of Bari, Italy
| | - Grazia Greco
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", 70010, Valenzano, Metropolitan City of Bari, Italy
| | - Maite Verde
- Immunology Laboratory, Zaragoza Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
- Animal Pathology Department, Zaragoza Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
- Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón‑IA2 (Universidad de Saragossa‑CITA), Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Giovanni Sgroi
- Department of Animal Health, Experimental Zooprophylatic Institute of Southern Italy, Portici, 80055, Naples, Italy
| | - Delia Lacasta
- Immunology Laboratory, Zaragoza Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
- Animal Pathology Department, Zaragoza Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
- Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón‑IA2 (Universidad de Saragossa‑CITA), Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Diana Marteles
- Immunology Laboratory, Zaragoza Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
- Animal Pathology Department, Zaragoza Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
- Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón‑IA2 (Universidad de Saragossa‑CITA), Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Michele Trotta
- Immunology Laboratory, Zaragoza Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Ingo Schäfer
- LABOKLIN GmbH and Co. KG, Steubenstraße 4, 97688, Bad Kissingen, Germany.
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Spada E, Castelli G, Bruno F, Vitale F, La Russa F, Biondi V, Accettulli S, Migliazzo A, Rossi A, Perego R, Baggiani L, Proverbio D. FeliLeish: An Update on Feline Leishmaniosis and Factors Associated with Infection in Different Feline Populations from Italy. Pathogens 2023; 12:1351. [PMID: 38003815 PMCID: PMC10674793 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12111351] [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: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Feline leishmaniosis is a worldwide infection caused by the parasite of the genus Leishmania transmitted by sandflies. Based on the complexity of epidemiology and diagnosis of this infection, the role of cats in the epidemiology and clinical impact of disease is still under debate. By using serological and molecular methods, this study aimed to update the epidemiology of the infection in different feline populations from various areas of Italy and to study factors associated with the infection. Of 1490 cats tested, 124 (8.3%, 95% CI 6.9-9.9) were infected, 96 had only specific L. infantum IgG, 18 were only positive for parasite DNA and 10 were both IFAT and qPCR positive. Risk factors for infection were sampling in the winter season (OR = 3.2, 95% CI 2.2-4.8), originating from the Sicily region (OR = 2.0, 95% CI 1.3-3.0), male gender (OR = 1.8, 95% CI 1.1-3.2), outdoor lifestyle (OR = 2.3, 95% CI 0.9-5.6) and seropositivity for FIV antibodies (OR = 2.2, 95% CI 1.2-4.2), while sampling in the spring (OR = 0.5, 95% CI 0.3-0.7) and summer (OR = 0.3, 95% CI 0.1-0.7), and originating from the Lazio region (OR = 0.1, 95% CI 0.05-0.4) were protective factors for infection. In endemic areas, Leishmania infection should be investigated by using both serological and molecular methods and cats should be protected from sandfly bites, particularly if they are FIV infected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Spada
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria e Scienze Animali (DIVAS), Università degli Studi di Milano, Via dell’Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy (L.B.); (D.P.)
| | - Germano Castelli
- Centro di Referenza Nazionale per le Leishmaniosi (C.Re.Na.L), Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale (IZS) della Sicilia A. Mirri, Via G. Marinuzzi 3, 90129 Palermo, Italy; (G.C.); (F.B.); (F.V.); (F.L.R.); (S.A.)
| | - Federica Bruno
- Centro di Referenza Nazionale per le Leishmaniosi (C.Re.Na.L), Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale (IZS) della Sicilia A. Mirri, Via G. Marinuzzi 3, 90129 Palermo, Italy; (G.C.); (F.B.); (F.V.); (F.L.R.); (S.A.)
| | - Fabrizio Vitale
- Centro di Referenza Nazionale per le Leishmaniosi (C.Re.Na.L), Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale (IZS) della Sicilia A. Mirri, Via G. Marinuzzi 3, 90129 Palermo, Italy; (G.C.); (F.B.); (F.V.); (F.L.R.); (S.A.)
| | - Francesco La Russa
- Centro di Referenza Nazionale per le Leishmaniosi (C.Re.Na.L), Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale (IZS) della Sicilia A. Mirri, Via G. Marinuzzi 3, 90129 Palermo, Italy; (G.C.); (F.B.); (F.V.); (F.L.R.); (S.A.)
| | - Vito Biondi
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo SS. Annunziata, 98122 Messina, Italy;
| | - Sara Accettulli
- Centro di Referenza Nazionale per le Leishmaniosi (C.Re.Na.L), Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale (IZS) della Sicilia A. Mirri, Via G. Marinuzzi 3, 90129 Palermo, Italy; (G.C.); (F.B.); (F.V.); (F.L.R.); (S.A.)
| | - Antonella Migliazzo
- Dipartimento di Prevenzione UOC Sanità Animale, Igiene degli Allevamenti e delle Produzioni Zootecniche, ASL Latina, 04100 Latina, Italy;
| | - Aurora Rossi
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria e Scienze Animali (DIVAS), Università degli Studi di Milano, Via dell’Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy (L.B.); (D.P.)
| | - Roberta Perego
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria e Scienze Animali (DIVAS), Università degli Studi di Milano, Via dell’Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy (L.B.); (D.P.)
| | - Luciana Baggiani
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria e Scienze Animali (DIVAS), Università degli Studi di Milano, Via dell’Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy (L.B.); (D.P.)
| | - Daniela Proverbio
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria e Scienze Animali (DIVAS), Università degli Studi di Milano, Via dell’Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy (L.B.); (D.P.)
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11
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Hartmann G, Roman IJ, Lorenzetti DM, Herbichi AP, Mazaro RD, Dos Santos MY, Tonin AA, Vogel FSF, Fighera RA. Anti-Leishmania spp. antibody detection in domestic cats from a visceral leishmaniasis transmission area. Parasitol Res 2023; 122:2631-2639. [PMID: 37668713 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-023-07961-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
Feline leishmanial infection is reported worldwide, but the epidemiological role of domestic cats in the leishmaniasis cycle remains unclear, and cats might act as cryptic reservoir hosts in endemic areas with no feline leishmaniosis cases. Considering that, a serological screening for anti-Leishmania spp. antibodies was performed by indirect immunofluorescence antibody test (IFAT) in 389 necropsied cats' serum samples from a new visceral leishmaniasis transmission area with no feline leishmanial infection reported to unveil if the cats are being exposed to the parasite. The overall seroprevalence for Leishmania spp. was 11.05% (43/389). No association was found between sex, neutering status, age group, breed, coat length, feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) infection, and Leishmania spp. antibody detection. A positive association was found with coat color (cats within the orange spectrum with white [particolor]) (OR = 2.47, CI 95% 1 - 6.13, P = 0.044) and a negative association (OR = 0.38, CI 95% 0.18 - 0.79, P = 0.01) between feline leukemia virus (FeLV) infection and IFAT positivity for Leishmania spp. Therefore, it is concluded that the seroprevalence found was greater than 10%, indicating contact of the protozoan with cats in the region served.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Hartmann
- Laboratório de Patologia Veterinária (LPV), Departamento de Patologia, Centro de Ciências da Saúde (CCS), Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM), Av. Roraima, 1000, Building 97B, Bairro Camobi, Santa Maria, RS, 97105-900, Brazil.
| | - Isac Junior Roman
- Laboratório de Doenças Parasitárias (LADOPAR), Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva (DMVP), Centro de Ciências Rurais (CCR), Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM), Av. Roraima, 1000, Building 63C, Bairro Camobi, Santa Maria, RS, 97105-900, Brazil
| | - Douglas Miotto Lorenzetti
- Laboratório de Patologia Veterinária (LPV), Departamento de Patologia, Centro de Ciências da Saúde (CCS), Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM), Av. Roraima, 1000, Building 97B, Bairro Camobi, Santa Maria, RS, 97105-900, Brazil
| | - Alana Pivoto Herbichi
- Laboratório de Patologia Veterinária (LPV), Departamento de Patologia, Centro de Ciências da Saúde (CCS), Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM), Av. Roraima, 1000, Building 97B, Bairro Camobi, Santa Maria, RS, 97105-900, Brazil
| | - Renata Dalcol Mazaro
- Laboratório de Patologia Veterinária (LPV), Departamento de Patologia, Centro de Ciências da Saúde (CCS), Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM), Av. Roraima, 1000, Building 97B, Bairro Camobi, Santa Maria, RS, 97105-900, Brazil
| | - Matheus Yuri Dos Santos
- Laboratório de Patologia Veterinária (LPV), Departamento de Patologia, Centro de Ciências da Saúde (CCS), Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM), Av. Roraima, 1000, Building 97B, Bairro Camobi, Santa Maria, RS, 97105-900, Brazil
| | - Alexandre Alberto Tonin
- Colégio Politécnico da Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM), Av. Roraima, 1000, Bairro Camobi, Santa Maria, RS, 97105-900, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Silveira Flôres Vogel
- Laboratório de Doenças Parasitárias (LADOPAR), Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva (DMVP), Centro de Ciências Rurais (CCR), Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM), Av. Roraima, 1000, Building 63C, Bairro Camobi, Santa Maria, RS, 97105-900, Brazil
| | - Rafael Almeida Fighera
- Laboratório de Patologia Veterinária (LPV), Departamento de Patologia, Centro de Ciências da Saúde (CCS), Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM), Av. Roraima, 1000, Building 97B, Bairro Camobi, Santa Maria, RS, 97105-900, Brazil
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12
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Buffi G, Ceccarelli M, Diotallevi A, Abruzzese M, Bruno F, Castelli G, Vitale F, Andreoni F, Bencardino D, Magnani M, Galluzzi L. High-resolution melting (HRM)-based detection of polymorphisms in the malic enzyme and glucose-6-phosphate isomerase genes for Leishmania infantum genotyping. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:282. [PMID: 37580789 PMCID: PMC10426199 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-05878-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Leishmaniasis is a zoonotic disease endemic in the Mediterranean region where Leishmania infantum is the causative agent of human and canine infection. Characterization of this parasite at the subspecies level can be useful in epidemiological studies, to evaluate the clinical course of the disease (e.g. resistant strains, visceral and cutaneous forms of leishmaniasis) as well as to identify infection reservoirs. Multilocus enzyme electrophoresis (MLEE), a method currently recognized as the reference method for characterizing and identifying strains of Leishmania, is cumbersome and time-consuming and requires cultured parasites. These disadvantages have led to the development of other methods, such as multilocus microsatellite typing (MLMT) and multilocus sequence typing (MLST), for typing Leishmania parasites; however, these methods have not yet been applied for routine use. In this study, we first used MLST to identify informative polymorphisms on single-copy genes coding for metabolic enzymes, following which we developed two rapid genotyping assays based on high-resolution melting (HRM) analysis to explore these polymorphisms in L. infantum parasites. METHODS A customized sequencing panel targeting 14 housekeeping genes was designed and MLST analysis was performed on nine L. infantum canine and human strains/isolates. Two quantitative real-time PCR-HRM assays were designed to analyze two informative polymorphisms on malic enzyme (ME) and glucose-6-phosphate isomerase (GPI) genes (390T/G and 1831A/G, respectively). The two assays were applied to 73 clinical samples/isolates from central/southern Italy and Pantelleria island, and the results were confirmed by DNA sequencing in a subset of samples. RESULTS The MLST analysis, together with sequences available in the Genbank database, enabled the identification of two informative polymorphisms on the genes coding for ME and GPI. The fast screening of these polymorphisms using two HRM-based assays in 73 clinical samples/isolates resulted in the identification of seven genotypes. Overall, genotype 1 (sequence type 390T/1831G) was the most highly represented (45.2%) in the overall sample and correlated with the most common L. infantum zymodemes (MON-1, MON-72). Interestingly, in Pantelleria island, the most prevalent genotype (70.6%) was genotype 6 (sequence type 390T/1831A). CONCLUSIONS Applying our HRM assays on clinical samples allowed us to identify seven different genotypes without the need for parasite isolation and cultivation. We have demonstrated that these assays could be used as fast, routine and inexpensive tools for epidemiological surveillance of L. infantum or for the identification of new infection reservoirs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gloria Buffi
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Urbino, PU, Italy
| | - Marcello Ceccarelli
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Urbino, PU, Italy
| | - Aurora Diotallevi
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Urbino, PU, Italy
| | | | - Federica Bruno
- OIE Leishmania Reference Laboratory, Centro di Referenza Nazionale per le Leishmaniosi (C.Re.Na.L.), Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale Della Sicilia, Palermo, PA, Italy
| | - Germano Castelli
- OIE Leishmania Reference Laboratory, Centro di Referenza Nazionale per le Leishmaniosi (C.Re.Na.L.), Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale Della Sicilia, Palermo, PA, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Vitale
- OIE Leishmania Reference Laboratory, Centro di Referenza Nazionale per le Leishmaniosi (C.Re.Na.L.), Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale Della Sicilia, Palermo, PA, Italy
| | - Francesca Andreoni
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Urbino, PU, Italy
| | - Daniela Bencardino
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Urbino, PU, Italy
| | - Mauro Magnani
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Urbino, PU, Italy
| | - Luca Galluzzi
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Urbino, PU, Italy.
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13
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Pargass I, Wint C, Suepaul R, Frontera-Acevedo K, Qurollo BA. First reported case of leishmaniasis in a cat in Trinidad and Tobago. Vet Parasitol Reg Stud Reports 2023; 42:100896. [PMID: 37321792 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2023.100896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
A 3-year-old, female, domestic shorthair cat, was presented to the Veterinary Teaching Hospital at the School of Veterinary Medicine (SVM), Trinidad and Tobago for a swollen nose, and multiple, variably sized small masses on both ears. The initial diagnostic tests included a CBC, serum biochemistry profile, cytological evaluation of masses on the ear and nose, and FeLV/FIV testing. The CBC and biochemistry results were unremarkable except for a hyperproteinaemia and hyperglobulinemia. Cytology of the nose and ear lesions revealed mixed inflammation and high numbers of intracellular and extracellular organisms consistent with Leishmania amastigotes. The cat was FeLV/FIV negative. Histopathology and Leishmania IFA and PCR analysis were subsequently performed, confirming the Leishmania diagnosis. The PCR, DNA sequencing and phylogenetic tree analyses identified L. amazonensis. This is the first reported case of L. amazonensis infection in a domestic animal in Trinidad with molecular characterization indicating it exists in the region and is likely being transmitted by sandflies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Indira Pargass
- School of Veterinary Medicine (SVM), Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies (UWI), Champs Fleurs, Trinidad and Tobago.
| | - Crystal Wint
- Veterinary Teaching Hospital, North Central Regional Health Authority, Eric Williams Medical Sciences Complex, Champs Fleurs, Trinidad and Tobago
| | - Rod Suepaul
- School of Veterinary Medicine (SVM), Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies (UWI), Champs Fleurs, Trinidad and Tobago
| | - Karelma Frontera-Acevedo
- School of Veterinary Medicine (SVM), Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies (UWI), Champs Fleurs, Trinidad and Tobago
| | - Barbara A Qurollo
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University (NCSU), Raleigh, NC, USA
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14
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Ratzlaff FR, Osmari V, da Silva D, de Paula Vasconcellos JS, Pötter L, Fernandes FD, de Mello Filho JA, de Avila Botton S, Vogel FSF, Sangioni LA. Identification of infection by Leishmania spp. in wild and domestic animals in Brazil: a systematic review with meta-analysis (2001-2021). Parasitol Res 2023; 122:1605-1619. [PMID: 37154922 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-023-07862-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Leishmaniasis is a zoonosis caused by protozoan species of the genus Leishmania. It generates different clinical manifestations in humans and animals, and it infects multiple hosts. Leishmania parasites are transmitted by sandfly vectors. The main objective of this systematic review was to identify the host, or reservoir animal species, of Leishmania spp., with the exception of domestic dogs, that were recorded in Brazil. This review included identification of diagnostic methods, and the species of protozoan circulating in the country. For this purpose, a literature search was conducted across index journals. This study covered the period from 2001 to 2021, and 124 studies were selected. Eleven orders possible hosts were identified, including 229 mammalian species. Perissodactyla had the highest number of infected individuals (30.69%, 925/3014), with the highest occurrence in horses. In Brazil, the most commonly infected species were found to be: horses, domestic cats, rodents, and marsupials. Bats, that were infected by one or more protozoan species, were identified as potential reservoirs of Leishmania spp. Molecular tests were the most commonly used diagnostic methods (94 studies). Many studies have detected Leishmania spp. (n = 1422): Leishmania (Leishmania) infantum (n = 705), Leishmania (Viannia) braziliensis (n = 319), and Leishmania (Leishmania) amazonensis (n = 141). Recognizing the species of animals involved in the epidemiology and biological cycle of the protozoan is important, as this allows for the identification of environmental biomarkers, knowledge of Leishmania species can improve the control zoonotic leishmaniasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabiana Raquel Ratzlaff
- Laboratório de Doenças Parasitárias (LADOPAR), Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Centro de Ciências Rurais (CCR), Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM), Av. Roraima, N°1000, Prédio 63D, Bairro Camobi, Santa Maria, RS, CEP 97105900, Brazil
| | - Vanessa Osmari
- Laboratório de Doenças Parasitárias (LADOPAR), Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Centro de Ciências Rurais (CCR), Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM), Av. Roraima, N°1000, Prédio 63D, Bairro Camobi, Santa Maria, RS, CEP 97105900, Brazil
| | - Daniele da Silva
- Laboratório de Doenças Parasitárias (LADOPAR), Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Centro de Ciências Rurais (CCR), Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM), Av. Roraima, N°1000, Prédio 63D, Bairro Camobi, Santa Maria, RS, CEP 97105900, Brazil
| | - Jaíne Soares de Paula Vasconcellos
- Laboratório de Doenças Parasitárias (LADOPAR), Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Centro de Ciências Rurais (CCR), Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM), Av. Roraima, N°1000, Prédio 63D, Bairro Camobi, Santa Maria, RS, CEP 97105900, Brazil
| | - Luciana Pötter
- Laboratório de Pastos e Suplementos, Departamento de Zootecnia, Centro de Ciências Rurais (CCR), Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM), Av. Roraima, N°1000, Bairro Camobi, Santa Maria, RS, CEP 97105900, Brazil
| | - Fagner D'ambroso Fernandes
- Laboratório de Doenças Parasitárias (LADOPAR), Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Centro de Ciências Rurais (CCR), Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM), Av. Roraima, N°1000, Prédio 63D, Bairro Camobi, Santa Maria, RS, CEP 97105900, Brazil.
- Centro Universitário Ritter Dos Reis (UniRitter), Campus FAPA, Av. Manoel Elias, 2001 - Passo das Pedras, Porto Alegre, 91240-261, Brazil.
| | - José Américo de Mello Filho
- Laboratório de Análises Ambientais por Geoprocessamento (LAGEO), Departamento de Engenharia Rural, Centro de Ciências Rurais (CCR), Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM), Av. Roraima, N°1000, Prédio 44 J, Bairro Camobi, Santa Maria, RS, CEP 97105-900, Brazil
| | - Sônia de Avila Botton
- Laboratório de Saúde Única (LASUS), Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Centro de Ciências Rurais (CCR), Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM), Av. Roraima, nº 1000, Prédio 44, Bairro Camobi, Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul, CEP 97105-900, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Silveira Flores Vogel
- Laboratório de Doenças Parasitárias (LADOPAR), Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Centro de Ciências Rurais (CCR), Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM), Av. Roraima, N°1000, Prédio 63D, Bairro Camobi, Santa Maria, RS, CEP 97105900, Brazil
| | - Luís Antônio Sangioni
- Laboratório de Doenças Parasitárias (LADOPAR), Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Centro de Ciências Rurais (CCR), Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM), Av. Roraima, N°1000, Prédio 63D, Bairro Camobi, Santa Maria, RS, CEP 97105900, Brazil
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Silva DTD, Alves ML, Spada JCP, Leonel JAF, Vioti G, Benassi JC, Carregaro VML, Alves-Martin MF, Starke-Buzetti WA, Oliveira TMFDS. Feline leishmaniosis: hematological and biochemical analysis. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA = BRAZILIAN JOURNAL OF VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY : ORGAO OFICIAL DO COLEGIO BRASILEIRO DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA 2023; 32:e003823. [PMID: 37377321 DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612023035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
One hundred and sixty-six cats from two animal shelters were subjected to enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), indirect immunofluorescence antibody test (IFAT), conventional polymerase chain reaction (cPCR), quantitative PCR (qPCR) and parasitological tests (PA) for the diagnosis of Leishmania spp. Among them, 15% (25/166), 53.6% (89/166), 3.6% (06/166) and 1.8% (03/166) were positive by ELISA, IFAT, both PCRs and PA, respectively. The sequencing of ITS-1 PCR amplicons revealed a 100% match with Leishmania infantum. After the Leishmania spp. survey, 12 cats were selected and divided into two groups for clinical, hematological, and biochemical analysis: six L. infantum positive cats (G1) and six Leishmania spp. negative cats (G2). All the cats were negative for feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and feline leukemia virus (FeLV). A statistical analysis indicated significantly low platelet counts and significant hyperproteinemia associated with hypoalbuminemia in positive cats (p<0.05). Our results suggest that in endemic areas, cats with clinical signs of feline leishmaniosis (such as skin lesions, weight loss and/or enlarged lymph nodes) and that exhibit hematological and biochemical changes, such as low platelet counts and hyperproteinemia with hypoalbuminemia, should be tested for Leishmania spp. infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diogo Tiago da Silva
- Laboratório de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva Aplicada, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Faculdade de Zootecnia e Engenharia de Alimentos, Universidade de São Paulo - USP, Pirassununga, SP, Brasil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Epidemiologia Experimental Aplicada às Zoonoses, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Saúde Pública, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo - USP, Pirassununga, SP, Brasil
| | - Maria Luana Alves
- Laboratório de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva Aplicada, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Faculdade de Zootecnia e Engenharia de Alimentos, Universidade de São Paulo - USP, Pirassununga, SP, Brasil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Epidemiologia Experimental Aplicada às Zoonoses, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Saúde Pública, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo - USP, Pirassununga, SP, Brasil
| | - Júlio Cesar Pereira Spada
- Laboratório de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva Aplicada, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Faculdade de Zootecnia e Engenharia de Alimentos, Universidade de São Paulo - USP, Pirassununga, SP, Brasil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Epidemiologia Experimental Aplicada às Zoonoses, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Saúde Pública, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo - USP, Pirassununga, SP, Brasil
| | - João Augusto Franco Leonel
- Laboratório de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva Aplicada, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Faculdade de Zootecnia e Engenharia de Alimentos, Universidade de São Paulo - USP, Pirassununga, SP, Brasil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Epidemiologia Experimental Aplicada às Zoonoses, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Saúde Pública, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo - USP, Pirassununga, SP, Brasil
| | - Geovanna Vioti
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Epidemiologia Experimental Aplicada às Zoonoses, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Saúde Pública, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo - USP, Pirassununga, SP, Brasil
| | - Julia Cristina Benassi
- Laboratório de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva Aplicada, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Faculdade de Zootecnia e Engenharia de Alimentos, Universidade de São Paulo - USP, Pirassununga, SP, Brasil
| | - Valéria Maria Lara Carregaro
- Laboratório de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva Aplicada, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Faculdade de Zootecnia e Engenharia de Alimentos, Universidade de São Paulo - USP, Pirassununga, SP, Brasil
| | - Maria Fernanda Alves-Martin
- Departamento de Biologia e Zootecnia, Escola de Engenharia, Universidade Estadual Paulista - UNESP, Ilha Solteira, SP, Brasil
| | - Wilma Aparecida Starke-Buzetti
- Departamento de Biologia e Zootecnia, Escola de Engenharia, Universidade Estadual Paulista - UNESP, Ilha Solteira, SP, Brasil
| | - Trícia Maria Ferreira de Sousa Oliveira
- Laboratório de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva Aplicada, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Faculdade de Zootecnia e Engenharia de Alimentos, Universidade de São Paulo - USP, Pirassununga, SP, Brasil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Epidemiologia Experimental Aplicada às Zoonoses, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Saúde Pública, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo - USP, Pirassununga, SP, Brasil
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16
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Kleinerman G, Melloul S, Chaim L, Mergy SE, Kaufman RG, Dagan N, Nachum-Biala Y, Kitaichik S, Gross S, Astman N, Baneth G. Detection of Leishmania major and Leishmania infantum in cats during an outbreak of cutaneous leishmaniosis in Southern Israel. Comp Immunol Microbiol Infect Dis 2023; 98:102006. [PMID: 37356168 DOI: 10.1016/j.cimid.2023.102006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Revised: 06/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023]
Abstract
Prevalence of Leishmania spp. infection was studied in stray cats in two military bases in Southern Israel during a cutaneous leishmaniosis (CL) human outbreak caused by Leishmania major. Human CL cases increased from 0/100 in 2008 to 1.28/100 in 2022 in camp #1, and from 0.17/100 in 2008 to 6.4/100 in 2022, in camp #2. Eight out of 29 cats sampled were Leishmania-seropositive (28 %) and 7/29 (24 %) were internal transcribed spacer 1 (ITS1) PCR-positive, out of which four (14 %) were positive for L. major and three (10 %) for L. infantum. Five positive-cats had skin lesions including ulcers, alopecia and scabs, and five had eye lesions. This is the first report of L. major infection in cats in Israel and one of the first descriptions in felines worldwide. A larger cohort of cats and vector studies are necessary to determine if felids may act as reservoirs or sentinels of human L. major infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Kleinerman
- Medical Corps, Israeli Defense Forces, Tel Hashomer Camp, 5510802 Qriat Ono, Israel.
| | - Sivan Melloul
- Medical Corps, Israeli Defense Forces, Tel Hashomer Camp, 5510802 Qriat Ono, Israel.
| | - Lavie Chaim
- Medical Corps, Israeli Defense Forces, Tel Hashomer Camp, 5510802 Qriat Ono, Israel.
| | - Shani E Mergy
- Medical Corps, Israeli Defense Forces, Tel Hashomer Camp, 5510802 Qriat Ono, Israel.
| | - Roi G Kaufman
- Medical Corps, Israeli Defense Forces, Tel Hashomer Camp, 5510802 Qriat Ono, Israel.
| | - Nufar Dagan
- Medical Corps, Israeli Defense Forces, Tel Hashomer Camp, 5510802 Qriat Ono, Israel.
| | - Yaarit Nachum-Biala
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 7610001 Rehovot, Israel.
| | - Sarah Kitaichik
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 7610001 Rehovot, Israel.
| | - Saar Gross
- Medical Corps, Israeli Defense Forces, Tel Hashomer Camp, 5510802 Qriat Ono, Israel.
| | - Nadav Astman
- Medical Corps, Israeli Defense Forces, Tel Hashomer Camp, 5510802 Qriat Ono, Israel; Department of Dermatology, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, The Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 8436322, Israel.
| | - Gad Baneth
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 7610001 Rehovot, Israel.
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17
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Aguiar DCF, Nascimento DDNDS, Penner DF, de Castro BDSL, Virgolino RR, Neves AMP, Siqueira ADS, Gonçalves EC. First molecular detection of Leishmania (Leishmania) infantum chagasi in a domestic cat ( Felis catus) from an urban area in eastern Amazon. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2023; 29:e20220048. [PMID: 37223440 PMCID: PMC10202461 DOI: 10.1590/1678-9199-jvatitd-2022-0048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Domestic cats have been implicated as accidental hosts of Leishmania sp. However, in recent years, the recurrent description of new cases in endemic and nonendemic areas draw attention to the potential epidemiological role of cats as reservoir hosts. Although dogs are considered urban reservoirs, cats could act as a secondary natural reservoirs in these areas. Thus, feline leishmaniasis has become an emerging disease in several countries worldwide. Case presentation This study aimed to describe the first case of feline leishmaniasis in a stray animal that presented lesions compatible with the disease in Belém, Pará, Brazil, an important urban area in eastern Amazon. Serological tests for Leishmania infantum (ELISA and IFA) were nonreactive, whereas histopathological examination indicated infectious dermatitis caused by Leishmania spp. or Toxoplasma gondii. Cytopathological study of lesion aspirate confirmed the presence of Leishmania sp. amastigotes within macrophages. Finally, molecular analyses revealed that the feline infection was caused by Leishmania (Leishmania) infantum chagasi. Conclusion To the best of the authors' knowledge, this study reports the first case of natural infection by Leishmania (Leishmania) infantum chagasi in a feline from eastern Amazon. These findings suggest domestic cats as potential secondary reservoir hosts of Leishmania spp. in Belém, which reinforces the importance of further epidemiological investigation of feline leishmaniasis, especially in urban areas with human cases.
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Schäfer I, Schmidt A, Gräßer F, Schieszler A, Aupperle-Lellbach H, Loesenbeck G, Gentil M, Müller E, Naucke TJ. Feline leishmaniosis with focus on ocular manifestation: a case report. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:161. [PMID: 37173777 PMCID: PMC10176290 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-05741-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Europe, feline leishmaniosis is commonly caused by Leishmania infantum. There is little knowledge regarding pathogenesis, ocular manifestations and long-term follow-ups in cats with leishmaniosis. FINDINGS A 6-year-old female, spayed European Shorthair cat was imported from Spain to Germany 2 years prior to its first clinical presentation. The cat showed lethargy, weight loss, ulcerative lesions on the front limbs and high-grade chronic uveitis. The diagnosis of L. infantum infection was based on the cytological finding of amastigotes in skin lesions, positive qPCR of EDTA-blood and positive PCR of a cyto-brush sample from the conjunctiva. Supportive findings included positive serology by IFAT, serum protein capillary electrophoresis with peaks in alpha2- and gamma-globulin sections and marked elevation of SAA. Enucleation had to be performed on day 288 on both eyes because of blindness, glaucoma and high-grade uveitis. Histologically, high numbers of Leishmania spp. amastigotes were found in histiocytes. IFAT and PCR were positive in the aqueous humor in both eyes, respectively. Feline leukemia virus antigen and feline immunodeficiency virus antibody testings were positive. Hematological and biochemical results revealed mild leukocytosis with lymphocytosis, monocytosis and eosinopenia as well as marked elevation of SAA and hyperglobulinemia. The cat was treated with allopurinol, responded well and was still alive at follow-up on day 288 after first presentation. However, enucleation was necessary because of refractory glaucoma and uveitis. CONCLUSION: For the first time, ocular evidence of Leishmania IgG antibodies was demonstrated in the aqueous humor of both eyes in cats. There is limited knowledge about the pathogenesis, treatment options and outcomes in cats infected with L. infantum. This case report supports the hypothesis that immunosuppression increases the risk of clinical signs of leishmaniasis in cats. Alpha2- and gamma-globulin peaks in serum protein capillary electrophoresis are supportive criteria for the diagnosis of L. infantum infection. SAA is valuable for monitoring. Regarding ophthalmology, uveitis and glaucoma may have a poor prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingo Schäfer
- LABOKLIN GmbH and Co. KG, Bad Kissingen, Germany.
| | - Albert Schmidt
- Small Animal Practice Dr. Fritz Gräßer, Großostheim, Germany
| | - Fritz Gräßer
- Small Animal Practice Dr. Fritz Gräßer, Großostheim, Germany
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Long-term follow-up of a case of feline leishmaniosis treated with a combination of allopurinol and meglumine antimoniate. THE CANADIAN VETERINARY JOURNAL = LA REVUE VETERINAIRE CANADIENNE 2023; 64:239-244. [PMID: 36874537 PMCID: PMC9979727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/07/2023]
Abstract
A 9-year-old domestic cat, positive for antibodies to feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), was brought to a veterinary clinic with alopecia, ulcerative skin lesions, and upper respiratory tract (URT) signs. This was after being treated for suspected allergic dermatitis, without clinical improvement, for 2 y. Biopsy of the skin and fine-needle aspirates of the spleen and of the lymph nodes were taken which detected the presence of Leishmania amastigotes. Leishmania infection was further confirmed by detection of a high titer of anti-Leishmania antibodies (≥ 3200) with an indirect fluorescent antibody technique (IFAT) serology. After the diagnosis of feline leishmaniosis (FeL) was made, allopurinol and meglumine antimoniate were started and led to quick and complete clinical improvement. After 7 mo, allopurinol administration was briefly interrupted but was resumed following relapse of the skin lesions. One month later, the cat was treated for suspected acute kidney injury, which prompted reduction of the total daily dose of allopurinol by 50%. The cat remained clinically well, with complete resolution of the cutaneous and URT signs, for nearly 24 mo after the diagnosis of FeL; at which point it was euthanized for worsening cardiac disease. To our knowledge, this represents a rare case of successful treatment of FeL with a suspected nephrotoxic effect associated with long-term use of allopurinol. Further studies are required to clarify the relationship, if any, between leishmaniosis and congestive heart failure in cats.
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20
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A Case of Feline Leishmaniosis with Panniculitis. Case Rep Vet Med 2023; 2023:8864790. [PMID: 36685018 PMCID: PMC9848784 DOI: 10.1155/2023/8864790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 12/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Leishmaniases are a group of diseases caused by protozoa of the genus Leishmania and transmitted mainly by the bite of sand fly vectors. Cats are infected with at least 6 species of Leishmania. Significant associations have been found between feline leishmaniosis and coinfections mainly with FIV and/or FeLV. A 7-year-old castrated male, domestic short-haired cat was presented with unknown history and cutaneous and ocular lesions. A raised, semifirm swelling on the forehead was observed along with periocular hypotrichosis and conjunctival and third eyelid edema. The indications for pursuing a diagnosis of leishmaniosis are variable, and differing presentations may require the use of different tests. Diagnosis of feline leishmaniosis with panniculitis caused by Leishmania infantum was made by cytology, histopathology, and PCR and Leishmania antibodies (IFA). The cat responded to therapy with meglumine antimoniate and allopurinol.
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Lima CM, Santarém N, Neves NC, Sarmento P, Carrapato C, de Sousa R, Cardoso L, Cordeiro-da-Silva A. Serological and Molecular Survey of Leishmania infantum in a Population of Iberian Lynxes ( Lynx pardinus). Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10122447. [PMID: 36557700 PMCID: PMC9788222 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10122447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 12/03/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Leishmania infantum, the sand fly-transmitted protozoan parasite responsible for leishmaniasis in humans, dogs, and cats, is endemic in the Iberian Peninsula. However, the impact of L. infantum infection on the conservation of the endangered Iberian lynx (Lynx pardinus) is unknown. Herein, we describe for the first time the occurrence of L. infantum infection among a population of reintroduced and wild-born L. pardinus living in the Portuguese Guadiana Valley Park. The presence of infection was addressed by molecular detection of Leishmania kinetoplast DNA (kDNA) in 35 lynxes, with further confirmation of L. infantum species performed by an internally transcribed spacer (ITS)-1 sequencing. Eight blood samples were positive for kDNA, and ITS-1 sequencing confirmed the presence of L. infantum in two of those samples. Exposure to Leishmania was screened in a group of 36 lynxes using an immunofluorescence antibody test (IFAT) and a multi-antigen enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), using SPLA, rK39, and CPX as Leishmania-specific antigens. Four animals presented a positive IFAT at a dilution of 1:40. Eight samples were considered seropositive to all ELISA Leishmania-specific antigens. Agreement between PCR, IFAT, and all ELISA antigens was found for 1 in 27 samples. These results highlight the susceptibility of autochthonous L. pardinus to L. infantum infection. Further investigation is required to assess the impact of L. infantum infection on this wild species conservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara M. Lima
- Microbiology Laboratory, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- Parasite Disease Group, Institute for Research and Innovation in Health (i3S), University of Porto, 4099-002 Porto, Portugal
| | - Nuno Santarém
- Microbiology Laboratory, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- Parasite Disease Group, Institute for Research and Innovation in Health (i3S), University of Porto, 4099-002 Porto, Portugal
- Correspondence: (N.S.); (L.C.); (A.C.-d.-S.)
| | - Nuno Costa Neves
- Institute for the Conservation of Nature and Forests (ICNF), 7800-298 Beja, Portugal
| | - Pedro Sarmento
- Institute for the Conservation of Nature and Forests (ICNF), 7800-298 Beja, Portugal
| | - Carlos Carrapato
- Institute for the Conservation of Nature and Forests (ICNF), 7800-298 Beja, Portugal
| | - Rita de Sousa
- Centre for Vectors and Infectious Disease Research (CEVDI), National Institute of Health Dr. Ricardo Jorge, 2965-575 Águas de Moura, Portugal
| | - Luís Cardoso
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, and CECAV—Animal and Veterinary Research Centre, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Science (AL4AnimalS), University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- Correspondence: (N.S.); (L.C.); (A.C.-d.-S.)
| | - Anabela Cordeiro-da-Silva
- Microbiology Laboratory, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- Parasite Disease Group, Institute for Research and Innovation in Health (i3S), University of Porto, 4099-002 Porto, Portugal
- Correspondence: (N.S.); (L.C.); (A.C.-d.-S.)
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Isolation, typing, and drug susceptibility of Leishmania (Leishmania) infantum isolates from dogs of the municipality of Embu das Artes, an endemic region for canine leishmaniasis in Brazil. Parasitol Res 2022; 121:2683-2695. [PMID: 35802163 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-022-07594-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
The parasitic protozoa Leishmania (Leishmania) infantum is the etiological agent of human visceral leishmaniasis and canine leishmaniasis in South America, where Brazil is the most affected country. This zoonotic disease is transmitted by the bite of an infected phlebotomine sand fly and dogs constitute the main domestic reservoir of the parasite. In this study, we screened 2348 dogs of the municipality of Embu das Artes, Brazil, for antibodies against the parasite. Prevalence for canine leishmaniasis seropositivity was 2.81%, as assessed using a Dual-Path Platform rapid test for canine leishmaniasis. Twenty-five seropositive dogs were euthanized for parasite isolation and 14 isolates were successful obtained. Nucleotide sequencing of the internal transcribed spacer confirmed the isolates to be L. (L.) infantum, and very low sequence variability was observed among them. The in vitro susceptibility to miltefosine and paromomycin was assessed and moderate variation in paromomycin susceptibility was found among the isolates in the promastigote and intracellular amastigote stages. On the other hand, in vitro susceptibility to miltefosine of these isolates was homogenous, particularly in the amastigote stage (EC50 values from 0.69 to 2.07 μM). In addition, the miltefosine sensitivity locus was deleted in all the isolates, which does not corroborate the hypothesis that the absence of this locus is correlated with a low in vitro susceptibility. Our findings confirm that the municipality of Embu das Artes is endemic for canine leishmaniasis and that isolates from this region are susceptible to paromomycin and miltefosine, indicating the potential of these drugs to be clinically evaluated in the treatment of human visceral leishmaniasis in Brazil.
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Napoli E, De Benedetto G, Fazio C, La Russa F, Gaglio G, Brianti E. Clinical Case of Feline Leishmaniosis: Therapeutic Approach and Long-Term Follow-Up. Vet Sci 2022; 9:400. [PMID: 36006315 PMCID: PMC9416418 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci9080400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The response to allopurinol treatment and survival time of a case of feline leishmaniosis in a FIV co-infected cat is herein reported. In May 2019, a 13-year-old neutered European Shorthair male was referred due to weight loss and exfoliative dermatitis. Lymphadenomegaly and splenomegaly were detected upon clinical inspection, while the presence of several Leishmania infantum amastigotes were detected on splenic and lymphonodal fine needle aspiration (FNA). Allopurinol (10 mg/kg PO q 12 h) was administered. After two months, the cat's clinical symptoms disappeared, and the owners decided to interrupt the therapy. In February, two reddish nodular fleshy neoformations appeared in both eyes, and amastigotes of Leishmania were detected by cytology on conjunctival swabs. Allopurinol treatment was re-started at the same rate; the ocular lesions regressed in two weeks, and the owner again decided to interrupt the therapy. In July, the patient had a new relapse, but the owner, tired of continuous relapses, refused further treatment of the disease. The cat's health condition continued to worsen: in October 2021, the ocular lesions appeared again, and in November the patient died. This case underlines the effectiveness of allopurinol and highlights how interruption of treatment frequently leads to relapse, impairing the animal's health condition and prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ettore Napoli
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy; (E.N.); (G.D.B.); (F.L.R.); (E.B.)
| | - Giovanni De Benedetto
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy; (E.N.); (G.D.B.); (F.L.R.); (E.B.)
| | | | - Francesco La Russa
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy; (E.N.); (G.D.B.); (F.L.R.); (E.B.)
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia “A. Mirri”, 90129 Palermo, Italy
| | - Gabriella Gaglio
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy; (E.N.); (G.D.B.); (F.L.R.); (E.B.)
| | - Emanuele Brianti
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy; (E.N.); (G.D.B.); (F.L.R.); (E.B.)
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Garcia-Torres M, López MC, Tasker S, Lappin MR, Blasi-Brugué C, Roura X. Review and statistical analysis of clinical management of feline leishmaniosis caused by Leishmania infantum. Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:253. [PMID: 35818075 PMCID: PMC9272864 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05369-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background There is limited information about feline leishmaniosis (FeL) management in clinical practice. Leishmania infantum is the species of Leishmania most frequently reported in both dogs and cats in countries of the Mediterranean region (henceforth ‘Mediterranean countries’), Central and South America, and Iran. This study was conducted to provide veterinary clinicians with an updated overview of evidence-based information on leishmaniosis in cats. Methods A review was performed using PubMed, Science Direct, Google Scholar and Web of Science. Case reports of FeL caused by L. infantum were sought for the period 1912 to 1 June 2021. Results Sixty-three case reports are included in this review. Fifty-nine out of the 63 cats were from Europe, mostly from Mediterranean countries (88.9%). Most of them were domestic short-haired cats (90%) with a mean age of 7.9 years, and had access to the outdoors (77.3%). Sixty-six percent of the cats had comorbidities, of which feline immunodeficiency virus infection was the most frequent (37.7%). Dermatological lesions (69.8%) was the most frequent clinical sign, and hyperproteinemia (46.3%) the most frequent clinicopathological abnormality. Serology was the most performed diagnostic method (76.2%) and was positive for 93.7% of cats. Medical treatment was applied in 71.4% of cats, and allopurinol was the most used drug (74.4%). Survival time was greater for treated cats (520 days; 71.4% of cats) than non-treated cats (210 days; 25.4%). Conclusions The majority of the cats had comorbidities, of which feline immunodeficiency virus was the most frequent. Dermatological lesions were frequently reported, and systemic clinical signs and clinicopathological abnormalities were also common. Serology may be useful for the diagnosis of FeL in clinical practice, and a positive titer of ≥ 1/40 may be a useful cut-off for sick cats. The reported treatments and dosages varied, but there was a good clinical response and longer survival in most of the cats treated with allopurinol monotherapy. Graphical abstract ![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Garcia-Torres
- Hospital Clínic Veterinari, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Séverine Tasker
- Bristol Veterinary School, University of Bristol, Langford, Bristol, UK.,Linnaeus Veterinary Limited, Shirley, Solihull, UK
| | - Michael Rex Lappin
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, USA
| | - Carles Blasi-Brugué
- Hospital Clínic Veterinari, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Xavier Roura
- Hospital Clínic Veterinari, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
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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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Özbel Y, Töz S, Muñoz C, Ortuño M, Jumakanova Z, Pérez-Cutillas P, Maia C, Conceição C, Baneth G, Pereira A, Van der Stede Y, Gossner CM, Berriatua E. The current epidemiology of leishmaniasis in Turkey, Azerbaijan and Georgia and implications for disease emergence in European countries. Zoonoses Public Health 2022; 69:395-407. [PMID: 35615899 PMCID: PMC9545164 DOI: 10.1111/zph.12977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Leishmania spp. are sand fly-borne protozoan parasites causing leishmaniasis in humans and animals. The aim of the study was to analyse the epidemiology of leishmaniasis in Turkey, Azerbaijan and Georgia from 2005 to 2020 and evaluate the associated risk for disease emergence in European countries. It is based on an analysis of WHO and OIE reported cases between 2005 and 2020, a review of scientific articles published in SCOPUS between 2009 and 2020 and a questionnaire survey to public health and veterinary authorities in these countries. Endemic Leishmania spp. include L. infantum in the three countries, L. major in Azerbaijan and Turkey and L. tropica and L. donovani in Turkey. Leishmaniasis is reported in humans, animals and sand flies and incidence is spatially and temporarily variable. In the southern Caucasus and particularly in Georgia, reported incidence of human visceral leishmaniasis by L. infantum remains high. However, whilst Georgia experienced a gradual decrease from >4.0 cases per 100,000 population in 2005-09 to 1.13 cases per 100,000 population in 2020, the period with highest incidence in Azerbaijan, which ranged between 0.40 and 0.61 cases per 100,000 population, was 2016-2019, and no cases have so far been reported for 2020. Visceral leishmaniasis in the Southern Caucasus affects mostly young children from deprived urban areas and its closely associated to canine leishmaniasis. Turkey reported cases of visceral leishmaniasis between 2005 and 2012 and in 2016 only, and incidence ranged between 0.02 and 0.05 per 100,000 population. In contrast, the reported annual incidence of cutaneous leishmaniasis in Turkey was much greater and peaked at 7.02 cases per 100,000 population in 2013, associated to imported cases from cutaneous leishmaniasis endemic Syria. Leishmaniasis by L. infantum in Azerbaijan and Georgia represents a regional public and animal health challenge that requires support to improve diagnosis, treatment and control. The unprecedented rise of cutaneous leishmaniasis and the spread of L. tropica and L. donovani in Turkey is an important risk factor for their emergence in Europe, especially in Mediterranean countries where competent vectors are widespread.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusuf Özbel
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Ege University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Seray Töz
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Ege University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Clara Muñoz
- Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Campus Regional de Excelencia Internacional "Campus Mare Nostrum", Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Maria Ortuño
- Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Campus Regional de Excelencia Internacional "Campus Mare Nostrum", Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Zarima Jumakanova
- Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Campus Regional de Excelencia Internacional "Campus Mare Nostrum", Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | | | - Carla Maia
- Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Cláudia Conceição
- Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Gad Baneth
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel
| | - André Pereira
- Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | | | - Céline M Gossner
- European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Eduardo Berriatua
- Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Campus Regional de Excelencia Internacional "Campus Mare Nostrum", Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
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Priolo V, Masucci M, Donato G, Solano-Gallego L, Martínez-Orellana P, Persichetti MF, Raya-Bermúdez A, Vitale F, Pennisi MG. Association between feline immunodeficiency virus and Leishmania infantum infections in cats: a retrospective matched case-control study. Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:107. [PMID: 35534884 PMCID: PMC9084934 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05230-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Feline leishmaniosis caused by Leishmania infantum is often associated with feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) infection; however, the role and clinical significance of this coinfection remain unknown. This study aimed to assess whether FIV is associated with L. infantum infection in cats from canine leishmaniosis endemic areas and to report the clinical signs and hematological alterations associated with coinfection. METHODS A retrospective matched case-control study (ratio 1:2) was conducted. Data of clinical examination and complete blood count (CBC) were selected from a cohort of 705 cats examined for epidemiological studies on feline leishmaniosis conducted between 2012 and 2019. Ninety-one FIV seropositive cases and 182 FIV seronegative control cats were selected. Matching was done according to age, sex, lifestyle and geographic provenience of case cats. Rapid ELISA devices were mainly used to detect anti-FIV antibodies. Anti-Leishmania IgG antibodies were detected by indirect-immunofluorescence test (IFAT). Leishmania DNA was searched in blood, oral and conjunctival swabs by quantitative real-time PCR. RESULTS Feline immunodeficiency virus seropositive cats had no hematological abnormalities suggestive of an advanced stage of FIV infection and were statistically more frequently IFAT positive, and their risk of being L. infantum antibody positive was 2.8 greater than in the FIV seronegatives. The association of FIV seropositivity with L. infantum antibody positivity was confirmed in the univariable model of logistic regression. A multivariate model found FIV infection and L. infantum PCR positivity as predictors of a positive L. infantum IFAT result. Male outdoor cats from rural or suburban areas were at risk for FIV and L. infantum antibody positivity. Clinical signs more frequently associated with the coinfection were oral lesions, pale mucous membranes and low body condition score (BCS). CONCLUSIONS This study documents that FIV seropositive cats with no hematological abnormalities suggestive of an advanced stage of FIV infection are more prone to be L. infantum seroreactive by IFAT in endemic areas. Therefore, FIV seropositive cats should be tested for L. infantum antibodies and treated for preventing sand fly bites. Pale mucous membranes, low BCS and oral lesions but no CBC abnormalities were significantly associated with the coinfection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vito Priolo
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie, Università di Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Marisa Masucci
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie, Università di Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Giulia Donato
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie, Università di Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Laia Solano-Gallego
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals Facultat de Veterinaria, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Pamela Martínez-Orellana
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals Facultat de Veterinaria, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Ana Raya-Bermúdez
- Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria, Universidad de Córdoba, Campus Rabanales, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Fabrizio Vitale
- Centro di Referenza Nazionale per la Leishmaniosi (CReNaL), Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia "A. Mirri", Palermo, Italy
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Villanueva-Saz S, Giner J, Fernández A, Alcover MM, Riera C, Fisa R, Yzuel A, González A, Marteles D, Verde M. Serum protein electrophoretogram profile detected in apparently healthy cats infected with Leishmania infantum - Short communication. Acta Vet Hung 2022. [PMID: 35258480 DOI: 10.1556/004.2021.00055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The information about the clinical features of Leishmania infantum infection in cats is scarce. In this study, we evaluated the serum protein electrophoresis of samples from 19 infected but apparently healthy cats. To detect L. infantum infection, two serological tests, i.e. western blot (WB) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) as well as quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) on the blood samples were performed. Eventual infection by several selected bacterial and viral pathogens was also tested. All but one of the cats were found positive with WB. The WB-negative cat was positive by ELISA only. From the 18 WB-positive cats, only three were positive also by ELISA and eight with qPCR, including the only animal which was positive in all the three tests. No concomitant infections were detected in any of the cats. The main alteration of the proteinogram was characterised by an increase of the α-2 fraction. In the five cats with hypergammaglobulinaemia, the pattern detected was polyclonal. None of the cats were seropositive to any other pathogens tested. The presence of polyclonal gammopathy and elevation of the α-2 fraction could suggest the presence of active infection. In contrast, the only detection of an increase of the α-2 fraction alone with the presence of positive serological result could be associated by immune response activation against L. infantum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Villanueva-Saz
- 1 Animal Pathology Department, Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
- 2 Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Jacobo Giner
- 1 Animal Pathology Department, Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
- 2 Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Antonio Fernández
- 1 Animal Pathology Department, Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
- 2 Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - María Magdalena Alcover
- 3 Department de Biologia, Salut i Medi Ambient, Facultat de Farmacia, Universitat de Barcelona, Av. de Joan XXIII 27-31, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Cristina Riera
- 3 Department de Biologia, Salut i Medi Ambient, Facultat de Farmacia, Universitat de Barcelona, Av. de Joan XXIII 27-31, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Roser Fisa
- 3 Department de Biologia, Salut i Medi Ambient, Facultat de Farmacia, Universitat de Barcelona, Av. de Joan XXIII 27-31, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Andrés Yzuel
- 2 Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Ana González
- 1 Animal Pathology Department, Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
- 2 Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Diana Marteles
- 2 Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Maite Verde
- 1 Animal Pathology Department, Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
- 2 Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
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Drug-Dosing Adjustment in Dogs and Cats with Chronic Kidney Disease. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12030262. [PMID: 35158584 PMCID: PMC8833495 DOI: 10.3390/ani12030262] [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: 11/20/2021] [Revised: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease is a common kidney disorder in adult and aged dogs and cats; the management of associated complications and comorbidities generally requires a life-long medical treatment to ensure a good quality of life of affected patients. However, indications and the literature on drug dosing in dogs and cats with chronic kidney disease are often lacking. The aim of this review is to revise the current literature on drug dosing in canine and feline patients with renal impairment, with a special focus on the most commonly used medications to manage chronic kidney disease and possible comorbidities.
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Tabar MD, Naranjo C, Dehesa A, Rodríguez MC. Leishmaniosis in a cat with chronic diarrhea as the only clinical manifestation. J Vet Intern Med 2022; 36:753-757. [PMID: 35037701 PMCID: PMC8965267 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.16347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
A 10‐year‐old male domestic shorthaired cat was presented with chronic diarrhea unresponsive to treatment. Laboratory testing identified hyperglobulinemia and mild nonregenerative anemia, and nongastrointestinal causes of diarrhea were ruled out. Gastrointestinal endoscopy and biopsy were performed and disclosed diffuse generalized granulomatous and lymphoplasmocytic inflammatory reaction in all segments of gastrointestinal tract evaluated, with numerous Leishmania spp. amastigotes within the cytoplasm of macrophages. The organism also was detected in spleen and bone marrow and Leishmania spp. serology was positive (immunofluorescence assay 1 : 160). A diagnosis of granulomatous enteritis secondary to leishmaniosis was made. Gastrointestinal signs resolved after treatment with allopurinol and a dietary supplement of nucleotides and active hexose‐correlated compounds (N‐AHCC), but seropositivity and gammopathy persisted 8 months later. The cat died of unrelated causes after an additional 3 months and permission for necropsy was not granted. Leishmaniosis as a cause of chronic diarrhea has not been reported previously in cats and should be considered in endemic areas in cats with chronic gastrointestinal signs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Alexandra Dehesa
- Hospital Veterinario San Vicente-Vetsum, San Vicente del Raspeig, Spain
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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.
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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
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Nascimento LFJ, Cirilo TM, Gomes DS, Gomes ACA, Lima VFS, Scher R, Jain S, Fujiwara RT, Dolabella SS. Epidemiological and diagnostic aspects of feline leishmaniasis with emphasis on Brazil: a narrative review. Parasitol Res 2021; 121:21-34. [PMID: 34761278 PMCID: PMC8580739 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-021-07372-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The leishmaniases are a group of diseases caused by the protozoan parasite belonging to the genus Leishmania. In the New World, although dogs are considered the main parasite reservoir, in the last two decades, several studies have confirmed the role of cats (Felis catus) in the epidemiology of the disease and feline leishmaniasis (FeL) is now considered to be an emerging disease. The present review summarizes the current knowledge about FeL, focusing on important immunopathological aspects, epidemiology, and diagnostic methods applied for felines in Brazil. Cats are infected with the same species of Leishmania found in dogs (i.e., Leishmania infantum). Like dogs, skin lesions are the most common in cats with clinical FeL, mainly affecting the cephalic region and less frequently the legs which may be accompanied by generalized signs or visceral involvement. Information on the immune response of cats to Leishmania infection is scarce; however, efficient infection control is seen in most cases. For diagnosis, generally, the same methods as those in dogs are used, mainly serological tools. But there is a lack of studies focusing the performance of these methods for diagnosing FeL. The estimated overall prevalence of FeL in Brazil is 8%, with L. infantum being the most prevalent species. However, infections with Leishmania braziliensis and Leishmania amazonensis have also been reported. In conclusion, although there has been an increase in the publication related to FeL in Brazil in recent years, there is a lack of research relating immune response and diagnosis of these animals. Cats have been shown to be competent hosts for Leishmania parasites, and their role in the epidemiology of the disease cannot be underestimated, especially in areas of Brazil where the disease is historically endemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luiz F J Nascimento
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia Parasitária, Universidade Federal de Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, 49100-000, Brazil
| | - Tatyane M Cirilo
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia Parasitária, Universidade Federal de Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, 49100-000, Brazil
| | - Dharliton S Gomes
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia Parasitária, Universidade Federal de Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, 49100-000, Brazil
| | - Ana Carolina A Gomes
- Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Victor F S Lima
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia Parasitária, Universidade Federal de Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, 49100-000, Brazil
| | - R Scher
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia Parasitária, Universidade Federal de Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, 49100-000, Brazil
- Departamento de Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde, Universidade Federal de Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, 49100-000, Brazil
| | - S Jain
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia Industrial, Universidade Tiradentes, Aracaju, SE, 49032-490, Brazil
| | - Ricardo T Fujiwara
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia Parasitária, Universidade Federal de Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, 49100-000, Brazil.
- Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, 31270-901, Brazil.
| | - Silvio S Dolabella
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia Parasitária, Universidade Federal de Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, 49100-000, Brazil.
- Departamento de Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde, Universidade Federal de Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, 49100-000, Brazil.
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Elmahallawy EK, Zanet S, Poggi M, Alsharif KF, Agil A, Trisciuoglio A, Ferroglio E. Feline Leishmaniosis in Northwestern Italy: Current Status and Zoonotic Implications. Vet Sci 2021; 8:215. [PMID: 34679045 PMCID: PMC8539510 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci8100215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Revised: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Leishmaniasis remains one of the major neglected tropical diseases. The epidemiological profile of the disease comprises a wide range of hosts, including dogs and cats. Despite several studies about feline Leishmaniosis, the role of cats in disease epidemiology and its clinical impact is still debated. The present study raises awareness about the impact of leishmaniasis in cats from an endemic region in of Northwestern Italy (Liguria). A total number of 250 serum and 282 blood samples were collected from cats, then assessed for Leishmania infantum (L. infantum) serologically using western blot (WB) and molecularly using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). We also tested the association of Leishmania infection with some infectious agents like haemotropic Mycoplasma, Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) together with the hematobiochemical status of the examined animals. Interestingly, all tested animals were asymptomatic and out of 250 examined serum samples, 33 (13.20%) samples (confidence interval (CI) 95% 9.56-17.96%) were positive at WB for L. infantum, whereas of the 282 blood samples, 80 (28.36%) returned a positive PCR (CI 95% 23.43-33.89%). Furthermore, there was a statistical association between PCR positivity for L. infantum and some hematological parameters besides FIV infection as well as a direct significant correlation between Mycoplasma infection and WB positivity. Taken together, the present findings report high prevalence of L. infantum among cats, which reinforces the significance of such positive asymptomatic animals and confirms the very low humoral response in this species. In addition, the laboratory values provide evidence that infection by the parasite is linked to alteration of some hematological parameters and is correlated to some infectious agents. These data are of interest and suggest future research for accurate diagnosis of such zoonosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ehab Kotb Elmahallawy
- Department of Zoonotic Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Sohag University, Sohag 82524, Egypt
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Granada, 18002 Granada, Spain;
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Via Leonardo da Vinci, 44, Grugliasco, 10095 Torino, Italy; (S.Z.); (M.P.); (A.T.)
| | - Stefania Zanet
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Via Leonardo da Vinci, 44, Grugliasco, 10095 Torino, Italy; (S.Z.); (M.P.); (A.T.)
| | - Marco Poggi
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Via Leonardo da Vinci, 44, Grugliasco, 10095 Torino, Italy; (S.Z.); (M.P.); (A.T.)
| | - Khalaf F. Alsharif
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, P.O. Box 11099, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Ahmad Agil
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Granada, 18002 Granada, Spain;
| | - Anna Trisciuoglio
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Via Leonardo da Vinci, 44, Grugliasco, 10095 Torino, Italy; (S.Z.); (M.P.); (A.T.)
| | - Ezio Ferroglio
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Via Leonardo da Vinci, 44, Grugliasco, 10095 Torino, Italy; (S.Z.); (M.P.); (A.T.)
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Volpedo G, Huston RH, Holcomb EA, Pacheco-Fernandez T, Gannavaram S, Bhattacharya P, Nakhasi HL, Satoskar AR. From infection to vaccination: reviewing the global burden, history of vaccine development, and recurring challenges in global leishmaniasis protection. Expert Rev Vaccines 2021; 20:1431-1446. [PMID: 34511000 DOI: 10.1080/14760584.2021.1969231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Leishmaniasis is a major public health problem and the second most lethal parasitic disease in the world due to the lack of effective treatments and vaccines. Even when not lethal, leishmaniasis significantly affects individuals and communities through life-long disabilities, psycho-sociological trauma, poverty, and gender disparity in treatment. AREAS COVERED This review discusses the most relevant and recent research available on Pubmed and GoogleScholar highlighting leishmaniasis' global impact, pathogenesis, treatment options, and lack of effective control strategies. An effective vaccine is necessary to prevent morbidity and mortality, lower health care costs, and reduce the economic burden of leishmaniasis for endemic low- and middle-income countries. Since there are several forms of leishmaniasis, a pan-Leishmania vaccine without geographical restrictions is needed. This review also focuses on recent advances and common challenges in developing prophylactic strategies against leishmaniasis. EXPERT OPINION Despite advances in pre-clinical vaccine research, approval of a human leishmaniasis vaccine still faces major challenges - including manufacturing of candidate vaccines under Good Manufacturing Practices, developing well-designed clinical trials suitable in endemic countries, and defined correlates of protection. In addition, there is a need to explore Challenge Human Infection Model to avoid large trials because of fluctuating incidence and prevalence of leishmanasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Greta Volpedo
- Departments of Pathology and Microbiology, Wexner Medical Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Ryan H Huston
- Departments of Pathology and Microbiology, Wexner Medical Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Erin A Holcomb
- Departments of Pathology and Microbiology, Wexner Medical Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Thalia Pacheco-Fernandez
- Departments of Pathology and Microbiology, Wexner Medical Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Sreenivas Gannavaram
- Division of Emerging and Transfusion Transmitted Diseases, Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - Parna Bhattacharya
- Division of Emerging and Transfusion Transmitted Diseases, Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - Hira L Nakhasi
- Division of Emerging and Transfusion Transmitted Diseases, Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - Abhay R Satoskar
- Departments of Pathology and Microbiology, Wexner Medical Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
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Dos Santos NS, de Pinho FA, Hlavac NRC, Nunes TL, Almeida NR, Solcà MS, Varjão BM, Portela RW, Rugani JN, Rêgo FD, Barrouin-Melo SM, Soares RP. Feline Leishmaniasis Caused by Leishmania infantum: Parasite Sequencing, Seropositivity, and Clinical Characterization in an Endemic Area From Brazil. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:734916. [PMID: 34513979 PMCID: PMC8424124 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.734916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Zoonotic leishmaniasis caused by Leishmania infantum is a disease of One Health concern since human and animal cases and environmental damage are interconnected. L. infantum has a complex epidemiological cycle with multiple hosts, including mammals-humans, domestic, and wild animals-and arthropod vectors. Knowledge on mammal infections in endemic areas is crucial for developing control strategies. This work aimed to detect and characterize L. infantum infection in domestic cats from areas where human and canine leishmaniasis cases occur. No cases of feline leishmaniasis (FeL) had been previously reported in those areas. Five municipalities from Bahia state were chosen, comprising 2,480.8 km2 with 1,103,866 inhabitants. Ninety domiciliated and/or sheltered cats underwent clinical examination and serology by a rapid reference test recommended by the Brazilian government. Cytology, PCR, and parasite DNA sequencing were performed in bone marrow samples. Rapid tests detected antibodies in 5.6% (5/90) of the cats. Leishmania infantum infection was confirmed in 7.8% (7/90) of the cats by PCR, sequencing, and parasite isolation. Three out of the five municipalities (60%) had infected cats, and PCR positivity varied from 6.9 to 29%. One cat was categorized as harboring active L. infantum infection with amastigote forms in bone marrow smears. No clinical signs were detected at the first clinical exam, but 1 month later the cat developed severe FeL. The cat isolate was grown in culture, typed and its DNA sequence was homologous to the L. infantum reference strain (PP75). In conclusion, cats are potential hosts and may acquire L. infantum in endemic areas where canine and human cases occur. For cats, the need for surveillance, differential diagnosis and clinical care is highly recommended since a fast clinical progression of FeL developed in a subclinical animal. An accurate standardized immunodiagnostic assay for FeL is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nara Santos Dos Santos
- Laboratory of Veterinary Infectious Diseases, Teaching Hospital of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Bahia (UFBA), Salvador, Brazil
| | - Flaviane Alves de Pinho
- Laboratory of Veterinary Infectious Diseases, Teaching Hospital of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Bahia (UFBA), Salvador, Brazil.,Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Pathology and Clinics of the School of Veterinary Medicine and Zootechny, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Brazil
| | - Nicole Regina Capacchi Hlavac
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Pathology and Clinics of the School of Veterinary Medicine and Zootechny, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Brazil
| | - Talyta Lins Nunes
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Pathology and Clinics of the School of Veterinary Medicine and Zootechny, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Brazil
| | - Nádia Rossi Almeida
- Department of Veterinary Preventive Medicine and Animal Production of the School of Veterinary Medicine and Zootechny, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Brazil
| | - Manuela Silva Solcà
- Department of Veterinary Preventive Medicine and Animal Production of the School of Veterinary Medicine and Zootechny, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Brazil
| | - Bruno Milen Varjão
- Laboratory of Veterinary Infectious Diseases, Teaching Hospital of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Bahia (UFBA), Salvador, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Wagner Portela
- Laboratory of Immunology and Molecular Biology, Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, BA, Brazil
| | | | - Felipe Dutra Rêgo
- Instituto Rene Rachou, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Stella Maria Barrouin-Melo
- Laboratory of Veterinary Infectious Diseases, Teaching Hospital of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Bahia (UFBA), Salvador, Brazil.,Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Pathology and Clinics of the School of Veterinary Medicine and Zootechny, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Brazil
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36
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Patino LH, Castillo-Castañeda A, Muñoz M, Muskus C, Rivero-Rodríguez M, Pérez-Doria A, Bejarano EE, Ramírez JD. Revisiting the heterogeneous global genomic population structure of Leishmania infantum. Microb Genom 2021; 7. [PMID: 34491157 PMCID: PMC8715437 DOI: 10.1099/mgen.0.000640] [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: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Leishmania infantum is the main causative agent responsible for visceral leishmaniasis (VL), a disease with global distribution. The genomic structure and genetic variation of this species have been widely studied in different parts of the world. However, in some countries, this information is still yet unknown, as is the genomic behaviour of the main antigens used in VL diagnosis (rK39 and rK28), which have demonstrated variable sensitivity and specificity in a manner dependent on the geographic region analysed. The objective of this study was to explore the genomic architecture and diversity of four Colombian L. infantum isolates obtained in this study and to compare these results with the genetic analysis of 183 L. infantum isolates from across the world (obtained from public databases), as well as to analyse the whole rK39 and rK28 antigen sequences in our dataset. The results showed that, at the global level, L. infantum has high genetic homogeneity and extensive aneuploidy. Furthermore, we demonstrated that there are distinct populations of L. infantum circulating in various countries throughout the globe and that populations of distant countries have close genomic relationships. Additionally, this study demonstrated the high genetic variability of the rK28 antigen worldwide. In conclusion, our study allowed us to (i) expand our knowledge of the genomic structure of global L. infantum; (ii) describe the intra-specific genomic variability of this species; and (iii) understand the genomic characteristics of the main antigens used in the diagnosis of VL. Additionally, this is the first study to report whole-genome sequences of Colombian L. infantum isolates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luz H Patino
- Centro de Investigaciones en Microbiología y Biotecnología-UR (CIMBIUR), Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Adriana Castillo-Castañeda
- Centro de Investigaciones en Microbiología y Biotecnología-UR (CIMBIUR), Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Marina Muñoz
- Centro de Investigaciones en Microbiología y Biotecnología-UR (CIMBIUR), Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Carlos Muskus
- Programa de Estudios y Control de Enfermedades Tropicales (PECET), Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Matilde Rivero-Rodríguez
- Grupo de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad de Sucre, Sincelejo, Colombia.,Candidata a doctor en Medicina Tropical, Universidad de Cartagena-SUE Caribe, Colombia
| | - Alveiro Pérez-Doria
- Grupo de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad de Sucre, Sincelejo, Colombia
| | - Eduar E Bejarano
- Grupo de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad de Sucre, Sincelejo, Colombia
| | - Juan David Ramírez
- Centro de Investigaciones en Microbiología y Biotecnología-UR (CIMBIUR), Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
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Feline Leishmaniosis: An Emerging Public Health Problem. Vet Sci 2021; 8:vetsci8090173. [PMID: 34564567 PMCID: PMC8473070 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci8090173] [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: 08/06/2021] [Revised: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Leishmaniosis is the third most important vector-borne disease in humans, preceded by malaria and lymphatic filariasis, and it is considered endemic in tropical and subtropical areas, where higher temperatures favor development of its vector, sandflies. This zoonotic disease is caused by infection of protozoa Leishmania spp. and the most serious mucocutaneous and visceral form is produced by Leishmania infantum, which predominates in the Mediterranean region. The usual hosts for this parasite are dogs and humans, but an increment in cases of L. infantum infection has been observed in cats in the last years. This increase could be due to the use of sandflies repellents in dogs, obligating the parasite to looking for other hosts. The role of cats in the epidemiology of this disease is unknown, although increase of prevalence of feline leishmaniosis has been observed in endemic areas in the last years. Diagnostic techniques and treatments in cats are not standardized, which makes it difficult to establish prevalence and epidemiology of feline leishmaniosis. Furthermore, the clinical signs and immune response against Leishmania in cats are different to those in dogs, with an observed increment of drug resistance. It is necessary to increase our knowledge about L. infantum infection in cats, including clinical signs, transmission, treatments, and the role of cats in the increasing of zoonoses. Finally, new alternative treatments are required for controlling the spread of this disease in all species of mammals.
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Vioti G, da Silva MD, Galvis-Ovallos F, Alves ML, da Silva DT, Leonel JAF, Pereira NWB, Benassi JC, Spada JCP, Maia C, Galati EAB, Starke-Buzetti WA, Oliveira TMFDS. Xenodiagnosis in four domestic cats naturally infected by Leishmania infantum. Transbound Emerg Dis 2021; 69:2182-2190. [PMID: 34229362 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.14216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Revised: 06/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Leishmaniasis is a neglected tropical disease that continues to pose a serious public health problem. Albeit dogs have long been held as the major reservoirs of Leishmania infantum, the involvement of domestic cats in the zoonotic cycle of visceral leishmaniasis has gained prominence. Here, 240 cats were evaluated by clinical signs and haematological/biochemical changes compatible with leishmaniasis and were diagnosed by serological, molecular, and parasitological techniques. Thus, four cats naturally infected by L. infantum were submitted to xenodiagnosis. A total of 203 females of Lutzomyia longipalpis were subjected to feeding on four cats, with all females completing the blood meal. Parasitological and molecular assays were carried out to evaluate the presence of L. infantum in the sand flies' midgut. Promastigotes were observed in 10 females (6.5%) that fed on one cat, and L. infantum DNA was detected in 17 (8.4%) females that fed on two cats. Our results strengthen the evidence that naturally infected cats are capable of transmitting L. infantum to sand flies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geovanna Vioti
- Post-Graduate Program in Experimental Epidemiology Applied to Zoonoses at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mariana Dantas da Silva
- Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Public Health, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Fredy Galvis-Ovallos
- Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Public Health, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Maria Luana Alves
- Post-Graduate Program in Experimental Epidemiology Applied to Zoonoses at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Diogo Tiago da Silva
- Post-Graduate Program in Experimental Epidemiology Applied to Zoonoses at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - João Augusto Franco Leonel
- Post-Graduate Program in Experimental Epidemiology Applied to Zoonoses at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Nuno Wolfgang Balbini Pereira
- Post-Graduate Program in Experimental Epidemiology Applied to Zoonoses at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Julia Cristina Benassi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Júlio Cesar Pereira Spada
- Post-Graduate Program in Experimental Epidemiology Applied to Zoonoses at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Carla Maia
- Department of Biology and Animal Science, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Ilha Solteira, Brazil
| | | | - Wilma Aparecida Starke-Buzetti
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade NOVA de Lisboa (NOVA), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Trícia Maria Ferreira de Sousa Oliveira
- Post-Graduate Program in Experimental Epidemiology Applied to Zoonoses at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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39
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Tirado TC, Bavia L, Ambrosio AR, Campos MP, de Almeida Santiago M, Messias-Reason IJ, Figueiredo FB. A comparative approach on the activation of the three complement system pathways in different hosts of Visceral Leishmaniasis after stimulation with Leishmania infantum. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2021; 120:104061. [PMID: 33667529 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2021.104061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2021] [Revised: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Visceral Leishmaniasis is an infectious disease that affects mainly humans and dogs, with the latter being important reservoirs of the parasite. Conversely, cats are naturally resistant. The immune system can offer important explanation to this problematic as there is no evidence on the role that the complement system plays in cats. In this context, effect of the complement system from human, dog and cat sera on Leishmania infantum was evaluated. Activation of the classical, alternative and lectin pathways was assessed through hemolytic and ELISA assays. Lytic activity of the complement on the parasite's viability was investigated by Transmission Electron Microscopy and Flow Cytometry. Complement proteins were more consumed in dog serum on the classical and alternative pathways, leading to less hemolytic activity, and only in cat serum they were consumed on the lectin pathway when incubated with L. infantum. Lytic activity on the parasite's surface was more accentuated in human serum, and varied throughout the parasite's developmental stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thais Cristina Tirado
- Laboratório de Biologia Celular, Instituto Carlos Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (FIOCruz), Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil.
| | - Lorena Bavia
- Laboratório de Imunopatologia Molecular, Departamento de Patologia Médica, Universidade Federal Do Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil.
| | - Altair Rogerio Ambrosio
- Laboratório de Imunopatologia Molecular, Departamento de Patologia Médica, Universidade Federal Do Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Monique Paiva Campos
- Laboratório de Biologia Celular, Instituto Carlos Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (FIOCruz), Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | | | - Iara Jose Messias-Reason
- Laboratório de Imunopatologia Molecular, Departamento de Patologia Médica, Universidade Federal Do Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Fabiano Borges Figueiredo
- Laboratório de Biologia Celular, Instituto Carlos Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (FIOCruz), Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
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40
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Villanueva-Saz S, Giner J, Verde M, Yzuel A, Ruiz H, Lacasta D, Riera C, Fisa R, Alcover MM, Fernández A. Antibodies to Leishmania in naturally exposed domestic ferrets (Mustela putorius furo) in Spain. Vet Parasitol 2021; 296:109492. [PMID: 34144379 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2021.109492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2021] [Revised: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Zoonotic leishmaniosis due to Leishmania infantum is a vector-borne disease endemic in southern Europe and dogs are the main reservoir for this infection. Seasonal variations in antibody titers in this species in areas where phlebotomine vectors have seasonal patterns of activity are important for epidemiological, preventive and clinical studies related with canine leishmaniosis. It has been suggested that cats, rabbits and ferrets may act as peridomestic reservoirs and not only as accidental hosts. The aim of this study was to determine if seropositive ferrets (Mustela putorius furo) to Leishmania could be affected by seasonal variations of anti-Leishmania antibodies. A group of seropositive clinically healthy ferrets (n = 21) were included in this study. A significant reduction in anti-Leishmania infantum antibodies was detected during non-transmission period (December 2020-February 2021) in comparison to transmission period (April-October 2020). This study describes for the first time a seasonal variation in the anti-Leishmania antibodies detected in domestic ferrets following natural exposure during sand fly transmission period and the following non-sand fly transmission period in a Mediterranean area considered as an area where L. infantum is endemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Villanueva-Saz
- Animal Pathology Department, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain; Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain; Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón-IA2 (Universidad de Zaragoza-CITA), Spain.
| | - Jacobo Giner
- Animal Pathology Department, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain; Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain; Menescalia Veterinary Clinic, Ismael Merlo Actor, 5, 46020, Valencia, Spain
| | - Maite Verde
- Animal Pathology Department, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain; Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain; Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón-IA2 (Universidad de Zaragoza-CITA), Spain
| | - Andrés Yzuel
- Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Héctor Ruiz
- Animal Pathology Department, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Delia Lacasta
- Animal Pathology Department, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain; Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón-IA2 (Universidad de Zaragoza-CITA), Spain
| | - Cristina Riera
- Departament de Biologia, Salut i Medi Ambient, Facultat de Farmacia, Universitat de Barcelona, Spain
| | - Roser Fisa
- Departament de Biologia, Salut i Medi Ambient, Facultat de Farmacia, Universitat de Barcelona, Spain
| | - María Magdalena Alcover
- Departament de Biologia, Salut i Medi Ambient, Facultat de Farmacia, Universitat de Barcelona, Spain
| | - Antonio Fernández
- Animal Pathology Department, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain; Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain; Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón-IA2 (Universidad de Zaragoza-CITA), Spain
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Pereira A, Maia C. Leishmania infection in cats and feline leishmaniosis: An updated review with a proposal of a diagnosis algorithm and prevention guidelines. CURRENT RESEARCH IN PARASITOLOGY & VECTOR-BORNE DISEASES 2021; 1:100035. [PMID: 35284863 PMCID: PMC8906079 DOI: 10.1016/j.crpvbd.2021.100035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 04/15/2023]
Abstract
Leishmaniosis is a vector-borne disease caused by protozoans of the genus Leishmania, which are transmitted to vertebrates, including cats, through the bites of female phlebotomine sand flies. An increasing number of epidemiological and experimental studies concerning Leishmania infection in cats, as well as case reports of clinical leishmaniosis in these felids, have been published in recent years. In the present study, a comprehensive review was made by sourcing the National Library of Medicine resources to provide updated data on epidemiology, immunopathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of feline leishmaniosis. Cats were found infected with Leishmania parasites worldwide, and feline leishmaniosis appears as an emergent disease mostly reported in countries surrounding the Mediterranean Sea and in Brazil. Cats with impaired immunocompetence seem to have a higher risk to develop clinical disease. The main clinical and clinicopathological findings are dermatological lesions and hypergammaglobulinemia, respectively. Diagnosis of feline leishmaniosis remains a challenge for veterinarians, in part due to the lack of diagnosis support systems. For this reason, a diagnostic algorithm for clinical decision support is herein proposed. No evidence-based treatment protocols are currently available, and these remain empirically based. Control measures are limited and scarce. Thus, a set of prevention guidelines are herein suggested.
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Affiliation(s)
- André Pereira
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHMT), Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 1349-008 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Carla Maia
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHMT), Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 1349-008 Lisboa, Portugal
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Abramo F, Albanese F, Gattuso S, Randone A, Fileccia I, Dedola C, Ibba F, Ottaiano P, Brianti E. Skin Lesions in Feline Leishmaniosis: A Systematic Review. Pathogens 2021; 10:472. [PMID: 33924616 PMCID: PMC8070508 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10040472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Revised: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Feline leishmaniosis (FeL) is increasingly reported throughout the world and skin lesions predominate in the clinical picture. There are, however, few evidence-based data on cutaneous feline leishmaniosis and directions are strongly needed for a better management of the disease. In this study, we systematically reviewed what is currently known about the clinical dermatological presentation of FeL through analysis of the literature and, further, by adding unpublished cases managed by Italian veterinary dermatologists. Sixty-six feline cases of cutaneous leishmaniosis published in 33 articles between 1990 and 2020 met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed. Six unpublished cases of cutaneous FeL managed by Italian dermatologists were also reviewed. The majority of cases were reported from South America, followed by Europe and North America. Nodules were the most frequently reported clinical signs and the presence of Leishmania in lesioned skin was assessed mainly by cytology. A total of six Leishmania species have been identified as being responsible for skin lesions. Coinfections by FIV or FeLV were reported in 12.1% and 9.1% of the cases, respectively. Clinical data including treatment have been analyzed and discussed to provide directives for proper management of the disease for which cats may also serve as domestic reservoirs for human infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Abramo
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Pisa, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - Francesco Albanese
- Private Veterinary Laboratory “LaVallonea”, 20017 Passirana di Rho, Italy;
| | | | | | - Ivan Fileccia
- Ambulatorio Veterinario Preneste, Centro Veterinario Specialistico, 00137 Rome, Italy;
| | - Carla Dedola
- Centro Veterinario Ichnos, 09131 Cagliari, Italy;
| | - Fabrizio Ibba
- Clinica Veterinaria Animal House, 09012 Capoterra, Italy;
| | | | - Emanuele Brianti
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy;
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Aksulu A, Bilgiç HB, Karagenç T, Bakırcı S. Seroprevalence and molecular detection of Leishmania spp. in cats of West Aegean Region, Turkey. Vet Parasitol Reg Stud Reports 2021; 24:100573. [PMID: 34024389 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2021.100573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Revised: 04/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Zoonotic visceral leishmaniasis is caused by protozoa of the genus Leishmania. Although dogs are considered to be primary reservoir hosts of Leishmania spp., several mammals, such as foxes, jackals and small rodents may also be hosts of different Leishmania spp. Previously, cats were considered as asymptomatic hosts of the parasite without acting as a reservoir. In recent years, there has been an increasing number of leishmaniasis cases in cats, especially in regions where the infection endemically occurs. This data indicate that cats are more likely to be one of the main reservoirs of Leishmania spp. rather than being a non-reservoir host. The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence of Leishmania spp. by molecular and serological techniques among owned and stray cats in four different cities located in western part of Turkey. A total of 386 blood and 301 serum samples were collected from cats in Western Turkey where leishmaniasis is endemic. Feline serum samples were tested by IFAT to detect IgG antibodies against Leishmania spp. antigens. Blood samples collected from 386 cats were examined by PCR for the presence of Leishmania spp. According to PCR results using RV1/RV2 primers, nine (2.3%) out of 386 samples were positive for Leishmania spp. Further PCR analysis using MC1/MC2 primers showed that one cat in Izmir was found to be infected with L. infantum/donovani complex. Sequence analysis revealed the presence of L. infantum, L. major and L. tropica among sampled cats in western part of Turkey. On the other hand, IFAT results indicated that an overall of 47 out of 301 (15.6%) cats that examined by PCR were found to have anti-Leishmania antibodies. Also, six of the seropositive cats were owned animals. The present study demonstrated that both owned and stray cats can be infected with Leishmania spp. and might be potential reservoirs for other animals and humans. Therefore, all communities living in or nearby endemic regions should be made aware of the role of cats as potential reservoirs of infection. In endemic regions, all animals should be protected against infection with insecticides and monitored routinely to control the spread of zoonotic visceral leishmaniasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayça Aksulu
- Aydın Adnan Menderes University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Parasitology, Isıklı-Efeler, Aydın, Turkey
| | - Hüseyin Bilgin Bilgiç
- Aydın Adnan Menderes University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Parasitology, Isıklı-Efeler, Aydın, Turkey
| | - Tülin Karagenç
- Aydın Adnan Menderes University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Parasitology, Isıklı-Efeler, Aydın, Turkey
| | - Serkan Bakırcı
- Aydın Adnan Menderes University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Parasitology, Isıklı-Efeler, Aydın, Turkey.
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Alcover MM, Basurco A, Fernandez A, Riera C, Fisa R, Gonzalez A, Verde M, Garrido AM, Ruíz H, Yzuel A, Villanueva-Saz S. A cross-sectional study of Leishmania infantum infection in stray cats in the city of Zaragoza (Spain) using serology and PCR. Parasit Vectors 2021; 14:178. [PMID: 33766113 PMCID: PMC7992781 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-021-04682-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Feline leishmaniosis is a vector-borne parasitic disease caused by Leishmania spp. Leishmania infection in dogs is prevalent in the Mediterranean basin, but in other animals, such as cats, it could also play a role in the epidemiology of the disease. Information on the geographical distribution and epidemiological features of L. infantum infection in cats is scarce, particularly in urban stray cats living in regions where canine leishmaniosis is endemic. As diagnosis can be challenging, combining different serological and molecular methods is a useful approach. Our aim was to investigate the prevalence of infection of L. infantum in apparently healthy stray cats in an endemic region of Spain (Zaragoza city) using serological and molecular methods, and to compare the results of the different techniques. METHODS The prevalence of Leishmania infection was studied in stray cats captured in urban and peri-urban areas of Zaragoza. Blood was collected from each animal for serology and molecular analysis. Three serological methods, namely the immunofluorescent antibody test (IFAT), enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and western blot (WB), were used to detect L. infantum antibodies and a real-time PCR (qPCR) assay was used to detect L. infantum DNA. The results were analyzed by Fisher's exact test and Cohen's kappa statistic (κ) to assess the level of agreement between the diagnostic techniques. RESULTS Serological analysis of blood samples from 180 stray cats revealed 2.2% (4/179) Leishmania infection positivity by IFAT, 2.8% (5/179) by ELISA and 14.5% (26/179) by WB. Leishmania DNA was detected by qPCR in 5.6% (10/179) of the cats. Sixteen cats (8.9%) tested positive by only one serological technique and four tested positive by all three serological methods used. The overall rate of infected cats (calculated as the number of cats seropositive and/or qPCR positive) was 15.6%, and only two cats tested positive by all the diagnostic methods. A significant association was found between male cats and a positive qPCR result. Comparison of the techniques revealed a fair agreement in seropositivity between blood qPCR and IFAT (κ = 0.26), blood qPCR and ELISA (κ = 0.24), WB and ELISA (κ = 0.37) and WB and IFAT (κ = 0.40). The highest agreement between seropositive results was between IFAT and ELISA (κ = 0.89), and the lowest was between blood qPCR and WB (κ = 0.19). The prevalence of the feline leukemia virus antigen was 4.49% (8/178 cats) and that of the feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) antibody was 6.74% (12/178), while co-infection with both retroviruses was observed in one female cat (1/178). Leishmania ELISA and IFAT seropositivity were statistically associated with FIV status by the chi-square test. CONCLUSIONS The results obtained in this study, using serological tests and qPCR, indicate the existence of L. infantum asymptomatic infection in apparently healthy stray cats in the city of Zaragoza, an endemic area in Spain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Magdalena Alcover
- Departament de Biologia, Salut I Medi Ambient, Facultat de Farmacia, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Asier Basurco
- Laboratorio de Inmunopatología Clínica, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain.,Departamento de Patología Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Antonio Fernandez
- Laboratorio de Inmunopatología Clínica, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain.,Departamento de Patología Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Cristina Riera
- Departament de Biologia, Salut I Medi Ambient, Facultat de Farmacia, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Roser Fisa
- Departament de Biologia, Salut I Medi Ambient, Facultat de Farmacia, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ana Gonzalez
- Departamento de Patología Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Maite Verde
- Laboratorio de Inmunopatología Clínica, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain.,Departamento de Patología Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Ana María Garrido
- Departamento de Patología Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Héctor Ruíz
- Departamento de Patología Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Andrés Yzuel
- Laboratorio de Inmunopatología Clínica, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Sergio Villanueva-Saz
- Laboratorio de Inmunopatología Clínica, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain. .,Departamento de Farmacología Y Fisiología, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain.
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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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Rombolà P, Barlozzari G, Carvelli A, Scarpulla M, Iacoponi F, Macrì G. Seroprevalence and risk factors associated with exposure to Leishmania infantum in dogs, in an endemic Mediterranean region. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0244923. [PMID: 33395452 PMCID: PMC7781377 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0244923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Canine leishmaniasis (CanL) is a zoonotic parasitic disease caused by Leishmania infantum in the Mediterranean area and transmitted by phlebotomine sand fly vectors. The domestic dog is the main reservoir host. The aim of this study was to assess the influence of different individual, environmental and spatial risk factors on the dog exposure to L. infantum and to estimate the seroprevalence among owned and kennel dogs, in the Lazio region (central Italy), where canine leishmaniasis is endemic. In the period 2010-2014, 13,292 sera from kennel and owned dogs were collected by official and private veterinarians. The presence of anti-Leishmania IgG was analysed by indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT), using a 1:80 titre cut-off. At the univariable analysis, CanL seropositivity was associated with sex, size, breed, coat length, living with other dogs and forest/semi-natural land cover. At the multivariable analysis, age, ownership and attitude were confirmed as risk factors, being more than 2 years old, owned, and hunting dogs at higher risk. Being a Maremma sheepdog was a protective factor. A true overall seroprevalence of 6.7% (95% CI: 6.2-7.2) was estimated in the whole population while 7.3% (95% CI: 6.8-7.8) was estimated in kennel dogs and 74.3% (95% CI: 70.8-77.6) in owned dogs. The role of kennels as a key component for CanL active and passive surveillance was also highlighted. This study confirmed the endemicity of CanL in the Lazio region and focused some factors that can influence the seropositivity of dogs in a Mediterranean region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pasquale Rombolà
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana ‘M. Aleandri’, Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Barlozzari
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana ‘M. Aleandri’, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Carvelli
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana ‘M. Aleandri’, Rome, Italy
| | - Manuela Scarpulla
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana ‘M. Aleandri’, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Iacoponi
- Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, Rome, Italy
| | - Gladia Macrì
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana ‘M. Aleandri’, Rome, Italy
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Ebani VV, Guardone L, Marra F, Altomonte I, Nardoni S, Mancianti F. Arthropod-Borne Pathogens in Stray Cats from Northern Italy: A Serological and Molecular Survey. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:E2334. [PMID: 33302522 PMCID: PMC7764348 DOI: 10.3390/ani10122334] [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: 10/29/2020] [Revised: 11/27/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Cats may be affected by a wide range of arthropod-borne pathogens (ABPs) of medical and veterinary interest. Between February 2018 and October 2019, 85 blood samples were collected from stray cats from the Emilia Romagna region (northern Italy). Ticks (n = 28) on the examined cats were also collected. Serological and molecular methods were applied to search for infection by Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Bartonella henselae, Coxiella burnetii, Ehrlichia canis, Leishmania spp., Babesia spp., Hepatozoon spp., and Cytauxzoon spp. A total of 71 sera (83.5%) had antibodies to at least one investigated pathogen: 39 (45.9%) were positive for B. henselae, 32 (37.6%) positive for C. burnetii, 12 (14.1%) positive for E. canis, four (4.7%) positive for A. phagocytophilum, and two (2.4%) positive for Leishmania spp. A total of 47 (55.3%) DNA samples were positive by PCR for at least one investigated pathogen: 25 (29.4%) were positive for C. burnetii, 23 (27.1%) positive for B. henselae, two (2.4%) positive for E. canis, five (5.9%) positive for Leishmania spp., and two (2.4%) positive for Cytauxzoon spp. Coinfections were observed in 21 cats (24.7%). No positivity was found for A. phagocytophilum, Babesia spp., or Hepatozoon spp. All ticks were negative. A widespread presence of ABPs in the investigated area of northern Italy was shown. Accurate information on their prevalence may be relevant for feline veterinary medicine, as well as from a One Health perspective.
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Batista JF, Magalhães Neto FDCR, Lopes KSPDP, Sato MO, Costa CHN, Mendonça ILD. Transmission of Leishmania infantum from cats to dogs. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 29:e017820. [PMID: 33295378 DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612020099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Leishmania infantum infection in cats has been reported in several countries, including Brazil. However, the transmission of visceral leishmaniasis (VL) from cats to another host has not been proven yet. Therefore, the aim of this study was to verify the possibility of L. infantum transmission from cats to dogs. In order to verify the possibility of VL transmission from the cat to the dog, xenodiagnosis was carried out in a VL-positive cat, using 55 female Lutzomyia longipalpis. Five days later, 40 insects were dissected to verify Leishmania infection. The remaining 15 females were fed in a healthy dog. The potential infection of the dog was verified through clinical, serological, parasitological examinations, and PCR, at three, six, and twelve months post-infection. All 55 L. longipalpis females became visibly engorged. Leishmania promastigotes were detected in 27.5% of the dissected insects. Leishmania infection in the dog was confirmed upon first evaluation. DNA sequencing of the parasite isolated from the cat confirmed L. infantum infection and showed 99% similarity with the L. infantum DNA sequences from the dogs. Through this study, it was possible to confirm the L. infantum experimental transmission from a domestic cat to a domestic dog through its biological vector L. longipalpis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Marcello Otake Sato
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, Dokkyo Medical University, Kitakobayashi, Mibu, Japan
| | | | - Ivete Lopes de Mendonça
- Departamento de Clínica e Cirurgia Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Piauí - UFPI, Teresina, PI, Brasil
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Silva RBS, Portela RDA, Arruda LFB, Ferreira JDS, Souto EPF, Araújo ALD, Madeira MDF, Dantas AFM, Melo MAD. Natural Infection by Leishmania infantum in domestic cats (Felis catus) in a municipality of moderate transmission in the Brazilian semi-arid region. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 29:e016620. [PMID: 33295377 DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612020102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The main clinical, anatomopathological, and molecular aspects of the infection by Leishmania infantum are described in two cats with multicentric cutaneous, nodular, and ulcerated lesions. The animals were submitted to a clinical examination, followed by serological, molecular and parasitological exams, with culture and isolation of the parasite, and subsequent isoenzymatic characterization. The animals were euthanized and necropsied. Case 1 was an adult, female, mixed-bred stray cat. Case 2 was an adult, male, mixed-bred and domiciled cat. Both were positive for the presence of anti-L. infantum antibodies. In the cytology of the cutaneous nodules and lymph nodes, amastigote forms of Leishmania spp. could be visualized, free and in the interior of the macrophages. In the histopathology, the lesions were characterized by nodular granulomatous and/or ulcerative dermatitis, associated to amastigote forms of Leishmania spp. By means of the polymerase chain reaction, the sequence of the L. infantum kDNA minicircle was amplified. It is concluded that the infection by L. infantum occurs in cats in the State of Paraíba, Northeast region of Brazil and the need to understand the immunological profile of the visceral leishmaniasis in the feline population is highlighted with aimed at the control measures in public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raizza Barros Sousa Silva
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciência e Saúde Animal, Unidade Acadêmica de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Patos, PB, Brasil
| | | | | | - Jefferson da Silva Ferreira
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciência e Saúde Animal, Unidade Acadêmica de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Patos, PB, Brasil
| | - Erick Platiní Ferreira Souto
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciência e Saúde Animal, Unidade Acadêmica de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Patos, PB, Brasil
| | | | - Maria de Fátima Madeira
- Laboratório de Vigilância em Leishmaniose, Instituto de Pesquisa Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil
| | - Antônio Flávio Medeiros Dantas
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciência e Saúde Animal, Unidade Acadêmica de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Patos, PB, Brasil
| | - Marcia Almeida de Melo
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciência e Saúde Animal, Unidade Acadêmica de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Patos, PB, Brasil
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Fernandez-Gallego A, Feo Bernabe L, Dalmau A, Esteban-Saltiveri D, Font A, Leiva M, Ortuñez-Navarro A, Peña MT, Tabar MD, Real-Sampietro L, Saló F, Lloret A, Bardagí M. Feline leishmaniosis: diagnosis, treatment and outcome in 16 cats. J Feline Med Surg 2020; 22:993-1007. [PMID: 32053024 PMCID: PMC10814407 DOI: 10.1177/1098612x20902865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Leishmaniosis is a vector-borne disease and in European countries is caused by Leishmania infantum. Cats are considered secondary reservoirs of the infection in endemic areas. The objective of this retrospective study is to describe the clinical findings, diagnosis, treatment and outcome of feline leishmaniosis (FeL) in 16 cats in Spain. METHODS Medical records of cats diagnosed with leishmaniosis were retrospectively reviewed for cases that met the following inclusion criteria: identification of Leishmania organisms and/or DNA on cytological and/or histological specimens and/or a high anti-Leishmania antibody titre, compatible clinical findings and pathological abnormalities. RESULTS Sixteen cats met the inclusion criteria, all of which were living in areas endemic for canine leishmaniosis. Systemic signs were present in 11 cases (68.8%). The most common clinical signs on presentation included cutaneous lesions in 12 cats (75%), ocular disease in six cats (37.5%) and anorexia in six cats (37.5%). A polyclonal gammopathy was noted in 12 cats (85.7%). Non-regenerative anaemia and renal abnormalities were present in six (37.5%) and five patients (31.3%), respectively. In nine cats (56.3%), immunosuppressive conditions/comorbidities were identified. The diagnosis was made in eight of the cats (50%) by cytology, but a combination of diagnostic tests was needed for definitive diagnosis in the remaining patients. Twelve cats (75%) were treated specifically for leishmaniosis. Five of the 12 cats (41.7%) did not improve with treatment. The median survival time in the group of patients treated specifically for leishmaniosis was 17 months. Median survival of patients treated with concomitant diseases was 13 months vs 41 months in those without, although this was not statistically significant (P = 0.557). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE Presentation of FeL appears to be similar to canine leishmaniosis but with some specific features: ulcerative and nodular skin lesions are the predominant cutaneous signs; cats with immunosuppressive conditions or coexisting diseases were more commonly present than typically seen in dogs (mainly feline immunodeficiency virus). A combination of diagnostic tests may be needed for definitive diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Artur Font
- Hospital Ars Veterinaria, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marta Leiva
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animal, Facultat de Veterinaria, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Servei d’Oftalmologia de la Fundació Hospital Clínic Veterinari, Facultat de Veterinaria, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Maria-Teresa Peña
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animal, Facultat de Veterinaria, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Servei d’Oftalmologia de la Fundació Hospital Clínic Veterinari, Facultat de Veterinaria, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | - Ferran Saló
- Dispensari Veterinari del Vallès, Rubí, Spain
| | - Albert Lloret
- Servei de Medicina Interna de la Fundació Hospital Clínic Veterinari, Facultat de Veterinaria, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mar Bardagí
- Hospital Ars Veterinaria, Barcelona, Spain
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animal, Facultat de Veterinaria, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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