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Knobel DL, Hanekom J, van den Bergh MC, Leisewitz AL. Effects of gonadectomy on the incidence rate of babesiosis and the risk of severe babesiosis in dogs aged 6 months and older at a veterinary academic hospital in South Africa: A case-control and retrospective cohort study. Prev Vet Med 2024; 230:106293. [PMID: 39047356 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2024.106293] [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: 04/12/2024] [Revised: 07/14/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
Gonadectomy in dogs is associated with changes in risks of a variety of non-infectious health conditions, but few studies have examined its effects on infectious disease outcomes. The objectives of our study were to estimate the causal effect of gonadectomy on the incidence rate of babesiosis diagnosis, and on the risk of severe babesiosis in diagnosed cases, in dogs 6 months and older seen at a veterinary academic hospital in South Africa from 2013 through 2020. To estimate the effect of gonadectomy on the incidence rate of babesiosis diagnosis in dogs, we conducted a case-control study with incidence density sampling of dogs seen through the hospital's primary care service, adjusting for sex, age, breed category and weight. We identified 811 cases and selected 3244 time-matched controls. To estimate the effect of gonadectomy on disease severity in dogs with babesiosis, we conducted a retrospective cohort study among all dogs with a diagnosis of babesiosis (n=923), including these 811 cases and a further 112 referred to the hospital, also adjusting for sex, age, breed category and weight. Gonadectomy substantially reduced the incidence rate of babesiosis (total effect incidence rate ratio [IRR] 0.5; 95 % confidence interval [CI] 0.41-0.60) and the risk of severe babesiosis among diagnosed dogs (total effect risk ratio [RR] 0.72; 95 % CI 0.60-0.86). Tipping point sensitivity analysis shows that these effect estimates are robust to unmeasured confounding bias. There was no evidence for modification of the effect of gonadectomy by sex, with effect estimates qualitatively similar for males and females for both outcomes. Compared to females, males had a higher incidence rate of babesiosis (IRR 1.74; 95 % CI 1.49-2.04) and a higher risk of severe disease (RR 1.12; 95 % CI 0.98-1.28). In conclusion, our study shows a robust protective effect of gonadectomy on the incidence and severity of babesiosis in both male and female dogs 6 months of age and older, and contributes important evidence to the debate on the overall risks and benefits of gonadectomy to dogs in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darryn L Knobel
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Saint Kitts and Nevis; Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, South Africa.
| | - Josef Hanekom
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Maria C van den Bergh
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Andrew L Leisewitz
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, South Africa; Bailey Small Animal Teaching Hospital, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, USA
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2
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Leisewitz AL, Mrljak V, Dear JD, Birkenheuer A. The Diverse Pathogenicity of Various Babesia Parasite Species That Infect Dogs. Pathogens 2023; 12:1437. [PMID: 38133320 PMCID: PMC10746086 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12121437] [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: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Babesia species infect a very wide range of mammal hosts across the globe, and zoonotic infections are of growing concern. Several species of the Babesia genus infect dogs, and some of these cause significant morbidity and mortality. The Apicomplexan parasite resides within the red cell and infections result in direct damage to the host through intra- and extravascular hemolysis. An exuberant inflammatory response by the host to some species of Babesia parasites also results in significant collateral damage to the host. Canine infections have been the subject of many studies as the well-being of these companion animals is increasingly threatened by the spread of tick vectors and an increasingly mobile dog population. There are currently no widely available and effective vaccines, and effective treatment can be challenging. Understanding disease pathogenesis underlies the development of new treatments. The varying pathogenicity of the various Babesia parasite species that infect dogs offers an opportunity to explore the molecular basis for the wide range of diseases caused by infection with this parasite genus. In this review, we focus on what has been reported about the clinical presentation of Babesia-infected dogs in an attempt to compare the severity of disease caused by different Babesia species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew L. Leisewitz
- Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0110, South Africa
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Vladimir Mrljak
- Clinic for Internal Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Jonathan D. Dear
- Department of Medicine and Epidemiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Adam Birkenheuer
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
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3
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Seejarim C, Rautenbach Y, Hooijberg EH, Leisewitz AL, Schoeman JP, Goddard A. Regenerative response in dogs naturally and experimentally infected with Babesia rossi. Vet Clin Pathol 2023; 52:422-432. [PMID: 37638541 DOI: 10.1111/vcp.13228] [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: 09/13/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 08/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The regenerative response following Babesia rossi infection in dogs is mild, despite severe hemolytic anemia. OBJECTIVE We aimed to compare the admission absolute reticulocyte count (ARC) and reticulocyte indices in 103 dogs naturally infected with B. rossi with 10 dogs suffering from immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA) and 14 healthy control dogs. The regenerative response was also evaluated in five dogs experimentally infected with B. rossi. METHODS This is a retrospective observational study of records generated on the ADVIA 2120 hematology analyzer. RESULTS The median hematocrits (HCT) of the B. rossi and IMHA groups were significantly lower than the control group (p < .001 for both); however, no differences were seen between the B. rossi and IMHA groups. Compared with the control group, the median ARC was significantly higher in the B. rossi (p = .006) and IMHA (p = .019) groups but significantly lower in the B. rossi group than the IMHA group (p = .041). In the experimentally infected dogs, there was a sudden decrease in the ARC approximately 48 h after the detection of peripheral parasitemia, which was followed by an increase after treatment. Reticulocytes of naturally infected B. rossi dogs were larger, with more variation in cellular volume. The reticulocytes of the experimentally infected dogs decreased in size with decreasing hemoglobin concentrations as the study progressed. CONCLUSIONS The regenerative response in dogs naturally infected with B. rossi is inadequate, given the severity of the anemia observed, and it might be a result of direct suppressive action by the parasite or host response on the bone marrow.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chandini Seejarim
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Yolandi Rautenbach
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Emma H Hooijberg
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Andrew L Leisewitz
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Johan P Schoeman
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Amelia Goddard
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
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4
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Kuleš J, Rubić I, Farkaš V, Barić Rafaj R, Gotić J, Crnogaj M, Burchmore R, Eckersall D, Mrljak V, Leisewitz AL. Serum proteome profiling of naturally acquired Babesia rossi infection in dogs. Sci Rep 2023; 13:10249. [PMID: 37353646 PMCID: PMC10290096 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-37312-9] [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: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Babesiosis is a disease of significant medically and veterinary importance with worldwide distribution. It is caused by intra-erythrocyte protozoal parasites, with Babesia rossi causing the most severe clinical signs of all the large Babesia parasites infecting dogs. The disease can be clinically classified into uncomplicated and complicated forms with a wide range of clinical presentations from a mild, subclinical illness to complicated forms and death. The aim of this study was to assess serum proteomic profiles from dogs with babesiosis and healthy dogs using a label-based proteomics approach. Altogether 32 dogs naturally infected with B. rossi (subdivided into 18 uncomplicated cases and 14 complicated cases of babesiosis) and 20 healthy dogs were included. There were 78 proteins with significantly different abundances between the three groups of dogs. Elucidation of proteins and pathways involved in canine babesiosis caused by B. rossi have revealed key differences associated with haemostasis, innate immune system, lipid metabolism and inflammation. Shotgun proteomic profiling allowed identification of potential serum biomarkers for differentiation of disease severity in canine babesiosis caused by B. rossi. These findings may be applicable to the study of host-parasite interactions and the development of novel therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josipa Kuleš
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ivana Rubić
- Laboratory of Proteomics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Internal Diseases Clinic, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Vladimir Farkaš
- Laboratory of Proteomics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Internal Diseases Clinic, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Renata Barić Rafaj
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Jelena Gotić
- Laboratory of Proteomics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Internal Diseases Clinic, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Martina Crnogaj
- Laboratory of Proteomics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Internal Diseases Clinic, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Richard Burchmore
- Glasgow Polyomics, College of Veterinary, Medical and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - David Eckersall
- College of Veterinary, Medical and Life Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Vladimir Mrljak
- Laboratory of Proteomics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Internal Diseases Clinic, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Andrew L Leisewitz
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn, AL, USA
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort, South Africa
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5
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Martin C, Clift S, Leisewitz A. Lung pathology of natural Babesia rossi infection in dogs. J S Afr Vet Assoc 2023; 94:59-69. [PMID: 37358318 DOI: 10.36303/jsava.523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/27/2023] Open
Abstract
A proportion of Babesia rossi infections in dogs are classified as complicated and one of the most lethal complications is acute lung injury (ALI) and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Most dogs that die succumb within 24 hours of presentation. The pulmonary pathology caused by B. rossi in dogs has not been described. The aim of this study was to provide a thorough macroscopic, histological and immunohistochemical description of the lung changes seen in dogs naturally infected with B. rossi that succumbed to the infection. Death was invariably accompanied by alveolar oedema. Histopathology showed acute interstitial pneumonia characterised by alveolar oedema and haemorrhages, with increased numbers of mononuclear leucocytes in alveolar walls and lumens. Intra-alveolar polymerised fibrin aggregates were observed in just over half the infected cases. Immunohistochemistry showed increased numbers of MAC387- and CD204-reactive monocyte-macrophages in alveolar walls and lumens, and increased CD3-reactive T-lymphocytes in alveolar walls, compared with controls. These histological features overlap to some extent (but far from perfectly) with the histological pattern of lung injury referred to as the exudative stage of diffuse alveolar damage (DAD) as is quite commonly reported in ALI/ARDS.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Martin
- Idexx Laboratories (Pty) Ltd, South Africa
| | - S Clift
- Section of Pathology, Department of Paraclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, South Africa
| | - A Leisewitz
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Bailey Small Animal Teaching Hospital, Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine, United States of America and Section of Small Animal Medicine, Companion Animal Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, South Africa
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van Zyl E, Leisewitz AL, Atkinson BK, Goddard A, Rautenbach Y, Thompson PN, Schoeman JP. Serial changes in the concentrations of cortisol and thyroid hormones in Beagle dogs infected with Babesia rossi. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2023; 14:102107. [PMID: 36535203 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2022.102107] [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: 10/23/2021] [Revised: 11/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
An experimental infection using Babesia (B.) rossi was performed in healthy male Beagle dogs to assess the changes in endocrine variables during disease. Two dogs were infected with a low dose (LD) of parasite inoculum (104 parasites) and three dogs were infected with a high dose (HD) (108 parasites). Basal serum cortisol, thyroxine (T4), and thyrotropin (TSH) concentrations were measured every second day. Samples were analyzed using a solid- phase, competitive chemiluminescent enzyme immunoassay (Immulyte® 2000, Siemens). Variables were compared between groups and timepoints using linear mixed models. In both groups, the median cortisol concentration increased, whilst the median T4 concentration decreased after infection, with a return towards baseline concentration post treatment. The highest cortisol and the lowest T4 concentrations were reached at 96 h and 108 h post infection, respectively, in the HD group and slightly later at 108 and 144 h post-infection, respectively, in the LD group. A higher cortisol concentration with a more rapid increase, and a lower T4 concentration with a more rapid decline, were associated with disease severity and a higher dose of parasite inoculum. The TSH concentration remained within the reference interval throughout the study period. This study illustrated the temporal changes in endocrine parameters during experimental B. rossi infection and demonstrated that cortisol and T4 tracked the severity of disease, albeit in opposite directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- E van Zyl
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, 175 Bryanston drive, Bryanston, Onderstepoort, Johannesburg 2021, South Africa.
| | - A L Leisewitz
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, 175 Bryanston drive, Bryanston, Onderstepoort, Johannesburg 2021, South Africa
| | - B K Atkinson
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, 175 Bryanston drive, Bryanston, Onderstepoort, Johannesburg 2021, South Africa
| | - A Goddard
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, 175 Bryanston drive, Bryanston, Onderstepoort, Johannesburg 2021, South Africa
| | - Y Rautenbach
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, 175 Bryanston drive, Bryanston, Onderstepoort, Johannesburg 2021, South Africa
| | - P N Thompson
- Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort, South Africa
| | - J P Schoeman
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, 175 Bryanston drive, Bryanston, Onderstepoort, Johannesburg 2021, South Africa
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7
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Pathogenesis of Anemia in Canine Babesiosis: Possible Contribution of Pro-Inflammatory Cytokines and Chemokines-A Review. Pathogens 2023; 12:pathogens12020166. [PMID: 36839438 PMCID: PMC9962459 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12020166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Canine babesiosis is a tick-borne protozoan disease caused by intraerythrocytic parasites of the genus Babesia. The infection may lead to anemia in infected dogs. However, anemia is not directly caused by the pathogen. The parasite's developmental stages only have a marginal role in contributing to a decreased red blood cell (RBC) count. The main cause of anemia in affected dogs is the immune response to the infection. This response includes antibody production, erythrophagocytosis, oxidative damage of RBCs, complement activation, and antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity. Moreover, both infected and uninfected erythrocytes are retained in the spleen and sequestered in micro-vessels. All these actions are driven by pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, especially IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-8. Additionally, imbalance between the actions of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines plays a role in patho-mechanisms leading to anemia in canine babesiosis. This article is a review of the studies on the pathogenesis of anemia in canine babesiosis and related diseases, such as bovine or murine babesiosis and human or murine malaria, and the role of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines in the mechanisms leading to anemia in infected dogs.
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8
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The dataset for the inflammatory response during experimental infection and treatment of dogs with Babesia rossi. Data Brief 2022; 45:108475. [PMID: 36164305 PMCID: PMC9508437 DOI: 10.1016/j.dib.2022.108475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Revised: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
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9
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Kinetics of the inflammatory response during experimental Babesia rossi infection of beagle dogs. Vet Parasitol 2022; 306:109717. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2022.109717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2022] [Revised: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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10
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Almendros A, Burchell R. Multiple complications in a dog infected with
Babesia gibsoni. VETERINARY RECORD CASE REPORTS 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/vrc2.126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Angel Almendros
- Veterinary Medical Centre City University of Hong Kong Kowloon Hong Kong
| | - Richard Burchell
- North Coast Veterinary Specialist and Referral Centre Sippy Downs Queensland Australia
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11
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Smith RL, Goddard A, Boddapati A, Brooks S, Schoeman JP, Lack J, Leisewitz A, Ackerman H. Experimental Babesia rossi infection induces hemolytic, metabolic, and viral response pathways in the canine host. BMC Genomics 2021; 22:619. [PMID: 34399690 PMCID: PMC8369750 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-021-07889-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Babesia rossi is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among the canine population of sub-Saharan Africa, but pathogenesis remains poorly understood. Previous studies of B. rossi infection were derived from clinical cases, in which neither the onset of infection nor the infectious inoculum was known. Here, we performed controlled B. rossi inoculations in canines and evaluated disease progression through clinical tests and whole blood transcriptomic profiling. Results Two subjects were administered a low inoculum (104 parasites) while three received a high (108 parasites). Subjects were monitored for 8 consecutive days; anti-parasite treatment with diminazene aceturate was administered on day 4. Blood was drawn prior to inoculation as well as every experimental day for assessment of clinical parameters and transcriptomic profiles. The model recapitulated natural disease manifestations including anemia, acidosis, inflammation and behavioral changes. Rate of disease onset and clinical severity were proportional to the inoculum. To analyze the temporal dynamics of the transcriptomic host response, we sequenced mRNA extracted from whole blood drawn on days 0, 1, 3, 4, 6, and 8. Differential gene expression, hierarchical clustering, and pathway enrichment analyses identified genes and pathways involved in response to hemolysis, metabolic changes, and several arms of the immune response including innate immunity, adaptive immunity, and response to viral infection. Conclusions This work comprehensively characterizes the clinical and transcriptomic progression of B. rossi infection in canines, thus establishing a large mammalian model of severe hemoprotozoal disease to facilitate the study of host-parasite biology and in which to test novel anti-disease therapeutics. The knowledge gained from the study of B. rossi in canines will not only improve our understanding of this emerging infectious disease threat in domestic dogs, but also provide insight into the pathobiology of human diseases caused by Babesia and Plasmodium species. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12864-021-07889-4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel L Smith
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, 20852, USA
| | - Amelia Goddard
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort, Pretoria, 0110, South Africa
| | - Arun Boddapati
- NIAID Collaborative Bioinformatics Resource (NCBR), National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20894, USA.,Advanced Biomedical Computational Science (ABCS), Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, 21701, USA
| | - Steven Brooks
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, 20852, USA
| | - Johan P Schoeman
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort, Pretoria, 0110, South Africa
| | - Justin Lack
- NIAID Collaborative Bioinformatics Resource (NCBR), National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20894, USA.,Advanced Biomedical Computational Science (ABCS), Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, 21701, USA
| | - Andrew Leisewitz
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort, Pretoria, 0110, South Africa.
| | - Hans Ackerman
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, 20852, USA.
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12
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Zaki AA, Attia MM, Ismael E, Mahdy OA. Prevalence, genetic, and biochemical evaluation of immune response of police dogs infected with Babesia vogeli. Vet World 2021; 14:903-912. [PMID: 34083939 PMCID: PMC8167514 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2021.903-912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim: Babesia species are tick-borne protozoan parasites of apicomplexan type which infect the erythrocytes of dogs it ranges from subclinical to severe cases, depending on different factors such as immune status, age, and presence of other co-infections with the Babesia species. Hence, this study aimed to identify the protozoan parasites infecting police dogs of different breeds, ages, and both sexes in Egypt. Concerning molecular detection of Babesia vogeli using conventional polymerase chain reaction sequencing and phylogenetic analysis, followed by the assessment of immunological and biochemical status of infected dogs. Materials and Methods: The blood of 242 police K9 dogs was collected. The age, breed, sex, and health status with clinical signs of dogs were recorded. Hematological, biochemical, and oxidative stress analyses of the blood were performed together with gene expression analysis using two genes (gamma interferon [IFN-γ] and tumor necrosis factor-alpha [TNF-α]). The identification of the causative agent was performed using molecular analysis of the 18S ribosomal RNA (rRNA). The 18S rRNA region of canine Babesia spp. was successfully amplified, and sequencing data were deposited in GenBank (accession number: MT565474.1), which resembled those of B. vogeli. Results: The results of blood samples screening revealed that of the 242 blood samples, 62 were positive for B. vogeli infection. The infection rate in male dogs was higher than that in female dogs. The police dogs were classified into the following three groups of dogs: (1st group) healthy, (2nd infected with B. vogeli, and mixed infection of B. vogeli and Ehrlichia canis). The oxidative stress biomarkers levels in B. vogeli infected dogs were greater than that of healthy dogs. Likewise, IFN-γ and TNF-α level in B. vogeli infected dogs were elevated in infected dogs. Conclusion: Our findings demonstrated that B. vogeli had completely adverse effects on the health condition of the police dogs that may lead to death in some dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Adel Zaki
- Veterinary Health Care Unit at k9-Departmeant of Police Academy, First settlement at Cairo, Egypt
| | - Marwa Mohamed Attia
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, 12211 Giza, Egypt
| | - Elshaimaa Ismael
- Department of Veterinary Hygiene and Management, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza 12211, Egypt
| | - Olfat Anter Mahdy
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, 12211 Giza, Egypt
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13
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Kandasamy R, Venkatasubramanian L, Loganathasamy K, Latha BR, Mani B. Prognostic markers and their discriminant score in predicting the outcome of Babesia gibsoni infection. Vet Rec 2021; 188:e29. [PMID: 33666974 DOI: 10.1002/vetr.29] [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: 03/19/2020] [Revised: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We aimed to identify prognostic markers and their discriminant score in predicting the lethal outcome of canine Babesia gibsoni. METHODS Blood samples were collected from 108 client-owned dogs with clinical signs commensurate with babesiosis to analyze haematological, biochemical, haemostatic, antioxidant profile and thiobarbituric acid reactive substance levels. Samples were screened for Babesia infection (microscopic and molecular techniques). Babesiosis-affected dogs were classified into survivors and non-survivors, and 30 healthy dogs were used in the control group. RESULTS Haemoglobin, thrombocytes, catalase, urea, creatinine, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase, lactate and reticulocytes were highly correlated to survival. Receiver operating characteristics analysis revealed urea, ALT and lactate as specific prognostic markers for the disease. The formula for calculation of discriminant scores (Di) for lethal outcome of the disease was generated with cut-off score 0.141. The scoring system was 79% sensitive and 83% specific in predicting the lethal outcome of the disease. CONCLUSIONS A scoring system developed from the prognosticating markers may aid in predicting the outcome of Babesia gibsoni infection on the day of presentation itself enabling intensive care for those animals with a cut-off score more than 0.141.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Karuppusamy Loganathasamy
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, Veterinary College and Research Institute, Tirunelveli, India
| | - Bhaskaran Ravi Latha
- Department of Veterinary Parasitology, Madras Veterinary College, TANUVAS, Chennai, India
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14
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Beletić A, Janjić F, Radaković M, Spariosu K, Francuski Andrić J, Chandrashekar R, Tyrrell P, Radonjić V, Balint B, Ajtić J, Kovačević Filipović M. Systemic inflammatory response syndrome in dogs naturally infected with Babesia canis: Association with the parasite load and host factors. Vet Parasitol 2021; 291:109366. [PMID: 33545559 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2021.109366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2020] [Revised: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The common signs of canine babesiosis caused by an infection with Babesia canis are fever, anorexia, lethargy, pulse alterations, anemia, and occasionally mild icterus. Dogs with these clinical signs can be divided into two groups: those with acute-phase reaction and those with systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS). Factors associated with the occurrence of SIRS in canine babesiosis have not been thoroughly researched. This article outlines a cross-sectional study of 54 client-owned dogs with an acute B. canis infection, and evaluates the differences in age, gender, laboratory findings, parasite load, and seroreactivity against B. canis between the SIRS and the SIRS-free dogs. We have analyzed a complete blood count, serum biochemistry, serum amyloid A, ceruloplasmin, paraoxonase-1, serology, and PCR testing using standard methodologies. The frequency of SIRS among the investigated dogs reached 0.59. Male dogs and those seronegative against B. canis, were more frequent in the SIRS group, whilst age and parasite load could not be associated with the presence of SIRS. Dogs with SIRS had a lower count of total leukocytes, neutrophils, lymphocytes, and monocytes, and a lower concentration of iron and bilirubin compared with SIRS-free dogs. No significant differences in the concentration of acute-phase proteins have been noticed to exist between the groups of dogs. Further, the seronegative dogs had a lower count of lymphocytes and monocytes and a higher parasite load than the seroreactive dogs. Multivariate logistic regression analysis has identified leukopenia (<6 × 109/L) and monocytopenia (<0.2 × 109/L) as independent associates of SIRS in the investigated dogs, thus implying that these routine tests could be used as reliable markers for SIRS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anđelo Beletić
- Center for Medical Biochemistry, Clinical Center of Serbia, Višegradska 26, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia.
| | - Filip Janjić
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Belgrade, Bulevar oslobođenja 18, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Milena Radaković
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Belgrade, Bulevar oslobođenja 18, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Kristina Spariosu
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Belgrade, Bulevar oslobođenja 18, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Jelena Francuski Andrić
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Belgrade, Bulevar oslobođenja 18, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | | | | | - Vladimir Radonjić
- Small Animal Practice "Petrovac", Borča, Borčanskih žrtava 1914, 92, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Bela Balint
- Department of Medical Sciences, Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts, Knez Mihailova 35 & Department of Transfusion Medicine, Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases 'Dedinje', Heroja Milana Tepića 1, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Jelena Ajtić
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Belgrade, Bulevar oslobođenja 18, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
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15
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Avenant A, Park JY, Vorster I, Mitchell EP, Arenas-Gamboa AM. Porcine Babesiosis Caused by Babesia sp. Suis in a Pot-Bellied Pig in South Africa. Front Vet Sci 2021; 7:620462. [PMID: 33490140 PMCID: PMC7815520 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2020.620462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Babesiosis is a worldwide, tick-borne disease of economic importance in livestock caused by Babesia spp., which are hemoparasitic piroplasms that target the host erythrocytes. Cattle, dogs, small ruminants, and wild ruminants are the species most commonly affected, while in cats, horses, and pigs, it is less frequently reported. Although babesiosis has been observed worldwide, porcine babesiosis remains an uncommon disease with a very limited number of cases reported. Here, we describe a case in a 12-year old pot-bellied pig from South Africa that died after a history of anorexia and reluctance to rise for 2 days. A complete necropsy, blood smear cytology, reverse line blot (RLB) hybridization and 18S rRNA sequencing were performed. Numerous Babesia spp. hemoparasites and a moderate regenerative anemia were identified on blood smear, and a urine dipstick test yielded 4+ heme. Diffuse icterus and splenomegaly were observed upon gross examination. Histopathology revealed hemoglobin casts within renal tubules and collecting ducts, pulmonary edema, splenic congestion, and intrahepatic cholestasis. BLASTN homology of the 18SrRNA sequence revealed a 100% identity to the published sequence of Babesia sp. Suis isolated from pigs in Italy. This case of babesiosis in a pig highlights the clinical manifestations and gross and pathological findings of porcine babesiosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alida Avenant
- Department of Paraclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Janice Y Park
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Texas A&M University, College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, College Station, TX, United States
| | - Ilse Vorster
- Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Emily P Mitchell
- Department of Paraclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Angela M Arenas-Gamboa
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Texas A&M University, College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, College Station, TX, United States
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16
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Teodorowski O, Adaszek Ł, Erman Or M, Dokuzeylül B, Ercan AM, Tarhan D, Staniec M, Winiarczyk S. Elevated serum manganese concentration in dogs as a possible predisposing factor of cerebral babesiosis in dogs. Acta Vet Hung 2020; 68:354-360. [PMID: 33372913 DOI: 10.1556/004.2020.00053] [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: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 09/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to demonstrate a relationship between the occurrence of clinical signs of brain involvement in dogs with babesiosis and the concentration of manganese (Mn) in their serum. The study included seven dogs with early babesiosis (Group 1), seven dogs with cerebral babesiosis (Group 2) and seven healthy dogs (Group 3). Haematological and biochemical blood tests were performed in all dogs, and the results were analysed statistically. The Mann-Whitney rank test was used to demonstrate the differences in Mn concentrations, as well as other haematological and biochemical parameters between groups. In dogs in Group 2 with cerebral babesiosis, as compared to dogs in Groups 1 and 3, a statistically significant increase in serum Mn concentration was shown (P = 0.002 and P = 0.029) that may have been associated with the development of anaemia and/or impairment of liver function. Given the well-established neurotoxic effects of Mn in humans, experimental rodents and primates, additional studies on the role of Mn in the pathogenesis of the cerebral form of canine babesiosis are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Łukasz Adaszek
- 2Department of Epizootiology and Clinic of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Głęboka str. 30, 20-612 Lublin, Poland
| | - Mehmet Erman Or
- 3Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Avcilar, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Banu Dokuzeylül
- 3Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Avcilar, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Alev Meltem Ercan
- 4Department of Biophysics, Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Fatih, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Duygu Tarhan
- 4Department of Biophysics, Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Fatih, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Marta Staniec
- 2Department of Epizootiology and Clinic of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Głęboka str. 30, 20-612 Lublin, Poland
| | - Stanisław Winiarczyk
- 2Department of Epizootiology and Clinic of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Głęboka str. 30, 20-612 Lublin, Poland
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17
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Penzhorn BL. Don't let sleeping dogs lie: unravelling the identity and taxonomy of Babesia canis, Babesia rossi and Babesia vogeli. Parasit Vectors 2020; 13:184. [PMID: 32312292 PMCID: PMC7171786 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-020-04062-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2019] [Accepted: 04/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
For most of the 20th century the causative agent of canine babesiosis, wherever it occurred in the world, was commonly referred to as Babesia canis. Early research, from the 1890s to the 1930s, had shown that there were three distinctly different vector-specific parasite entities occurring in specific geographical regions, that host response to infection ranged from subclinical to acute, and that immunity to one stock of the parasite did not necessarily protect against infection with other stocks. This substantial body of knowledge was overlooked or ignored for 50 years. In this review the first records and descriptions of the disease in four geographical regions were traced: sub-Saharan Africa, Europe, North Africa and Asia. Research leading to identification of the specific tick vector species involved is documented. Evidence is given of the growing realisation that there were substantial biological differences between stocks originating from different geographical regions. Etymological provenance for Babesia vogeli is proposed.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Barend L Penzhorn
- Vectors and Vector-borne Diseases Research Programme, Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort, 0110, South Africa. .,Research Associate, National Zoological Gardens, South African National Biodiversity Institute, P.O. Box 724, Pretoria, 0001, South Africa.
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18
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Henning A, Clift SJ, Leisewitz AL. The pathology of the spleen in lethal canine babesiosis caused by Babesia rossi. Parasite Immunol 2020; 42:e12706. [PMID: 32119124 DOI: 10.1111/pim.12706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2019] [Revised: 01/31/2020] [Accepted: 02/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
To provide useful information based on the macropathology, histopathology and immunohistochemical investigation in the spleens of dogs with Babesia rossi infection. Control spleens were collected from four healthy dogs euthanized for welfare reasons. Nine dogs that died naturally because of a mono-infection with Babesia rossi were selected for the diseased group. One haematoxylin-and-eosin-stained section of splenic tissue from each of the infected and control dogs was examined under the light microscope. Immunohistochemical markers were applied to characterize different immunocyte populations. The application of analytic software enabled semi-quantitative comparison of leucocyte subpopulations. Routine splenic histopathology revealed diffuse intermingling of white and red pulp from infected dogs with a clear loss of distinction between these zones. Immunohistochemistry revealed an increase in the proportion of tissue resident and bone marrow origin macrophages in the infected spleens. Apart from a few remnant lymphocytes within the peri-arteriolar lymphatic sheaths and follicles, the majority of the immunocytes redistributed to the red pulp, supporting the observation of white and red pulp intermingling. The majority of our findings are in agreement with histomorphological descriptions of the spleen in a variety of noncanid mammalian hosts with lethal malaria or babesiosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alischa Henning
- Department of Paraclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort, South Africa
| | - Sarah Jane Clift
- Department of Paraclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort, South Africa
| | - Andrew Lambert Leisewitz
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort, South Africa
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19
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Morters MK, Archer J, Ma D, Matthee O, Goddard A, Leisewitz AL, Matjila PT, Wood JLN, Schoeman JP. Long-term follow-up of owned, free-roaming dogs in South Africa naturally exposed to Babesia rossi. Int J Parasitol 2020; 50:103-110. [PMID: 32004510 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2019.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2019] [Revised: 11/01/2019] [Accepted: 11/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Babesia rossi is an important, tick-borne intraerythrocytic protozoan parasite; however, its natural history and epidemiology is poorly understood. Babesia rossi is the most virulent Babesia sp. in domestic dogs and is generally considered to cause severe babesiosis, which is fatal if left untreated. However, subclinical infections and mild disease from B. rossi have been reported, although the clinical progression of these cases was not reported. Therefore, to better understand B. rossi under field conditions, we evaluated its clinical progression and seroprevalence in an owned, free-roaming dog population in Zenzele, South Africa, where the parasite is endemic and prevention is not routine. The entire dog population in Zenzele was monitored intensively at the individual level from March 2008 until April 2014, primarily for a longitudinal study on rabies control. Subsequent evaluation of B. rossi comprised analyses of clinical and laboratory data collected from the Zenzele dog population during the 6 year study period. A substantial proportion (31% (n = 34)) of 109 dogs (randomly selected from every available dog in February/March 2010 older than ~6-8 weeks (n = 246)) tested by Indirect Fluorescent Antibody Test had seroconverted strongly to B. rossi. All 34 dogs were generally consistently healthy adults, determined from regular clinical examinations between March 2008 and April 2014. Blood smear examinations at multiple time points between July 2009 and February 2011 were also undertaken for almost all of these (34) seropositive dogs and all those tested were consistently negative for Babesia spp. Subclinical infections and mild disease were also the main findings for a separate group of 18 dogs positive for Babesia spp. on blood smear examination and confirmed to be infected with B. rossi by Polymerase Chain Reaction - Reverse Line Blot. Almost all of these dogs were positive at only one time point from repeat blood smear examinations between July 2009 and February 2011. We suggest that these observations are consistent with immunity acquired from repeated, low-level exposure to the parasite, generating transient subclinical infections or mild disease. Should this be the case, the use of tick control, particularly in adult dogs in free-roaming populations in B. rossi endemic regions, should be carefully considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- M K Morters
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom.
| | - J Archer
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - D Ma
- Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - O Matthee
- Onderstepoort Veterinary Institute, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - A Goddard
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - A L Leisewitz
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - P T Matjila
- Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - J L N Wood
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - J P Schoeman
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
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