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Palmer JPS, Gazêta GS, André MR, Fialho PA, Corrêa LL, Damasceno JAL, Israel CB, Pereira RR, da Silva Barbosa A. Piroplasmid Infections Among Domestic Dogs in the Mountain City of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Acta Parasitol 2024; 69:1172-1191. [PMID: 38602588 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-024-00843-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: 01/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of the present study was to analyze the frequency of the piroplasmids in blood from dogs and ticks recovered from these animals in Teresópolis city, located in the mountain region of Rio de Janeiro state, Brazil. In addition to the clinical and hematological profile. METHODS A total of 400 dogs attended in a veterinary clinic in this city between 2020 and 2021 were included. The blood was collected from the dogs, along with ticks and information on these dogs was obtained through a questionnaire applied to the owners. Thin-smear analyses and complete blood counts were performed. All forms characteristic of piroplasmids were measured and classified morphologically. The blood was also subjected to PCR assays based on the genes 18S rRNA and hsp70. In addition, the ixodid ticks were classified morphologically and subjected to PCR for piroplasmids research. The amplified products were sent for gene sequencing. RESULTS Piroplasmids were detected in 2.3% of the dogs. The variables statistically associated with infections in these animals were hemorrhage/bleeding, jaundice, anisocytosis, activated monocytes and macroplatelets (p ≤ 0.05). Piriform, ring-shaped, oval and aberrant structures were viewed in erythrocytes, neutrophils and monocytes, with lengths greater than and less than 2.5 µm. The nine positive samples from these dogs were characterized as due to Rangelia vitalii. However, one sequence from B. vogeli was detected in a single adult specimen of R. sanguineus. CONCLUSION Although circulation of two species of piroplasmids potentially infective for domestic dogs has been observed in the mountain city of Rio de Janeiro, infection due to R. vitalii was mostly seen in the dogs of the present study.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Pedro Siqueira Palmer
- Parasite Molecular Biology Laboratory, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Biomedical Institute, Fluminense Federal University, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, 24210-130, Brazil
- National Reference Laboratory on Vectors of Rickettsioses, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foudation, Rio de Janeiro, 21040-360, Brazil
| | - Gilberto Salles Gazêta
- National Reference Laboratory on Vectors of Rickettsioses, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foudation, Rio de Janeiro, 21040-360, Brazil
| | - Marcos Rogério André
- Vector-Borne Bioagents Laboratory (VBBL), Department of Pathology, Reproduction and One Health, São Paulo State University, Jaboticabal, São Paulo, 14884-900, Brazil
| | - Priscila Alves Fialho
- Parasite Molecular Biology Laboratory, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Biomedical Institute, Fluminense Federal University, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, 24210-130, Brazil
| | - Laís Lisboa Corrêa
- Parasite Molecular Biology Laboratory, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Biomedical Institute, Fluminense Federal University, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, 24210-130, Brazil
| | | | - Carolina Bistritschan Israel
- Clinic School of Veterinary Medicine Luiz Cataldi de Souza, Serra Dos Órgãos University Center, Teresópolis, Rio de Janeiro, 25976-345, Brazil
| | - Rafael Rempto Pereira
- Clinic School of Veterinary Medicine Luiz Cataldi de Souza, Serra Dos Órgãos University Center, Teresópolis, Rio de Janeiro, 25976-345, Brazil
| | - Alynne da Silva Barbosa
- Parasite Molecular Biology Laboratory, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Biomedical Institute, Fluminense Federal University, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, 24210-130, Brazil.
- Laboratory of Protozoology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, 21040-900, Brazil.
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Weingart C, Krücken J, Kohn B. Repeated imidocarb treatment failure suggesting emerging resistance of Babesia canis in a new endemic area in north-eastern Germany. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2024; 15:102315. [PMID: 38301344 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2024.102315] [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: 09/16/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
Canine babesiosis has been increasingly diagnosed in various regions of Germany such as north-eastern Germany in recent years. A dog with several relapses of Babesia canis infection after treatment with imidocarb is described. A 9-year-old male Magyar Viszla with B. canis infection was referred after two treatments with imidocarb (dosage 2.1 mg/kg SC) because of lethargy, fever and pancytopenia (additional treatments with prednisolone and doxycycline). Merozoites were detected in the blood smear and imidocarb treatment was repeated. Clinical signs, pancytopenia and a positive B. canis PCR occurred after the 3rd (6 mg/kg SC), 4th (7.7 mg/kg SC) and 5th (7.5 mg/kg SC and doxycycline for 4 weeks in addition) imidocarb injection and thorough tick prevention with isoxazoline and permethrin products. 12 days after the 5th injection, the PCR was negative for the first time. The dog was again presented with fever 35 days after the 5th injection. The B. canis PCR was positive and laboratory examination revealed pancytopenia. Treatment with atovaquone/azithromycin for 18 days was performed and no further relapse occurred for 32 weeks. In the case of suspected imidocarb resistance in B. canis infection, treatment with atovaquone/azithromycin can be an alternative.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christiane Weingart
- Small Animal Clinic, School of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Oertzenweg 19 b 14163, Germany.
| | - Jürgen Krücken
- Institute for Parasitology and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Germany
| | - Barbara Kohn
- Small Animal Clinic, School of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Oertzenweg 19 b 14163, Germany
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Vijaykumar LK, Chikkachowdappa PG, Venkatappa MH, Gowda AKJ, Jacob SS, Mani S, Bayyappa MRG. Analysis of Genetic Diversity of cytb gene from Babesia gibsoni Isolates from Naturally Infected Dogs in Karnataka, India. Acta Parasitol 2024; 69:375-383. [PMID: 38133744 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-023-00757-z] [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: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The study aimed to investigate genetic diversity in Babesia gibsoni, the causative agent of canine babesiosis, and to assess the presence of atovaquone-resistant isolates in naturally infected dogs. METHODS A total of 24 blood samples confirmed for B. gibsoni infection was subjected to PCR amplification and sequencing based on cytb gene. Genetic characterization of B. gibsoni as well as attempts to detect the point mutation rendering atovaquone resistance was carried out based on the analysis of nucleotide sequence of cytb gene using bioinformatics software. RESULTS The findings indicated that the B. gibsoni isolates in the investigation exhibited a high nucleotide identity with the Asian genotype, ranging from 98.41 to 98.69%. Notably, none of the isolates carried cytb gene variants associated with atovaquone resistance. Phylogenetic analysis revealed clustering of most isolates with those from Japan and China, except for one isolate forming a distinct subclade. Haplotype network analysis indicated a high diversity with 22 distinct haplotypes among the B. gibsoni isolates, emphasizing the genetic variability within the studied population. CONCLUSION In conclusion, the cytb gene exhibited remarkable conservation among the twenty-four B. gibsoni isolates studied and the study represents the first genetic diversity assessment of B. gibsoni using the cytb gene in dogs from India. These findings shed light on the genetic characteristics of B. gibsoni in the region and provide valuable insight for addressing the challenges posed by this life-threatening disease in dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lavanya K Vijaykumar
- Veterinary College, KVAFSU, Bengaluru, Karnataka, 560024, India
- Institute of Animal Health and Veterinary Biologicals, Bengaluru, Karnataka, 560024, India
| | | | | | | | - Siju Susan Jacob
- ICAR-National Institute of Veterinary Epidemiology and Disease Informatics (NIVEDI), Yelahanka, Bengaluru, Karnataka, 560064, India
| | - Saminathan Mani
- ICAR- Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Bareilly, UP, 243122, India
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Salant H, Nachum-Biala Y, Zivotofsky D, Tzur TE, Baneth G. Babesia negevi infection in dogs and response to treatment. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2024; 15:102282. [PMID: 37989015 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2023.102282] [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: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
Canine babesiosis is an important protozoan tick-borne disease associated with anemia and thrombocytopenia and caused by several different Babesia spp. Babesia negevi was first reported to infect dogs in the Middle East in 2020. This study describes the presentation, clinical signs, parasitemia levels quantified by molecular techniques, laboratory findings and treatment of dogs infected with B. negevi following the first description of this species. Clinical findings in the infected dogs, a 3-year old female and two 8-week old male and female pups, included extreme lethargy and pale mucous membranes, anemia and thrombocytopenia found in all three animals. Fever was present in the older female and icterus in the female pup. Babesia parasites resembling B. negevi were detected by microscopy of blood smears from the dogs. PCR of blood targeting the 18S rRNA and cox1 genes confirmed that babesiosis was caused by B. negevi and PCR targeting the Borrelia flagellin gene indicated co-infection with Borrelia persica in two dogs. Treatment of the dogs with imidocarb dipropionate resulted in clinical improvement and initial decrease in the B. negevi parasite load as detected by quantitative PCR in two dogs, however the female pup continued to deteriorate and died. The parasite load in the 3-year old female decreased from 43,451 parasites/µl blood pre-imidocarb dipropionate treatment to 803 parasites/µl within two weeks. In the surviving pup, it decreased from 3,293,538 parasites/µl pre-treatment to 20,092 parasites/µl after two weeks. Babesia negevi DNA was still recovered from blood samples by PCR despite repeated treatment with imidocarb dipropionate one-month post-treatment in the surviving pup and up to seven months post-treatment in the 3-year old female. Only treatment with atovaquone and azithromycin for ten days eliminated B. negevi in both dogs as confirmed by negative PCR two weeks later. In conclusion, treatment with imidocarb dipropionate was helpful for recovery from clinical disease but did not facilitate parasite elimination, and it is therefore recommended to treat canine B. negevi infection with the combination of atovaquone and azithromycin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harold Salant
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel.
| | - Yaarit Nachum-Biala
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel
| | | | - Tsachi Even Tzur
- American Medical Laboratories, 37 Havazelet Hasharon Street, Herzlia, Israel
| | - Gad Baneth
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel
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Liu Q, Guan XA, Li DF, Zheng YX, Wang S, Xuan XN, Zhao JL, He L. Babesia gibsoni Whole-Genome Sequencing, Assembling, Annotation, and Comparative Analysis. Microbiol Spectr 2023; 11:e0072123. [PMID: 37432130 PMCID: PMC10434002 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.00721-23] [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: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The intracellular protozoan parasite Babesia gibsoni infects canine erythrocytes and causes babesiosis. The hazards to animal health have increased due to the rise of B. gibsoni infections and medication resistance. However, the lack of high-quality full-genome sequencing sets has expanded the obstacles to the development of pathogeneses, drugs, and vaccines. In this study, the whole genome of B. gibsoni was sequenced, assembled, and annotated. The genomic size of B. gibsoni was 7.94 Mbp in total. Four chromosomes with the size of 0.69 Mb, 2.10 Mb, 2.77 Mb, and 2.38 Mb, respectively, 1 apicoplast (28.4 Kb), and 1 mitochondrion (5.9 Kb) were confirmed. KEGG analysis revealed 2,641 putative proteins enriched on 316 pathways, and GO analysis showed 7,571 annotations of the nuclear genome in total. Synteny analysis showed a high correlation between B. gibsoni and B. bovis. A new divergent point of B. gibsoni occurred around 297.7 million years ago, which was earlier than that of B. bovis, B. ovata, and B. bigemina. Orthology analysis revealed 22 and 32 unique genes compared to several Babesia spp. and apicomplexan species. The metabolic pathways of B.gibsoni were characterized, pointing to a minimal size of the genome. A species-specific secretory protein SA1 and 19 homologous genes were identified. Selected specific proteins, including apetala 2 (AP2) factor, invasion-related proteins BgAMA-1 and BgRON2, and rhoptry function proteins BgWH_04g00700 were predicted, visualized, and modeled. Overall, whole-genome sequencing provided molecular-level support for the diagnosis, prevention, clinical treatment, and further research of B. gibsoni. IMPORTANCE The whole genome of B. gibsoni was first sequenced, annotated, and disclosed. The key part of genome composition, four chromosomes, was comparatively analyzed for the first time. A full-scale phylogeny evolution analysis based on the whole-genome-wide data of B. gibsoni was performed, and a new divergent point on the evolutionary path was revealed. In previous reports, molecular studies were often limited by incomplete genomic data, especially in key areas like life cycle regulation, metabolism, and host-pathogen interaction. With the whole-genome sequencing of B. gibsoni, we provide useful genetic data to encourage the exploration of new terrain and make it feasible to resolve the theoretical and practical problems of babesiosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine in Hubei Province, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Xing-Ai Guan
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine in Hubei Province, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Dong-Fang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine in Hubei Province, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Ya-Xin Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine in Hubei Province, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Sen Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine in Hubei Province, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Xue-Nan Xuan
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Jun-Long Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine in Hubei Province, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Lan He
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine in Hubei Province, Wuhan, Hubei, China
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Ionita M, Leica L, Wassermann M, Mitrea E, Nicorescu IM, Mitrea IL. Detection and Molecular Characterization of Canine Babesiosis Causative Agent Babesia canis in Naturally Infected Dogs in the Dobrogea Area (Southeastern Romania). Life (Basel) 2023; 13:1354. [PMID: 37374136 DOI: 10.3390/life13061354] [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: 05/06/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Canine babesiosis is an emerging tick-borne disease of major veterinary concern in Europe. Its prevalence has increased in the last two decades and is spreading rapidly toward the north. The aim of this study was to investigate the genetic diversity of Babesia spp. strains isolated from naturally infected dogs in a tick-endemic area (Dobrogea) in southeastern Romania. For this purpose, a total of twenty-three samples from dogs diagnosed with various clinical forms of babesiosis, evaluated by means of clinical history, physical examination, and hematological tests, were subjected to a molecular investigation using PCR, sequencing analysis, and genetic characterization. A microscopic examination of thin Diff-quick-stained blood smears revealed large intra-erythrocytic Babesia piroplasms in all dogs. The PCR and sequencing analysis results indicated the presence of Babesia canis in 22 dogs (95.7%) and Babesia vogeli in 1 dog (4.3%). Among the B. canis isolates, two genotypes were distinguished based on two nucleotide substitutions (GA→AG) observed in the 18S rRNA gene sequences (at positions 609 and 610), with the AG genotype predominating (54.5% of samples), while the GA variant was identified in 9.1% of samples. In the remaining isolates (36.4%), both variants were identified. The B. vogeli-positive dog also tested positive for antibodies against Ehrlichia canis and displayed severe disease. This study reports, for the first time, the presence of genetically heterogenic B. canis strains in dogs with clinical babesiosis in Romania. These findings provide a basis for future studies on the relationship between the genetic structure of the causative agents of canine babesiosis in Romania and the course of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Ionita
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases & Animal Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agronomic Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Bucharest, 11464 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Laurentiu Leica
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases & Animal Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agronomic Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Bucharest, 11464 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Marion Wassermann
- Parasitology Unit, Institute of Biology, University of Hohenheim, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Emanuel Mitrea
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases & Animal Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agronomic Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Bucharest, 11464 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Isabela Madalina Nicorescu
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases & Animal Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agronomic Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Bucharest, 11464 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ioan Liviu Mitrea
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases & Animal Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agronomic Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Bucharest, 11464 Bucharest, Romania
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Silvestrini P, Lloyd-Bradley B, Glanemann B, Barker EN, Badham H, Tappin S, Pascual M, Haines A, Mas A, Roura X, Piviani M. Clinical presentation, diagnostic investigations, treatment protocols and outcomes of dogs diagnosed with tick-borne diseases living in the United Kingdom: 76 cases (2005-2019). J Small Anim Pract 2023; 64:392-400. [PMID: 36727469 DOI: 10.1111/jsap.13592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2022] [Revised: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To report the presence of tick-borne diseases in dogs living in the United Kingdom. MATERIALS AND METHODS Dogs with a final diagnosis of tick-borne diseases made between January 2005 and August 2019 at seven referral institutions in the United Kingdom were included in the study. RESULTS Seventy-six dogs were included: 25 were diagnosed with ehrlichiosis, 23 with babesiosis, eight with Lyme borreliosis and six with anaplasmosis. Fourteen dogs had co-infections with two or three pathogens. Except for those dogs with anaplasmosis and Lyme borreliosis, most dogs with tick-borne diseases had a history of travel to or from endemic countries. However, three dogs with ehrlichiosis, and one dog each infected with Babesia canis and Babesia vulpes did not have any history of travel. A variety of non-specific clinical signs and laboratory abnormalities were reported. Targeted treatment was successful at achieving clinical remission in 64 (84%) dogs. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE Even in non-endemic areas, veterinary surgeons should consider tick-borne diseases in dogs with compatible clinical presentation and laboratory findings and especially where there is a history of travel. As autochthonous transmission of tick-borne-pathogens does occur, an absence of travel should not rule out tick-borne diseases. Specific diagnostic testing is required to confirm infection, and this enables prompt targeted treatment and often a positive outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Silvestrini
- Ryan Veterinary Hospital, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - B Lloyd-Bradley
- Small Animal Teaching Hospital, University of Liverpool, Neston, UK
- Dick White Referrals, Six Mile Bottom, UK
| | - B Glanemann
- Queen Mother Hospital for Animals, Royal Veterinary College - University of London, Hatfield, UK
| | - E N Barker
- Small Animal Hospital, Langford Vets, University of Bristol, Langford, UK
| | - H Badham
- Davies Veterinary Specialists, Hitchin, UK
| | - S Tappin
- Dick White Referrals, Six Mile Bottom, UK
| | - M Pascual
- Dick White Referrals, Six Mile Bottom, UK
| | - A Haines
- Animal Health Trust, Newmarket, UK
| | - A Mas
- Anderson Moores Veterinary Specialists, Winchester, UK
| | - X Roura
- Hospital Clinic Veterinari, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - M Piviani
- Ryan Veterinary Hospital, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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Bonilla-Aldana DK, Gutiérrez-Grajales EJ, Osorio-Navia D, Chacón-Peña M, Trejos-Mendoza AE, Pérez-Vargas S, Valencia-Mejía L, Marín-Arboleda LF, Martínez-Hidalgo JP, Reina-Mora MA, González-Colonia LV, Cardona-Ospina JA, Jiménez-Posada EV, Diaz-Guio DA, Salazar JC, Sierra M, Muñoz-Lara F, Zambrano LI, Ramírez-Vallejo E, Álvarez JC, Jaramillo-Delgado IL, Pecho-Silva S, Paniz-Mondolfi A, Faccini-Martínez ÁA, Rodríguez-Morales AJ. Haematological Alterations Associated with Selected Vector-Borne Infections and Exposure in Dogs from Pereira, Risaralda, Colombia. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12243460. [PMID: 36552379 PMCID: PMC9774455 DOI: 10.3390/ani12243460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 11/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Infections due to Ehrlichia, Anaplasma, Dirofilaria, Mycoplasma, Babesia and Hepatozoon continue to be highly prevalent in dogs, especially in tropical and subtropical areas, where vectors of many of them are present. However, many clinical aspects of dogs have not been characterized in detail, including assessing the haematological alterations associated with them, particularly in Colombia and Latin America. A group of 100 dogs with Ehrlichia, Anaplasma, Dirofilaria, Mycoplasma, Babesia and Hepatozoon infections/exposure were assessed by blood smear serology (SNAP4DX) and PCR in Pereira, Colombia. We performed blood counts to evaluate anaemia, leukopenia/leukocytosis, neutropenia, neutrophilia, lymphopenia/lymphocytosis, monocytosis, eosinophilia, and thrombocytopenia, among other alterations. Bivariate analyses were performed on Stata®14, with significant p < 0.05. From the total, 85% presented ≥1 infection (past or present), 66% with coinfections (≥2 pathogens) (Ehrlichia 75%), and 89% presented clinical alterations. A total of 100% showed anaemia, 70% thrombocytopenia, 61% monocytosis, and 47% neutropenia, among other alterations. Additionally, 11% presented pancytopenia and 59% bicytopenia. The median platelet count was lower in infected dogs (126,000 cells/μL) versus non-infected (221,000 cells/μL) (p = 0.003). Thrombocytopenia was higher among infected dogs (75%) versus non-infected (40%) (p = 0.006), with a 91% positive predictive value for infection. Median neutrophil count was lower in infected dogs (6591 cells/μL) versus non-infected (8804 cells/μL) (p = 0.013). Lymphocytosis occurred only among those infected (27%) (p = 0.022). Leukopenia was only observed among infected dogs (13%). Pancytopenia was only observed among infected dogs. Ehrlichiosis and other hematic infections have led to a significant burden of haematological alterations on infected dogs, including pancytopenia in a tenth of them, most with thrombocytopenia and all anemic.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Erwin J. Gutiérrez-Grajales
- Red Colombiana de Enfermedades Transmitidas por Garrapatas en Pequeños Animales (RECEPA)–Colombian Network of Tick-Borne Diseases in Small Animals (RECEPA), Pereira 660003, Colombia
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Jaime A. Cardona-Ospina
- Institución Universitaria Visión de las Américas, Pereira 660003, Colombia
- Grupo de Investigación Biomedicina, Faculty of Medicine, Fundación Universitaria Autónoma de las Américas, Pereira 660003, Colombia
- Grupo de Investigación en Infecciones Emergentes y Medicina Tropical, Instituto para la Investigación en Ciencias Biomédicas, SCI-HELP, Pereira 660003, Colombia
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Vaccinology, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94704, USA
| | - Erika Vanessa Jiménez-Posada
- Grupo de Investigación en Infecciones Emergentes y Medicina Tropical, Instituto para la Investigación en Ciencias Biomédicas, SCI-HELP, Pereira 660003, Colombia
| | | | | | - Manuel Sierra
- Unit of Scientific Research, School of Medical, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Honduras (UNAH), Tegucigalpa 11101, Honduras
| | - Fausto Muñoz-Lara
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Honduras (UNAH), Tegucigalpa 11101, Honduras; Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Escuela, Tegucigalpa 11101, Honduras
| | - Lysien I. Zambrano
- Unit of Scientific Research, School of Medical, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Honduras (UNAH), Tegucigalpa 11101, Honduras
| | | | - Juan Camilo Álvarez
- Grupo de Investigación One-Health, Departamento de Investigación de Enfermedades Infecciosas en Animales, Centro de Diagnóstico Especializado Testmol, Medellín, Antioquia 050001, Colombia
| | - Ingrid Lorena Jaramillo-Delgado
- Red Colombiana de Enfermedades Transmitidas por Garrapatas en Pequeños Animales (RECEPA)–Colombian Network of Tick-Borne Diseases in Small Animals (RECEPA), Pereira 660003, Colombia
- Grupo de Investigación One-Health, Departamento de Investigación de Enfermedades Infecciosas en Animales, Centro de Diagnóstico Especializado Testmol, Medellín, Antioquia 050001, Colombia
| | - Samuel Pecho-Silva
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Cientifica del Sur, Lima 15046, Peru
- Hospital Nacional Edgardo Rebagliati Martins, Lima 15072, Peru
| | - Alberto Paniz-Mondolfi
- Laboratory of Medical Microbiology, Department of Pathology, Molecular and Cell-based Medicine, The Mount Sinai Hospital-Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029-6574, USA
| | - Álvaro A. Faccini-Martínez
- Research Institute, Fundación Universitaria de Ciencias de la Salud-FUCS, Bogotá 11011, Colombia
- Servicios y Asesorías en Infectología-SAI, Bogotá 11010, Colombia
| | - Alfonso J. Rodríguez-Morales
- Red Colombiana de Enfermedades Transmitidas por Garrapatas en Pequeños Animales (RECEPA)–Colombian Network of Tick-Borne Diseases in Small Animals (RECEPA), Pereira 660003, Colombia
- Institución Universitaria Visión de las Américas, Pereira 660003, Colombia
- Grupo de Investigación Biomedicina, Faculty of Medicine, Fundación Universitaria Autónoma de las Américas, Pereira 660003, Colombia
- Grupo de Investigación en Infecciones Emergentes y Medicina Tropical, Instituto para la Investigación en Ciencias Biomédicas, SCI-HELP, Pereira 660003, Colombia
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Cientifica del Sur, Lima 15046, Peru
- Gilbert and Rose-Marie Chagoury School of Medicine, Lebanese American University, Beirut P.O. Box 36, Lebanon
- Correspondence: or
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9
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DeStefano IM, Wayne AS, Cudney SE, Rozanski EA. Successful treatment of suspect Babesia-induced ARDS in a dog using lung-protective positive-pressure ventilation and neuromuscular blockade. Clin Case Rep 2022; 10:e6234. [PMID: 35957771 PMCID: PMC9361806 DOI: 10.1002/ccr3.6234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 07/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
A mixed breed dog was treated for severe hemolytic anemia secondary to Babesia canis infection. Within 14 hours of hospitalization, the dog developed respiratory distress and hypoxemia. The patient improved with lung-protective mechanical ventilation and neuromuscular blockade. The dog survived to discharge and was reportedly healthy at three-month follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian M. DeStefano
- Department of Clinical SciencesCummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Tufts UniversityNorth GraftonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Annie S. Wayne
- Department of Emergency and Critical Care, Massachusetts Veterinary Referral HospitalEthos Veterinary HealthWoburnMassachusettsUnited States
| | - Sarah E. Cudney
- Department of Emergency and Critical CareACCESS Specialty Animal HospitalsLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | - Elizabeth A. Rozanski
- Department of Clinical SciencesCummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Tufts UniversityNorth GraftonMassachusettsUSA
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10
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Clinical and Hematologic Findings in Babesia canis Infection in Eastern Slovakia. Acta Parasitol 2022; 67:1329-1334. [PMID: 35831668 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-022-00584-8] [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: 01/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Babesia canis infection occurs in many locations throughout Europe. However, various studies report different clinicopathological findings in affected dogs. This study was focused on changes in clinical and hematologic parameters in dogs with B. canis infection from eastern Slovakia. METHODS The study was prospective and included 45 dogs with suspected babesiosis. Babesia canis infection was confirmed by PCR in 34 cases and by blood smear microscopy in 24 (70.6%) of them. Hematology results, clinical examination from these dogs, and possible co-infection with other tick-borne pathogens by PCR were subsequently evaluated. RESULTS The major clinical signs found included lethargy (91%), fever (59%), anorexia (59%), pigmenturia (47%) and icterus (18%). Mortality rate was 6%. Thrombocytopenia was the most common hematologic change, observed in 100% of the dogs with B. canis infection. Other frequent findings were lymphopenia (82%) and anemia (68%). No co-infections were detected. Anaplasma phagocytophilum infection was diagnosed by PCR only in one dog, which was not infected with B. canis. CONCLUSIONS This study showed that B. canis infection in eastern Slovakia should be diagnosed by PCR when there is clinical suspicion of the disease, as almost 30% of the infected sick dogs did not have demonstrable parasites in their blood smear by microscopy. Lymphopenia is a frequent hematologic finding in B. canis infection and observed even more often than anemia. However, in agreement with previous studies, thrombocytopenia remains the most common hematologic finding associated with B. canis infection.
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11
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Helm CS, Weingart C, Ramünke S, Schäfer I, Müller E, von Samson-Himmelstjerna G, Kohn B, Krücken J. High genetic diversity of Babesia canis (Piana & Galli-Valerio, 1895) in a recent local outbreak in Berlin/ Brandenburg, Germany. Transbound Emerg Dis 2022; 69:e3336-e3345. [PMID: 35689449 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.14617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Revised: 05/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Canine babesiosis caused by Babesia canis (Piana & Galli-Valerio, 1895) is emerging in new regions in Europe since its vector Dermacentor reticulatus (Fabricius, 1794) is expanding its geographic range. In the Berlin/Brandenburg area in northeast Germany, D. reticulatus is highly abundant but in the past only one autochthonous B. canis infection was reported. Since 2015, autochthonous cases were occasionally diagnosed but numbers increased since autumn 2019. The aim of the study was to genotype autochthonous canine Babesia spp. infections from Berlin/Brandenburg. Between 04/2015 and 01/2022, 46 dogs with acute babesiosis were presented to the small animal clinic (one dog was infected twice resulting in 47 samples). There were 32 dogs that had never left Berlin/Brandenburg and 14 others that had not left the region in the 6 weeks prior to disease onset. PCRs targeting the 18S rRNA and the Bc28.1 merozoite surface antigen were positive in 47 and 42 samples, respectively. Sequencing of cloned PCR products identified all samples as B. canis with 17 18S rRNA and 12 Bc28.1 haplotypes. Based on network analysis for 18S rRNA sequences and a previously described polymorphic dinucleotide, samples were assigned to two distinct clusters. One contained 31 and the other 16 samples. Using network analysis, the Bc28.1 haplotypes could also be separated into two clusters differing by at least five polymorphisms. Analyses of sequences from multiple clones indicated the presence of up to five 18S rRNA and eight Bc28.1 haplotypes and thus high parasite variability in an individual host. The genetic diversity could suggest that the parasites in the region have multiple origins, but diversity in individual dogs and dog populations from endemic regions is unknown. The suitability of both markers for genotyping is questionable due to potential intragenomic diversity for the rRNA and high intergenomic variability for the Bc28.1 marker.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina S Helm
- Institute for Parasitology and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Sabrina Ramünke
- Institute for Parasitology and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | | | | | | | - Barbara Kohn
- Small Animal Clinic, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jürgen Krücken
- Institute for Parasitology and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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12
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Seibert S, Rohrberg A, Stockinger A, Schaalo S, März I. [Occurrence of canine babesiosis in dogs in the Rhine-Main area of Hesse, Germany - a case study of 81 dogs]. TIERARZTLICHE PRAXIS. AUSGABE K, KLEINTIERE/HEIMTIERE 2022; 50:162-172. [PMID: 35790164 DOI: 10.1055/a-1704-6604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Canine babesiosis, an infectious disease transmitted by Dermacentor reticulatus, is exhibiting growing importance in Germany. The aim of this study was to display the increased incidence of canine babesiosis in the Rhine-Main area in Hesse, with special focus on the accumulation in the district of Groß-Gerau. MATERIAL AND METHODS The retrospective study included dogs presented to the veterinary hospital between October 2018 and December 2020 and diagnosed with canine babesiosis on the basis of a positive Babesia spp.-PCR. RESULTS A total of 697 dogs were tested by Babesia spp.-PCR during this time period. Of these, 81 (12 %) were positive.Sequencing was performed in 14 of the 81 dogs (17 %) (B. canis n = 13, B, vulpes n = 1). A simultaneous anaplasmosis infection was detected in 2 dogs. Strikingly, babesiosis cases occurred throughout the year with accumulations in March/April as well as in October.Evaluation of a complete blood cell count revealed pancytopenia in 44 of the 81 animals (54 %). Anemia was present in 66 (82 %), thrombocytopenia in 76 of the 81 patients (94 %). Only 2 of the 81 positive cases showed no hematological changes. Hyperbilirubinemia was found in 66 of 73 measured bilirubin levels (90 %).All animals were treated with two injections of imidocarb-diproprionate (Carbesia®) in 14-day intervals. Follow-up PCR was performed in 37 of the 81 patients (46 %). In the majority of cases (92 %), successful therapy was confirmed by a negative Babesia-PCR. A total of 6 of the 81 patients (7 %) were euthanized during the treatment period. The reasons for euthanasia were progressive renal disease, high-grade intravascular hemolysis necessitating multiple blood transfusions, and development of splenic and renal abscesses. CONCLUSION In dogs with clinical signs such as apathy, pyrexia and hemoglobinuria, as well as hematologic abnormalities comprising anemia, thrombocytopenia as well as pancytopenia, babesiosis needs to be included in the list of differential diagnoses. Testing should be initiated accordingly regardless of the season, however especially in spring and autumn.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Imke März
- Tierklinik Hofheim, Hofheim am Taunus
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13
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Karasová M, Tóthová C, Grelová S, Fialkovičová M. The Etiology, Incidence, Pathogenesis, Diagnostics, and Treatment of Canine Babesiosis Caused by Babesia gibsoni Infection. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12060739. [PMID: 35327136 PMCID: PMC8944684 DOI: 10.3390/ani12060739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Revised: 03/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Babesia gibsoni is a parasite that causes the rupture of red blood cells in dogs. Although there is no natural, tick-borne transmission of this disease in Europe, it has become more common in European countries in recent years. Dogfighting breeds are predisposed to disease and they are a potential source of infection. Given the high popularity of these dog breeds in Europe and the participation of many dogs at sports competitions and shows, it is likely that the incidence of the disease in Europe may be higher than expected. The fact that the disease is mostly manifested as asymptomatic infection and that dogs of predisposed breeds are often imported from endemic areas, or they travel due to mating or competitions around the world, also contributes to this hypothesis. Abstract Babesia gibsoni is one of the small Babesia species and the infection this pathogen causes is usually asymptomatic, which complicates the capture of potential parasite carriers. In endemic areas, especially in Asia, B. gibsoni occurs quite often due to direct transmission by way of a tick vector. Due to the absence of vectors, its occurrence is described only sporadically in Europe; but, it is increasingly occurring in predisposed, so-called fighting breeds, especially the American pit bull terrier. This review describes the etiology, incidence, clinical signs, pathogenesis, diagnostics, and treatment of B. gibsoni infection, with an emphasis on the clinical and laboratory peculiarities of the disease. As the treated dogs do not eliminate the parasite from the body—only reducing parasitemia and improving clinical signs—the treatment of B. gibsoni infection is a challenge in many cases, and its study therefore deserves great attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Karasová
- Small Animal Clinic, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy, 04001 Košice, Slovakia; (S.G.); (M.F.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Csilla Tóthová
- Clinic of Ruminants, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy, 04001 Košice, Slovakia;
| | - Simona Grelová
- Small Animal Clinic, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy, 04001 Košice, Slovakia; (S.G.); (M.F.)
| | - Mária Fialkovičová
- Small Animal Clinic, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy, 04001 Košice, Slovakia; (S.G.); (M.F.)
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14
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Babesia gibsoni Infection in Dogs—A European Perspective. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12060730. [PMID: 35327127 PMCID: PMC8944637 DOI: 10.3390/ani12060730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2022] [Revised: 03/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Canine babesiosis is a tick-borne, protozoal, hemoparasitic disease caused by infection by parasites of the genus Babesia. Numerous species of Babesia exist worldwide. These protozoa are classified as either large forms (e.g., Babesia canis) or small forms (e.g., Babesia gibsoni). Reports of infections with small protozoan species are far less numerous. In most European countries where B. gibsoni has been reported, the percentage of infected dogs is around 1%. The literature review suggests that B. gibsoni should not only be considered a random and imported pathogen, but also a possible emerging parasite in Europe. The disease is much more severe than B. canis infections in most cases. Accurate molecular detection and species identification are important for selecting the correct therapy and predicting the course of the disease in dogs with babesiosis. In the future, it is expected that B. gibsoni infections may appear in other non-endemic regions in Europe, which may pose significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges for veterinary practitioners. Abstract Canine babesiosis is a disease caused by infection with parasites of the genus Babesia. These protozoa are classified as either large (e.g., Babesia canis) or small (e.g., Babesia gibsoni). So far, only three small Babesia species of clinical importance, able to infect dogs, have been described: B. gibsoni, B. conradae, and B. vulpes. This review presents the current epidemiological situation of Babesia gibsoni infections in dogs in Europe. In most European countries where B. gibsoni has been reported, the percentage of infected dogs is around 1%. The higher prevalence of the B. gibsoni infection among American Pit Bull Terriers suggests breed susceptibility. An analysis of the available data makes it possible to conclude that B. gibsoni infections may appear in the future in other non-endemic regions of Europe, which may pose significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges for veterinary practitioners.
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Onyiche TE, Igwenagu E, Malgwi SA, Omeh IJ, Biu AA, Thekisoe O. Hematology and biochemical values in equines naturally infected with Theileria equi in Nigeria. Trop Anim Health Prod 2022; 54:103. [DOI: 10.1007/s11250-022-03095-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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16
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Multi Platforms Strategies and Metabolomics Approaches for the Investigation of Comprehensive Metabolite Profile in Dogs with Babesia canis Infection. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23031575. [PMID: 35163517 PMCID: PMC8835742 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23031575] [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: 11/26/2021] [Revised: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Canine babesiosis is an important tick-borne disease worldwide, caused by parasites of the Babesia genus. Although the disease process primarily affects erythrocytes, it may also have multisystemic consequences. The goal of this study was to explore and characterize the serum metabolome, by identifying potential metabolites and metabolic pathways in dogs naturally infected with Babesia canis using liquid and gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry. The study included 12 dogs naturally infected with B. canis and 12 healthy dogs. By combining three different analytical platforms using untargeted and targeted approaches, 295 metabolites were detected. The untargeted ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) metabolomics approach identified 64 metabolites, the targeted UHPLC-MS/MS metabolomics approach identified 205 metabolites, and the GC-MS metabolomics approach identified 26 metabolites. Biological functions of differentially abundant metabolites indicate the involvement of various pathways in canine babesiosis including the following: glutathione metabolism; alanine, aspartate, and glutamate metabolism; glyoxylate and dicarboxylate metabolism; cysteine and methionine metabolism; and phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan biosynthesis. This study confirmed that host–pathogen interactions could be studied by metabolomics to assess chemical changes in the host, such that the differences in serum metabolome between dogs with B. canis infection and healthy dogs can be detected with liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) methods. Our study provides novel insight into pathophysiological mechanisms of B. canis infection.
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17
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Almazán C, Scimeca RC, Reichard MV, Mosqueda J. Babesiosis and Theileriosis in North America. Pathogens 2022; 11:168. [PMID: 35215111 PMCID: PMC8874406 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11020168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Babesia and Theileria are apicomplexan parasites that cause established and emerging diseases in humans, domestic and wild animals. These protozoans are transmitted by Ixodid ticks causing babesiosis or theileriosis, both characterized by fever, hemolytic anemia, jaundice, and splenomegaly. In North America (NA), the most common species affecting humans is B. microti, which is distributed in the Northeastern and Upper Midwestern United States (US), where the tick vector Ixodes scapularis is established. In livestock, B. bovis and B. bigemina are the most important pathogens causing bovine babesiosis in tropical regions of Mexico. Despite efforts toward eradication of their tick vector, Rhipicephalus microplus, B. bovis and B. bigemina present a constant threat of being reintroduced into the southern US and represent a continuous concern for the US cattle industry. Occasional outbreaks of T. equi, and T. orientalis have occurred in horses and cattle, respectively, in the US, with significant economic implications for livestock including quarantine, production loss, and euthanasia of infected animals. In addition, a new species, T. haneyi, has been recently discovered in horses from the Mexico-US border. Domestic dogs are hosts to at least four species of Babesia in NA that may result in clinical disease that ranges from subclinical to acute, severe anemia. Herein we review the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and epidemiology of the most important diseases caused by Babesia and Theileria to humans, domestic and wild animals in Canada, the US, and Mexico.
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Affiliation(s)
- Consuelo Almazán
- Immunology and Vaccines Laboratory, C. A. Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Carretera a Chichimequillas, Queretaro 76140, Mexico;
| | - Ruth C. Scimeca
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA; (R.C.S.); (M.V.R.)
| | - Mason V. Reichard
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA; (R.C.S.); (M.V.R.)
| | - Juan Mosqueda
- Immunology and Vaccines Laboratory, C. A. Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Carretera a Chichimequillas, Queretaro 76140, Mexico;
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18
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El-Sayed SAES, Rizk MA, Eldoumani H, Sorour SS, Terkawi MA, AbouLaila M, Igarashi I, Sayed-Ahmed MZ. Identification and Characterization of P0 Protein as a Vaccine Candidate Against Babesia divergens, Blood Parasite of Veterinary and Zoonotic Importance. Front Vet Sci 2022; 8:795906. [PMID: 35071386 PMCID: PMC8776984 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.795906] [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: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The molecular identification and antigenic characterization of P0 protein in Babesia divergens, a blood parasite of veterinary and zoonotic importance, were carried out in this study for use in developing subunit vaccines against B. divergens infection. Recombinant protein encoding P0 (BdP0) was developed in Escherichia coli, and its antiserum was generated in mice for further molecular characterization. Anti-rBdP0 serum had a specific interaction with the corresponding legitimate B. divergens protein, as confirmed by Western blotting and indirect fluorescent antibody tests. ELISA was used to assess the immunogenicity of BdP0 in a group of 68 bovine field samples, and significant immunological reactivity was found in 19 and 20 positive samples of rBdp0 and B. divergens lysate, respectively. The in vitro growth of B. divergens cultures treated with anti-rBdP0 serum was significantly inhibited (p < 0.05). Furthermore, after 6 h of incubation with 2 mg/ml anti-rBdP0 serum, the ability of pre-incubated free merozoites to invade bovine erythrocytes was reduced by 59.88%. The obtained data suggest the possible use of rBdP0 as diagnostic antigen and may serve as a vaccine candidate against babesiosis caused by B. divergens either in animal or human.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shimaa Abd El-Salam El-Sayed
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Japan
- Department of Biochemistry and Chemistry of Nutrition, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Abdo Rizk
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Japan
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
- *Correspondence: Mohamed Abdo Rizk
| | - Haitham Eldoumani
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Shimaa Sobhy Sorour
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafr El-Shaikh, Egypt
| | - Mohamad Alaa Terkawi
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Japan
| | - Mahmoud AbouLaila
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Damanhour University, Damanhour, Egypt
| | - Ikuo Igarashi
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Japan
- Ikuo Igarashi
| | - Mohamed Z. Sayed-Ahmed
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jizan, Saudi Arabia
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Ghasemzade M, Esmaeilnejad B, Asri‐Rezaei S, Hadian M. Molecular identification of Babesia canis canis genotype A in a dog from Iran. Vet Med Sci 2022; 8:21-25. [PMID: 34510799 PMCID: PMC8788953 DOI: 10.1002/vms3.630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Canine babesiosis is a common and clinically significant tick-borne disease caused by obligate haematozoan parasites of the genus Babesia. PURPOSE To report Babesia canis canis genotype A infection in a dog. METHODS A 2-year-old female Shih Tzu dog was submitted with the history of anorexia and depression for one week and no prior surgery. Fever, anorexia, depression and vomiting as well as mucosal pallor were noticed on physical examination. Microscopic examination of the Giemsa-stained blood smear disclosed large form of Babesia, and single to four pear-shaped merozoites within erythrocytes (RBCs). The specific primers were used for detecting Babesia canis. RESULTS The result of PCR was confirmed by 18S rRNA gene sequence analyzing and has been registered in GenBank under following accession numbers for Babesia canis canis (MW199108). The sequences were compared to those in GenBank, and alignments showed that the B. canis canis isolate belonged to genotype A. CONCLUSIONS This is the first description of B. canis canis genotype A in dog from Iran.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milad Ghasemzade
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineUrmia UniversityUrmiaIran
| | - Bijan Esmaeilnejad
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineUrmia UniversityUrmiaIran
| | - Siamak Asri‐Rezaei
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical PathologyFaculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia UniversityUrmiaIran
| | - Mojtaba Hadian
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical PathologyFaculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia UniversityUrmiaIran
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Yang WY, Reynolds C, Mestek A, Huang GC, Lee CJ, Wang SL. A molecular and serological survey in Taiwan to determine the true risk of babesiosis in dogs not receiving regular tick prevention. Vet Parasitol Reg Stud Reports 2022; 27:100670. [PMID: 35012727 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2021.100670] [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: 07/03/2021] [Revised: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Canine babesiosis is an important tick-borne disease worldwide. The prevalence varies between regions and countries; however, the incidence of tick infection is associated with the status of preventive tick control measures by the owner. To date, no studies have investigated the incidence of canine babesiosis and the condition of tick prevention in Taiwan. Therefore, the true risk of babesiosis could be underestimated in dogs that are not receiving tick prophylaxis. Samples were collected at 51 hospitals around Taiwan from 265 dogs not receiving regular tick prophylaxis. Diagnostic real-time PCR was performed, and 28 dogs (10.6%) were positive for Babesia spp., including B. gibsoni (26/28) and B. vogeli (2/28). Thirty-nine dogs (14.7%) were seropositive to B. gibsoni. Take the real-time PCR positive as the Babesia infected case, the positive and negative predictive value of serological assay were 64.1% and 98.7%, respectively. The seropositivity of B. gibsoni was significantly associated with real-time PCR positivity for Babesia spp. and vice versa (p < 0.001). The odds of seropositive representing real-time PCR positivity was 132.7 times greater than the seronegative (OR: 132.731, 95% CI 35.683-493.728). Risk factors in the population identified included: dogs with a short-haired coat; intact dogs; dogs from multi-dog households; dogs with more than 10 ticks and fleas on the skin; dogs that go outdoors more than 9 times per week; and dogs with an abnormal blood test result that included anemia, thrombocytopenia, and leukopenia. However, the dogs were not tested for other co-infections, therefore, these hematological risk factors should be carefully interpreted and confirmed by further diagnostic tests. In conclusion, when dogs present with abnormal blood test results and share the risk factors listed above, babesiosis should be seriously considered and followed up with molecular and serological testing. The serological assay used in this study can provide valuable information in diagnosing babesiosis in dogs in Taiwan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Yuan Yang
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei City, Taiwan, ROC; Zoonoses Research Center and School of Veterinary Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei City, Taiwan, ROC
| | | | - Anton Mestek
- Assay R&D, IDEXX Laboratories, Inc., Westbrook, ME, USA
| | | | | | - Shang-Lin Wang
- Graduate Institute of Veterinary Clinical Science, School of Veterinary Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei City, Taiwan, ROC; National Taiwan University Veterinary Hospital, College of Bioresources and Agriculture, National Taiwan University, Taipei City, Taiwan, ROC.
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21
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Dos Santos FB, Gazêta GS, Corrêa LL, Lobão LF, Palmer JPS, Dib LV, Damasceno JAL, Moura-Martiniano NO, Bastos OMP, Uchôa CMA, da Silva Barbosa A. Microscopic Detection, Hematological Evaluation and Molecular Characterization of Piroplasms from Naturally Infected Dogs in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Acta Parasitol 2021; 66:1548-1560. [PMID: 34129160 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-021-00426-z] [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: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to analyze the frequency of piroplasmids in the blood of dogs in Rio de Janeiro, compare the performance of microscopic techniques, assess the risk factors associated with infections and also molecularly and morphologically characterize the piroplasmids identified. METHODS In all, 407 blood samples were collected from dogs between 2018 and 2019. These were subjected to microscopic parasitological techniques for thin and thick smears, stained with Giemsa and using a rapid staining kit. The slides were read under an optical microscope and the protozoa were characterized morphometrically. In addition, the blood samples were subjected to molecular characterization for diagnosing piroplasmid species using primers that amplified the gene 18S rRNA. RESULTS Piroplasmids were detected in 38 (9.3%) samples. Of these, 33 samples presented nucleotide sequences compatible with Babesia vogeli. Most of the positive samples were young, male, defined breeds dogs that had been attended in clinics in São Gonçalo city. Thrombocytopenia and leukopenia were the hematological alterations more observed in positive samples, but positive samples without alterations were also detected. The sex was the only variable that showed statistical differences. Males dogs being more often infected than females (p < 0.05). The microscope slides mostly showed piriform and oval merozoites measuring greater than 2.5 µm in length, which were compatible with B. vogeli. However, smaller forms were also identified, thus demonstrating the polymorphic nature of this parasite. CONCLUSION Babesia vogeli was detected in blood samples from dogs in the metropolitan cities of Rio de Janeiro by molecular techniques in different parasite morphotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda Barbosa Dos Santos
- Departamento de Microbiologia e Parasitologia, Instituto Biomédico, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Rua Professor Hernani Mello, São Domingos, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, 24210-130, Brasil
| | - Gilberto Salles Gazêta
- Laboratório de Referência Nacional em Vetores das Riquetsioses, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro), Avenida Brasil, 4365, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro, 21045-900, Brazil
| | - Laís Lisboa Corrêa
- Departamento de Microbiologia e Parasitologia, Instituto Biomédico, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Rua Professor Hernani Mello, São Domingos, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, 24210-130, Brasil
| | - Lucas Fernandes Lobão
- Departamento de Microbiologia e Parasitologia, Instituto Biomédico, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Rua Professor Hernani Mello, São Domingos, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, 24210-130, Brasil
| | - João Pedro Siqueira Palmer
- Departamento de Microbiologia e Parasitologia, Instituto Biomédico, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Rua Professor Hernani Mello, São Domingos, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, 24210-130, Brasil
| | - Laís Verdan Dib
- Departamento de Microbiologia e Parasitologia, Instituto Biomédico, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Rua Professor Hernani Mello, São Domingos, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, 24210-130, Brasil
| | - José André Lessa Damasceno
- Centro de Diagnóstico Veterinário, Rua General Silvestre Rocha, 131, Icaraí, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, 24220-170, Brazil
| | - Nicole Oliveira Moura-Martiniano
- Laboratório de Referência Nacional em Vetores das Riquetsioses, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro), Avenida Brasil, 4365, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro, 21045-900, Brazil
| | - Otilio Machado Pereira Bastos
- Departamento de Microbiologia e Parasitologia, Instituto Biomédico, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Rua Professor Hernani Mello, São Domingos, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, 24210-130, Brasil
| | - Claudia Maria Antunes Uchôa
- Departamento de Microbiologia e Parasitologia, Instituto Biomédico, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Rua Professor Hernani Mello, São Domingos, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, 24210-130, Brasil
| | - Alynne da Silva Barbosa
- Departamento de Microbiologia e Parasitologia, Instituto Biomédico, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Rua Professor Hernani Mello, São Domingos, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, 24210-130, Brasil.
- Laboratório de Toxoplasmoses e outras Protozooses, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz, RJ), Avenida Brasil, 4365, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro, 21045-900, Brasil.
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Preena P, Sarangom SB, Ramesh Kumar KV, Seeja S, Rajalekshmi S. Hematological alterations in large Babesia species infection in dogs of Kannur District of Kerala. J Parasit Dis 2021; 45:1090-1095. [PMID: 34789994 DOI: 10.1007/s12639-021-01404-y] [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: 01/03/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Canine babesiosis is a tick-borne disease caused by apicomplexan intraerythrocytic hemoprotozoan parasites. It is caused by the small (Babesia gibsoni, B. conradae, and B. vulpes) and large (B. vogeli, B. canis, and B. rossi) Babesia groups. As per the recent reports, the most prominent Babesia species encountered in the Kerala state are the small Babesia, B. gibsoni followed by the large Babesia, B. vogeli. The latter is regarded as mildly pathogenic, causing subclinical or mild disease; however severe complications like systemic inflammatory response syndrome, multiple organ dysfunction syndrome, etc. have also been reported. The information on the status of hematological alterations in naturally infected dogs with large Babesia is lacking, particularly from the state of Kerala. The present study involves a retrospective study of clinical cases of large Babesia infection in dogs. The complete haematological profile from well-documented laboratory records of 4039 dogs suspected for babesiosis presented to District Veterinary Centre, Kannur during the period from December 2018 to October 2020 was analyzed for the study. Natural infections were recorded in 35 (0.87%) dogs based on the presence of intraerythrocytic piroplasm of large Babesia spp. by light microscopic examination of Giemsa-stained blood smears. The most consistent features observed were mild to moderate regenerative, normocytic and normochromic anemia, lowered to normal neutrophil count and thrombocytopenia. In comparison to hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia was the most frequent clinicopathological finding in the study with an increased presence of large activated platelets or macro-platelets.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Preena
- District Veterinary Centre, Kannur, India
| | | | | | - S Seeja
- District Veterinary Centre, Kannur, India
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Relationship between Changes in Hematological Parameters, Levels of Acute Phase Proteins and Redox Homeostasis during Acute Babesia canis Infection in Dogs. ACTA VET-BEOGRAD 2021. [DOI: 10.2478/acve-2021-0014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Hemolysis and systemic acute inflammation characterize canine babesiosis caused by the intraerythrocytic protozoan parasite Babesia canis. Our hypothesis was that blood redox homeostasis of patients that suffered acute B. canis infection might be disturbed even after treatment with imidocarb-dipropionate and successful clinical recovery. Eight owner dogs with acute B. canis infection were used for this study. We analyzed the complete blood count, acute phase proteins (ceruloplasmin, haptoglobin, paraoxonase-1) in the serum, antioxidant enzymes (catalase and glutathione peroxidase) in the erythrocytes, and oxidative stress markers (malondialdehyde in erythrocytes and thiol groups in serum) at presentation and 15 days after treatment. Results were evaluated by corresponding statistical tests. At presentation, anemia, low/normal leukocyte count and severe thrombocytopenia occurred together with increased ceruloplasmin, haptoglobin levels within the reference interval, decreased paraoxonase-1 and compromised antioxidant defense in the red blood cells. After treatment and successful clinical recovery, hematological values generally fitted within the reference intervals, acute phase proteins were within the physiological levels in the majority of cases and the activities of the antioxidant enzymes were increased. However, elevated malondialdehyde levels indicated increased oxidative damage of erythrocytes that remained as a deleterious sequel despite a successful clinical recovery of the dogs.
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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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Kamani J. Molecular evidence indicts Haemaphysalis leachi (Acari: Ixodidae) as the vector of Babesia rossi in dogs in Nigeria, West Africa. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2021; 12:101717. [PMID: 33774482 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2021.101717] [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: 02/05/2021] [Revised: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Babesia rossi is the most pathogenic among the large canine babesias and it is the major cause of canine babesisosis in Nigeria. In South Africa it is transmitted by Haemaphysalis elliptica however, its putative vector in Nigeria where Rhipicephalus sanguineus is the most prevalent tick on dogs compared to Haemaphysalis species has not been ascertained. The incongruity between tick distribution and the frequent detection of B. rossi in Nigeria motivated this investigation to identify the local vector(s) of B. rossi. A total of 3805 ticks were collected from 363 naturally infested dogs from different parts of Nigeria. Of these numbers, 758 engorged female ticks; Rh. sanguineus (n = 660) and H. leachi (n = 98) were incubated for oviposition and hatching. After the completion of egg laying, Rh. sanguineus (n = 69) and H. leachi (n = 24) and their resulting progenies were screened for the presence of B. rossi DNA using a nested PCR targeting the 693 bp of the 18S rRNA gene of Babesia spp. Amplification and sequencing of B. rossi DNA was successful in the adults of H. leachi and their resulting egg and larval progenies but not in the adult Rh. sanguineus and progenies. The B. rossi DNA sequences from the H. leachi and their progenies have 99-100 % identity to each other and 98-99 % identical to sequences of B. rossi in GenBank (GenBank: MH143395.1), thus confirming transovarian passage. This evidence confirms for the first time following the reclassification of H. leachi to H. elliptica in South Africa the role of H. leachi in the transmission of B. rossi in dogs in Nigeria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua Kamani
- Parasitology Division. National Veterinary Research Institute (NVRI), PMB 01 Vom, Plateau State, Nigeria.
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26
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Dordio AM, Beck R, Nunes T, Pereira da Fonseca I, Gomes J. Molecular survey of vector-borne diseases in two groups of domestic dogs from Lisbon, Portugal. Parasit Vectors 2021; 14:163. [PMID: 33736681 PMCID: PMC7977316 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-021-04650-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Canine vector-borne diseases (CVBDs) are caused by a wide range of pathogens transmitted by arthropods. They have been an issue of growing importance in recent years; however, there is limited information about the vector-borne pathogens circulating in Portugal. The aim of the present study was to detect canine vector-borne bacteria and protozoa of veterinary and zoonotic importance using molecular methods. METHODS One hundred and forty-two dogs from Lisbon, southern Portugal, were tested: 48 dogs from a veterinary hospital clinically suspected of vector-borne diseases and 94 apparently healthy dogs from shelters. Anaplasma spp./Ehrlichia spp., Babesia/Theileria spp., Hepatozoon spp., and Mycoplasma spp. infections were detected by PCR from blood samples and examined under light microscopy. Other information including clinical status and diagnostic test results were collected for each animal. RESULTS Infections were detected by PCR in 48 (33.80%) dogs. Single infections were found in 35 dogs (24.64%), and co-infections were found in 13 (9.15%) dogs. Twenty-nine (20.42%) dogs were positive for Hepatozoon spp., 15 (10.56%) for Mycoplasma spp., 11 (7.75%) for Anaplasma spp./Ehrlichia spp., and six (4.21%) for Babesia spp. DNA sequencing was used to identify Babesia vogeli (2.81%), Babesia canis (1.40%), Hepatozoon canis (20.42%), Mycoplasma haematoparvum (2.11%), Mycoplasma haemocanis (8.45%), Anaplasma platys (7.04%), and Ehrlichia canis (0.70%). CONCLUSIONS This is the first molecular identification of B. canis and M. haematoparvum in dogs from southern Portugal. This study highlights the importance of molecular methods to identify CVBD pathogens in endemic areas and helps to guide the clinical approach of veterinarians in practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Mafalda Dordio
- CIISA-Centro de Investigação Interdisciplinar em Sanidade Animal, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - Relja Beck
- Croatia Veterinary Institute, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Telmo Nunes
- CIISA-Centro de Investigação Interdisciplinar em Sanidade Animal, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Isabel Pereira da Fonseca
- CIISA-Centro de Investigação Interdisciplinar em Sanidade Animal, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Jacinto Gomes
- CIISA-Centro de Investigação Interdisciplinar em Sanidade Animal, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.,Instituto Nacional de Investigação Agrária e Veterinária, Oeiras, Portugal
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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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Vijaykumar LK, Chikkachowdappa PG, Venkatappa MH, Rizvan A, Yogisharadhya R, Shivachandra SB, Bayyappa MRG. Evaluation of recombinant BgSA3 protein based indirect-ELISA for sero-diagnosis and sero-surveillance of Babesia gibsoni in dogs. Vet Parasitol 2020; 289:109338. [PMID: 33359970 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2020.109338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2020] [Revised: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Canine babesiosis, a tick-borne haemoprotozoan disease of dogs, is of significance globally due to its rapid spread. A precise confirmatory diagnosis is required to curtail the rapid spread of infection. Our study described the evaluation of recombinant BgSA3 protein based indirect ELISA for sero-diagnosis and sero-surveillance of Babesia gibsoni infection in dogs. A partial BgSA3 gene segment (1921 bp) of B. gibsoni, encoding for recombinant truncated BgSA3 (75 kDa) protein devoid of predicted signal peptide (23 aa) at N-terminus and transmembrane region (20 aa) at C-terminus, was expressed in E. coli using a pET28a(+) vector. The rBgSA3 protein purified under native conditions using Ni-NTA superflow cartridge was confirmed by SDS-PAGE and Western blotting using sera from dogs infected/uninfected with B. gibsoni, and erythrocyte lysate/ plasma from infected/uninfected dogs. The rBgSA3 protein was specific only to B. gibsoni antibodies but did not react with uninfected sera. Further, rBgSA3 protein was evaluated for sero-diagnosis/sero-surveillance using Indirect-ELISA format. There was no cross reactivity to B. vogeli, E. canis, H. canis and D. repens infected dogs serum samples. The diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of rBgSA3 based I-ELISA was found to be 86.4 and 93.1 % respectively, in comparison with cytb based PCR assay. Additionally, rBgSA3-ELISA evaluated using survey serum samples (n = 287), detected 11.85 % samples as positive. In conclusion, B. gibsoni infection, an emerging disease is prevalent in the present study area and the standardized rBgSA3 protein based indirect-ELISA was found to be a specific and sensitive test for large scale sero-diagnosis and sero-surveillance of B. gibsoni infection in dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lavanya K Vijaykumar
- Veterinary College, Karnataka Veterinary, Animal and Fishries Sciences University (KVAFSU), Bengaluru, 560024, Karnataka, India; Institute of Animal Health and Veterinary Biologicals (IAH&VB), Bengaluru, 560024, Karnataka, India
| | | | - Mohan H Venkatappa
- Veterinary College, Karnataka Veterinary, Animal and Fishries Sciences University (KVAFSU), Bengaluru, 560024, Karnataka, India
| | - Apsana Rizvan
- Institute of Animal Health and Veterinary Biologicals (IAH&VB), Bengaluru, 560024, Karnataka, India
| | - Revanaiah Yogisharadhya
- ICAR-National Institute of Veterinary Epidemiology and Disease Informatics (NIVEDI), Bengaluru, 560064, Karnataka, India
| | | | - Manjunatha Reddy G Bayyappa
- ICAR-National Institute of Veterinary Epidemiology and Disease Informatics (NIVEDI), Bengaluru, 560064, Karnataka, India.
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Iguchi A, Soma T, Xuan X. Further epidemiological survey for atovaquone resistant related gene of Babesia gibsoni in Japan during 2015-2018. J Vet Med Sci 2020; 82:1700-1703. [PMID: 32908117 PMCID: PMC7719879 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.20-0382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
A single-nucleotide polymorphism causing the replacement of methionine with isoleucine (M121I) in cytochrome b of Babesia
gibsoni has been reported to reduce the susceptibility to atovaquone (ATV) in B. gibsoni infection. In our previous study,
B. gibsoni with M121I was suggested to exist in nature. Thus, further examinations were performed. In total, 105 genomic DNA samples from
B. gibsoni-infected dogs were collected from western (98 samples from 15 prefectures) and eastern areas (7 samples from 4 prefectures) in
Japan. The M121I variant population was identified using allele-specific real-time PCR: it was then detected in nine samples (8.57%), which was higher than that
in the previous study (4.11%). Although there are unclear points, such as the history of ATV usage, careful attention should be given to emerging ATV
resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aiko Iguchi
- Veterinary Laboratory Medicine, Joint Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Agriculture, Tottori University, 101 Minami 4-chome, Koyama-cho, Tottori-shi, Tottori 680-8550, Japan
| | - Takehisa Soma
- Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, Marupi: Lifetech Co., Ltd., 103 Fushio-cho, Ikeda, Osaka 563-0011, Japan
| | - Xuenan Xuan
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan
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Wang J, Wang X, Sun H, Lv Z, Li Y, Luo J, Guan G, Yin H. Molecular evidence of piroplasm infection in companion animals in Hunan Province, China. BMC Vet Res 2020; 16:297. [PMID: 32807187 PMCID: PMC7433179 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-020-02500-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Feline and canine babesiosis is an important tick-borne disease caused by parasites of the genus Babesia. The disease has a worldwide distribution and causes serious health problems in domestic and wild canidae and felidae. RESULTS Genomic DNA was isolated from blood samples, which were randomly collected from pet dogs (n = 115) and cats (n = 25) in Changsha city of Hunan Province, China. Results of nested PCR assay targeting 18S rRNA gene and partial gene sequencing revealed that seven animals were infected with Babesia species, five dogs (5/115, 4.3%) and two cats (2/25, 8.0%). Sequence analysis showed that four dogs (3.5%) were positive for Babesia canis, and the other one for Babesia vogeli (0.87%). The two cats were infected by Babesia hongkongensis. CONCLUSIONS The findings of this study will expand knowledge of the distribution of Babesia species and provide important epidemiological information for the control of animal babesiosis in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinming Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Xujiaping 1, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730046, P. R. China
| | - Xiaoxing Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Xujiaping 1, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730046, P. R. China
| | - Hao Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Xujiaping 1, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730046, P. R. China
| | - Zhaoyun Lv
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Xujiaping 1, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730046, P. R. China
| | - Youquan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Xujiaping 1, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730046, P. R. China
| | - Jianxun Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Xujiaping 1, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730046, P. R. China
| | - Guiquan Guan
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Xujiaping 1, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730046, P. R. China.
| | - Hong Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Xujiaping 1, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730046, P. R. China. .,Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for the Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Disease and Zoonosis, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, P. R. China.
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Kiouani A, Azzag N, Tennah S, Ghalmi F. Infection with Babesia canis in dogs in the Algiers region: Parasitological and serological study. Vet World 2020; 13:1351-1357. [PMID: 32848310 PMCID: PMC7429378 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2020.1351-1357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2019] [Accepted: 05/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim: Canine babesiosis is a vector-borne disease transmitted by ticks of the Ixodidae family. The effects of infection in dogs can range from the subclinical to the severe lethal form. This study aimed to make an original contribution to the knowledge of circulating species of Babesia spp. in dogs in the region of Algiers as well as mechanisms and risk factors for their transmission. Materials and Methods: An epidemiological study was carried out on 189 blood samples taken from dogs from April 2015 to January 2016. The samples taken underwent parasitological by Giemsa-stained blood smear and serological analyzes by indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT). The ticks were looked on all the dogs taken. Results: Giemsa-stained blood smears revealed the presence of two groups of parasites of the genus Babesia: Large Babesia (3/25, 12%) and small Babesia (22/25, 88%). The IFAT at a dilution of 1/32 showed an overall seroprevalence with Babesia canis of 17.98% (95% confidence interval 11.53-22.46). The distribution of the antibody titers for the positive samples showed that of the 34 positive sera with a titer ≥1/32, 28 sera remained positive at a dilution of 1/64 (14.81%), 22 at a dilution of 1/128 (11.64%) and 15 sera remained positive at a dilution of 1/256 (7.93%). Although seroprevalence varied according to canine population (20% and 19.49% in pet dogs and canine pound dogs, respectively, and 6.66-0% in farm dogs and hunting dogs, respectively), statistical analysis showed no significant differences between populations. The antibody titers obtained after several dilutions showed that 22 canine pound dog sera remained positive at a dilution of 1/128 compared to pet dogs and farm dogs which ceased to be positive at the dilution of 1/64. The comparison between the two diagnostic methods showed a strong agreement between the parasitological examination by blood smear and the serological method by IFAT. However, IFAT was much more sensitive. The analysis of risk factors, which may influence B. canis seroprevalence, has shown the influence of age, tick presence, and season. Finally, of the 242 ticks collected from a total of 59 dogs, only one tick species was identified , Rhipicephalus sanguineus. Conclusion: This study indicates a frequent circulation of species of Babesia in the dog in the Algiers region and R. sanguineus was the only tick identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amel Kiouani
- Laboratory of Research Management of Local Animal Resources (GRAL), National Veterinary College of Algiers, Road Issad Abbes, El Alia, Algiers, Algeria
| | - N Azzag
- Laboratory of Research Management of Local Animal Resources (GRAL), National Veterinary College of Algiers, Road Issad Abbes, El Alia, Algiers, Algeria
| | - S Tennah
- Laboratory of Research Management of Local Animal Resources (GRAL), National Veterinary College of Algiers, Road Issad Abbes, El Alia, Algiers, Algeria
| | - F Ghalmi
- Laboratory of Research Management of Local Animal Resources (GRAL), National Veterinary College of Algiers, Road Issad Abbes, El Alia, Algiers, Algeria
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Zheng W, Umemiya-Shirafuji R, Chen S, Okado K, Adjou Moumouni PF, Suzuki H, Yang S, Liu M, Xuan X. Identification of Haemaphysalis longicornis Genes Differentially Expressed in Response to Babesia microti Infection. Pathogens 2020; 9:E378. [PMID: 32423088 PMCID: PMC7281432 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens9050378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 05/02/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Haemaphysalis longicornis is a tick and a vector of various pathogens, including the human pathogenetic Babesia microti. The objective of this study was to identify female H. longicornis genes differentially expressed in response to infection with B. microti Gray strain by using a suppression subtractive hybridization (SSH) procedure. A total of 302 randomly selected clones were sequenced and analyzed in the forward subtracted SSH cDNA library related to Babesia infection, and 110 clones in the reverse cDNA library. Gene ontology assignments and sequence analyses of tick sequences in the forward cDNA library showed that 14 genes were related to response to stimulus or/and immune system process, and 7 genes had the higher number of standardized sequences per kilobase (SPK). Subsequent real-time PCR detection showed that eight genes including those encoding for Obg-like ATPase 1 (ola1), Calreticulin (crt), vitellogenin 1 (Vg1) and Vg2 were up-regulated in fed ticks. Compared to uninfected ticks, infected ticks had six up-regulated genes, including ola1, crt and Vg2. Functional analysis of up-regulated genes in fed or Babesia-infected ticks by RNA interference showed that knockdown of crt and Vg2 in infected ticks and knockdown of ola1 in uninfected ticks accelerated engorgement. In contrast, Vg1 knockdown in infected ticks had delayed engorgement. Knockdown of crt and Vg1 in infected ticks decreased engorged female weight. Vg2 knockdown reduced B. microti infection levels by 51% when compared with controls. The results reported here increase our understanding of roles of H. longicornis genes in blood feeding and B. microti infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiqing Zheng
- The Collaboration Unit for Field Epidemiology of State Key Laboratory for Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, Jiangxi Provincial key Laboratory of Animal-Origin and Vector-Borne Diseases, Nanchang Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Honggutan New District, Nanchang 330038, China; (W.Z.); (S.C.)
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-Cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan; (K.O.); (P.F.A.M.); (H.S.); (M.L.)
| | - Rika Umemiya-Shirafuji
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-Cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan; (K.O.); (P.F.A.M.); (H.S.); (M.L.)
| | - Shengen Chen
- The Collaboration Unit for Field Epidemiology of State Key Laboratory for Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, Jiangxi Provincial key Laboratory of Animal-Origin and Vector-Borne Diseases, Nanchang Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Honggutan New District, Nanchang 330038, China; (W.Z.); (S.C.)
| | - Kiyoshi Okado
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-Cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan; (K.O.); (P.F.A.M.); (H.S.); (M.L.)
| | - Paul Franck Adjou Moumouni
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-Cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan; (K.O.); (P.F.A.M.); (H.S.); (M.L.)
| | - Hiroshi Suzuki
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-Cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan; (K.O.); (P.F.A.M.); (H.S.); (M.L.)
| | - Shu Yang
- The Collaboration Unit for Field Epidemiology of State Key Laboratory for Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, Jiangxi Provincial key Laboratory of Animal-Origin and Vector-Borne Diseases, Nanchang Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Honggutan New District, Nanchang 330038, China; (W.Z.); (S.C.)
| | - Mingming Liu
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-Cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan; (K.O.); (P.F.A.M.); (H.S.); (M.L.)
| | - Xuenan Xuan
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-Cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan; (K.O.); (P.F.A.M.); (H.S.); (M.L.)
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Li XW, Zhang XL, Huang HL, Li WJ, Wang SJ, Huang SJ, Shao JW. Prevalence and molecular characterization of Babesia in pet dogs in Shenzhen, China. Comp Immunol Microbiol Infect Dis 2020; 70:101452. [PMID: 32120143 DOI: 10.1016/j.cimid.2020.101452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2020] [Revised: 02/16/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2020] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Canine babesiosis is an important global tick-borne infectious disease of domestic dogs and wild canids. B. gibsoni and B. vogeli are the most widespread species mainly endemic in dog population in southern and eastern regions of China. In this study, 272 blood samples were collected from pet dogs in five districts of Shenzhen, China. Babesia DNA was detected in 30 samples with an overall prevalence of 11.0 % in pet dogs in Shenzhen. The difference in the positive rate between female and male pet dogs, among different breed, and among the five sampling sites was not significant, while the age and health status of pet dogs significantly influence the positive rate of Babesia spp. infection. Sequencing results showed the presence of only B. vogeli in all of the samples tested. Sequence comparison and phylogenetic analysis revealed that all 30 strains of Babesia identified in this study shared the highest identity with B. vogeli. In sum, all results of this study showed a considerable high infection rate of Babesia spp. in pet dogs, and B. vogeli was the only Babesia species infecting pet dogs in Shenzhen city. Such information is necessary to help to elucidate the epidemiology of canine babesiosis in Shenzhen, and it is necessary to actively monitor this disease in pet dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Wen Li
- College of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan 528231, Guangdong, China
| | - Xue-Lian Zhang
- College of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan 528231, Guangdong, China; Key Laboratory for Preventive Research of Emerging Animal Diseases, Foshan University, Foshan 528231, Guangdong, China
| | - Hui-Lan Huang
- College of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan 528231, Guangdong, China
| | - Wen-Jun Li
- College of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan 528231, Guangdong, China
| | | | - Shu-Jian Huang
- College of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan 528231, Guangdong, China; Key Laboratory for Preventive Research of Emerging Animal Diseases, Foshan University, Foshan 528231, Guangdong, China
| | - Jian-Wei Shao
- College of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan 528231, Guangdong, China; Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, Zhejiang, China.
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Zhang XL, Li XW, Li WJ, Huang HL, Huang SJ, Shao JW. Molecular evidence of Babesia in pet cats in mainland China. BMC Vet Res 2019; 15:476. [PMID: 31888625 PMCID: PMC6937699 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-019-2214-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2019] [Accepted: 12/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Babesia spp. are important emerging tick-borne protozoan hemoparasites, and pose a great impact on companion animals. Canine babesiosis has been well described worldwide, while felis babesiosis has primarily been reported from South Africa. To the best of our knowledge, Babesia spp. infections in dogs have been well elucidated in pet dog population in China, no report about Babesia spp. infection in cat population in mainland China. RESULTS In this study, a total of 203 blood samples were collected from pet cats in Shenzhen city, and detected the presence of Babesia spp. with nested-PCR. Sequence comparison based on the 18S rRNA gene and ITS region revealed that three cats (1.48%) were infected with Babesia. vogeli. Notably, the sequences of ITS region obtained in this study shared the highest nucleotide identity with the sequence of B. vogeli strain isolated in cat from Taiwan. CONCLUSIONS This study is the first report about babesiosis in domestic cats, and also provides molecular evidence of Babesia spp. infection in cat in mainland China. The data present in this study suggest B. vogeli may be circulating in cat population in mainland China. Further study to investigate the epidemiology of Babesia infection in cat nationwide is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue-Lian Zhang
- Key Laboratory for Preventive Research of Emerging Animal Diseases, Foshan University, Foshan, 528231, Guangdong, China.,College of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, 528231, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiao-Wen Li
- College of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, 528231, Guangdong, China
| | - Wen-Jun Li
- College of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, 528231, Guangdong, China
| | - Hui-Lan Huang
- College of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, 528231, Guangdong, China
| | - Shu-Jian Huang
- Key Laboratory for Preventive Research of Emerging Animal Diseases, Foshan University, Foshan, 528231, Guangdong, China.,College of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, 528231, Guangdong, China
| | - Jian-Wei Shao
- College of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, 528231, Guangdong, China. .,Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang, 310058, Hangzhou, China.
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Liu IL, Chi NY, Chang CL, Hung ML, Chiu CT, Chen HW. A novel PCR-based point-of-care method enables rapid, sensitive and reliable diagnosis of Babesia gibsoni infection in dogs. BMC Vet Res 2019; 15:428. [PMID: 31783850 PMCID: PMC6884907 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-019-2181-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2019] [Accepted: 11/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Babesia gibsoni (B. gibsoni) is an intraerythrocytic protozoan parasite of dogs that causes fever and hemolytic illness. A timely diagnosis is essential for the disease management. RESULTS Here, we report a QubeMDx PCR system which enables a rapid, sensitive and reliable diagnosis of B. gibsoni near the dog patient. Within 30 min, this diagnostic assay was able to detect as low as 0.002% parasitemia of the dog blood. Using clinical samples, this new assay was validated to demonstrate 100% agreement with real-time PCR. CONCLUSIONS This novel diagnostic method provides a reliable point-of-care test to assist in the identification of B. gibsoni.
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Affiliation(s)
- I-Li Liu
- Institute of Veterinary Clinical Science, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Nai-Yu Chi
- Credo Biomedical Pte. Ltd., Singapore, Singapore
| | | | | | - Chun-Ta Chiu
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, National Taiwan University, 1 Sec 4 Roosevelt Rd, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hui-Wen Chen
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, National Taiwan University, 1 Sec 4 Roosevelt Rd, Taipei, Taiwan.
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36
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Lee JS, Bellis TJ, Yoskowitz AS, Levitin B. "Acute onset tetraplegia associated with immune-mediated thrombocytopenia and suspected secondary intraspinal hemorrhage in a dog". Clin Case Rep 2019; 7:1673-1679. [PMID: 31534725 PMCID: PMC6745400 DOI: 10.1002/ccr3.2295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2019] [Revised: 06/07/2019] [Accepted: 06/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurologic manifestations of immune-mediated thrombocytopenia are uncommon, and limited reports exist in human and veterinary medicine. This report documents acute onset of tetraplegia in a dog with immune-mediated thrombocytopenia and suspected secondary intraspinal hemorrhage with subsequent recovery of neurologic function following treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmine S. Lee
- Emergency and Critical CareBluePearl Veterinary PartnersNew YorkNew York
| | - Tara Jane Bellis
- Emergency and Critical CareBluePearl Veterinary PartnersNew YorkNew York
| | | | - Boaz Levitin
- NeurologyBluePearl Veterinary PartnersNew YorkNew York
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A Retrospective Epidemiological Study: The Prevalence of Ehrlichia canis and Babesia vogeli in Dogs in the Aegean Region of Turkey. ACTA VET-BEOGRAD 2019. [DOI: 10.2478/acve-2019-0013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Among tick-borne diseases, Ehrlichia canis and Babesia piroplasm cause important diseases in dogs where the distributions of the pathogen, vector and host overlap. The primary aim of the present study was to detect the prevalence of Babesia spp. and E. canis using PCR and reverse line blot (RLB) hybridization assay in a total of 379 samples comprising stray and owned dogs and to compare the diagnostic sensitivity of the two tests. Overall, 41.4% of dogs were infected with B. vogeli and/or E. canis as single (35.4%) and mixed (6.1%) infections. The majority of Babesia positive dogs (74.1%) were co-infected with E. canis. PCR detected a higher (P= 0.000) number of positivity in some provinces compared to RLB. To the best of our knowledge, these findings provide the first molecular evidence for the existence of B. vogeli in the Aegean Region, Turkey. The present study pinpoints the distribution and prevalence of E. canis and B. vogeli in the Aegean region of Turkey as of 2004 and as such establishes a baseline. This is of pivotal importance for future studies aimed to demonstrate changes in the dynamics of E. canis and B. vogeli infections in the region.
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Wang J, Liu J, Yang J, Liu Z, Wang X, Li Y, Luo J, Guan G, Yin H. Molecular detection and genetic diversity of Babesia canis canis in pet dogs in Henan Province, China. Parasitol Int 2019; 71:37-40. [PMID: 30885796 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2019.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2019] [Revised: 03/07/2019] [Accepted: 03/14/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Canine babesiosis is an important tick-borne disease caused by Babesia spp. A total of 130 blood samples were randomly collected from pet dogs in Zhengzhou city, Henan Province, China, and screened for the presence of piroplasms with nested PCR and gene sequencing targeting the 18S rRNA gene. On the basis of blast analysis of the 18S rRNA gene sequences, our results revealed that seven dogs (5.4%) were infected with Babesia canis canis. The sequences were compared with those in GenBank, and alignments showed that all B. canis canis isolates belonged to genotype B. This is the first report of B. canis canis infection in dogs in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinming Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Xujiaping 1, Lanzhou, Gansu 730046, China.
| | - Junlong Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Xujiaping 1, Lanzhou, Gansu 730046, China.
| | - Jifei Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Xujiaping 1, Lanzhou, Gansu 730046, China.
| | - Zhijie Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Xujiaping 1, Lanzhou, Gansu 730046, China.
| | - Xiaoxing Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Xujiaping 1, Lanzhou, Gansu 730046, China
| | - Youquan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Xujiaping 1, Lanzhou, Gansu 730046, China.
| | - Jianxun Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Xujiaping 1, Lanzhou, Gansu 730046, China.
| | - Guiquan Guan
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Xujiaping 1, Lanzhou, Gansu 730046, China.
| | - Hong Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Xujiaping 1, Lanzhou, Gansu 730046, China; Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for the Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Disease and Zoonosis, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China.
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An annotated checklist of tick-borne pathogens of dogs in Nigeria. VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY- REGIONAL STUDIES AND REPORTS 2018; 15:100255. [PMID: 30929932 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2018.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2018] [Revised: 12/02/2018] [Accepted: 12/02/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Tick-borne pathogens are transmitted by the bite of a tick vector or the ingestion therein by a susceptible host. Conventionally, the diagnosis of tick-borne parasites in Nigeria is achieved through the demonstration of their developmental stages in the host's blood or tissues. These classical methods are limited in their capability to detect chronic cases or healthy carriers and to differentiate between pathogens of similar morphological features. Molecular diagnostic techniques of high sensitivity have been developed to overcome these shortfalls by detecting the pathogen's DNA, elucidating their genetic makeup and comparing their phylogenetic relationship to other pathogens, sometimes necessitating taxonomic changes. Detection of DNA of canine tick-borne pathogens (CTBPs) such as Ehrlichia canis, Hepatozoon canis, and Mycoplasma haemocanis has been reported in Nigerian dogs corroborating earlier microscopic findings. Furthermore, DNA of Anaplasma platys, Ehrlichia ewingii, 'Candidatus Mycoplasma haemobos' and Theileria sp. hitherto considered to be absent in Nigeria has been detected, thereby expanding the spectrum of CTBPs in the country. However, in some cases, diagnoses based on the detection of single short DNA fragments from pathogens can cause considerable confusion. This occurred in the case of the large canine Babesia, previously referred to as Babesia canis which has been reported in Nigerian dogs. There appears to be confusion regarding the accurate status of this pathogen in Nigeria due to the subsequent classification into Babesia canis, Babesia vogeli and Babesia rossi. Moreover, several molecular studies failed to detect the DNA of Babesia gibsoni previously reported in Nigerian dogs by light microscope. These findings necessitate regular update of the list of CTBPs of veterinary and medical importance, in order to keep practitioners abreast with these changes. Herein, an annotated checklist of tick-borne pathogens of dogs in Nigeria, based on available data from both classical and molecular studies, with notes explaining any discrepancies between the methods and probable explanations thereof, is presented.
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Kamani J, Chung PJ, Lee CC, Chung YT. In search of the vector(s) of Babesia rossi in Nigeria: molecular detection of B. rossi DNA in Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato (Acari: Ixodidae) ticks collected from dogs, circumstantial evidence worth exploring. EXPERIMENTAL & APPLIED ACAROLOGY 2018; 76:243-248. [PMID: 30298231 DOI: 10.1007/s10493-018-0311-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2018] [Accepted: 10/02/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The brown dog tick Rhipicephalus sanguineus (sensu lato) (Acari: Ixodidae) has a cosmopolitan distribution, is a proven vector of a host of pathogens with emerging evidence incriminating it in the transmission of some others. Specifically it is reputed as the main vector of Babesia vogeli whereas the southern African yellow dog tick Haemaphysalis elliptica, long considered to be H. leachi, is apparently the only proven vector of B. rossi, since the resurrection of the separate species H. elliptica as a member of the leachi-group by Apanaskevich et al. However, recent epidemiological surveys conducted in Nigeria show higher prevalence of B. rossi than B. vogeli infection in dogs most of whom were infested with R. sanguineus and rarely with ticks of the H. leachi group. The discrepancy between tick distribution and Babesia spp. prevalent in dogs stimulated us to investigate the possible role of R. sanguineus (s.l.) in the natural transmission of B. rossi. Out of a total of 66 tick samples identified morphologically and molecularly as R. sanguineus collected from dogs manifesting clinical signs of tick-borne diseases, eight (12%) were positive in nested PCR for Babesia sp. DNA. Sequencing results for these amplified products showed that all of the 18S rDNA sequences (693 bp) were identical to each other, and bore 99.3-99.9% identities with those from other B. rossi isolates accessible in GenBank. None of the ticks harbored the DNA of B. vogeli or B. canis. The possible implications for the detection of B. rossi DNA in R. sanguineus (s.l.) ticks collected from dogs in the epidemiology of B. rossi infection of dogs in Nigeria is highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua Kamani
- Parasitology Division, National Veterinary Research Institute, PMB 01, Vom, Plateau State, Nigeria.
| | - Ping-Jun Chung
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Chung-Chan Lee
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Yang-Tsung Chung
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
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Abstract
Abstract
Canine babesiosis is a tick-borne disease caused by protozoal haemoparasites of different Babesia species. Babesiosis is one of the most important globally extended and quickly spreading tick-borne infections of dogs. This comprehensive review gives an in-depth overview of Babesia species currently identified in dogs together with relevant vector tick species and their geographical distribution, life cycle and transmission of parasite. The main mechanisms in the pathogenesis of babesiosis are described and elucidated by recent literature overview. As Babesia infection causes a disease with very variable clinical manifestations, special attention is given to clinical signs, laboratory features and clinicopathological findings. The diagnosis of canine babesiosis by microscopy, serological and molecular methods is reviewed, together with recent advances in mass spectrometry based assays. Accurate detection and species recognition are important for the selection of the appropriate therapy, monitoring and prediction of the outcome of the disease. Finally, guidelines for the treatment and prevention of canine babesiosis are given.
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Ullal T, Birkenheuer A, Vaden S. Azotemia and Proteinuria in Dogs Infected with Babesia gibsoni. J Am Anim Hosp Assoc 2018; 54:156-160. [PMID: 29558219 DOI: 10.5326/jaaha-ms-6693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Babesiosis is a hemoprotozoal tick-borne disease that is commonly associated with thrombocytopenia and anemia; however, renal involvement has been documented in dogs. The purpose of this retrospective study was to document azotemia and proteinuria in dogs infected with Babesia sp. and to describe the response to antiprotozoal therapy. The electronic database of the North Carolina State University Vector Borne Disease Laboratory was searched to identify dogs who were diagnosed with babesiosis and to determine if they had proteinuria and/or azotemia. Dogs were excluded if they had coinfections or comorbidities known to cause glomerular injury. Of 35 dogs identified during the initial search, 5 were included; however, only 4 of these dogs had both pre- and posttreatment data. All five dogs were American pit bull terriers or American pit bull terrier-mixed breed dogs, were infected with Babesia gibsoni, and had hypoalbuminemia and proteinuria. Three dogs had azotemia. Responses to antiprotozoal treatment included normalization of (three) or increase in (one) serum albumin, resolution (one) or improvement (one) of azotemia, and reduction in proteinuria (two). Laboratory findings consistent with glomerular disease can be found in Babesia gibsoni-infected dogs, and treatment can lead to improvement of the azotemia and proteinuria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tarini Ullal
- T. Ullal's present affiliation is the College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado
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Galán A, Mayer I, Rafaj RB, Bendelja K, Sušić V, Cerón JJ, Mrljak V. MCP-1, KC-like and IL-8 as critical mediators of pathogenesis caused by Babesia canis. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0190474. [PMID: 29304171 PMCID: PMC5756041 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0190474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2016] [Accepted: 12/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Canine babesiosis caused by the intraerythrocytic protozoan parasite Babesia canis is a tick-borne disease characterized by a host response that involves both cellular and humoral immunity. This study focuses on the secretion of cytokines Granulocyte-Macrophage Colony-Stimulating Factor (GM-CSF), Keratinocyte Chemotactic-like (KC-like), Interleukins (IL)-2, IL-7, IL-8, IL-10, IL-15, IL-18 and Monocyte Chemotactic Protein-1 (MCP-1) in babesiosis caused by Babesia canis upon treatment with Imizol®. We assessed time dependent changes in cytokine levels and tested whether these changes correlate with pathogenesis of the disease. Sixteen healthy dogs and 31 dogs infected with Babesia canis, of which 18 showed complications, were treated with Imizol®. One dog died during the study (3.2%). Longitudinal study was perfomed by monitoring dogs at the first day of presentation (day 1) and 6 days later (day 7). Our results show that higher MCP-1 levels on day 1 are positively associated with the occurrence of complications, (complicated vs. uncomplicated; p = 0.00016). A similar pattern was observed for KC-like on day 1 (p = 0.0326) and day 7 (p = 0.044). Moreover, babesiosis caused by B. canis produced a steady increase in IL-8 levels with a moderate to strong negative correlation with erythrocyte counts and hematocrit in uncomplicated diseased dogs only (Spearman's rank correlation coefficient rs = -0.582 and rs = -0.598 respectively). Like for MCP-1, KC-like levels also differed in complicated and uncomplicated diseased dogs on day 1 (p = 0.03236) and day 7 (p = 0.044). Furthermore, KC-like levels were strongly correlated with IL-8 levels (rs = 0.663-0.7) and non-segmented neutrophil counts (rs = 0.572-0.732) in both diseased groups. Analysis of ROC suggests the use of serum levels of MCP-1 and IL-7 as predictors of the occurrence of complications with an AUC of 0.906 and 0.896 respectively and linear combinations of MCP-1, KC-Like, IL-7 and GM-CSF with values up to AUC = 0.983. Cytokine cluster analysis presented in this study can contribute to a better understanding of the pathogenesis of babesiosis and serve as a prognostic tool for the early detection of cases with highest likelihood of developing complications. Overall, our studies show that infection by B. canis elicits a cytokine pattern that is distinct from that observed with B. rossi, and that some of the inflammatory mediators can be useful to predict complications. Our results also suggest targets for the development of novel therapeutic strategies in babesiosis caused by B. canis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asier Galán
- ERA Chair project ''VetMedZg'', Clinic for Internal Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Iva Mayer
- Clinic for Internal Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Renata Barić Rafaj
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | - Velimir Sušić
- Department of Animal Husbandry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | - Vladimir Mrljak
- ERA Chair project ''VetMedZg'', Clinic for Internal Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
- Clinic for Internal Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
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Rybářová M, Široký P. Occurrence of Anaplasma phagocytophilum in three sympatric tick species in the South Moravia, Czech Republic. Biologia (Bratisl) 2017. [DOI: 10.1515/biolog-2017-0051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Ćoralić A, Gabrielli S, Zahirović A, Stojanović NM, Milardi GL, Jažić A, Zuko A, Čamo D, Otašević S. First molecular detection of Babesia canis in dogs from Bosnia and Herzegovina. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2017; 9:363-368. [PMID: 29290581 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2017.11.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2017] [Revised: 11/22/2017] [Accepted: 11/23/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Babesia spp. are tick-transmitted protozoan haemoparasites of great economic, veterinary and medical impact worldwide. Herein we reported the very high prevalence of autochthonous babesiosis in symptomatic dogs from Bosnia and Herzegovina in the period from 2014 to 2016. Eighty dogs that did not leave the country were examined using parasitological and molecular analyses and babesiosis was diagnosed in 82.5% and 85.0% of them, respectively (p < 0.001). One species, Babesia canis was identified using molecular methodology (PCR and sequence analysis). Statistical analyses showed that epizootiological characteristics have no influence on the possibility of infection. Agglomerative hierarchical clustering (AHC) analyses used for comparing the symptoms and clinical signs of infection in dogs pointed out that a high degree of anemia, followed by thrombocytopenia (89%), lethargy (100%), loss of appetite (95%), fever (66%) and icterus (61%) was dominant. In addition, results of the statistical analysis performed showed that more dogs with no data of tick prophylaxis (70%) were found Babesia infected. Those results point to further intensified epizootic surveys in the territory of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnesa Ćoralić
- Internal Diseases Department, Veterinary Faculty, University of Sarajevo, Zmaja od Bosne 90, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina.
| | - Simona Gabrielli
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy.
| | - Amir Zahirović
- Internal Diseases Department, Veterinary Faculty, University of Sarajevo, Zmaja od Bosne 90, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina.
| | - Nikola M Stojanović
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Niš, Blvd Zorana Djindjica 81, 18000 Niš, Serbia.
| | - Giovanni Luigi Milardi
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy.
| | - Adnan Jažić
- Department of Parasitology and Invasive Diseases Veterinary Faculty, University of Sarajevo, Zmaja od Bosne 90, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina.
| | - Almedina Zuko
- Department of Parasitology and Invasive Diseases Veterinary Faculty, University of Sarajevo, Zmaja od Bosne 90, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina.
| | - Denis Čamo
- Internal Diseases Department, Veterinary Faculty, University of Sarajevo, Zmaja od Bosne 90, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina.
| | - Suzana Otašević
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Niš, Blvd Zorana Djindjica 81, 18000 Niš, Serbia; Center of Microbiology and Parasitology, Public Health Institute Niš, Blvd Zorana Djindjica 81, 18000 Niš, Serbia.
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Huber D, Beck A, Anzulović Ž, Jurković D, Polkinghorne A, Baneth G, Beck R. Microscopic and molecular analysis of Babesia canis in archived and diagnostic specimens reveal the impact of anti-parasitic treatment and postmortem changes on pathogen detection. Parasit Vectors 2017; 10:495. [PMID: 29047398 PMCID: PMC5648450 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-017-2412-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2017] [Accepted: 09/29/2017] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Classification of Babesia parasites has traditionally relied on morphological differentiation based on piroplasm size and shape. Molecular typing has subsequently revealed a more complex taxonomy for these piroplasms than previously thought. To evaluate the factors that influence the morphology of Babesia species upon microscopic examination and hence, their taxonomic classification, we performed detailed characterizations of piroplasms from archival and prospective collections of cytological samples of dogs with piroplasmosis before and after death. Merozoite morphology and time of parasite disappearance following imidocarb dipropionate was also investigated. METHODS The study was divided into a (i) review of archived cytological slides from confirmed cases of canine piroplasmosis, and (ii) a prospective study of smears and tissue imprints from 15 recently necropsied dogs. The latter group could be further sub-divided into a non-treated group and an imidocarb dipropionate-treated group. Exact times of treatment before death were reviewed. Additional blood smears prepared from the live dogs and taken before therapy were also evaluated in the latter group. Parasite burden per each slide was determined in both studies. The shape and size of merozoites were described from blood smears taken while the dogs were alive and from different organs during necropsy. The results of all measurements were statistically analyzed. RESULTS The morphology and size of merozoites from live dogs corresponded to that of previously described 'large' Babesia. The morphology and size of merozoites were significantly different (P < 0.001) in postmortem samples, however, and more consistent in shape and size with piroplasm cells previously referred to as 'small' Babesia. PCR and sequencing confirmed B. canis as the causative agent of disease in all investigated dogs, including in postmortem negative tissue imprints from dogs treated at least 24 h before death. CONCLUSIONS Changes in the morphology of 'large' B. canis to 'small'-like Babesia observed by light microscopy appear to represent a common postmortem change. Classification of Babesia parasites into 'large' and 'small' Babesia using only microscopy of postmortem slides should be treated with caution. PCR-based methodologies for detection and molecular typing of Babesia spp. may prove valuable for investigating suspected cases of babesiosis following necropsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doroteja Huber
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Vjekoslava Heinzela 55, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ana Beck
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Vjekoslava Heinzela 55, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Željka Anzulović
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Vjekoslava Heinzela 55, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Daria Jurković
- Department for Bacteriology and Parasitology, Croatian Veterinary Institute, Savska cesta 143, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Adam Polkinghorne
- Centre for Animal Health Innovation, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Australia
| | - Gad Baneth
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, Hebrew University, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Relja Beck
- Department for Bacteriology and Parasitology, Croatian Veterinary Institute, Savska cesta 143, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
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Bilwal AK, Mandali GC, Tandel FB. Clinicopathological alterations in naturally occurring Babesia gibsoni infection in dogs of Middle-South Gujarat, India. Vet World 2017; 10:1227-1232. [PMID: 29184369 PMCID: PMC5682268 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2017.1227-1232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2017] [Accepted: 09/14/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim The present research work was undertaken to describe various clinical signs and hematobiochemical alterations in dogs affected with Babesia gibsoni. Materials and Methods Blood smears from a total of 79 suspected dogs of Anand region as well as Surat region of Gujarat state (India) were screened for detection of intraerythrocytic piroplasm of small form of Babesia. Diagnosis was made on the basis of clinical signs and demonstration of B. gibsoni organism in Giemsa-stained thin blood smears. The clinical signs were recorded at the time of presentation, and blood samples were subjected to estimation of hematobiochemical parameters by auto hematology analyzers at College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Anand. Statistical analysis, interpretation, and comparison of hematobiochemical changes with scientific literature were carried out to understand the pathophysiology of the disease. Results Out of 79 dogs, 16 were positive for naturally occurring babesiosis based on the presence of intraerythrocytic piroplasm of small form of Babesia in blood smears. The clinical cases were manifested by wide variety of non-specific clinical signs. The hematological evaluation revealed that the mean values of hemoglobin and total erythrocyte counts in dogs with babesiosis decreased significantly (p<0.01) in comparison to healthy dogs. Among differential leukocyte count, mean values of neutrophils and eosinophils increased while lymphocytes decreased (p<0.01) in dogs with babesiosis in comparison to healthy dogs. Serum biochemistry revealed increase (p<0.01) value of alkaline phosphatase, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and globulin as well as decrease in albumin levels (p<0.05) in dogs with babesiosis as compared to healthy dogs. Conclusion B. gibsoni is having multisystemic effects with atypical hematobiochemical changes in dog are discussed here, which would aid new insights in diagnosis of disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avinash K Bilwal
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Anand Agricultural University, Anand, Gujarat, India
| | - Ghanshyam C Mandali
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Anand Agricultural University, Anand, Gujarat, India
| | - Falguni B Tandel
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Anand Agricultural University, Anand, Gujarat, India
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A new PCR assay for the detection and differentiation of Babesia canis and Babesia vogeli. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2017; 8:862-865. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2017.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2017] [Revised: 06/30/2017] [Accepted: 07/01/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Guo H, Sevinc F, Ceylan O, Sevinc M, Ince E, Gao Y, Moumouni PFA, Liu M, Efstratiou A, Wang G, Cao S, Zhou M, Jirapattharasate C, Ringo AE, Zheng W, Xuan X. A PCR survey of vector-borne pathogens in different dog populations from Turkey. Acta Parasitol 2017; 62:533-540. [PMID: 28682765 DOI: 10.1515/ap-2017-0064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2016] [Accepted: 04/05/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
In the present study, a total of 192 blood samples were collected from pet dogs, kennel dogs and shepherd dogs in Konya district, Turkey, and tested by specific PCR for the presence of vector-borne pathogens. Several pathogens were identified, most of which can cause substantial morbidity in dogs. PCR results revealed that 54 (28.1%) dogs were infected with one or more pathogens. Positive results were obtained for Babesia spp. in 4 dogs (2.1%), Hepatozoon spp. in 8 dogs (4.2%) and Mycoplasma spp. in 46 dogs (24%). Three dogs (1.6%) were infected with two or three pathogens. The sequence analysis of the positive DNA samples revealed the presence of Babesia canis vogeli, Hepatozoon canis, Hepatozoon sp. MF, Mycoplasma haemocanis and Candidatus Mycoplasma haematoparvum. Ehrlichia canis and Anaplasma platys were not detected. Regardless of ownership status, vector-borne diseases were common in these dog populations. There was significant difference of pathogen prevalence among the different dog populations. Mycoplasma spp. was more frequent in the kennel dogs (31.9%) than in the pet (21.4%) and shepherd dogs (13.8%). Additionally, the frequency of Babesia spp. and Hepatozoon spp. was higher in the shepherd dogs which account for three quarters and half of the total number of Babesia spp. and Hepatozoon spp., respectively. To our knowledge, this is the first report of Mycoplasma infection in dogs in Turkey. The results of the present study provide a foundation for understanding the epidemiology of canine vector-borne diseases (CVBDs), and for strategies to control these diseases in Turkey.
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Rybarova M, Honsova M, Papousek I, Siroky P. Variability of species of Babesia Starcovici, 1893 in three sympatric ticks (Ixodes ricinus, Dermacentor reticulatus and Haemaphysalis concinna) at the edge of Pannonia in the Czech Republic and Slovakia. Folia Parasitol (Praha) 2017; 64. [PMID: 28906256 DOI: 10.14411/fp.2017.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2017] [Accepted: 08/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The distribution, variability and host specificity of species of Babesia Starcovici, 1893 were studied in questing ticks collected on the northwestern edge of the Pannonian Basin in the south-easternmost part of the Czech Republic and in western Slovakia. The area is characterised by relatively natural floodplain habitats and the sympatric occurrence of three tick species possessing wide host spectra, namely Ixodes ricinus (Linnaeus), Dermacentor reticulatus (Fabricius) and Haemaphysalis concinna Koch. Analysis was carried out on 1,408 I. ricinus, 2,999 D. reticulatus and 150 H. concinna altogether, collected from 59 localities. We documented the presence of Babesia spp. not only in I. ricinus but also in H. concinna in the Czech Republic. Two isolates from I. ricinus were classified as B. venatorum Herwaldt, Cacciò, Gherlinzoni, Aspöck, Slemenda, Piccaluga, Martinelli, Edelhofer, Hollenstein, Poletti, Pampiglione, Löschenberger, Tura et Pieniazek, 2003 (formerly determined as Babesia sp. EU1), which is a zoonotic parasite and can cause human babesiosis. The rest of our amplicons were very similar to B. canis (Piana et Galli-Valerio, 1895), which is usually transmitted by D. reticulatus. Despite the huge amount of examined samples, all D. reticulatus ticks were Babesia-free. Due to this finding, we did not consider our obtained isolates to be B. canis, but other closely related species possessing a similar sequence of the studied portion of 18S rDNA. Although this genetic marker is most frequently used in PCR-based diagnostic methods of babesias, its low variability compromises its reliability in studies based only on this marker.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marketa Rybarova
- Department of Biology and Wildlife Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Hygiene and Ecology, University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences Brno, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Michaela Honsova
- Department of Biology and Wildlife Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Hygiene and Ecology, University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences Brno, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Ivo Papousek
- Department of Biology and Wildlife Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Hygiene and Ecology, University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences Brno, Brno, Czech Republic.,CEITEC-Central European Institute of Technology, University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences Brno, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Pavel Siroky
- Department of Biology and Wildlife Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Hygiene and Ecology, University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences Brno, Brno, Czech Republic.,CEITEC-Central European Institute of Technology, University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences Brno, Brno, Czech Republic
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