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Decorte B, Roose S, Sperling D, Chantziaras I, Maes D, Geldhof P. The effect of an injectable toltrazuril - gleptoferron (Forceris®) on Cystoisospora suis oocyst excretion and growth of neonatal piglets pre- and post-weaning. Vet Parasitol 2024; 328:110179. [PMID: 38579607 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2024.110179] [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: 02/09/2024] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/30/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024]
Abstract
In this study the efficacy of an intramuscular formulation of toltrazuril combined with gleptoferron for the control of porcine cystoisosporosis caused by Cystoisospora suis was investigated. The study was carried out on three Belgian farms with a confirmed history of C. suis infections. As none of the farms implemented a standardized toltrazuril treatment regimen for their piglets, the presence of resistant C. suis strains seems improbable. In total 90 litters, representing 1249 piglets, were included in the study and randomly allocated to either the treatment or control group. Piglets in the treatment group received a single intramuscular injection, containing 45 mg toltrazuril and 200 mg gleptoferron, between 1 and 3 days of age. Piglets in the control group received a single injection with only 200 mg gleptoferron. The effect of treatment on oocyst excretion, expressed in oocysts per gram of feces (OPG), average daily weight gain (ADG) and mortality was determined both pre- and post-weaning. A significant decrease in OPG as well as a decrease in the number of litters (pre-weaning) and pens (post-weaning) that tested positive for cystoisosporosis, was observed in the treated animals compared to the controls. Furthermore, treatment resulted in an increased ADG during the period from day 1 to day 21 (p-value: 0.03881). There was no significant difference in mortality observed between the treatment group to the control group (p-value: 0.2167). To our knowledge, this is the first report on the effect of toltrazuril on oocyst excretion after weaning. This finding highlights the potential long-term benefits of the treatment beyond the initial administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bregt Decorte
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Translational Physiology, Infectiology and Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke 9820, Belgium.
| | - Sara Roose
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Translational Physiology, Infectiology and Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke 9820, Belgium
| | - Daniel Sperling
- CEVA Santé Animale, 10 avenue de la Ballastière, Libourne 33500, France
| | - Ilias Chantziaras
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke 9820, Belgium
| | - Dominiek Maes
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke 9820, Belgium
| | - Peter Geldhof
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Translational Physiology, Infectiology and Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke 9820, Belgium
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Deak G, González-Amador L, Goyena E, Cârstolovean AS, Risueño J, Berriatua E. On the efficacy of preventive toltrazuril treatments and the diagnosis of Cystoisospora suis infections in intensively raised piglets in farms from southeast Spain. Parasitol Res 2024; 123:109. [PMID: 38265495 PMCID: PMC10808256 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-024-08127-y] [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: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
This study investigated the presence and abundance of Cystoisospora suis oocysts in faecal samples from 131 one- to three-week-old pig litters belonging to eight intensively raised, indoor herds in Spain. Seven herds used preventive anticoccidial toltrazuril treatments administered orally or by intramuscular injection, and one did not use preventive anticoccidial treatments. The diagnosis was performed using two oocyst flotation-concentration methods, Bailenger's method in every herd and the more recent Joachim's method in four herds. Oocysts were detected in every farm, the proportion of oocyst-positive samples was higher with Bailenger's technique, and the estimated overall prevalence (95% confidence interval) was 40 (32-49)%, including 47 (29-65)% in non-medicated litters, 52 (38-67)% in orally medicated litters and 28 (16-40)% in intramuscularly medicated litters (p < 0.05). However, mixed logistic regression models indicated that the risk of infection was not significantly associated with preventive anticoccidial treatments (p > 0.05), and increased with age, was higher in herds with partially compared to fully slatted dung floors in farrowing pens and in litters with pigs with diarrhoea (p < 0.05). The median (range) oocysts per gram of faeces (OpG) in infected litters by Bailenger's method was 623 (35-49048) and mixed negative binomial models revealed no significant association between infection intensity in positive litters and pen's floor type and piglets age, faecal consistency and treatment status (p > 0.05). The apparent low efficacy of Toltrazuril suggests treatment administration failures, reduced residual efficacy or low susceptibility of C. suis strains in study farms and needs further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgiana Deak
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Calea Mănăștur 3-5, 400372, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Lola González-Amador
- Department of Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Regional Campus of International Excellence 'Campus Mare Nostrum', University of Murcia, 30100, Murcia, Spain
| | - Elena Goyena
- Department of Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Regional Campus of International Excellence 'Campus Mare Nostrum', University of Murcia, 30100, Murcia, Spain
| | - Andrada-Silvia Cârstolovean
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Calea Mănăștur 3-5, 400372, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - José Risueño
- Department of Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Regional Campus of International Excellence 'Campus Mare Nostrum', University of Murcia, 30100, Murcia, Spain
| | - Eduardo Berriatua
- Department of Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Regional Campus of International Excellence 'Campus Mare Nostrum', University of Murcia, 30100, Murcia, Spain.
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Nunes T, Skampardonis V, Costa F, da Conceição MA, Sperling D. Cystoisospora suis in Portugal: an observational study of prevalence, management, and risk factors. Porcine Health Manag 2023; 9:34. [PMID: 37438843 DOI: 10.1186/s40813-023-00328-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neonatal coccidiosis is a common and important disease of suckling piglets in modern farming caused by Cystoisospora suis. Prevalence rates are high, namely, in Portugal, although no recent data are available. The metaphylactic administration of a single dose of toltrazuril and hygienic measures are the backbone of control strategies on positive farms. However, several studies have shown that these programs are not always effective, underlining the need to revise the risk factors and control strategies currently applied. The present study evaluated C. suis prevalence on Portuguese farms and assessed the risk factors associated with facilities and farm rearing practices. RESULTS From the 27 tested farms, 23 were positive to Cystoisopora suis (85.2%). In total, 258 litters were sampled (accounting for 516 samples-2 samples per litter), with an average of 59.7% of positive litters per positive farm. Faecal pools from litters, in which liquid faeces predominated had a higher probability of containing oocysts than litter pools with mainly solid (Odds Ratio: 9.87; p < 0.0001) or pasty faeces (OR: 7.05; p = 0.001), and samples obtained from younger animals had higher oocyst counts (coefficient: - 0.0720; 95% CI - 0.125; - 0.019). No significant effect of toltrazuril administration was observed on the positivity rate, and none of the tested farms used disinfectants with official claims against parasites and known anticoccidial effects (e.g., cresol-based products). CONCLUSIONS The C. suis prevalence on Portuguese swine farms appears to be similar to the prevalence found in other European countries. Repeated sampling of the same litter and the use of autofluorescence microscopy after a modified Ritchie technique seems to have increased sensitivity and consequently the detection rate of positive litters. Finally, despite the common use of oral toltrazuril, C. suis control programs appear to not always be effective (based on the detection of oocysts in faecal samples), suggesting the need to revise the control strategies applied in the field, including management factors and choices of disinfectant products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiago Nunes
- CEVA Saúde Animal, R. Dr. António Loureiro Borges 9/9A 9ºA, 1495-131, Algés, Portugal.
| | - Vassilis Skampardonis
- Laboratory of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Animal Health Economics, University of Thessaly, 224 Trikalon St, 43100, Karditsa, Greece
| | - Francisco Costa
- CEVA Saúde Animal, R. Dr. António Loureiro Borges 9/9A 9ºA, 1495-131, Algés, Portugal
| | - Maria Antónia da Conceição
- Polytechnic of Coimbra, Study Center on Natural Resources, Environment and Society (CERNAS), Coimbra Agriculture School (ESAC), 3045, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Daniel Sperling
- CEVA Santé Animale, 10 Avenue de la Ballastière, 33500, Libourne, France
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Bawm S, Chel HM, Khaing Y, Hmoon MM, Thein SS, Win SY, Soe NC, Thaw YN, Hayashi N, Win MM, Htun LL, Nonaka N, Katakura K, Nakao R. The strong influence of management factors on coccidian infections in smallholder pig farms and the first molecular identification of Cystoisospora suis in Myanmar. Parasite 2022; 29:1. [PMID: 35089127 PMCID: PMC8796702 DOI: 10.1051/parasite/2022006] [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: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
A cross-sectional study was conducted to investigate coccidian infection and associated factors in smallholder pigs, and to identify Cystoisospora oocysts by PCR. A total of 500 pig faecal samples from 330 smallholder farms were collected in Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar. The faecal flotation method was used to identify Eimeria and Cystoisospora species, and oocyst counts per gram (OPG) of faeces were recorded. Oocysts were differentiated after sporulation. Oocyst DNA was subjected to ITS1-targeted Cystoisospora-specific PCR. The overall coccidian oocyst detection rate by microscopic was 89.0% (445/500). Among the studied samples, 74.0% (370/500) and 70.6% (353/500), were found to be positive with Eimeria spp. and Cystoisospora suis oocysts, respectively. The sequences of C. suis detected were 100% identical to those of C. suis reported from Japan, and had 99.5% resemblance to sequences from Australia and China. Weaner pigs showed the significantly highest (p < 0.05) OPG when compared to other age groups. The highest intensity of coccidian infection (p < 0.05) was found in pigs fed local feed, pigs raised on earthen floors and pigs under poor hygienic conditions. Factors such as age, breed, feed type, and housing floors were found to be significantly associated with coccidian infection (p < 0.05). Age, as well as management factors including floor type, feed type, and hygiene practices on the farm, had a strong influence on the occurrence of coccidian infection in pigs. This is the first study in Myanmar on coccidian infection in pigs and molecular detection of C. suis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saw Bawm
- Department of International Relations and Information Technology, Yezin, Nay Pyi Taw 15013, Myanmar - Department of Pharmacology and Parasitology, University of Veterinary Science, Yezin, Nay Pyi Taw 15013, Myanmar
| | - Hla Myet Chel
- Department of Pharmacology and Parasitology, University of Veterinary Science, Yezin, Nay Pyi Taw 15013, Myanmar
| | - Yadanar Khaing
- Department of International Relations and Information Technology, Yezin, Nay Pyi Taw 15013, Myanmar
| | - Myint Myint Hmoon
- Department of Pharmacology and Parasitology, University of Veterinary Science, Yezin, Nay Pyi Taw 15013, Myanmar
| | - Su Su Thein
- Department of Pharmacology and Parasitology, University of Veterinary Science, Yezin, Nay Pyi Taw 15013, Myanmar
| | - Shwe Yee Win
- Department of Pharmacology and Parasitology, University of Veterinary Science, Yezin, Nay Pyi Taw 15013, Myanmar
| | - Nyein Chan Soe
- Department of Pharmacology and Parasitology, University of Veterinary Science, Yezin, Nay Pyi Taw 15013, Myanmar
| | - Yu Nandi Thaw
- Department of Pharmacology and Parasitology, University of Veterinary Science, Yezin, Nay Pyi Taw 15013, Myanmar
| | - Naoki Hayashi
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Graduate School of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0818, Japan
| | - Mar Mar Win
- Rector office, University of Veterinary Science, Yezin, Nay Pyi Taw 15013, Myanmar
| | - Lat Lat Htun
- Department of Pharmacology and Parasitology, University of Veterinary Science, Yezin, Nay Pyi Taw 15013, Myanmar
| | - Nariaki Nonaka
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Graduate School of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0818, Japan
| | - Ken Katakura
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Graduate School of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0818, Japan
| | - Ryo Nakao
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Graduate School of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0818, Japan
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Gastrointestinal parasites in Swedish pigs: Prevalence and associated risk factors for infection in herds where animal welfare standards are improved. Vet Parasitol 2021; 295:109459. [PMID: 34029850 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2021.109459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Revised: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The global pig production has undergone major changes over the past 30 years with larger farms, more intensified production as well as improved hygiene and biosecurity practices. To investigate whether these changes, along with expanded pig welfare, have had an impact on parasite occurrence, a cross-sectional study was conducted in Sweden on farms where the pigs are always loose-housed, floors are solid and bedding material is provided. A total of 1615 faecal samples were collected on 42 conventional indoor farms from a) post-weaning piglets (n = 337); b) growers (n = 345); c) fatteners (n = 308); d) dry sows (n = 277) and e) pre-partum sows (n = 348). Samples were analysed using centrifugal flotation with a saturated glucose-salt solution and a modified McMaster technique, with a lower detection limit of 50 eggs or oocysts per gram. Samples positive for strongyle-type eggs were cultured to third stage larvae for genus identification. Farms also responded to a questionnaire regarding biosecurity, hygienic measures, and other management routines. Risk factors for parasite occurrence were assessed using mixed-effects logistical regression to account for farm-level clustering of samples. Interestingly, the prevalence of Ascaris suum was reduced compared to a similar investigation in the 1980s. In the present study A. suum was detected only in 43 % of the herds, with the highest prevalence in pre-partum sows (37 %) followed by fatteners (25 %). Small sized farms were associated with higher odds of being positive, compared to large sized farms (OR = 159.1, P = 0.010). Oesophagostomum spp. were detected in 64 % of the herds and again mainly in pre-partum sows (63 %). Trichuris suis was detected in 10 % of the herds but only in <1% of the samples. Moreover, Cystoisospora suis and Eimeria spp. were detected on 60 % and 64 % the farms, with the highest prevalence in post-weaning piglets and sows, respectively. Anthelmintic drugs (ivermectin or fenbendazole) were commonly used and administered mainly to pre-partum sows on 93 % of the farms. Toltrazuril against neonatal coccidiosis was administered to piglets on 14 % of the farms. The use of antiparasitic drugs did not significantly affect parasite prevalence. Overall, it appears that the altered farming routines with focus on improved pig welfare have not solely resulted in a higher occurrence of parasites, most likely due to the adequate biosecurity and hygiene practices instituted. Thus, there seems to be no conflict between implementing measures to promote pig welfare and adequately control the more pathogenic and economically important parasites.
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Pettersson E, Sjölund M, Wallgren T, Lind EO, Höglund J, Wallgren P. Management practices related to the control of gastrointestinal parasites on Swedish pig farms. Porcine Health Manag 2021; 7:12. [PMID: 33472698 PMCID: PMC7816406 DOI: 10.1186/s40813-021-00193-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Internal parasites are common in pigs worldwide and may induce clinical disease or subclinical infections with negative effects such as poor weight gain and reduced welfare, which in turn affect productivity. Effective parasite control to reduce the negative impact of parasitic infections demands a combination of antiparasitic drugs as well as various hygiene and biosecurity practices. The aim of this study was to obtain information on current management practices and parasite control routines used on Swedish pig farms using an online questionnaire. Results Antiparasitic drugs were used on 69% of the farms routinely and were mainly administered to sows just prior to farrowing. Less than 5% of the herds conducted faecal analysis for parasites. Batchwise, age segregated rearing was common and overall, it was practiced for piglets, growers, and fatteners on 88, 80 and 75% of the farms, respectively. Large and medium sized farms appeared to apply stricter hygiene and biosecurity measures to the growing pigs compared to small farms. Dry sows were mainly housed in groups on deep litter straw beds and cleaning, as well as disinfection, between each group was less common compared to what was practiced for growing pigs. Outdoor access was rare and only occurred on organic and small farms. Most of the farms, 54, 74 and 82% of small, medium, and large sized herds respectively, reported to have less than 5% white spot lesions, caused by migrating A. suum larvae, registered at slaughter. Conclusion Several risk factors for parasite infections, such as bedding material, group housing and solid floors, are mandatory requirements by national law. However, it was evident from this study that although strategic hygiene and biosecurity practices appeared common, they were not practiced in all herds and less so for dry sows. Antiparasitic drugs were used frequently and mainly through routine prophylactic treatments without prior testing for parasites. A holistic approach is necessary when designing efficient parasite control programs, and it is essential that management factors and routine monitoring of parasites are given attention. This to achieve efficient parasite control and reduce the risk of unnecessary use of antiparasitic drugs. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40813-021-00193-3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emelie Pettersson
- National Veterinary Institute, SVA, 751 89, Uppsala, Sweden. .,Department of Clinical Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Box 7054, 750 07, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Marie Sjölund
- National Veterinary Institute, SVA, 751 89, Uppsala, Sweden.,Department of Clinical Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Box 7054, 750 07, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Torun Wallgren
- Department of Animal Environment and Health, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Box 7076, 750 07, Uppsala, Sweden
| | | | - Johan Höglund
- Department of Biomedical Science and Veterinary Public Health, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Box 7036, 750 07, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Per Wallgren
- National Veterinary Institute, SVA, 751 89, Uppsala, Sweden.,Department of Clinical Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Box 7054, 750 07, Uppsala, Sweden
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Pradella B, Molosse K, Menin M, Matzembacker B, Biondo N, Vanazzi D, Baldasso N, Bennemann P, Prestes A, Camillo G. Occurrence of gastrointestinal parasitic diseases of swine in different production phases in commercial pig farms from the State of Santa Catarina, southern Brazil. ARQ BRAS MED VET ZOO 2020. [DOI: 10.1590/1678-4162-11848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT Gastrointestinal parasites are important, since they can cause a decrese in the performance of swine. The occurrence of parasites in pig farms can create economic losses such as reduction in the value of carcasses and increasing expenses with medicines and veterinary assistance. This study aimed at investigating the occurrence of intestinal parasites in different phases of production reared pigs in intensive prodution systems in the western region of the State of Santa Catarina. A total of 403 fecal samples were analyzed, of which 51.86% were positive for one or more parasites in different phases of production. Finishing pigs had the highest prevalence of parasites (60.19%) followed by nursery pigs (55.44%), pigs in breading sows (50.49%), and suckling piglets (40.81%). Strongylida parasites had higher occurrence (28.78%), and were also the most frequent in the finishing, breading sows, and nursery phases. Coccidia were more occurrent in suckling piglets. This study highlights the need of implementing suitable antiparasitic control measures in all phases of swine production associated with a surveillance system for the diagnosis of endoparasite infection in pigs. Our results demonstrate that endoparasites are highly occurring in pigs, even in intensive system animals on technified farms.
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Affiliation(s)
- B. Pradella
- Universidade do Oeste de Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | | | - M. Menin
- Universidade do Oeste de Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | | | - N. Biondo
- Universidade do Oeste de Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | | | - N. Baldasso
- Universidade do Oeste de Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | | | - A. Prestes
- Universidade do Oeste de Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - G. Camillo
- Universidade do Oeste de Santa Catarina, Brazil
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Hiob L, Holzhausen I, Sperling D, Pagny G, Meppiel L, Isaka N, Daugschies A. Efficacy of an injectable toltrazuril - gleptoferron (Forceris ®) to control coccidiosis ( Cystoisospora suis) in comparison with iron supplemented piglets without anticoccidial treatment. Vet Parasitol 2019; 1:100002. [PMID: 32904741 PMCID: PMC7458377 DOI: 10.1016/j.vpoa.2019.100002] [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: 09/03/2018] [Revised: 01/16/2019] [Accepted: 01/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The efficacy and safety of an injectable combination product containing toltrazuril and gleptoferron (Forceris® - CEVA) for the control of coccidiosis due to Cystoisospora suis was investigated in neonatal piglets. The study was carried out on five European commercial pig farms in France, Germany and Spain and 122 litters consisting of 1508 piglets were selected and randomly allocated to one of two treatment groups. The first group received a single intramuscular injection per piglet of the test product, containing 45 mg toltrazuril and 200 mg iron and this was compared with a control group, which was administered a single intramuscular treatment of iron at 200 mg per piglet only. Body weights, faecal scores and oocysts counts, recorded as oocysts per gram of faeces, (OPG) were observed for 21 days. Only 1138 piglets were actually exposed to coccidiosis and data sets of these animals were selected for statistical analysis. The efficacy of the test product in the control of coccidiosis was shown in higher body weight gains, a lower percentage of animals with diarrhoea, fewer samples with positive oocysts counts as well as a lower excretion peak and a reduced area under the curve of OPG from study day (SD) 4 - SD 21. The combination product of toltrazuril and gleptoferron provided an effective alternative approach to current conventional separate treatment for the prevention of iron deficiency anaemia and coccidiosis in neonatal piglets. It reduced the numbers of potentially stressful interventions and work time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lysanne Hiob
- Albrecht - Daniel - Thaer - Institute for Agricultural Sciences e.V. at University of Leipzig, An den Tierkliniken 29, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
- Institute of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Leipzig, An den Tierkliniken 35, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Ivette Holzhausen
- Albrecht - Daniel - Thaer - Institute for Agricultural Sciences e.V. at University of Leipzig, An den Tierkliniken 29, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
- Institute of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Leipzig, An den Tierkliniken 35, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Daniel Sperling
- CEVA Santé Animale, 10 avenue de la Ballastière, 33500 Libourne, France
| | - Gaëlle Pagny
- CEVA Santé Animale, 10 avenue de la Ballastière, 33500 Libourne, France
| | - Laurianne Meppiel
- CEVA Santé Animale, 10 avenue de la Ballastière, 33500 Libourne, France
| | - Naomi Isaka
- CEVA Santé Animale, 10 avenue de la Ballastière, 33500 Libourne, France
| | - Arwid Daugschies
- Albrecht - Daniel - Thaer - Institute for Agricultural Sciences e.V. at University of Leipzig, An den Tierkliniken 29, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
- Institute of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Leipzig, An den Tierkliniken 35, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
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Pettersson E, Hestad S, Möttus I, Skiöldebrand E, Wallgren P. Rotavirus and Cystoisospora suis in piglets during the suckling and early post weaning period, in systems with solid floors and age segregated rearing. Porcine Health Manag 2019; 5:7. [PMID: 30788133 PMCID: PMC6368768 DOI: 10.1186/s40813-019-0114-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2018] [Accepted: 01/22/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Piglet diarrhoea is considered a worldwide problem resulting in animal welfare problems and financial losses for pig farmers. Porcine rotavirus and the coccidian parasite Cystoisospora suis (C. suis) are considered two important pathogens associated with diarrhoea in piglets during the suckling and early post weaning periods. To obtain an overview on the prevalence of porcine rotavirus and C. suis in piglet producing herds with solid floors and age segregated rearing, faecal sampling of 791 litters in 81 farms was performed. Results For porcine rotavirus, faecal samples were analysed using a sandwich ELISA. The overall prevalence of rotavirus in the examined herds was 11.4 ± 17.7% at 2 weeks, 56.8 ± 30.7% at 4 weeks and 71.1 ± 29.1% at 6 weeks of age and the accumulated prevalence was 49, 97 and 100%. To detect C. suis, faecal samples were analysed using sedimentation. The overall prevalence of C. suis in the examined herds was 11.9 ± 15.1% at 2 weeks of age, 10.7 ± 16.7% at 4 weeks and 8.7 ± 15.3% at 6 weeks of age and the accumulated prevalence was 56, 76 and 85%. The number of empty days between farrowing batches did influence the shedding of rotavirus at 2 weeks of age but not later. Regarding C. suis, no difference in prevalence was correlated to the number of days between consecutive farrowing batches. Conclusions Our study confirmed that rotavirus should be regarded as an ubiquitous virus that can be expected to be present in almost every pig herd in Sweden. The study also demonstrated that the number of infected litters increased from birth to 6 weeks of age. Secondly, it showed that C. suis frequently occurred in pig herds and that the number of infected litters was rather stable from two to 6 weeks of age. Consequently, both rotavirus and C. suis may play a role in intestinal disturbances in piglets during the suckling and post weaning periods despite age segregated rearing, at least in systems with solid floors. However, as this study was carried out in herds without reported problems with diarrhoea or poor weight gain, the role of these pathogens should not be overestimated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emelie Pettersson
- 1Department of Animal Health and Antimicrobial Strategies, National Veterinary Institute, SE-751 89 Uppsala, Sweden.,2Department of Clinical Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, SE-750 07 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Sanna Hestad
- 1Department of Animal Health and Antimicrobial Strategies, National Veterinary Institute, SE-751 89 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Ivo Möttus
- Bayer AB Animal Health, Gustav III: s Blvd 56, SE-169 26 Solna, Sweden
| | - Eva Skiöldebrand
- 4Department of Biomedical Sciences and Veterinary Public Health, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, SE-750 07 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Per Wallgren
- 1Department of Animal Health and Antimicrobial Strategies, National Veterinary Institute, SE-751 89 Uppsala, Sweden.,2Department of Clinical Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, SE-750 07 Uppsala, Sweden
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Shrestha A, Freudenschuss B, Jansen R, Hinney B, Ruttkowski B, Joachim A. Experimentally confirmed toltrazuril resistance in a field isolate of Cystoisospora suis. Parasit Vectors 2017; 10:317. [PMID: 28662668 PMCID: PMC5492287 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-017-2257-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2017] [Accepted: 06/20/2017] [Indexed: 03/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Constant treatment regimens with toltrazuril against Cystoisospora suis infection in piglets are being applied in the intensive production systems for the last two decades, but the possibility of resistance development has not been addressed so far despite limited availability of treatment alternatives. Recently, a pig producer in The Netherlands who routinely used toltrazuril complained about diarrhea in suckling piglets in the absence of bacterial and viral pathogens, and oocysts of C. suis could be isolated from feces of affected litters. Methods Piglets from two litters were infected with a field isolate of C. suis, Holland-I, and treated with 0 (Holl-Ctrl), 20 (Holl-20) or 30 (Holl-30) mg/kg of body weight (BW) of toltrazuril (Baycox®). The efficacy of toltrazuril was measured by assessment of oocyst excretion, fecal consistency and BW gain. A separate litter was infected with a toltrazuril-susceptible strain of C. suis, Wien-I, and treated with 0 (Wien-Ctrl) or 20 (Wien-20) mg/kg BW of toltrazuril for comparison. Results Treatment with the recommended (20 mg/kg) dose of toltrazuril completely suppressed oocyst shedding and diarrhea in group Wien-20. The prevalence of oocyst excretion was 100% in the groups infected with Holland-I and 80% in the group Wien-Ctrl. Most days with diarrhea were observed in group Holl-20 with an average of 6.40%, followed by 5.71% in Wien-Ctrl, while in Holl-Ctrl and Holl-30 diarrhea was only seen in 1.79% of the samples (n = 14/piglet). Oocyst excretion, fecal consistency and BW gain did not differ significantly among groups infected with Holland-I, indicating loss of efficacy to toltrazuril. Conclusion Experimental infections and treatment confirmed toltrazuril resistance against the field isolate even at increased dosage. Such isolates are a potential threat to pig production as no other effective and economically sustainable alternative treatment is currently available. In the absence of a standardized protocol for resistance testing in C. suis, regular parasitological examination and, if possible, experimental confirmation should be considered to evaluate the extent and consequences of toltrazuril resistance. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13071-017-2257-7) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aruna Shrestha
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Barbara Freudenschuss
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Barbara Hinney
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Bärbel Ruttkowski
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Anja Joachim
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
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Shrestha A, Abd-Elfattah A, Freudenschuss B, Hinney B, Palmieri N, Ruttkowski B, Joachim A. Cystoisospora suis - A Model of Mammalian Cystoisosporosis. Front Vet Sci 2015; 2:68. [PMID: 26664994 PMCID: PMC4672278 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2015.00068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2015] [Accepted: 11/17/2015] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cystoisospora suis is a coccidian species that typically affects suckling piglets. Infections occur by oral uptake of oocysts and are characterized by non-hemorrhagic transient diarrhea, resulting in poor weight gain. Apparently, primary immune responses to C. suis cannot readily be mounted by neonates, which contributes to the establishment and rapid development of the parasite, while in older pigs age-resistance prevents disease development. However, the presence of extraintestinal stages, although not unequivocally demonstrated, is suspected to enable parasite persistence together with the induction and maintenance of immune response in older pigs, which in turn may facilitate the transfer of C. suis-specific factors from sow to offspring. It is assumed that neonates are particularly prone to clinical disease because infections with C. suis interfere with the establishment of the gut microbiome. Clostridia have been especially inferred to profit from the altered intestinal environment during parasite infection. New tools, particularly in the area of genomics, might illustrate the interactions between C. suis and its host and pave the way for the development of new control methods not only for porcine cystoisosporosis but also for other mammalian Cystoisospora infections. The first reference genome for C. suis is under way and will be a fertile ground to discover new drugs and vaccines. At the same time, the establishment and refinement of an in vivo model and an in vitro culture system, supporting the complete life cycle of C. suis, will underpin the functional characterization of the parasite and shed light on its biology and control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aruna Shrestha
- Department of Pathobiology, Institute of Parasitology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna , Vienna , Austria
| | - Ahmed Abd-Elfattah
- Department of Pathobiology, Institute of Parasitology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna , Vienna , Austria
| | - Barbara Freudenschuss
- Department of Pathobiology, Institute of Parasitology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna , Vienna , Austria
| | - Barbara Hinney
- Department of Pathobiology, Institute of Parasitology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna , Vienna , Austria
| | - Nicola Palmieri
- Department of Pathobiology, Institute of Parasitology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna , Vienna , Austria
| | - Bärbel Ruttkowski
- Department of Pathobiology, Institute of Parasitology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna , Vienna , Austria
| | - Anja Joachim
- Department of Pathobiology, Institute of Parasitology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna , Vienna , Austria
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12
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Skampardonis V, Sotiraki S, Kostoulas P, Leontides L. Factors associated with the occurrence and level of Isospora suis oocyst excretion in nursing piglets of Greek farrow-to-finish herds. BMC Vet Res 2012; 8:228. [PMID: 23174007 PMCID: PMC3527311 DOI: 10.1186/1746-6148-8-228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2012] [Accepted: 11/16/2012] [Indexed: 01/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Piglet isosporosis is one of the most common parasitic diseases in modern pig production. To prevent clinical disease, prophylactic treatment of piglets with toltrazuril (BAYCOX® 5%, Bayer HealthCare, Animal Health, Monheim, Germany) is widely practiced in the past 20 years. There are only very few reports documenting the likely effect of managerial practices, such as hygiene measures, all-in-all-out management of farrowing facilities and piglet manipulations, and/or farm-specific environment - i.e. design and materials of the farrowing pen and room - in the risk of disease occurrence and transmission. Therefore, in this cross-sectional study, we identified litter- and herd-level factors associated with the odds and the level of Isospora suis oocyst excretion in nursing piglets of Greek farrow-to-finish pig herds. Faecal samples were collected from 314 liters of 55 randomly selected herds. Oocyst counts were determined by a modified McMaster technique and possible risk-factor data were collected through a questionnaire. In the analysis, we employed a two-part model that simultaneously assessed the odds and the level of oocyst excretion. RESULTS Factors associated with lower odds of oocyst excretion were: use of toltrazuril treatment, all-in all-out management of the farrowing rooms, no cross-fostering or fostering during the first 24 hours after farrowing, plastic flooring in the farrowing pens, farrowing rooms with more than fourteen farrowing pens and employment of more than two caretakers in the farrowing section. Factors associated with lower oocyst excretion level were: use of toltrazuril treatment and caretakers averting from entering into farrowing pens. CONCLUSION Apart from prophylactic treatment with toltrazuril, the risk and the level of I. suis oocyst excretion from piglets in their second week of life, was associated with managerial and environmental factors. Changes in these factors, which may enhance prevention of piglet isosporosis - either alternatively or supplementary to medical control - are of increasing importance because of the likely development of resistant parasites under the currently widespread use of anticoccidial compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasilis Skampardonis
- Laboratory of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Animal Health Economics, University of Thessaly, 224 Trikalon st, 43100, Karditsa, Greece
- Veterinary Research Institute, National Agricultural Research Foundation, Nagref Campus, PO Box 60272, 57001, Thermi, Greece
| | - Smaragda Sotiraki
- Veterinary Research Institute, National Agricultural Research Foundation, Nagref Campus, PO Box 60272, 57001, Thermi, Greece
| | - Polychronis Kostoulas
- Laboratory of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Animal Health Economics, University of Thessaly, 224 Trikalon st, 43100, Karditsa, Greece
| | - Leonidas Leontides
- Laboratory of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Animal Health Economics, University of Thessaly, 224 Trikalon st, 43100, Karditsa, Greece
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Influence of toltrazuril treatment on parasitological parameters and health performance of piglets in the field – An Austrian experience. Vet Parasitol 2011; 183:14-20. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2011.07.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2011] [Revised: 06/28/2011] [Accepted: 07/08/2011] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Skampardonis V, Sotiraki S, Kostoulas P, Leontides L. Effect of toltrazuril treatment in nursing piglets naturally infected with Isospora suis. Vet Parasitol 2010; 172:46-52. [PMID: 20471754 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2010.04.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2010] [Revised: 03/16/2010] [Accepted: 04/16/2010] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Isospora suis is an important parasitic infection in intensive pig production worldwide, responsible for significant economic losses. In this study the efficacy of toltrazuril treatment against isosporosis was evaluated, under field conditions and throughout the nursing period, in reducing (i) the mean time to onset of diarrhoea and oocyst excretion, (ii) the odds of diarrhoea and, (iii) the odds and level of oocyst excretion, adjusting for the heterogeneity of I. suis infection among litters and across time. In a 300-sow farrow-to-finish commercial operation, twenty-five litters were randomly allocated to receive toltrazuril (thirteen litters) or no treatment (twelve litters). The course of infection was followed in all piglets by coprological examination from day 6 after farrowing until weaning. Parametric shared frailty models, generalised linear mixed models and a two-part random effects model were used in the analyses. Treated piglets had longer mean time to onset of oocyst excretion, lower odds of excreting oocysts and lower mean amount of excreted oocysts on any day during the nursing period. Diarrhoea was less likely to occur in treated piglets. Variance partition coefficients revealed that almost half of the variation in the odds of oocyst excretion and diarrhoea was ascribed to unknown or unmeasured factors that operate at higher than the piglet levels of aggregation. Thus, beyond toltrazuril treatment, control of isosporosis in commercial pig farms can be improved by identification and quantification of these factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasilis Skampardonis
- Laboratory of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Animal Health Economics, University of Thessaly, 224 Trikalon st., 43100 Karditsa, Greece.
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