1
|
Kirkwood N, Šlapeta J. Strongyloides stercoralis in two dogs from a household in temperate Australia. Aust Vet J 2024; 102:369-373. [PMID: 38506222 DOI: 10.1111/avj.13330] [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: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
Strongyloides stercoralis is parasite affecting both humans and dogs and is most prevalent in tropical and subtropical areas of Australia. This case report describes two dogs from a household in Sydney, New South Wales, one with chronic gastrointestinal signs and the other who was asymptomatic who were subsequently diagnosed with S. stercoralis. Diagnosis can be challenging in humans and dogs due to intermittent shedding and low worm burdens and in this case the symptomatic dog had Strongyloides spp. rhabitiform larvae detected on a direct faecal smear and PCR, the asymptomatic dog on PCR only. Obtained sequences from the symptomatic dog confirmed the presence of the S. stercoralis clade affecting both dogs and humans. Infection does not respond to commonly used deworming drugs for dogs. Treatment in both cases was undertaken using off-label doses of ivermectin and follow-up PCR testing was negative. This case report should increase practitioner awareness of this parasite as present and transmissible in temperate areas of Australia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- N Kirkwood
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - J Šlapeta
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Tuska-Szalay B, Gilbert J, Takács N, Boldogh SA, Fáy J, Sterczer Á, Psáder R, Kontschán J, Izsó Á, Hornok S. Molecular-phylogenetic investigation of trichomonads in dogs and cats reveals a novel Tritrichomonas species. Parasit Vectors 2024; 17:271. [PMID: 38926778 PMCID: PMC11210186 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-024-06343-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/01/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Trichomonosis is a common infection in small animals, mostly manifesting in gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea. Although oral trichomonads are also known, the species found colonizing the large intestine are more frequently detected protozoa. METHODS In the present study, four wildcats, 94 domestic cats, and 25 dogs, originating from 18 different locations in Hungary, were investigated for the presence of oral and large intestinal trichomonads based on the 18S rRNA gene and ITS2. RESULTS All oral swabs were negative by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). However, Tritrichomonas foetus was detected in a high proportion among tested domestic cats (13.8%) and dogs (16%), and Pentatrichomonas hominis only in two domestic cats. In addition, a novel Tritrichomonas genotype was identified in one cat, probably representing a new species that was shown to be phylogenetically most closely related to Tritrichomonas casperi described recently from mice. All positive dogs and half of the positive cats showed symptoms, and among cats, the most frequent breed was the Ragdoll. CONCLUSIONS With molecular methods, this study evaluated the prevalence of oral and intestinal trichomonads in clinical samples of dogs and cats from Hungary, providing the first evidence of T. foetus in dogs of this region. In contrast to literature data, P. hominis was more prevalent in cats than in dogs. Finally, a hitherto unknown large intestinal Tritrichomonas species (closely related to T. casperi) was shown to be present in a cat, raising two possibilities. First, this novel genotype might have been a rodent-associated pseudoparasite in the relevant cat. Otherwise, the cat was actually infected, thus suggesting the role of a predator-prey link in the evolution of this trichomonad.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Tuska-Szalay
- Department of Parasitology and Zoology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Budapest, Hungary.
| | - Julia Gilbert
- Department of Parasitology and Zoology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Nóra Takács
- Department of Parasitology and Zoology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
- HUN-REN-UVMB Climate Change, New Blood-Sucking Parasites and Vector-Borne Pathogens Research Group, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Sándor A Boldogh
- Department of Nature Conservation, Aggtelek National Park Directorate, Jósvafő, Hungary
| | - József Fáy
- Petcity Animal Clinic, Kecskemét, Hungary
| | - Ágnes Sterczer
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Roland Psáder
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Jenő Kontschán
- Plant Protection Institute, Centre for Agricultural Research, HUN-REN, Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Plant Sciences, Albert Kázmér Faculty of Mosonmagyaróvár, Széchenyi István University, Mosonmagyaróvár, Hungary
| | - Ádám Izsó
- Department of Park Rangers, Aggtelek National Park, Jósvafő, Hungary
| | - Sándor Hornok
- Department of Parasitology and Zoology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
- HUN-REN-UVMB Climate Change, New Blood-Sucking Parasites and Vector-Borne Pathogens Research Group, Budapest, Hungary
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Colella A, Buonfrate D, Lo Tempio F, Digiaro S, Recchia A, Greco B, Paradies P. Clinical insights to address canine strongyloidosis in daily practice. Top Companion Anim Med 2024; 60:100845. [PMID: 38184143 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcam.2024.100845] [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: 01/21/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/08/2024]
Abstract
Canine strongyloidosis by Strongyloides stercoralis is a parasitic disease emerging in Europe, which represents both a veterinary clinical issue and a public health challenge because of the zoonotic potential. The disease, not yet frequent in Europe, could induce severe clinical signs in dogs; thus, an early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are desirable. The aim of the present work is to retrospectively investigate the clinical and paraclinical findings in sick dogs naturally infected by S. stercoralis, with particular attention to ultrasound (US) changes at the gastrointestinal level. Twelve dogs were included in the study. The diagnosis was made by means of larval morphological identification on faecal samples and PCR. Most dogs presented with gastrointestinal signs; diarrhea and weight loss were the most common presenting complaint. Only one dog showed respiratory signs, associated to a parasitic cutaneous nodule. Hypoproteinaemia, anaemia, leucocytosis and an increase in alpha2-globulin fraction at serum protein electrophoresis were common (>50%) but not constant findings. The most reported US picture was a fluid-filled, distended, atonic small intestine mostly associated with altered wall layering, while the wall thickness commonly associated with chronic enteritis was only rarely reported. These changes, associated with other clinical and paraclinical alterations, could increase the suspicion of canine strongyloidosis and may direct clinicians to include strongyloidosis in the differential diagnosis of dogs with diarrhea. The histological examination at the intestinal level, available in five dogs, revealed the presence of parasites from the full-thickness biopsy, but not from the endoscopic biopsy. The critical points of diagnosis in clinical practice are also discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Antonella Colella
- University of Bari, Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area, Section of Veterinary Clinics and Animal Production, S.p. Valenzano-Casamassima Km 3, 70010, Valenzano, (BA), Italy
| | - Dora Buonfrate
- IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Negrar, 37024, Verona, Italy
| | - Federica Lo Tempio
- University of Bari, Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area, Section of Veterinary Clinics and Animal Production, S.p. Valenzano-Casamassima Km 3, 70010, Valenzano, (BA), Italy
| | - Serena Digiaro
- University of Bari, Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area, Section of Veterinary Clinics and Animal Production, S.p. Valenzano-Casamassima Km 3, 70010, Valenzano, (BA), Italy
| | - Alessandra Recchia
- University of Bari, Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area, Section of Veterinary Clinics and Animal Production, S.p. Valenzano-Casamassima Km 3, 70010, Valenzano, (BA), Italy
| | - Beatrice Greco
- University of Bari, Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area, Section of Veterinary Clinics and Animal Production, S.p. Valenzano-Casamassima Km 3, 70010, Valenzano, (BA), Italy
| | - Paola Paradies
- University of Bari, Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area, Section of Veterinary Clinics and Animal Production, S.p. Valenzano-Casamassima Km 3, 70010, Valenzano, (BA), Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Paradies P, Digiaro S, Colella A, Greco B, Recchia A, Prato MG, Mazzi C, Losurdo G, Di Leo A, Formenti F, Buonfrate D. Strongyloidiasis in humans and dogs in Southern Italy: an observational study. Parasitol Res 2023; 122:2885-2890. [PMID: 37735273 PMCID: PMC10667409 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-023-07978-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
Strongyloidiasis is a clinical issue both in humans and in dogs. Moreover, there are concerns about its zoonotic potential. We aimed to explore Strongyloides stercoralis epidemiology in Southern Italy in humans and dogs sharing the same environment in three different settings: (1) kennels (group K); (2) livestock farms (group L) and (3) agricultural farms (group A). For humans, a commercial ELISA test was used for screening. RT-PCR on faecal samples was done for people testing positive or equivocal at serology. On dog's faecal samples, Baermann test and RT-PCR were performed. A total of 145 dogs and 139 persons were tested. Based on faecal tests in dogs and serology in humans, a S. stercoralis positivity of 4.1% and 6.5% was revealed, respectively. The sites where cases were found were different for animals and humans. In dogs the highest positivity was in group K (6.7% against 2% and 0% in L and A). Differently, in humans the proportion of positive results was similar between the groups (p = 0.883). Fifty percent (3/6) of positive dogs were healthy; the other dogs presented weight loss and/or diarrhoea. ELISA-positive persons (n=9) were all in health, but abdominal pain (37.5%), urticaria (22.2%) and asthma (22.2%) were reported, resolving after treatment with oral ivermectin 200 μg/kg. RT-PCR performed on 13 human faecal samples resulted negative. These findings suggest that strongyloidiasis is present in humans and dogs in Southern Italy, and screening in larger cohorts would be needed for more accurate estimates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paola Paradies
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DiMePRe-J), University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Valenzano, Bari, Italy
| | - Serena Digiaro
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DiMePRe-J), University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Valenzano, Bari, Italy
| | - Antonella Colella
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DiMePRe-J), University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Valenzano, Bari, Italy
| | - Beatrice Greco
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DiMePRe-J), University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Valenzano, Bari, Italy
| | - Alessandra Recchia
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DiMePRe-J), University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Valenzano, Bari, Italy
| | - Marco Giuseppe Prato
- Department of Infectious, Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Negrar, Verona, Italy
| | - Cristina Mazzi
- Clinical Research Unit, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Negrar, Verona, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Losurdo
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DiMePRe-J), University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Valenzano, Bari, Italy
| | - Alfredo Di Leo
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DiMePRe-J), University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Valenzano, Bari, Italy
| | - Fabio Formenti
- Department of Infectious, Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Negrar, Verona, Italy
| | - Dora Buonfrate
- Department of Infectious, Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Negrar, Verona, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Buonfrate D, Tamarozzi F, Paradies P, Watts MR, Bradbury RS, Bisoffi Z. The diagnosis of human and companion animal Strongyloides stercoralis infection: Challenges and solutions. A scoping review. ADVANCES IN PARASITOLOGY 2022; 118:1-84. [PMID: 36088083 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apar.2022.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Strongyloidiasis is the infection caused by soil-transmitted nematodes of Strongyloides species, infecting humans and some animals. Strongyloides stercoralis is the species with most clinical and epidemiological relevance in humans and dogs, due to its high prevalence and its capacity of inducing a life-threatening hyperinfection. Diagnosis of strongyloidiasis is challenging, due to the absence of a single reference standard test with high sensitivity and specificity, which also hampers the estimation of the accuracy of other diagnostic tests. In this chapter, we review the deployment and performance of the parasitological, immunological, molecular tests for the diagnosis of strongyloidiasis in humans and in dogs. Further, we comment the available evidence from genotyping studies that have addressed the zoonotic potential of S. stercoralis. Finally, we discuss the use of different diagnostic methods in relation to the purpose (i.e., screening, individual diagnosis, inclusion in a clinical trial) and the setting (endemic/non-endemic areas) and report the accuracy figures reported by systematic reviews on either parasitological, serological or molecular techniques published in literature.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dora Buonfrate
- Department of Infectious Tropical diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Verona, Italy.
| | - Francesca Tamarozzi
- Department of Infectious Tropical diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Verona, Italy
| | - Paola Paradies
- Department of Emergency and Organs Transplantation, Veterinary Section, Campus of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Matthew R Watts
- Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, Institute of Clinical Pathology and Medical Research - New South Wales Health Pathology and Sydney Institute for Infectious Diseases, Westmead Hospital, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Richard S Bradbury
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Federation University Australia, Berwick, VC, Australia
| | - Zeno Bisoffi
- Department of Infectious Tropical diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Verona, Italy; Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
De Liberato C, Iatta R, Scarito MA, Grifoni G, Dante G, Otranto D. Strongyloides stercoralis in a dog litter: Evidence suggesting a transmammary transmission. Acta Trop 2022; 231:106465. [PMID: 35427536 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2022.106465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Revised: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Strongyloides stercoralis is a soil-transmitted helminth with an unusual life cycle, causing canine and human strongyloidiasis, mainly endemic in tropical and subtropical areas. Following percutaneous or oral transmission of infective third-stage larvae in the vertebrate host, the parasite can cause autoinfection, leading to life-long infection. At present, the transmammary transmission was only assessed in experimentally infested dogs. Here, we provide observational evidence of S. stercoralis transmammary transmission in puppies suckling from a truffle dog from Central Italy, from where its presence was neglected.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claudio De Liberato
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana "M. Aleandri", Via Appia Nuova 1411,Rome 00178 , Italy.
| | - Roberta Iatta
- Dipartimento Interdisciplinare di Medicina, Università di Bari, Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, Bari 70124, Italy
| | - Maria Alessia Scarito
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana "M. Aleandri", Via Appia Nuova 1411,Rome 00178 , Italy
| | - Goffredo Grifoni
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana "M. Aleandri", Via Appia Nuova 1411,Rome 00178 , Italy
| | - Giampiero Dante
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana "M. Aleandri", Via Appia Nuova 1411,Rome 00178 , Italy
| | - Domenico Otranto
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università di Bari, Str. prov. per Casamassima km 3, Valenzano 70010, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Stufano A, Foti C, Lovreglio P, Romita P, De Marco A, Lia RP, Otranto D, Iatta R. Occupational risk of cutaneous larva migrans: A case report and a systematic literature review. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2022; 16:e0010330. [PMID: 35551315 PMCID: PMC9098051 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0010330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Cutaneous larva migrans (CLM) is a parasitic zoonosis of warm tropical and subtropical areas, although autochthonous cases have been increasingly reported in Western European countries. Data on the prevalence of CLM as an occupational disease in workers exposed to potentially contaminated soil or in close contact with dogs and cats are scant. Herein, we report an autochthonous case of CLM in a dog breeder from southern Italy (Apulia region), along with a systematic literature review describing the risk of CLM infection, mainly according to job categories. The patient was referred to the dermatology unit presenting a serpiginous lesion on his hand, raising the suspected CLM diagnosis. In non-endemic areas, CLM might represent a challenge for physicians in terms of diagnosis, treatment, and prevention, particularly in workplaces. The multidisciplinary approach in the diagnosis of CLM with the involvement of different scientific competences (i.e., dermatologists, veterinarians, and occupational physicians) may contribute to further assess the distribution of human CLM and associated risk factors, toward reducing the risk for the infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Angela Stufano
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Caterina Foti
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, Dermatological Clinic, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Piero Lovreglio
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
- * E-mail:
| | - Paolo Romita
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, Dermatological Clinic, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Aurora De Marco
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, Dermatological Clinic, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | | | - Domenico Otranto
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
- Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan, Iran
| | - Roberta Iatta
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Global prevalence of Strongyloides stercoralis in dogs: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Helminthol 2022; 96:e11. [DOI: 10.1017/s0022149x21000808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Strongyloides stercoralis is an intestinal parasitic helminth that mainly affects humans and dogs throughout the world. Canine strongyloidosis is generally characterized by asymptomatic infection, with fatal disease in cases of immunodeficiency. This study was conducted in order to evaluate the global prevalence of S. stercoralis in dogs. Six electronic databases were searched for this purpose. The random effects model and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were applied to determine the overall and subgroup pooled prevalence. Heterogeneity was assessed by Cochran's Q test and I2 statistic. In total, 56 datasets from 50 studies from 1,202 peer-reviewed papers were included in the current meta-analysis. 20,627 dogs were assessed in 27 countries across six World Health Organization (WHO) regions. The global prevalence of S. stercoralis infection among dogs was 6% (95% CI 4–8%; 868/20,627). According to WHO regions, the estimated prevalence ranges 2% to 11% as follows: Western Pacific (11%, 0–31%); Africa (9%, 2–19%); America (6%, 3–11%); South-East Asia (5%, 1–13%)’ Europe (3%, 2–5%); and Eastern Mediterranean (2%, 0–6%). The pooled prevalence of S. stercoralis infection in dog owners was 7% (1–18%). The prevalence of S. stercoralis infection in studies based on serological assays was significantly higher than other techniques (29%, 20–39%). Younger female dogs, less than one year old, from rural areas had higher prevalence rates than their male counterparts, with no statistically significant differences. From this review, it is concluded that the low global prevalence of S. stercoralis in dogs may be strongly associated with low sensitivity diagnostic methods applied in most studies leading to the underestimation of infection rates. Therefore, the improvement of diagnostic techniques is recommended for precise evaluation of the disease.
Collapse
|
9
|
Eslahi AV, Hashemipour S, Olfatifar M, Houshmand E, Hajialilo E, Mahmoudi R, Badri M, Ketzis JK. Global prevalence and epidemiology of Strongyloides stercoralis in dogs: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:21. [PMID: 35012614 PMCID: PMC8750836 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-021-05135-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Strongyloides stercoralis, a soil-transmitted helminth, occurs in humans, non-human primates, dogs, cats and wild canids. The zoonotic potential between these hosts is not well understood with data available on prevalence primarily focused on humans. To increase knowledge on prevalence, this review and meta-analysis was performed to estimate the global status of S. stercoralis infections in dogs. METHODS Following the PRISMA guidelines, online literature published prior to November 2020 was obtained from multiple databases (Science Direct, Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus and Google Scholar). Prevalence was calculated on a global and country level, by country income and climate, and in stray/animal shelter dogs versus owned dogs. Statistical analyses were conducted using R-software (version 3.6.1). RESULTS From 9428 articles, 61 met the inclusion criteria. The estimated pooled global prevalence of S. stercoralis in dogs was 6% (95% CI 3-9%). Infection was found to be the most prevalent in low-income countries with pooled prevalence of 22% (95% CI 10-36%). The highest pooled prevalence of S. stercoralis in dogs was related to regions with average temperature of 10-20 °C (6%; 95% CI 3-11%), an annual rainfall of 1001-1500 mm (9%; 95% CI 4-15%) and humidity of 40-75% (8%; 95% CI 4-13%). Prevalence was higher in stray and shelter dogs (11%; 95% CI 1-26%) than in owned dogs (3%; 95% CI 1-7%). CONCLUSIONS As with S. stercoralis in humans, higher prevalence in dogs is found in subtropical and tropical regions and lower-income countries, locations which also can have high dog populations. While this study presents the first estimated global prevalence of S. stercoralis in dogs, it is potentially an underestimation with 15 of 61 studies relying on diagnostic methods of lower sensitivity and a paucity of data from most locations. Standardized protocols (e.g. quantity of feces and number of samples for a Baermann) in future studies could improve reliability of results. More prevalence studies and raising veterinary awareness of S. stercoralis are needed for a One Health approach to protect humans and dogs from the impact of the infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aida Vafae Eslahi
- Medical Microbiology Research Center, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Sima Hashemipour
- Metabolic Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Prevention of Non-Communicable Diseases, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Meysam Olfatifar
- Medical Microbiology Research Center, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Elham Houshmand
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Rasht Branch, Islamic Azad University, Guilan, Iran
| | - Elham Hajialilo
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran.,Student Research Committee, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Razzagh Mahmoudi
- Medical Microbiology Research Center, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Milad Badri
- Medical Microbiology Research Center, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran.
| | - Jennifer K Ketzis
- Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Basseterre, West Indies, St. Kitts and Nevis.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Tamponi C, Knoll S, Tosciri G, Salis F, Dessì G, Cappai MG, Varcasia A, Scala A. Environmental Contamination by Dog Feces in Touristic Areas of Italy: Parasitological Aspects and Zoonotic Hazards. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2020; 103:1143-1149. [PMID: 32602438 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.20-0169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Public spaces are common sites of fecal contamination which is concerning considering the prevalence rates of gastrointestinal pathogens carried by pets. Multiple pet-bound parasite species capable of infecting humans have previously been reported in fecal samples collected from urban areas around the globe, including Italy. In addition, the presence of gastrointestinal parasites has recently been shown in pets from the island of Sardinia, a well-known touristic destination. For these reasons, this study aims to evaluate the level of fecal contamination of two of the most important cities on Sardinia. Furthermore, the presence of endoparasites in fecal samples collected was also investigated to assess the parasitological risks associated with such contamination. A grid approach using a geographical information system was applied, followed by transect counting and sampling. A total of 956 and 220 dog feces with an average feces count of 4.7 and 2.6 per 100 linear meters were found for Sassari and Alghero, respectively. In Sassari 15.6% (52/333) and in Alghero 6.8% (6/88) of the samples tested positive for parasitic elements. Hookworms, Strongyloides stercoralis, Toxocara sp., and Trichuris vulpis were among the parasites most identified. This study showed significant urban contamination of both Sassari and Alghero with dog feces and the parasites within them, including potentially zoonotic species. The general public as well as tourists visiting the island should be aware of the risks associated with this and appropriate measures taken.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Tamponi
- Laboratorio di Parassitologia - Ospedale Didattico Veterinario, Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Stephane Knoll
- Laboratorio di Parassitologia - Ospedale Didattico Veterinario, Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Gabriele Tosciri
- Laboratorio di Parassitologia - Ospedale Didattico Veterinario, Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Francesco Salis
- Laboratorio di Parassitologia - Ospedale Didattico Veterinario, Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Giorgia Dessì
- Laboratorio di Parassitologia - Ospedale Didattico Veterinario, Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Cappai
- Nutrition Desk - Ospedale Didattico Veterinario, Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Antonio Varcasia
- Laboratorio di Parassitologia - Ospedale Didattico Veterinario, Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Antonio Scala
- Laboratorio di Parassitologia - Ospedale Didattico Veterinario, Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Ahmad H, Balachandra D, Arifin N, Nolan TJ, Lok JB, Hayat Khan A, Yunus MH, Noordin R. Diagnostic Potential of an IgE-ELISA in Detecting Strongyloidiasis. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2020; 103:2288-2293. [PMID: 32996454 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.20-0265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Strongyloides stercoralis infection is prevalent worldwide and can cause lifelong infection in immunocompetent individuals, and potentially death in immunosuppressed patients. The diagnosis is hindered by the low sensitivity of microscopic examination, thus making serology an important complementary test to improve the detection rate. However, there were reports that some Strongyloides-infected individuals were negative with specific IgG and IgG4 assays, and other helminth infections were positive with commercial Strongyloides IgG-ELISAs. Thus, there is a need to develop better serodiagnostic methods for strongyloidiasis. We investigated the diagnostic potential of IgE-ELISAs using Strongyloides larval lysate. Sera from two groups infected with Strongyloides served as the positive reference, that is, 1) positive by commercial IgG-ELISAs and IgG4 rapid test, and stool samples positive by microscopy and/or PCR (group IA; n = 20); and 2) negative by IgG-ELISAs and IgG4 rapid test, but stool samples were PCR positive (group IB sera; n = 11). Sera from another two groups served as negative reference (controls), that is, 1) infected with other parasites (group II; n = 73) and 2) healthy donors (group III; n = 22). Results showed a 100% diagnostic sensitivity in detecting sera from groups IA and IB. The latter group of individuals probably had early infection because their IgG and IgG4 assays were negative. The optical density values of group IB sera were also significantly lower than those of group IA (P < 0.003). The IgE-ELISA was 100% specific when tested against sera from groups II and III. This study highlights the diagnostic potential of IgE-ELISA using larval lysate to detect strongyloidiasis, especially those with probable early infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hussain Ahmad
- Department of Microbiology, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan.,Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine (INFORMM), Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Dinesh Balachandra
- Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine (INFORMM), Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Norsyahida Arifin
- Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine (INFORMM), Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Thomas J Nolan
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - James B Lok
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Amjad Hayat Khan
- Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine (INFORMM), Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Muhammad Hafiznur Yunus
- Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine (INFORMM), Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Rahmah Noordin
- Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine (INFORMM), Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
A case of "misplaced" Tritrichomonas foetus infection in a dog in Northern Italy. VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY- REGIONAL STUDIES AND REPORTS 2020; 22:100451. [PMID: 33308716 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2020.100451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2020] [Revised: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
An 8-year-old, spayed female Rottweiler dog, under immunosuppressant treatment for protein-losing enteropathy (PLE) and intestinal lymphangiectasia, was presented for anorexia, poor general conditions and episodes of diarrhea. A subcutaneous mass between the caudal abdominal mammary glands was found. A fine-needle aspiration cytology was performed and revealed the presence of inflammatory cells mixed with pear- or round-shaped microorganisms with cytomorphological features of flagellated protozoan trophozoites, belonging to Trichomonadida order. The final diagnosis of Tritrichomonas foetus infection was achieved with molecular analysis (Real-Time PCR) and sequencing. T. foetus has often been reported as a pathogenic agent in cattle and cats, and rarely reported in dogs, where its pathogenetic role is poorly understood. To the author's knowledge, this is the first case of T. foetus infection described in a location different from the gastrointestinal tract in a dog.
Collapse
|
13
|
Ottino L, Buonfrate D, Paradies P, Bisoffi Z, Antonelli A, Rossolini GM, Gabrielli S, Bartoloni A, Zammarchi L. Autochthonous Human and Canine Strongyloides stercoralis Infection in Europe: Report of a Human Case in An Italian Teen and Systematic Review of the Literature. Pathogens 2020; 9:E439. [PMID: 32503315 PMCID: PMC7350350 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens9060439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 05/30/2020] [Accepted: 06/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Autochthonous human and canine strongyloidiasis is reported in Europe but is unclear whether the transmission of infection still occurs. We report a previously unpublished human case in an Italian teen and perform a systematic review of literature on autochthonous human and canine strongyloidiasis in Europe to investigate the current dynamic of transmission. Overall, 109 papers published after 1987 were included and one previously unpublished Italian case was added. Eighty case reports were retrieved and 42 of them (52.5%) had severe strongyloidiasis. Most cases were diagnosed in Spain, Italy and France. The median age was 58, the most represented age group was 61-70 years, 11 patients were under 30, and 7 of them were diagnosed after 2000. Epidemiological studies on human strongyloidiasis showed prevalence ranging from 0.56% to 28%. Overall, agriculture work, mine work and walking barefoot were the most commonly reported risk factors for infection. Canine strongyloidiasis was reported mainly in Italy (68 cases), but a few cases occurred also in Iceland, Finland, England, Germany, France, Switzerland, Russia, Slovakia, Romania and Greece. Autochthonous strongyloidiasis is still reported in Europe and sporadic transmission still occurs. Health care professionals should be aware of this issue to identify infected subjects and avoid adverse outcomes, especially in immunosuppressed patients. Further investigations are needed to clarify the zoonotic transmission of this nematode.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Letizia Ottino
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (L.O.); (A.A.); (G.M.R.); (A.B.)
| | - Dora Buonfrate
- IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Negrar, 37024 Verona, Italy; (D.B.); (Z.B.)
| | - Paola Paradies
- Department of Emergency and Organs Transplantation, Veterinary Section, Campus of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy;
| | - Zeno Bisoffi
- IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Negrar, 37024 Verona, Italy; (D.B.); (Z.B.)
| | - Alberto Antonelli
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (L.O.); (A.A.); (G.M.R.); (A.B.)
- Microbiology and Virology Unit, Careggi University Hospital, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Gian Maria Rossolini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (L.O.); (A.A.); (G.M.R.); (A.B.)
- Microbiology and Virology Unit, Careggi University Hospital, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Simona Gabrielli
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy;
| | - Alessandro Bartoloni
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (L.O.); (A.A.); (G.M.R.); (A.B.)
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Unit, Careggi University and Hospital, 50134 Florence, Italy
- Referral Center for Tropical Diseases of Tuscany, Careggi University Hospital, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Zammarchi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (L.O.); (A.A.); (G.M.R.); (A.B.)
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Unit, Careggi University and Hospital, 50134 Florence, Italy
- Referral Center for Tropical Diseases of Tuscany, Careggi University Hospital, 50134 Florence, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Jin Y, Du A, Yao C. Clinical isolates of Tritrichomonas foetus in bulls in Wyoming, South Dakota and Montana, USA. BMC Vet Res 2020; 16:12. [PMID: 31924216 PMCID: PMC6954593 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-020-2229-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2019] [Accepted: 12/31/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several Tritrichomonas species have been found in mammalian hosts. Among these trichomonads T. foetus is often found in the urogenital tract of cattle and the gastrointestinal tract of the domestic cat, resulting in sexually transmitted bovine trichomonosis and fecal-orally transmitted feline trichomonosis, respectively. The aims of the current study were to molecularly characterize clinical isolates of T. foetus in cattle populations in Wyoming, South Dakota, and Montana of the United States of America and to phylogenetically analyze Tritrichomonas species of mammalian hosts. RESULTS DNA sequencing of rRNA genes showed over 99% identity of the newly described isolates to other bovine isolates. Further, T. foetus isolates of various mammalian hosts originated in different geographic regions worldwide were clustered into two well-defined clades by phylogenetic analysis of rRNA and cysteine protease 2 genes. Clade I consisted of isolates originated from cattle, pig, and human whereas clade II contained isolates of cat and dog. CONCLUSION It is concluded that all mammalian Tritrichomonas spp. apparently belong to T. foetus. Analysis of more sequences is warranted to support this conclusion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yinzhu Jin
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, 82070, USA
- Present Address: Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Pharmacoeconomics, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Aifang Du
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Chaoqun Yao
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, 82070, USA.
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and One Health Center for Zoonoses and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, P.O. Box 334, Basseterre, St. Kitts and Nevis.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Barratt JLN, Lane M, Talundzic E, Richins T, Robertson G, Formenti F, Pritt B, Verocai G, Nascimento de Souza J, Mato Soares N, Traub R, Buonfrate D, Bradbury RS. A global genotyping survey of Strongyloides stercoralis and Strongyloides fuelleborni using deep amplicon sequencing. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2019; 13:e0007609. [PMID: 31525192 PMCID: PMC6762204 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0007609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2019] [Revised: 09/26/2019] [Accepted: 07/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Strongyloidiasis is a neglected tropical disease caused by the human infective nematodes Strongyloides stercoralis, Strongyloides fuelleborni fuelleborni and Strongyloides fuelleborni kellyi. Previous large-scale studies exploring the genetic diversity of this important genus have focused on Southeast Asia, with a small number of isolates from the USA, Switzerland, Australia and several African countries having been genotyped. Consequently, little is known about the global distribution of geographic sub-variants of these nematodes and the genetic diversity that exists within the genus Strongyloides generally. We extracted DNA from human, dog and primate feces containing Strongyloides, collected from several countries representing all inhabited continents. Using a genotyping assay adapted for deep amplicon sequencing on the Illumina MiSeq platform, we sequenced the hyper-variable I and hyper-variable IV regions of the Strongyloides 18S rRNA gene and a fragment of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (cox1) gene from these specimens. We report several novel findings including unique S. stercoralis and S. fuelleborni genotypes, and the first identifications of a previously unknown S. fuelleborni infecting humans within Australia. We expand on an existing Strongyloides genotyping scheme to accommodate S. fuelleborni and these novel genotypes. In doing so, we compare our data to all 18S and cox1 sequences of S. fuelleborni and S. stercoralis available in GenBank (to our knowledge), that overlap with the sequences generated using our approach. As this analysis represents more than 1,000 sequences collected from diverse hosts and locations, representing all inhabited continents, it allows a truly global understanding of the population genetic structure of the Strongyloides species infecting humans, non-human primates, and domestic dogs. Strongyloidiasis is a neglected tropical disease caused by the human infective worms (nematodes) Strongyloides stercoralis, Strongyloides fuelleborni fuelleborni and Strongyloides fuelleborni kellyi. Little is known about the genetic diversity of these nematodes and the possibility of geographically isolated genetic types is a particularly interesting research question, given the unique life cycle of these worms which includes both sexual and asexual stages. We extracted DNA from human, dog and primate feces containing Strongyloides, collected from several countries representing all inhabited continents. Using next-generation sequencing, we analyzed three Strongyloides DNA fragments from these specimens; two fragments of the 18S gene and one from the cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (cox1) gene. Using this approach, we discovered some unique S. stercoralis and S. fuelleborni genotypes, and identified a previously unknown S. fuelleborni infecting humans within Australia. We compared our data to all 18S and cox1 sequences of S. fuelleborni and S. stercoralis available in public databases and identified several patterns relating to the global distribution of certain genotypes. This knowledge could allow us to infer the origin of human Strongyloides infections in the future, and assess the role certain animals (non-human primates and dogs) might play in the transmission of Strongyloides to humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joel L. N. Barratt
- Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Parasitic Diseases Branch, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
- Oak Ridge Associated Universities, Oak Ridge, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Meredith Lane
- Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Parasitic Diseases Branch, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
- Synergy America Inc., Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Emir Talundzic
- Franklin College of Arts and Sciences, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Travis Richins
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Gemma Robertson
- Forensic and Scientific Services, Health Support Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Fabio Formenti
- Department of Infectious–Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Negrar, Verona, Italy
| | - Bobbi Pritt
- Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Guilherme Verocai
- College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, Texas, United States of America
| | | | - Neci Mato Soares
- Faculdade de Farmacia, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Rebecca Traub
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Dora Buonfrate
- Department of Infectious–Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Negrar, Verona, Italy
| | - Richard S. Bradbury
- Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Parasitic Diseases Branch, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Otranto D, Deplazes P. Zoonotic nematodes of wild carnivores. Int J Parasitol Parasites Wildl 2019; 9:370-383. [PMID: 31338295 PMCID: PMC6626844 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2018.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2018] [Revised: 12/29/2018] [Accepted: 12/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
For a long time, wildlife carnivores have been disregarded for their potential in transmitting zoonotic nematodes. However, human activities and politics (e.g., fragmentation of the environment, land use, recycling in urban settings) have consistently favoured the encroachment of urban areas upon wild environments, ultimately causing alteration of many ecosystems with changes in the composition of the wild fauna and destruction of boundaries between domestic and wild environments. Therefore, the exchange of parasites from wild to domestic carnivores and vice versa have enhanced the public health relevance of wild carnivores and their potential impact in the epidemiology of many zoonotic parasitic diseases. The risk of transmission of zoonotic nematodes from wild carnivores to humans via food, water and soil (e.g., genera Ancylostoma, Baylisascaris, Capillaria, Uncinaria, Strongyloides, Toxocara, Trichinella) or arthropod vectors (e.g., genera Dirofilaria spp., Onchocerca spp., Thelazia spp.) and the emergence, re-emergence or the decreasing trend of selected infections is herein discussed. In addition, the reasons for limited scientific information about some parasites of zoonotic concern have been examined. A correct compromise between conservation of wild carnivores and risk of introduction and spreading of parasites of public health concern is discussed in order to adequately manage the risk of zoonotic nematodes of wild carnivores in line with the 'One Health' approach.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Domenico Otranto
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Universita’ degli Studi di Bari, 70010, Valenzano, Italy
| | - Peter Deplazes
- Institute of Parasitology, University of Zürich, 8057, Zürich, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Prevalence and risk factors of Strongyloides stercoralis infection among Orang Asli schoolchildren: new insights into the epidemiology, transmission and diagnosis of strongyloidiasis in Malaysia. Parasitology 2019; 146:1602-1614. [PMID: 31303180 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182019000945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
This cross-sectional study aimed to determine the prevalence and risk factors of S. stercoralis infection among 1142 Orang Asli primary schoolchildren in six different states of Peninsular Malaysia. Fecal samples were examined using direct smear, formalin-ether sedimentation (FES), agar plate culture (APC) and PCR techniques. Overall, 15.8% of the children were found to be infected with S. stercoralis. The prevalence was 0.2, 1.3, 15.2 and 13.7% by direct smear, FES, APC and PCR, respectively. Multivariate analysis showed that an age of >10 years, being male, belonging to a Proto-Malay tribe, belonging to the Senoi tribe, indiscriminate defecation, using an unimproved water source for drinking water and not wearing shoes when outside were the significant risk factors of infection among these children. In conclusion, we provide new evidence on the occurrence of S. stercoralis in Malaysia to show that there is a relatively high prevalence of infection among Orang Asli schoolchildren. Therefore, the use of specific methods for detecting S. stercoralis should be considered when screening these children for intestinal parasites. Moreover, prevention and control measures specific to S. stercoralis should be integrated into the intestinal parasitic infections control programme in Malaysia.
Collapse
|
18
|
Efficacy of ivermectin to control Strongyloides stercoralis infection in sheltered dogs. Acta Trop 2019; 190:204-209. [PMID: 30465740 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2018.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2018] [Revised: 11/05/2018] [Accepted: 11/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
In dogs, information on treatments against S. stercoralis infection is rare and anecdotal. The aim of the present work was to evaluate the treatment outcome of S. stercoralis natural infection in sheltered dogs. Furthermore, based on the potential risk of infection, people working in the infected shelter were also tested. Seventeen sheltered dogs positive to S. stercoralis using the Baermann test were treated with ivermectin 200 μg/kg/sid/os for two consecutive days. Only two dogs showed clinical signs suggestive of strongyloidiasis (diarrhea, weigh loss) at diagnosis. All dogs showed consistently negative results for S. stercoralis at weekly monitoring after treatment using both the direct microscopy and Baermann test. Real-time PCR confirmed negative results at the last follow up 2 months after treatment. Serology performed at the first diagnosis showed that 82% and 41% of dogs were positive for S. stercoralis using an IFAT (titres ranging from 1:40 to 1:320) and ELISA, respectively. Two months after treatment, IFAT titres were strongly reduced in all animals. The results of clinical pathological laboratory tests at diagnosis in the positive dogs were within normal ranges, except for the two symptomatic dogs. Serum collected from two out of 14 shelter workers tested positive with titres 1:20 and 1:40 for S. stercoralis using an IFAT. Results of the study confirm that ivermectin was an effective treatment option to control S. stercoralis infection in dogs. Shelter workers are at risk of infection with S. stercoralis, thus the application of correct deworming protocols to reduce the environmental infective larval burden is essential to protect dogs and probably also shelter workers from the risk of infection.
Collapse
|
19
|
Basso W, Grandt LM, Magnenat AL, Gottstein B, Campos M. Strongyloides stercoralis infection in imported and local dogs in Switzerland: from clinics to molecular genetics. Parasitol Res 2018; 118:255-266. [PMID: 30552576 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-018-6173-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2018] [Accepted: 12/03/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Strongyloides stercoralis is a worldwide-distributed intestinal nematode affecting mainly humans and dogs. Canine strongyloidosis is generally characterised by diarrhoea, malabsorption and bronchopneumonia, and may be fatal in cases of impaired immunity. In recent years, molecular and epidemiological studies suggested that host-adapted populations of S. stercoralis with different zoonotic potential may exist. Clinical and subclinical cases of S. stercoralis infection have been increasingly diagnosed in imported (France, Belgium, Bulgaria) and locally born dogs in Switzerland, showing that this parasite is currently circulating in Europe. Three of these clinical cases will be described here. All three dogs presented severe disease, characterised by harsh diarrhoea, dehydration, vomiting, respiratory and/or neurologic signs, and needed intensive care and hospitalisation. One of these dogs was related to a Swiss breeding kennel, in which the infection was subsequently diagnosed in several other dogs. Faeces were analysed by three coproscopical methods including (i) the Baermann technique, which consistently identified the typical S. stercoralis first-stage larvae in both clinical and subclinical infections, (ii) the sedimentation-zinc chloride flotation and (iii) sodium acetate-acetic acid-formalin concentration (SAFC) methods, which allowed the additional identification of parasitic females and/or eggs in two of the clinical cases. Interestingly, S. stercoralis isolated from all three independent clinical cases exhibited an identical genetic background on the nuclear 18S rDNA (fragment involving hypervariable regions I and IV) and the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit I (cox1) loci, similar to that of zoonotic isolates from other geographical regions, and not to that of dog-adapted variants. Due to the clinical relevance and zoonotic potential of this parasite, the awareness of both diagnosticians and clinicians is strongly required.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Walter Basso
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.
| | - Lisa-Maria Grandt
- Small Animal Clinic, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Anne-Laure Magnenat
- Small Animal Clinic, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Bruno Gottstein
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Miguel Campos
- Small Animal Clinic, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|