1
|
Gaca PJ, Nowak R, Rejdak R, Rejdak M, Nowak M, Flis B, Ali MJ. Human ocular dirofilariasis in Poland. J Ophthalmic Inflamm Infect 2024; 14:32. [PMID: 38985253 PMCID: PMC11236825 DOI: 10.1186/s12348-024-00401-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Piotr J Gaca
- Chair and Department of General and Paediatric Ophthalmology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Rafal Nowak
- Eye Department, Jozef Strus City Hospital, Poznan, Poland.
| | - Robert Rejdak
- Chair and Department of General and Paediatric Ophthalmology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Magdalena Rejdak
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Maja Nowak
- Eye Department, Jozef Strus City Hospital, Poznan, Poland
| | - Beata Flis
- Chair and Department of General and Paediatric Ophthalmology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Mohammad Javed Ali
- Govindram Seksaria Institute of Dacryology, L.V. Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, India
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Villanueva-Saz S, Martínez MV, Alsina S, Fernández A, Gómez Á, Verde M, Ruiz H, Lacasta D, Alnassan AA, Trotta M, Yzuel A, Marteles D. First report on natural infection by Dirofilaria repens in a cat in Spain: case report and literature review of feline subcutaneous dirofilariosis in Europe. Vet Res Commun 2024; 48:1195-1201. [PMID: 37919542 PMCID: PMC10998798 DOI: 10.1007/s11259-023-10250-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
Dirofilaria repens is an endemic mosquito-borne pathogen widely spread throughout Europe and other non-Europen regions. Infection by D. repens has been reported in dogs, although little is known about the occurrence and epidemiological features of this nematode in cats. During the surgical procedure within the framework of a trap, neuter and release sterilization program, two female filarial nematodes with spontaneous movement were removed from the internal part of the spermatic cord from asymptomatic stray cat in Spain (Grao de Castellón, Castellon de la Plana, province of Spain). Moreover, the presence of microfilariae was detected by using three different methods, including direct blood smear technique, the microhematocrit tube test, and Knott´s modified test. PCR performed from the nematodes extracted from the spermatic cord and from microfilariae in EDTA-blood sample tested both positive for D. repens. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report that demonstrates the presence of D. repens in cats in Spain. In this sense, a review of the current scientific status of feline subcutaneous dirofilariosis in Europe was also performed. Future investigations should analyze the epidemiological role of cats in D. repens infection including the prevalence of infection. Veterinarians working in endemic areas should be aware of this infection in cats and their susceptibility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Villanueva-Saz
- Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, 50013, Spain.
- Department of Animal Pathology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain.
- Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón-IA2 (Universidad de Zaragoza-CITA), Zaragoza, Spain.
| | - María Victoria Martínez
- Department of Animal Pathology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
- Centro Clínico Veterinario Teruel, Teruel, Spain
| | - Sandra Alsina
- Clinica Veterinaria Bitxets, Grao de Castellón, Spain
| | - Antonio Fernández
- Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, 50013, Spain
- Department of Animal Pathology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
- Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón-IA2 (Universidad de Zaragoza-CITA), Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Álex Gómez
- Department of Animal Pathology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Maite Verde
- Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, 50013, Spain
- Department of Animal Pathology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
- Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón-IA2 (Universidad de Zaragoza-CITA), Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Héctor Ruiz
- Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, 50013, Spain
- Department of Animal Pathology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Delia Lacasta
- Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, 50013, Spain
- Department of Animal Pathology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Alaa Aldin Alnassan
- Department of Parasitology, Veterinary medicine laboratory IDEXX, Kornwestheim, Germany
| | - Michele Trotta
- Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, 50013, Spain
| | - Andrés Yzuel
- Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, 50013, Spain
| | - Diana Marteles
- Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, 50013, Spain
- Department of Animal Pathology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
- Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón-IA2 (Universidad de Zaragoza-CITA), Zaragoza, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Mõttus M, Mõtsküla PF, Jokelainen P. Heartworm disease in domestic dogs in Estonia: indication of local circulation of the zoonotic parasite Dirofilaria immitis farther north than previously reported. Parasit Vectors 2024; 17:124. [PMID: 38475885 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-024-06217-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The mosquito-borne zoonotic parasite Dirofilaria immitis continues to spread northwards in Europe. This parasite can cause potentially life-threatening heartworm disease in dogs and pulmonary dirofilariasis in humans and is, therefore, a major health concern in both the veterinary medicine and human medical fields. This is the first report of D. immitis infections and heartworm disease in the Baltic country Estonia. METHODS Data on canine D. immitis infections and heartworm disease were collected from the electronic patient records database of the Small Animal Clinic of Estonian University of Life Sciences, the only university clinic in Estonia. The patient records of dogs with confirmed diagnosis of D. immitis infection or heartworm disease were reviewed and summarised. RESULTS Six dogs had been diagnosed with confirmed D. immitis infection or heartworm disease at the university clinic in 2021-2022. The confirmed diagnoses had been reached following international guidelines, based on a combination of different tests. Molecular confirmation of the parasite species had not been performed. Two of the dogs had been imported while four had no travel history outside of the country. CONCLUSIONS Four of the dogs with a confirmed D. immitis infection or heartworm disease had no history of being imported or travelling outside of the country, indicating autochthonous infections and, consequently, local circulation of the parasite in Estonia. These findings represent the new northernmost autochthonous cases of D. immitis infection and canine heartworm disease reported in the European Union.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maare Mõttus
- Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia.
| | | | - Pikka Jokelainen
- Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
- Infectious Disease Preparedness, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Gabrielli S, Brustenga L, Morganti G, Ciuca L, Barlozzari G, Rigamonti G, Orlandi M, Sforna M, Veronesi F. Genetic variability of Dirofilaria repens isolates from humans and dogs in Italy. Vet Parasitol 2024; 326:110096. [PMID: 38141355 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2023.110096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/25/2023]
Abstract
Dirofilaria repens is a paradigmatic example of an emerging vector-borne pathogen (VBP) in both human and veterinary fields. The spatial expansion and the increasing zoonotic impact of this VBP can be related to several drivers including the genetic structure of parasite populations. Italy is one of the European countries traditionally endemic with the highest incidence of canine and human cases of subcutaneous dirofilariosis. The present study aimed to assess the genetic identity and variability of D. repens isolates of human and canine origin from areas of Central Italy, compared with those isolated from different areas of Europe by sequence analysis of mtDNA genes (i.e., 12 S rDNA and cox1). A total of twenty isolates of D. repens were obtained from biopsies of subcutaneous and ocular cases of dirofilariosis occurring in 10 dogs and 10 humans. The sequence analysis of 12 S rDNA showed that all the sequences obtained clustered as a monophyletic group with a strong nodal support, indicating that all sequence types represented D. repens. The cox1 and the 12 S sequence analysis did not show host-related polymorphisms between human and dog-derived specimens. The sequence analysis of cox1 was performed including 8 additional sequences previously obtained from human and canine isolates in the same areas. Out of the 28 sequences analyzed, 20 were grouped in a haplogroup comprising 15 haplotypes (i.e., DR1, DR2, DR4, DR5, DR7, DR8, DR10-DR18), 2 sequences matched to DR9, reported for the first time in Italy, and 6 showed peculiar polymorphisms that were not previously described. The results obtained have implications for a better understanding of the epidemiology and phylogeography of this emerging vector-borne zoonotic parasite.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Simona Gabrielli
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Leonardo Brustenga
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Giulia Morganti
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Lavinia Ciuca
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naple, Italy
| | - Giulia Barlozzari
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana M. Aleandri, Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Rigamonti
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Margherita Orlandi
- Freelance Veterinarian for MyLav - La Vallonea, Laboratorio di Analisi Veterinarie s.r.l. Passirana di Rho (MI), Italy
| | - Monica Sforna
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy.
| | - Fabrizia Veronesi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Atapattu U, Koehler AV, Huggins LG, Wiethoelter A, Traub RJ, Colella V. Dogs are reservoir hosts of the zoonotic Dirofilaria sp. 'hongkongensis' and potentially of Brugia sp. Sri Lanka genotype in Sri Lanka. One Health 2023; 17:100625. [PMID: 38024272 PMCID: PMC10665175 DOI: 10.1016/j.onehlt.2023.100625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
In 2016, the World Health Organization declared Sri Lanka as having successfully eliminated lymphatic filariasis as a public health concern. However, in recent decades, several infections with subperiodic filarial species suggestive of zoonotic infections have been recorded across the country. The arthropod-borne filarioids Dirofilaria repens, Brugia malayi, Brugia ceylonensis, and Acanthocheilonema reconditum are historically known to be endemic in dogs in Sri Lanka. Despite this, limited information on the prevalence, diversity, and predictors of filarial infections in dogs in the country has resulted in suboptimal control and prevention of these parasites, some of which are known to be zoonotic. To address this, whole blood and metadata were collected and analysed from 423 pet dogs across three geo-climatic zones within Sri Lanka. Blood samples were screened using the Modified Knott's Test (MKT) and PCR followed by Sanger sequencing. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to assess predictors for canine filarial infections. Dirofilaria sp. 'hongkongensis' (Dirofilaria sp. HK) and Brugia sp. Sri Lanka (SL) genotype were identified infecting dogs. The overall prevalence of filarial infection in pet dogs by PCR was 36.9% (95% CI 32.3-41.7%, n = 156), compared to 18.8% (95% CI 15.2-22.9%, n = 79) detected using the MKT. >80% of filarial-positive dogs were infected by Dirofilaria sp. HK, while the remaining dogs were infected by Brugia sp. SL genotype. Increasing age (p < 0.001) and residing in the low-country wet zone (p < 0.001), which includes regions that were endemic for human filariasis in Sri Lanka, were associated with filarial infections in dogs. No clear pathognomonic signs for filarial infection were identified, indicating that dogs act as reservoirs for these potentially zoonotic pathogens. Given the morphological similarity of Dirofilaria HK and Brugia sp. SL microfilariae with those of D. repens and B. malayi, respectively, it is likely that these species have been misidentified in the past. Prevention and control measures of these potentially zoonotic canine filarial infections are highly advocated to safeguard both canine and human health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ushani Atapattu
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Anson V. Koehler
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Lucas G. Huggins
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Anke Wiethoelter
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Rebecca J. Traub
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Vito Colella
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Jensen AL, Krogh AKH, Lundsgaard JFH, Willesen JL, Lyngby JGH, Schrøder AS, Bach MBT, Berg RPKD. Dirofilaria repens in a dog imported to Denmark: A potential for emerging zoonotic disease. Vet Parasitol Reg Stud Reports 2023; 41:100872. [PMID: 37208081 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2023.100872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Dirofilarosis is spreading among dogs and humans in Europe with infections being established in many countries. Here, we describe the first molecular biologically confirmed case of D. repens infection in an imported dog in Denmark and highlight the potential zoonotic aspects from this emerging zoonotic parasite in central and northern Europe as at least one to two generations of Dirofilaria spp. can occur per year in Denmark.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Asger Lundorff Jensen
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Dyrlaegevej 16, Frederiksberg C DK-1870, Denmark.
| | - Anne Kirstine Havnsøe Krogh
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Dyrlaegevej 16, Frederiksberg C DK-1870, Denmark.
| | - Jo Fjeldsted-Holm Lundsgaard
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Dyrlaegevej 16, Frederiksberg C DK-1870, Denmark.
| | - Jakob Lundgren Willesen
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Dyrlaegevej 16, Frederiksberg C DK-1870, Denmark.
| | - Janne Graarup-Hansen Lyngby
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Dyrlaegevej 16, Frederiksberg C DK-1870, Denmark.
| | - Anders Simon Schrøder
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Dyrlaegevej 16, Frederiksberg C DK-1870, Denmark.
| | - Maiken Bayer Thode Bach
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Dyrlaegevej 16, Frederiksberg C DK-1870, Denmark.
| | - Rebecca P K D Berg
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Bacteria, Parasites & Fungi, Infectious Disease Preparedness, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Napoli E, De Benedetto G, Ciuca L, Bosco A, Lia RP, Veneziano V, Bezerra Santos MA, Otranto D, Rinaldi L, Brianti E. New distribution patterns of Dirofilaria immitis in Italy. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1162403. [PMID: 37215465 PMCID: PMC10193386 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1162403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent decades, the number of autochthonous cases and foci of Dirofilaria immitis in dogs from southern regions has increased considerably, suggesting that the distribution of the species is not limited to northern Italian regions. This epidemiological picture emerges from case reports or studies in specific locations where outbreaks of heartworm disease have occasionally been reported together with the presence of mosquito vectors. To obtain a more comprehensive picture of the current distribution of D. immitis in southern Italy, a multicenter cross-sectional survey of canine filariasis was conducted. Owned and sheltered dogs (n = 1,987) were included in the survey regardless their breed, attitude and/or sex. All included dogs were older than 1 year and had no history of chemoprophylactic treatment against filarioses. A blood sample was collected from enrolled dogs and screened by modified Knott's test and, when positive, tested using D. immitis specific ELISA rapid test (SNAP 4DX, IDEXX). The overall microfilaremia prevalence was 17% (n = 338) being single-species infection (92.6%) more common that mixed (7.4%). Remarkably, D. immitis was the most frequent species detected with an overall prevalence of 11.4% (n = 227), followed by Dirofilaria repens (n = 74; 3.7%), and Acanthocheilonema reconditum (n = 12; 0.6%). Sheltered dogs were significantly more infected by D. immitis, as well as mongrel dogs and animals housed in rural areas. Data here reported indicate that D. immitis is largely present in southern Italy, raising awareness about the necessity of proper screening and chemoprophylactic treatments in exposed animals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ettore Napoli
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | | | - Lavinia Ciuca
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Napoli, Napoli, Italy
| | - Antonio Bosco
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Napoli, Napoli, Italy
| | | | - Vincenzo Veneziano
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Napoli, Napoli, Italy
| | | | - Domenico Otranto
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
- Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan, Iran
| | - Laura Rinaldi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Emanuele Brianti
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Dario d'Ovidio, Domenico Santoro. Zoonotic Dermatoses of Exotic Companion Mammals. Vet Clin North Am Exot Anim Pract 2023; 26:511-523. [PMID: 36965883 DOI: 10.1016/j.cvex.2023.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/27/2023]
Abstract
Integumentary disorders caused by zoonotic agents are very common in exotic companion mammals. This article provides an understanding of the main zoonotic dermatoses including parasitic, fungal, bacterial, and viral diseases to provide the most updated information on their epidemiology, diagnosis, reported clinical signs, and therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Domenico Santoro
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, 2015 Southwest 16th Avenue, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Guimarães FDR, Barros LA, Saddi TM, Cardoso JR, Vasconcelos VS, Ramos DGDS. Parasitism of Dirofilaria incrassata Molin, 1858 in coatis (Nasua nasua). Vet Parasitol Reg Stud Reports 2023; 39:100842. [PMID: 36878627 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2023.100842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
Abstract
Populations of the coati, Nasua nasua, like the populations of other wild animals, are regulated by several biotic or abiotic factors. For example, parasites act as a biotic factor affecting the dynamics and density of coati populations. The parasitic nematodes of coatis include Dirofilaria species, such as Dirofilaria immitis, Dirofilaria repens, and Dirofilaria incrassata. Considering that there are few records on parasitism by D. incrassata, including information on the life cycle or location in the host body, this study aimed to investigate the infection of N. nasua by D. incrassata in midwestern Brazil. Thus, two coatis (males and adults) from the Cerrado of Goiás, which died (cause unknown) at the Wild Animal Screening Center/IBAMA in the municipality of Goiânia, Goiás, Midwestern of Brazil, were dissected and all helminths found were collected, identified following specific keys and quantified. A total of 85 specimens of D. incrassata were collected, with a mean parasitic intensity of 42.5 and a parasitic amplitude ranging from 40 to 45, measuring 41-93 mm in length and 0.23-0.45 mm in width. All helminths were adults and were distributed in the superficial and deep fascia (at different levels) from the neck to the hind limb. Most helminths were tangled, with some encased in a connective tissue film. Most reported human heartworm cases refer to subcutaneous or ocular heartworm infection, mainly caused by D. repens, although other species of heartworm may be associated. D. incrassata was not reported as zoonotic agent, diferently of other Dirofilaria species associated with wild animals and with zoonotic potential in the Americas. This study reiterates N. nasua as the definitive host for D. incrassata and the subcutaneous tissue as the site of choice for this helminth in the adult form. In addition, it reports new body regions where the parasite occurs. This study is the first to document the occurrence of D. incrassata infestation in the State of Goiás, Brazil.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Luciano Antunes Barros
- Department of Veterinary Collective Health and Public Health, Fluminense Federal University, Niterói, RJ, Brazil
| | - Thelma Michella Saddi
- Pro-Rectorate of Culture, Extension and Experience, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Cuiabá, MT, Brazil
| | | | - Victor Silva Vasconcelos
- Graduate Program in Health and Sustainable Animal Production, Federal University of Acre, Rio Branco, AC, Brazil
| | - Dirceu Guilherme de Souza Ramos
- Graduate Program of Animal Bioscience, Academic Unit of Agricultural Sciences, Federal University of Jataí, Jataí, GO, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Rymgayłło-Jankowska B, Ziaja-Sołtys M, Flis B, Bogucka-Kocka A, Żarnowski T. Subcutaneous Dirofilariosis of the Eyelid Brought to Poland from the Endemic Territory of Ukraine. Pathogens 2023; 12:pathogens12020196. [PMID: 36839467 PMCID: PMC9966818 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12020196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
We present the case of a 60-year-old man who was diagnosed with a subcutaneous nodule on the upper eyelid of his left eye. The patient reported multiple mosquito bites during numerous work trips to Ukraine. Histopathological examination of the nodule isolated during surgery suggested Dirofilaria repens infestation. The infection was brought to Poland from the territory of Ukraine. Ophthalmologists must be aware of uncommon presentations of parasitic infestations when they consider infections of the ocular adnexa.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Beata Rymgayłło-Jankowska
- Department of Diagnostic and Microsurgery of Glaucoma, Medical University of Lublin, Chmielna 1 Street, 20-079 Lublin, Poland
| | - Marta Ziaja-Sołtys
- Department of Biology with Genetics, Medical University of Lublin, Witolda Chodźki 4A Street, 20-093 Lublin, Poland
- Correspondence:
| | - Beata Flis
- Clinic of General and Children’s Ophthalmology, Medical University of Lublin, Chmielna 1 Street, 20-079 Lublin, Poland
| | - Anna Bogucka-Kocka
- Department of Biology with Genetics, Medical University of Lublin, Witolda Chodźki 4A Street, 20-093 Lublin, Poland
| | - Tomasz Żarnowski
- Department of Diagnostic and Microsurgery of Glaucoma, Medical University of Lublin, Chmielna 1 Street, 20-079 Lublin, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Saengsawang P, Desquesnes M, Yangtara S, Chalermwong P, Thongtip N, Jittapalapong S, Inpankaew T. Molecular detection of Loxodontofilaria spp. in Asian elephants (Elephas maximus) from elephant training camps in Thailand. Comp Immunol Microbiol Infect Dis 2023; 92:101910. [PMID: 36427455 DOI: 10.1016/j.cimid.2022.101910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Filarial infection is an important disease in human and animal medicine. Several filarial worms are of importance, especially nematodes in the Onchocercidae. The Asian elephant (Elephas maximus) is an endangered animal and is very important from several socio-economic and ecological aspects in Thailand. Various parasites can be found in elephants; however, data related to filarial infections in elephants is limited. The objective of this study was to detect filaria in the blood of Asian elephants in Thailand, based on a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique. Blood samples were collected from 208 Asian elephants and detected for filaria using PCR, targeting the region of the internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2), the cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (cox1), and the RNA polymerase II large subunit (rbp1). In total, 4.33% (9 out of 208) of the sampled elephants had Loxodontofilaria spp. DNA with 100% query coverage. In addition, the obtained cox1 and rbp1 sequences matched with Loxodontofilaria sp., Onchocerca sp., and Dirofilaria sp. There were no identified risk factors (sex, age, location, and packed cell volume) related to Loxodontofilaria infection in elephants. The analyses of the phylogeny of ITS2 sequences demonstrated that the Loxodotofilaria-positive sequences were closely related to Onchocerca dewittei japonica and Onchocerca dewittei dewittei with 100% query coverage. Notably, the concatenated phylogenetic trees of ITS2 and the cox1 and rbp1 genes were closely similar to Loxodontofilaria sp. To describe in detail the genomic DNA of Loxodontofilaria spp., other genes should be additionally studied using a more discriminatory technique, such as DNA barcoding or whole genome sequencing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Phirabhat Saengsawang
- Akkhraratchakumari Veterinary College, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80161, Thailand; One Health Research Center, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80160, Thailand
| | - Marc Desquesnes
- InterTryp, Univ Montpellier, CIRAD, IRD, Montpellier, France; Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire de Toulouse (ENVT), Toulouse, France
| | - Sarawut Yangtara
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Bangkok 10900, Thailand
| | | | - Nikorn Thongtip
- Department of Large Animal and Wildlife Clinical Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Nakhon Pathom 73140, Thailand
| | | | - Tawin Inpankaew
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Bangkok 10900, Thailand.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Estimated specific antibody-based true sero-prevalences of canine filariosis in dogs in Central Europe and the UK. Parasitol Res 2022; 121:3671-3680. [PMID: 36260253 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-022-07695-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Dirofilariosis is a vector-borne disease mainly caused by Dirofilaria immitis and Dirofilaria repens. In contrast to the known endemicity of dirofilariosis in southern and south-eastern Europe, information on the distribution of D. repens in Central-Europe is fragmentary. We tested 8877 serum samples from dogs from Austria, Denmark, Germany, Italy, Lithuania, Poland, Switzerland and the UK using an ELISA detecting filarial-specific antibodies, hypothesising higher occurrence of D. repens. Based on two overlapping frequency distributions, presumed negative samples had a mean optical density (OD) value of 0.097, representing 97.45% of all samples. Presumed positive samples, representing 2.55% of all sera, had a mean OD value of 0.287. Test prevalence based on the calculated cut-off was 3.51% for all sera (4.36% for Austria, 1.94% for Denmark, 1.39% for Germany, 3.37% for Italy, 6.90% for Lithuania, 6.99% for Poland, 0.77% for Switzerland and 0.0% for the UK, respectively). The bimodal distribution, representing overlapping distributions of OD values from positive and negative dogs, enabled the assignment of a probability of true infection status to each dog. Mean probabilities of true infection status across groups, based on the postal codes of origin, allowed us to estimate and map true prevalences. For all countries, except the UK, the true prevalence was lower than the test prevalence. The large number of serum samples and the use of a non-gold standard analytical method allowed us to create a more realistic picture of the distribution of D. repens in Central Europe and the UK.
Collapse
|
13
|
Human Dirofilariasis Caused by Dirofilaria repens in Sri Lanka from 1962 to 2020. Acta Parasitol 2022; 67:628-639. [PMID: 35380404 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-022-00543-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Sri Lanka has reported the highest prevalence of human dirofilariasis cases in Asia. Thus far, Dirofilaria repens is the only reported Dirofilaria species that affect humans, dogs, and cats in Sri Lanka. Therefore, this systematic review was carried out to analyse the studies performed on dirofilariasis in Sri Lanka. METHODS Peer-reviewed articles were searched on dirofilariasis published on Google Scholar, PubMed, Cochrane, and ResearchGate from January to March 2021. Articles were selected using inclusion and exclusion criteria. Three reviewers assessed the studies and extracted data independently to minimize the risk of bias. Extracted data were compiled, and then the results were compared and discussed in this systematic review. RESULTS Twenty-five studies performed in Sri Lanka were analysed, and high prevalence areas, frequent clinical presentations, diagnostic methods, reservoir hosts, and treatment were identified. More than 173 cases of human dirofilariasis caused by D. repens were reported from 1962 to 2020 in 20 districts among 25 investigated. The highest number of cases (n = 80) was recorded during 2010-2012 period. Canine and feline dirofilariasis are reported countrywide, and a large number of potential mosquito breeding sites could be seen in Sri Lanka. CONCLUSIONS The number of reported cases of human dirofilariasis has been varied from 1962 to 2020. The highest number of cases has reported in 2010-2012, and then the number of cases has dropped. This may be due to underreporting. Thus, awareness of Dirofilaria repens infection in humans, control measures in endemic areas and further research on dirofilariasis in other districts of Sri Lanka are crucial.
Collapse
|
14
|
Penezić A, Kuručki M, Bogdanović N, Pantelić I, Bugarski-Stanojević V, Ćirović D. Heartworm Disease in Jackals: Unusual Location of Dirofilaria immitis. Acta Parasitol 2022; 67:1412-1415. [PMID: 35587305 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-022-00567-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The knowledge of heartworm disease in free ranging wild canid populations is limited. As it is very difficult to monitor this disease in live animals, sporadic findings are mostly obtained by examining culled individuals of game species. METHODS As a part of a broader study on jackal (Canis aureus) ecology in Serbia, the necropsy of legally hunted animals was performed in 2020. RESULTS Two cases of heartworm infection with unusually located adult heartworms were diagnosed. The first case is an adult female jackal harvested in the vicinity of the capital city of Belgrade. Three adult specimens of Dirofilaria immitis were found in the right atrium of the heart, and nine adult specimens were located at an atypical site, in the vena cava caudalis. Very similar, the second case was in an adult female jackal harvested in the vicinity of Bački Monoštor. In this case, six adult specimens of D. immitis were found in the right atrium of the heart and six more adult specimens in the vena cava caudalis. CONCLUSION Although this nematode generally resides in the pulmonary arteries and the right ventricle of the heart, rare findings in other large blood vessels can occur. To the best of our knowledge, these are the first and only two confirmed cases of adult D. immitis found in vena cava caudalis in jackals in Europe.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Penezić
- Faculty of Biology, University of Belgrade, Studentski trg 16, Belgrade, Serbia.
| | - Milica Kuručki
- Faculty of Biology, University of Belgrade, Studentski trg 16, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Neda Bogdanović
- Faculty of Biology, University of Belgrade, Studentski trg 16, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Ilija Pantelić
- Faculty of Biology, University of Belgrade, Studentski trg 16, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Vanja Bugarski-Stanojević
- Institute for Biological Research, "Siniša Stanković", National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Bulevar Despota Stefana 142, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Duško Ćirović
- Faculty of Biology, University of Belgrade, Studentski trg 16, Belgrade, Serbia
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Dasanayake R, Balendran T, Atapattu D, Iddawela D. A study on canine dirofilariasis in selected areas of Sri Lanka. BMC Res Notes 2022; 15:137. [PMID: 35421998 PMCID: PMC9009037 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-022-06024-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Canine dirofilariasis is a mosquito borne zoonotic filarial parasitic disease caused by Dirofilaria species. In Sri Lanka, human dirofilariasis is endemic and well documented. Even though canine dirofilariasis is an established infection among dog populations in Sri Lanka, the prevalence and risk factors were not documented in Kanthale divisional secretariat, Eastern Province of Sri Lanka. Therefore, the main objective of this study is to determine the prevalence of dirofilariasis and to identify the exposure-related risk factors in dogs using an interviewer administered questionnaire in Kanthale divisional secretariat. Results Out of 162 blood samples collected from dogs, 47.5% (n = 77/162) were positive for the presence of microfilariae by direct smear. Of 162 samples 58.6% (n = 95/162) were molecularly identified as D. repens. Species-specific primer pair DIR3/DIR4 that amplified 5S rRNA was used. The current study observed a significant association between mongrels and canine dirofilariasis (p = 0.049), where 61.3% (n = 95) out of 155 mongrels showed PCR positivity. This study showed no significant association between the occurrence of dirofilariasis and the age, sex, rearing method, presence or absence of skin rash, and stray or domestic dogs. Dirofilaria immitis was not identified in direct smear test and PCR. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13104-022-06024-0.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Randima Dasanayake
- Animal Quarantine Office, Bandaranayake International Airport, Katunayake, Sri Lanka
| | - Thivya Balendran
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
| | - Dhilma Atapattu
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
| | - Devika Iddawela
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Jurankova J, Senkyrikova Mitkova B, Novotna M, Hofmannova L, Cervena B, Bowman DD, Modry D. Further data on the distribution of Dirofilaria spp. in the Czech Republic in dogs. Folia Parasitol (Praha) 2022; 69. [PMID: 35481541 DOI: 10.14411/fp.2022.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Based on previously published data, the Czech Republic is regarded an endemic country of the onchocercid nematodes Dirofilaria immitis (Leidy, 1856) and Dirofilaria repens Railliet et Henry, 1911. Nevertheless, while cases of D. repens are commonly reported from dogs in South Moravia, no recent records of D. immitis are available. Therefore, the present study was performed to clarify the occurrence of both species of Dirofilaria Railliet et Henry, 1910. Blood samples of 551 dogs sampled during 2015 and 2016 were analysed microscopically for presence of microfilariae and blood sera were examined by IDEXX SNAP® 4Dx® test (IDEXX, USA). DNA from blood of microscopically positive dogs was extracted and PCR protocol amplifying fragment of cytochrome c oxidase I (COI) gene was performed; PCR products were then sequenced. All dogs from the Bohemian part of the Czech Republic were negative. The prevalence of D. repens in the Moravian region was 5.7 % (27/476). BLAST analyses of obtained sequences confirmed the presence of D. repens (99-100% identical to KX265049). All sampled animals showed a negative result for D. immitis antigen in IDEXX SNAP® 4Dx® test. Our study confirmed the previously reported occurrence of D. repens in South Moravia and revealed its spreading from the epicentre to the north and west. PCR with subsequent sequencing together with negative results for D. immitis antigen in IDEXX SNAP® 4Dx® test revealed only D. repens infection. A previously published autochthonous infection of dogs with D. immitis in South Moravia was not confirmed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jana Jurankova
- Department of Pathology and Parasitology, University of Veterinary Sciences, Brno, Czech Republic
| | | | - Marcela Novotna
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Lada Hofmannova
- Department of Pathology and Parasitology, University of Veterinary Sciences, Brno, Czech Republic.,Department of Pathology and Parasitology, State Veterinary Institute Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Barbora Cervena
- Department of Pathology and Parasitology, University of Veterinary Sciences, Brno, Czech Republic.,Czech Academy of Sciences, Institute of Vertebrate Biology, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Dwight D Bowman
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - David Modry
- Department of Pathology and Parasitology, University of Veterinary Sciences, Brno, Czech Republic.,Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic.,Department of Botany and Zoology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic.,Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources/CINeZ, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Czech Republic
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Figuerêdo Duarte Moraes M, de Souza Pollo A, Lux Hoppe EG. Filarids (Spirurida: Onchocercidae) in wild carnivores and domestic dogs from the Brazilian Atlantic forest. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2022; 16:e0010213. [PMID: 35259155 PMCID: PMC8903299 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0010213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Onchocercidae nematodes are heteroxenous parasites with worldwide distribution, and some of the species associated to animals may present zoonotic potential. Climatic changes and anthropic influences on the environment may result in vectors’ proliferation, facilitating the spillover to humans and/or non-typical animal hosts. The Iguaçu National Park (PARNA Iguaçu), one of the most important Brazilian natural remanescents of Atlantic rainforest, is strongly affected by human activities such as tourism and agriculture. The complexity of this area is especially characterized by the close nexus between the rich wildlife, humans, and domestic animals, especially domestic dogs. Based on this, this research aimed to diagnose the Onchocercidae nematodes in wild carnivores and domestic dogs in the PARNA Iguaçu and the surrounding areas. For this, we collected 162 samples of seven species of wild carnivores and 225 samples of domestic dogs. The presence of microfilariae in the blood samples was diagnosed by the modified Knott’s test and molecular screening, and the specific identification was based on sequencing of the myoHC and hsp70 genes. Microfilariae were detected only in ring-tailed coatis, in which we found five species: Mansonella sp. 1, Mansonela sp. 2, Onchocercidade gen. sp. 1, Onchocercidade gen. sp. 2, and Dirofilaria immitis. The morphological analysis supported the molecular findings. The domestic dogs were parasitized by Acanthocheilonema reconditum, representing a new locality record for this species. Phylogenetic analysis showed high genetic similarity among the four undetermined species and Mansonella spp., Brugia spp., and Wuchereria bancrofti. The presence of D. immitis in ring-tailed coatis may be result of spillover from dogs, even though the parasite was not diagnosed in the sampled dogs. The presence of several undetermined Onchocercidae species indicates the necessity of continuous investigations on wild and domestic animals from Neotropical area, especially considering the growing anthropic influence on forest remnants. Filarids are vector-borne Onchocercidae nematodes widely distributed around the world, related to several hosts, both wild and domestic, in different Biomes, including human-related species. In consequence to deforestation, environmental degradation, and climate changes, there has been an expansion in the distribution of vector-borne diseases around the world, such as those caused by filarids, in endemic tropical areas and even in temperate regions where they did not used to occur before. Thus, epidemiology and molecular genetic diversity studies of these filarial parasites are of great importance for three main reasons: zoonotic potential of many known species of filarids; the lack of data about the species inhabiting neotropical regions and the current worldwide deforestation and consequent habitat loss scenario, which favors the emergence or re-emergence of diseases resulting from the infection of domestic animals and humans by parasites that used to have as reservoirs only wild animals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marcela Figuerêdo Duarte Moraes
- São Paulo State University–Unesp, Agrarian and Veterinarian Sciences School (FCAV), Department of Pathology, Reproduction, and One Health, Jaboticabal, Brazil
| | - Andressa de Souza Pollo
- São Paulo State University–Unesp, Agrarian and Veterinarian Sciences School (FCAV), Department of Pathology, Reproduction, and One Health, Jaboticabal, Brazil
| | - Estevam Guilherme Lux Hoppe
- São Paulo State University–Unesp, Agrarian and Veterinarian Sciences School (FCAV), Department of Pathology, Reproduction, and One Health, Jaboticabal, Brazil
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Momčilović S, Gabrielli S, Đenić N, Živković N, Stevanović G, Krstić M, Ranđelović M, Tasić-Otašević S. New cases of human dirofilariosis on the Balkan Peninsula - "Masked intruders" uncovered by a surgeon. Parasitol Int 2021; 86:102482. [PMID: 34673233 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2021.102482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Dirofilaria spp. nematodes are accidental parasites of humans causing mild to serious, superficial or visceral infections. Superficial dirofilariosis is rather common in Europe and is typically manifested as subcutaneous form. Herein we report 46 new cases of human dirofilariosis (19 patients with subcutaneous, 18 patients with ocular, 4 patients wih genital, 2 patients with submucosal, 2 patients with pulmonary and 1 patient with intramuscular form of infection) that were recorded from the beginning of 2015 to May 2021 on the Balkan Peninsula with a goal to update the prevalence of this parasitosis and point out potential problems in diagnosis and treatment. Besides, given the high possibility of misinterpretation as tumor, our second aim was to encourage the inclusion of this pathogen in the differential diagnosis of subcutaneous nodules. Although quite common forms, subcutaneous and ocular dirofilariosis can be very often misdiagnosed in clinical practice due to the absence of specific clinical manifestations. Therefore, raising awareness of clinicians about this zoonosis is needed as well as closer collaboration between physicians and veterinarians.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Momčilović
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Clinic, Clinical Center Niš, Blvd Zorana Djindjica 48, 18000 Niš, Serbia; Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Niš, Blvd Zorana Djindjica 81, 18000 Niš, Serbia.
| | - Simona Gabrielli
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Piazza le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Nebojša Đenić
- Department of Surgical Diseases, Military Hospital Niš, Blvd Zorana Djindjica bb, 18 000 Niš, Serbia
| | - Nataša Živković
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Military Hospital Niš, Blvd Zorana Djindjica bb, 18 000 Niš, Serbia
| | - Goran Stevanović
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Clinic, Clinical Center Niš, Blvd Zorana Djindjica 48, 18000 Niš, Serbia; Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Niš, Blvd Zorana Djindjica 81, 18000 Niš, Serbia
| | - Miljan Krstić
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Niš, Blvd Zorana Djindjica 81, 18000 Niš, Serbia
| | - Marina Ranđelović
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Niš, Blvd Zorana Djindjica 81, 18000 Niš, Serbia; Center of Microbiology and Parasitology, Public Health Institute Niš, Blvd Zorana Djindjica 81, 18000 Niš, Serbia
| | - Suzana Tasić-Otašević
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Niš, Blvd Zorana Djindjica 81, 18000 Niš, Serbia; Center of Microbiology and Parasitology, Public Health Institute Niš, Blvd Zorana Djindjica 81, 18000 Niš, Serbia
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Abd-Ellatieff HA, Bazh EK, Hussin SM, Yamamoto I, Yanai T, AbouRawash ARA. Onchocerca flexuosa. sp. (Nematoda: Filarioidea) in Japanese Wild Sika Deer (Cervus nippon): Pathological and molecular identification. J Parasit Dis 2021; 46:354-365. [DOI: 10.1007/s12639-021-01453-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
|
20
|
Simón F, Diosdado A, Siles-Lucas M, Kartashev V, González-Miguel J. Human dirofilariosis in the 21st century: A scoping review of clinical cases reported in the literature. Transbound Emerg Dis 2021; 69:2424-2439. [PMID: 34197050 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.14210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Revised: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Human dirofilariosis is a clinical entity caused by infection with nematode species of the genus Dirofilaria. The traditional picture depicts the disease as a sporadic event associated with the presence of a single immature worm causing a nodular lesion. With the aim to reassess this paradigm, establishing a more accurate picture of the disease and homogenize criteria, a scoping review was conducted by searching, screening and analysing published clinical cases of human dirofilariosis worldwide during the 21st century. After extracting data from 305 publications containing 576 case reports, results showed that human dirofilariosis is currently caused by five Dirofilaria species (mainly D. repens). Maturation was not uncommon, since 42.95% of the parasites recovered were described as mature worms, most of them females, 26.42% of which contained micofilariae in the uterus. Moreover, six microfilaremic cases have been described. The predominant clinical manifestation was the presence of a worm encapsulated within a nodule, but there is a considerable variety of accompanying symptoms depending on anatomical location and type of dirofilariosis. Parasites/nodules were found in 71 different anatomical locations, being the traditional nomenclature of human dirofilariosis unable to properly cover this complex situation. Delay in seeking medical assistance (patient perception) and the frequency of wrong clinical suspicions (doctor knowledge), strongly influenced clinical management. The initial suspicion in cases of subcutaneous and pulmonary dirofilariosis is predominantly a tumour, while in the ocular dirofilariosis a parasite (but not directly Dirofilaria) is mostly suspected. Surgery is usually applied, regardless of the use of non-invasive techniques during preoperative management and although its use is still limited, molecular approach is the most accurate technique to establish a species-level diagnosis. Accurate epidemiological, parasitological and clinical information while handling and reporting human clinical cases is a need for physicians and researchers to improve and standardize the clinical management of human dirofilariosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Simón
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Alicia Diosdado
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Mar Siles-Lucas
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Institute of Natural Resources and Agrobiology of Salamanca (IRNASA-CSIC), Salamanca, Spain
| | - Vladimir Kartashev
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Rostov State Medical University, Rostov-na-Donu, Russia
| | - Javier González-Miguel
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Institute of Natural Resources and Agrobiology of Salamanca (IRNASA-CSIC), Salamanca, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Idoudi S, Youssef M, Soua Y, Achour A, Babba H, Zili J. Subcutaneous dirofilariasis in a Tunisian patient. Indian J Dermatol Venereol Leprol 2021; 87:390-392. [PMID: 33943066 DOI: 10.25259/ijdvl_995_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2019] [Accepted: 08/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Safa Idoudi
- Department of Dermatology, Fattouma Bourguiba University Hospital, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Monia Youssef
- Department of Dermatology, Fattouma Bourguiba University Hospital, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Yosra Soua
- Department of Dermatology, Fattouma Bourguiba University Hospital, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Asma Achour
- Department of Radiology Fattouma Bourguiba University Hospital, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Hammouda Babba
- Department of Parasitology, Fattouma Bourguiba University Hospital, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Jameleddine Zili
- Department of Dermatology, Fattouma Bourguiba University Hospital, Monastir, Tunisia
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Raele DA, Pugliese N, LaBella G, Calvario A, Scarasciulli M, Vasco I, La Salandra G, Cafiero MA. Case Report: Molecular Detection of Dirofilaria repens in an Italian Patient after a Stay in Tanzania. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2021; 104:2042-2045. [PMID: 33939637 PMCID: PMC8176467 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.20-1360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 01/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
A 35-year-old man was admitted to a hospital in the south of Italy because of a periocular nodule and subpalpebral edema. The patient reported having been stayed in Tanzania five months before. Hematologic parameters were within the normality range, the Acanthocheilonema viteae ELISA did not detect significant levels of antifilarial IgG, and no further symptoms were described. The surgical inspection of the nodule led to the isolation of two filarioid parasites, identified as Dirofilaria repens by scanning electron microscope (SEM), and then by molecular assays. Knott’s test did not reveal microfilaremia, whereas loop-mediated isothermal amplification and PCR detected D. repens DNA. The patient was treated with doxycycline, and he was found no more positive at the follow-up.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Donato Antonio Raele
- 1Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Puglia e della Basilicata, Foggia, Italy
| | - Nicola Pugliese
- 2Dipartimento d Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Bari, Valenzano, Italy
| | - Gianfranco LaBella
- 1Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Puglia e della Basilicata, Foggia, Italy
| | - Agata Calvario
- 3Laboratorio di Virologia U.O.C. Microbiologia e Virologia AOU Policlinico, Bari, Italy
| | - Maria Scarasciulli
- 4Laboratorio di Virologia U.O.C. Microbiologia e Virologia, Dipartimento Interdisciplinare di Medicina, Università degli Studi di Bari, Valenzano, Italy
| | - Ilaria Vasco
- 1Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Puglia e della Basilicata, Foggia, Italy
| | - Giovanna La Salandra
- 1Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Puglia e della Basilicata, Foggia, Italy
| | - Maria Assunta Cafiero
- 1Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Puglia e della Basilicata, Foggia, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Riebenbauer K, Weber PB, Walochnik J, Karlhofer F, Winkler S, Dorfer S, Auer H, Valencak J, Laimer M, Handisurya A. Human dirofilariosis in Austria: the past, the present, the future. Parasit Vectors 2021; 14:227. [PMID: 33926526 PMCID: PMC8082911 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-021-04696-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2020] [Accepted: 03/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Dirofilariosis is a vector-borne parasitosis caused by filarial nematodes of the genus Dirofilaria. In humans, who represent accidental hosts, dirofilariosis is mostly caused by Dirofilaria repens and Dirofilaria immitis. In Austria, the first reported case occurred in 1978. Since then, several (case) reports have been published. Methods A systematic and retrospective review of collected published cases and new, unpublished confirmed cases of human dirofilariosis occurring in Austria was performed. A nematode was extracted from the eyelid of a previously unreported case and subsequently characterized histologically and using molecular biology techniques. Results Data on a total of 39 cases of human dirofilariosis in Austria occurring between 1978 and 2020 are summarized. Over the past four decades the incidence has markedly increased, in particular after 1998. Of the 39 patients, men and women were equally affected, and the mean age was 47.1 years. The area most frequently affected was the head (38.5% of cases). Confined ocular involvement was observed in 23.1% of cases, and nematodes were isolated from the neck/trunk, extremities and the genito-inguinal area in 25.6, 15.4 and 15.4% of patients, respectively. Microfilariae were detected in two cases. Of the 39 patients, only 73.9% tested positive for anti-filarial antibodies and 56.3% for eosinophilia, despite successful isolation of a nematode; consequently, these measures did not represent reliable markers for dirofilariosis. Most patients had a travel history to countries endemic for Dirofilaria species. One patient who had not traveled abroad represented the only autochthonous case recorded to date. Dirofilaria repens was the predominant species, identified in 89.7% of cases. In the newly reported case of subcutaneous dirofilariosis, a live non-gravid Dirofilaria repens adult female of 12 cm length was isolated from the eyelid of the patient, and a video of the extraction is provided. Conclusions The incidence of human dirofilariosis cases has increased strikingly over the last four decades in Austria. More cases can be expected in the foreseeable future due to changes in human behavior and (travel) activities as well as climate changes and the associated alterations in the availability of the natural reservoir, the vectors and the intrinsic characteristics of the parasite. ![]()
Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13071-021-04696-4.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Riebenbauer
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Philipp B Weber
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Julia Walochnik
- Molecular Parasitology, Institute of Specific Prophylaxis and Tropical Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Franz Karlhofer
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Stefan Winkler
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Department of Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Sonja Dorfer
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Herbert Auer
- Molecular Parasitology, Institute of Specific Prophylaxis and Tropical Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Julia Valencak
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Martin Laimer
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Alessandra Handisurya
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Deak G, Ionică AM, Szasz I, Taulescu M, Mihalca AD. A case of inguinal hernia associated with atypical Dirofilaria repens infection in a dog. Parasit Vectors 2021; 14:125. [PMID: 33637128 PMCID: PMC7912512 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-021-04635-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dirofilaria repens is a filarioid nematode transmitted by mosquitoes. Adult D. repens are typically localized in the subcutaneous tissue of the host, but other, atypical localizations have also been reported. There have been several reports of clinical cases involving an association of parasites and hernias in both animals and humans. However, it is unclear if parasitic infection can act as a triggering factor in the development of hernias. METHODS A 12-year-old dog was referred to a private veterinarian clinic in Satu Mare, northwestern Romania due to the presence of a swelling in the lateral side of the penis (inguinal area). The dog underwent hernia repair surgery during which four long nematodes were detected in the peritoneal serosa of the inguinal hernial sac. One female specimen was subjected to genomic DNA extraction to confirm species identification, based on amplification and sequencing of a 670-bp fragment of the cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (cox1) gene. Treatment with a single dose of imidacloprid 10% + moxidectin 2.5% (Advocate, Bayer AG) was administered. RESULTS The nematodes were morphologically identified as adult D. repens, and the BLAST analyses revealed a 100% nucleotide similarity to a D. repens sequence isolated from a human case in Czech Republic. CONCLUSIONS We report a case of an atypical localization of D. repens in the peritoneal cavity of a naturally infected pet dog with inguinal hernia and discuss the associations between hernia and parasitic infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Georgiana Deak
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Calea Mănăştur 3-5, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
| | - Angela Monica Ionică
- Molecular Biology and Veterinary Parasitology Unit (CDS 9), "Regele Mihai I al României" Life Science Institute, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Calea Mănăştur 3-5, 400372, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Izabela Szasz
- SC Sabados Vet SRL, Arinului 4, 440186, Satu-Mare, Romania
| | - Marian Taulescu
- Department of Pathology, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Calea Mănăştur 3-5, 400372, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Andrei Daniel Mihalca
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Calea Mănăştur 3-5, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Schäfer I, Kohn B, Volkmann M, Müller E. Retrospective evaluation of vector-borne pathogens in cats living in Germany (2012-2020). Parasit Vectors 2021; 14:123. [PMID: 33632312 PMCID: PMC7905428 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-021-04628-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 02/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Blood-feeding arthropods can transmit parasitic, bacterial, or viral pathogens to domestic animals and wildlife. Vector-borne infections are gaining significance because of increasing travel and import of pets from abroad as well as the changing climate in Europe. The main objective of this study was to assess the percentage of cats with positive test results for selected vector-borne pathogens in Germany and explore any possible association of such results with time spent abroad. Methods This retrospective study included test results from cats included in the “Feline Travel Profile” established by the LABOKLIN laboratory at the request of veterinarians in Germany between April 2012 and March 2020. This diagnostic panel includes the direct detection of Hepatozoon spp. and Dirofilaria spp. via PCR as well as indirect detection assays (IFAT) for Ehrlichia spp. and Leishmania spp. The panel was expanded to include an IFAT for Rickettsia spp. from July 2015 onwards. Results A total of 624 cats were tested using the “Feline Travel Profile.” Serum for indirect detection assays was available for all 624 cats; EDTA samples for direct detection methods were available from 618 cats. Positive test results were as follows: Ehrlichia spp. IFAT 73 out of 624 (12%), Leishmania spp. IFAT 22 out of 624 (4%), Hepatozoon spp. PCR 53 out of 618 (9%), Dirofilaria spp. PCR 1 out of 618 cats (0.2%), and Rickettsia spp. IFAT 52 out of 467 cats (11%) tested from July 2015 onwards. Three cats had positive test results for more than one pathogen before 2015. After testing for Rickettsia spp. was included in 2015, 19 cats had positive test results for more than one pathogen (Rickettsia spp. were involved in 14 out of these 19 cats). Conclusions At least one pathogen could be detected in 175 out of 624 cats (28%) via indirect and/or direct detection methods. Four percent had positive test results for more than one pathogen. These data emphasize the importance of considering the above-mentioned vector-borne infections as potential differential diagnoses in clinically symptomatic cats. ![]()
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ingo Schäfer
- LABOKLIN GmbH and Co. KG, Bad Kissingen, Germany. .,Clinic for Small Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Barbara Kohn
- Clinic for Small Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Maria Volkmann
- Institute of Veterinary Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Gabrielli S, Mangano V, Furzi F, Oliva A, Vita S, Poscia R, Fazii P, Di Paolo J, Marocco R, Mastroianni CM, Bruschi F, Mattiucci S. Molecular Identification of New Cases of Human Dirofilariosis ( Dirofilaria repens) in Italy. Pathogens 2021; 10:251. [PMID: 33672411 PMCID: PMC7926647 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10020251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2021] [Revised: 02/20/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Dirofilariosis is a vector-borne parasitic disease mainly in domestic and wild carnivores caused by Dirofilaria (Noctiella) repens, which is endemic in many countries of the Old World, and D. immitis, which has a worldwide distribution. In recent years, an increase in the number of human cases has been reported, suggesting that dirofilariosis is an emergent zoonosis. Here, we describe further cases (N = 8), observed in Central Italy during the years 2018-2019. (2) Molecular diagnosis was performed on: (i) live worms extracted from ocular conjunctiva, cheek, and calf muscle; (ii) histological sections of surgically removed nodules from parenchymal lung, coccyx, and breast. (3) Sequence analysis (650-bp) of the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit I gene (mtDNA cox1) showed a match of 100% with the sequences of D. repens previously deposited in GenBank. ELISA test to detect IgG against filarial antigens was performed on four patients' sera and resulted positive in two patients who showed ocular and subcutaneous dirofilariosis, respectively. Microfilariae have been never detected in the peripheral blood of the patients. (4) The occurrence of N = 8 new cases of human D. repens-infections observed in a two-year period suggests an increased circulation of the parasite in Italy. Therefore, dirofilariosis should be included in differential diagnosis in patients presenting subcutaneous and/or pulmonary nodules. Molecular diagnosis of the etiological agents is fundamental. Specific serological diagnosis needs to be improved in future research work.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Simona Gabrielli
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Roma, Italy; (F.F.); (A.O.); (C.M.M.); (S.M.)
- UOS Parasitology, AOU Policlinico Umberto I, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Valentina Mangano
- Department of Translational Research, School of Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
- Unit of Microbiology, Pisa University Hospital, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Federica Furzi
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Roma, Italy; (F.F.); (A.O.); (C.M.M.); (S.M.)
| | - Alessandra Oliva
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Roma, Italy; (F.F.); (A.O.); (C.M.M.); (S.M.)
| | - Serena Vita
- INMI IRCCS Lazzaro Spallanzani, 00149 Rome, Italy;
| | - Roberto Poscia
- Clinical Research Department, Direzione Generale AOU Policlinico Umberto I, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy;
| | - Paolo Fazii
- S. Spirito Hospital, Via Fonte Romana, 8, 65124 Pescara, Italy; (P.F.); (J.D.P.)
| | - Josephine Di Paolo
- S. Spirito Hospital, Via Fonte Romana, 8, 65124 Pescara, Italy; (P.F.); (J.D.P.)
| | - Raffaella Marocco
- S. Maria Goretti University Hospital, Via Antonio Canova, 04100 Latina, Italy;
| | - Claudio Maria Mastroianni
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Roma, Italy; (F.F.); (A.O.); (C.M.M.); (S.M.)
| | - Fabrizio Bruschi
- Department of Translational Research, School of Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
- Programma Monitoraggio Parassitosi, AOU Pisana, Via Paradisa 2, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Simonetta Mattiucci
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Roma, Italy; (F.F.); (A.O.); (C.M.M.); (S.M.)
- UOS Parasitology, AOU Policlinico Umberto I, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Zawistowska-Deniziak A, Powązka K, Pękacz M, Basałaj K, Klockiewicz M, Wiśniewski M, Młocicki D. Immunoproteomic Analysis of Dirofilaria repens Microfilariae and Adult Parasite Stages. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10020174. [PMID: 33562513 PMCID: PMC7914743 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10020174] [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: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Dirofilariarepens is a parasitic nematode causing a vector-borne zoonotic infection (dirofilariosis), considered an emerging problem in human and veterinary medicine. Currently, diagnosis is based on the detection of the adult parasite and microfilariae in the host tissues. However, the efficacy of tests relying on microfilariae detection is limited by microfilariae periodic occurrence. Therefore, a new reliable and affordable serological diagnostic method is needed. Better characteristic of the parasite biology and its interaction with host immune system should help to achieve this goal. This study analyzes adult and microfilariae proteomes, and the use of one-dimensional electrophoresis (1-DE) and two-dimensional electrophoresis (2-DE) proteomics, immunoproteomics, and LC-MS/MS mass spectrometry allowed us to identify 316 potentially immunogenic proteins (75 belong to adult stage, 183 to microfilariae, and 58 are common for both). Classified by their ontology, the proteins showed important similarities and differences between both parasite stages. The most frequently identified proteins are structural, metabolic, and heat shock proteins. Additionally, real-time PCR analysis of some immunogenic targets revealed significant differences between microfilariae and adult life stages. We indicated molecules involved in parasite-host interactions and discussed their importance in parasite biology, which may help to reveal potential diagnostic antigens or select drug and vaccine targets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Zawistowska-Deniziak
- Witold Stefański Institute of Parasitology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 00-818 Warsaw, Poland; (K.P.); (M.P.); (K.B.); (D.M.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-22-697-89-66
| | - Katarzyna Powązka
- Witold Stefański Institute of Parasitology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 00-818 Warsaw, Poland; (K.P.); (M.P.); (K.B.); (D.M.)
| | - Mateusz Pękacz
- Witold Stefański Institute of Parasitology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 00-818 Warsaw, Poland; (K.P.); (M.P.); (K.B.); (D.M.)
- Division of Parasitology, Department of Preclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences-SGGW, 02-786 Warsaw, Poland; (M.K.); (M.W.)
| | - Katarzyna Basałaj
- Witold Stefański Institute of Parasitology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 00-818 Warsaw, Poland; (K.P.); (M.P.); (K.B.); (D.M.)
| | - Maciej Klockiewicz
- Division of Parasitology, Department of Preclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences-SGGW, 02-786 Warsaw, Poland; (M.K.); (M.W.)
| | - Marcin Wiśniewski
- Division of Parasitology, Department of Preclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences-SGGW, 02-786 Warsaw, Poland; (M.K.); (M.W.)
| | - Daniel Młocicki
- Witold Stefański Institute of Parasitology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 00-818 Warsaw, Poland; (K.P.); (M.P.); (K.B.); (D.M.)
- Department of General Biology and Parasitology, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-004 Warsaw, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Sobotyk C, Savadelis MD, Verocai GG. Detection and cross-reaction of Dirofilaria repens using a commercial heartworm antigen test kit. Vet Parasitol 2020; 289:109302. [PMID: 33352522 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2020.109302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Revised: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Antigen enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay tests are widely used for the diagnosis of heartworm infection in dogs. While commercially-available heartworm antigen tests have high sensitivity and specificity, false-negative test results can occur in dogs with low worm burdens, female-only infections, or prior to patency. The use of immune complex dissociation (ICD) methods have demonstrated increased sensitivity in the detection of Dirofilaria immitis antigens and the reversal of false-negative antigen results. However, there are concerns pertaining to false-positive antigen results due to infections of other nematode parasites, especially post-ICD. Therefore, this study evaluated the effect of heat-treatment on serum samples of dogs experimentally-infected with Dirofilaria repens during the course of infection, to assess for potential cross-reactivity on heartworm antigen tests. Archived serum samples from three dogs experimentally-infected with D. repens were utilized. All samples were tested for cross-reactivity pre- and post-heat-treatment using the DiroCHEK® Heartworm Antigen test kit throughout infection (day -9 through 404 days post-infection; dpi). All heat-treated samples tested false-positive starting at 164 dpi and continuing through 404 dpi, thereby testing positive prior to patency. No cross-reactivity was observed for any dog at any time point prior to heat-treatment. Our results suggest that the ICD method decreased the specificity of heartworm antigen tests and caused cross-reactivity of serum from dogs experimentally infected with D. repens. In conclusion, heat-treatment of serum in areas co-endemic for D. repens and D. immitis has limited clinical value, and should be used with caution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Sobotyk
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Molly D Savadelis
- Department of Infectious Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Guilherme G Verocai
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA; Department of Infectious Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
El Matri K, Falfoul Y, Elloumi A, Maamouri M, Chebil A, Matri M, Kallel K, El Matri L. Human ocular dirofilariasis masquerading as a malignancy. J Fr Ophtalmol 2020; 43:e365-e368. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jfo.2020.02.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2020] [Accepted: 02/27/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
|
30
|
Deksne G, Jokelainen P, Oborina V, Lassen B, Akota I, Kutanovaite O, Zaleckas L, Cīrule D, Tupīts A, Pimanovs V, Talijunas A, Krūmiņa A. The Zoonotic Parasite Dirofilaria repens Emerged in the Baltic Countries Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania in 2008-2012 and Became Established and Endemic in a Decade. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2020; 21:1-5. [PMID: 32986517 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2020.2651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The zoonotic parasite Dirofilaria repens has spread toward north in Europe, and cases of autochthonous dirofilariosis caused by D. repens have emerged in the Baltic countries Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. We conducted a review on the emergence of dirofilariosis in humans and domestic dogs in these three countries in northeastern Europe. Based on the available literature and reports, the first finding in the Baltic countries was made in Latvia in 2008, followed by the first in Lithuania in 2010, and the first in Estonia in 2012. In all three countries, further findings were reported soon after the first reports. By the end of 2019, autochthonous human D. repens infections had been described from Latvia and Lithuania, and autochthonous canine D. repens infections had been described from all three Baltic countries. While no epidemiological studies estimating prevalence or incidence of the human infections have been published from the three countries, a substantial proportion of investigated dogs have tested positive for microfilariae in studies performed in Latvia and Lithuania. Dirofilariosis is an emerging zoonosis in northern Europe, and the summarized data confirm that D. repens has become established and endemic in the Baltic countries. The available data do not provide a good overview of the situation, and further epidemiological studies are needed. Awareness about the recently emerged zoonotic parasite should be increased among medical doctors, veterinarians, and the general public. Managing this zoonotic infection is a public health challenge that needs to be addressed using a One Health approach. Investigating the spread of D. repens in the Baltic countries could be useful for better preparedness for the anticipated further spread to the Nordic countries.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gunita Deksne
- Institute of Food Safety, Animal Health and Environment "BIOR," Riga, Latvia
- Faculty of Biology, University of Latvia, Riga, Latvia
| | - Pikka Jokelainen
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Bacteria, Parasites & Fungi, Infectious Disease Preparedness, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Valentina Oborina
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Brian Lassen
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ilze Akota
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Riga Stradiņš University, Riga, Latvia
| | | | - Linas Zaleckas
- Vilnius University Hospital Zalgiris Clinics, Vilnius, Lithuania
- Institute of Odontology, Faculty of Medicine, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Dina Cīrule
- Institute of Food Safety, Animal Health and Environment "BIOR," Riga, Latvia
| | - Artjoms Tupīts
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Riga Stradiņš University, Riga, Latvia
| | - Viktors Pimanovs
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Riga Stradiņš University, Riga, Latvia
| | - Andrius Talijunas
- Vilnius University Hospital Zalgiris Clinics, Vilnius, Lithuania
- Institute of Odontology, Faculty of Medicine, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Angelika Krūmiņa
- Institute of Food Safety, Animal Health and Environment "BIOR," Riga, Latvia
- Department of Infectology, Riga Stradiņš University, Riga, Latvia
- Riga East Clinical University Hospital, Riga, Latvia
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
The trends of human dirofilariasis in Croatia: Yesterday - Today - Tomorrow. One Health 2020; 10:100153. [PMID: 33117870 PMCID: PMC7582219 DOI: 10.1016/j.onehlt.2020.100153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2020] [Revised: 06/14/2020] [Accepted: 07/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Human dirofilariasis is a disease historically linked to the Mediterranean area. For the last few decades, however, Dirofilaria nematodes have been spreading, both in terms of prevalence and the geographical expansion in non-endemic areas. Currently, cases of human dirofilariasis are recorded in more than 40 countries worldwide. Croatia is considered an endemic area of the Adriatic basin. Methods In a nationwide investigation, new and previously published cases of human dirofilariasis in Croatia were analyzed. Results Since 1996, 30 cases of human dirofilariosis were reported in Croatia. A total of 14 (46,67%) cases were from the coastal and 16 (53,33%) from continental regions of the country. Based on anatomical location, 13 (43,33%) cases were subcutaneous, 12 (40%) were ocular and five (16,67%) occurred in the reproductive organs. In all 30 cases, Dirofilaria repens was identified as the causative agent. Conclusions An increase in air temperature as climate change, changes in mosquito fauna, high prevalence of D. repens in dogs and limited use of chemoprophylaxis are possible risk factors for Dirofilaria infection in the Croatian population. Since reporting to epidemiological services is not mandatory in this country, the real number of human dirofilariasis cases is probably significantly higher than published. This emphasizes the need for mandatory reporting of human cases and surveillance of Dirofilaria infection in dogs and mosquitoes in Croatia, following the “One Health” concept. A total of 30 cases of human dirofilariasis have been described in Croatia. In all cases, D. repens was identified as the causative agent. Geographical distribution among regions was almost identical. Subcutaneous nodules were not the major clincal presentation of D. repens infections.
Collapse
|
32
|
Pennisi MG, Tasker S, Hartmann K, Belák S, Addie D, Boucraut-Baralon C, Egberink H, Frymus T, Hofmann-Lehmann R, Hosie M, Lloret A, Marsilio F, Thiry E, Truyen U, Möstl K. Dirofilarioses in cats: European guidelines from the ABCD on prevention and management. J Feline Med Surg 2020; 22:442-451. [PMID: 32326862 PMCID: PMC11132531 DOI: 10.1177/1098612x20917601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OVERVIEW Dirofilaria immitis and Dirofilaria repens are the most important filarial worms, causing heartworm disease and subcutaneous dirofilariosis, respectively. D repens is currently considered an emerging zoonotic agent in Europe. LIFE CYCLE AND INFECTION Filarial worms infect mainly dogs, but also cats, ferrets, wild carnivores and humans. The life cycle involves an intermediate mosquito host. Compared with dogs, cats are imperfect hosts for dirofilarial worms. After inoculation, only a low number of L3 larvae develop to the adult stage in a small percentage of cats. Heartworm disease in cats may be associated with severe pulmonary thromboembolism and an eosinophilic inflammatory response in the lungs, potentially leading to sudden death. Otherwise self-cure occurs in most cases after 18-48 months. Subcutaneous dirofilariosis may present as subcutaneous nodules or dermatitis. DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT Diagnosis in cats is more difficult compared with dogs and needs a multistep approach (antigen and antibody tests, as well as diagnostic imaging). Cats with acute heartworm disease require stabilisation within an intensive care unit. Cats with respiratory signs or suggestive radiographic changes should receive prednisolone and follow-up with a similar multistep approach. Adulticidal therapy is not safe in cats. PREVENTION In endemic areas cats should receive year-round chemoprophylaxis from 2 months of age.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Séverine Tasker
- European Advisory Board on Cat Diseases www.abcdcatsvets.org
| | - Katrin Hartmann
- European Advisory Board on Cat Diseases www.abcdcatsvets.org
| | - Sándor Belák
- European Advisory Board on Cat Diseases www.abcdcatsvets.org
| | - Diane Addie
- European Advisory Board on Cat Diseases www.abcdcatsvets.org
| | | | - Herman Egberink
- European Advisory Board on Cat Diseases www.abcdcatsvets.org
| | - Tadeusz Frymus
- European Advisory Board on Cat Diseases www.abcdcatsvets.org
| | | | - Margaret Hosie
- European Advisory Board on Cat Diseases www.abcdcatsvets.org
| | - Albert Lloret
- European Advisory Board on Cat Diseases www.abcdcatsvets.org
| | - Fulvio Marsilio
- European Advisory Board on Cat Diseases www.abcdcatsvets.org
| | - Etienne Thiry
- European Advisory Board on Cat Diseases www.abcdcatsvets.org
| | - Uwe Truyen
- European Advisory Board on Cat Diseases www.abcdcatsvets.org
| | - Karin Möstl
- European Advisory Board on Cat Diseases www.abcdcatsvets.org
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Mendoza-Roldan J, Benelli G, Panarese R, Iatta R, Furlanello T, Beugnet F, Zatelli A, Otranto D. Leishmania infantum and Dirofilaria immitis infections in Italy, 2009-2019: changing distribution patterns. Parasit Vectors 2020; 13:193. [PMID: 32293524 PMCID: PMC7161282 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-020-04063-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2020] [Accepted: 04/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND For long time, canine leishmaniosis (CanL) was considered endemic in the southern, central, and insular regions of Italy, whereas heartworm disease (HW) caused by Dirofilaria immitis was considered endemic in the northern region and in the swampy Po Valley. Following the reports of new foci of both diseases, in this study we update the distribution patterns and occurrence of new foci of CanL and HW discussing the main drivers for the changes in the epidemiology of these two important zoonotic canine vector-borne diseases. METHODS Based on the statistical analyses of serological assays (n = 90,633) on L. infantum exposure and D. immitis infection performed by two reference diagnostic centres in Italy over a ten-year period (2009-2019) irrespective of the anamnesis of dogs. The distribution patterns of both parasites are herein presented along with the occurrence of new foci. RESULTS Results highlighted the changing distribution patterns of L. infantum vs D. immitis infection in Italy. CanL is endemic in some areas of northern regions and HW has endemic foci in central and southern regions and islands. Significant differences in L. infantum exposure and HW infection prevalence among the study macroareas were detected. The overall results of the positive tested samples were 28.2% in southern Italy and islands, 29.6% in central Italy and 21.6% in northern Italy for L. infantum and 2.83% in northern Italy, 7.75% in central Italy and 4.97% in southern Italy and islands for HW. HW positivity significantly varied over years (χ2 = 108.401, df = 10, P < 0.0001), gradually increasing from 0.77% in 2009 to 8.47% in 2016-2017. CONCLUSIONS New potential epidemiological scenarios are discussed according to a range of factors (e.g. environmental modifications, occurrence of competent insect vectors, transportation of infected animals to non-endemic areas, chemoprophylaxis or vector preventative measures), which may affect the current distribution. Overall, the results advocate for epidemiological surveillance programmes, more focussed preventative and control measures even in areas where few or no cases of both diseases have been diagnosed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jairo Mendoza-Roldan
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Giovanni Benelli
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Rossella Panarese
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Roberta Iatta
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Bari, Bari, Italy
| | | | | | - Andrea Zatelli
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Domenico Otranto
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Bari, Bari, Italy.
- Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Canine filarial infections in an area of Central Italy (Tuscany-Latium border) historically free from the disease. VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY- REGIONAL STUDIES AND REPORTS 2020; 20:100404. [PMID: 32448535 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2020.100404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Revised: 03/22/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
This paper reports the presence of various species of filarial nematodes in dogs in an area of central Italy at the border between two regions (Tuscany-Latium), which had previously been free of infection and for which there are no epidemiological data in the literature. Blood and serum samples from a total of 363 adult dogs were collected during in 2016/17 and 2018/19 in the provinces of Grosseto (Tuscany) and Viterbo (Latium). The dogs were of different breeds or mixed breeds, randomly selected, and living in public kennels or privately owned. Of the 363 samples tested, 55 dogs were positive to Knott's test for microfilariae (prevalence 15.1%; 95% confidence interval: 11.5-18.8%). Dirofilaria immitis was found in 25 cases (prevalence 6.9%; 95% CI 4.3-9.5%), D. repens in 27 (7.4%, 95% CI 4.7-10.1%) and Acanthocheilonema reconditum in 3 (0.8%, 95% CI 0.1-1.7%). Out of 55 dogs, only four were infested with both D. immitis and D. repens (1.1%, 95% CI 0.001-2.2%).
Collapse
|
35
|
Haim A, Kitchen M, Auer H, Rettenbacher T, Schmuth M. A case of human Dirofilaria repens infection, causing an asymptomatic subcutaneous nodule. Parasitol Res 2020; 119:1703-1705. [PMID: 32206885 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-020-06655-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2018] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
We present a case of subcutaneous dirofilariasis, a vector-borne zoonotic disease, in a young woman from Austria. The diagnosis was confirmed by ultrasound and histology of the excised subcutaneous nodule. The parasite species was identified as Dirofilaria repens by polymerase chain reaction. We expect to see more cases of human dirofilariasis also due to climate change and associated increase of the spectrum of suitable mosquito vectors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Haim
- Universitätsklinik für Dermatologie, Venerologie und Allergologie. Medizinische Universität Innsbruck, Anichstraße 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Maria Kitchen
- Universitätsklinik für Dermatologie, Venerologie und Allergologie. Medizinische Universität Innsbruck, Anichstraße 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria.
| | - Herbert Auer
- Institut für spezifische Prophylaxe und Tropenmedizin. Medizinische Universität Wien, Kinderspitalsgasse 15, 1090, Wien, Austria
| | - Thomas Rettenbacher
- Universitätsklinik für Dermatologie, Venerologie und Allergologie. Medizinische Universität Innsbruck, Anichstraße 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Matthias Schmuth
- Universitätsklinik für Dermatologie, Venerologie und Allergologie. Medizinische Universität Innsbruck, Anichstraße 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Laidoudi Y, Ringot D, Watier-Grillot S, Davoust B, Mediannikov O. A cardiac and subcutaneous canine dirofilariosis outbreak in a kennel in central France. Parasite 2019; 26:72. [PMID: 31840652 PMCID: PMC6913249 DOI: 10.1051/parasite/2019073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Accepted: 12/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Canine dirofilarioses are nematode infections caused by two species of the genus Dirofilaria: D. immitis and D. repens. We describe here an outbreak of D. immitis and D. repens infection in military working dogs (MWDs) housed in a kennel in the Indre department (centre of France). Out of a total of 17 dogs, 6 (35.2%) tested positive for D. immitis, D. repens or both parasites. Infested dogs were treated and prophylactic measures were implemented for the entire kennel staff. To our knowledge, this is the first documented description of an outbreak of canine cardiopulmonary dirofilariasis in the center of France, unlike in the south of this country, where D. immitis and D. repens dirofilariasis are enzootic. In France, as mosquito vectors expand their territory and new non-native vectors are introduced, it is likely that the distribution area of these two diseases of domestic and wild carnivores will be wider and underestimated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Younes Laidoudi
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, APHM, MEPHI, IHU Méditerranée Infection 13385 Marseille France
- IHU Méditerranée Infection 13385 Marseille France
| | - David Ringot
- French Military Health Service, 33e Veterinary Group 37076 Tours France
| | - Stéphanie Watier-Grillot
- Animal Epidemiology Working Group of the Military Health Service 13014 Marseille France
- French Armed Forces Centre for Epidemiology and Public Health (CESPA) 13014 Marseille France
| | - Bernard Davoust
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, APHM, MEPHI, IHU Méditerranée Infection 13385 Marseille France
- IHU Méditerranée Infection 13385 Marseille France
- Animal Epidemiology Working Group of the Military Health Service 13014 Marseille France
| | - Oleg Mediannikov
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, APHM, MEPHI, IHU Méditerranée Infection 13385 Marseille France
- IHU Méditerranée Infection 13385 Marseille France
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Bardet A, Tasei AM, Naffaa N, Granier G. [Surprise, this was not a cancer?]. Ann Pathol 2019; 40:306-308. [PMID: 31836251 DOI: 10.1016/j.annpat.2019.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2019] [Revised: 11/14/2019] [Accepted: 11/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre Bardet
- Service de pathologie, centre hospitalier Henri-Duffaut, 305, rue Raoul-Follereau, 84000 Avignon, France.
| | - Anne-Marie Tasei
- Service de pathologie, centre hospitalier Henri-Duffaut, 305, rue Raoul-Follereau, 84000 Avignon, France
| | - Nidal Naffaa
- Service de chirurgie thoracique, centre hospitalier Henri-Duffaut, 305, rue Raoul-Follereau, 84000 Avignon, France
| | - Guillaume Granier
- Service de pathologie, centre hospitalier Henri-Duffaut, 305, rue Raoul-Follereau, 84000 Avignon, France
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Tahir D, Davoust B, Parola P. Vector-borne nematode diseases in pets and humans in the Mediterranean Basin: An update. Vet World 2019; 12:1630-1643. [PMID: 31849426 PMCID: PMC6868252 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2019.1630-1643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2019] [Accepted: 09/09/2019] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Vector-borne diseases (VBDs) are among the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in humans and animals. The scale of VBDs is increasing worldwide, including in the Mediterranean Basin, a region exposed to climate changes. Indeed, weather conditions may influence the abundance and distribution of vectors. The vector-borne nematode diseases of dogs and cats, such as dirofilariosis, onchocercosis, thelaziosis, Cercopithifilaria, and Acanthocheilonema infections, are some of these vectorized diseases, several of which are zoonoses. They are all caused by parasitic nematodes transmitted by arthropods, including mosquitoes (Dirofilaria spp.), black flies (Onchocerca lupi), drosophilids (Thelazia callipaeda), ticks (Acanthocheilonema dracunculoides and Cercopithifilaria bainae), and fleas and lice (Acanthocheilonema reconditum). The control and prevention of these infections and diseases require a multidisciplinary approach based on strengthening collaboration between the different actors in the fields of health, research, sociology, economics, governments and citizens, to improve human, animal, and ecosystem health. This is the concept of "one health." The review aimed to provide a general update on the spatial and temporal distribution of vector-borne nematodes diseases affecting companion animals and humans, as well as the vectors involved in the Mediterranean area. Simultaneously, certain epidemiological parameters, diagnosis, treatment, and control of these diseases based on the "one health" concept will also be discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Djamel Tahir
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, AP-HM, SSA, VITROME, Marseille, France.,Institut Hospitalo-Universitaire Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
| | - Bernard Davoust
- Institut Hospitalo-Universitaire Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France.,Microbes Evolution Phylogeny and Infections, Aix Marseille Univ, Institut de Recherche pour le Développement, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille, Institut Hospitalo-Universitaire Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
| | - Philippe Parola
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, AP-HM, SSA, VITROME, Marseille, France.,Institut Hospitalo-Universitaire Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Simonato G, Cassini R, Morelli S, Di Cesare A, La Torre F, Marcer F, Traversa D, Pietrobelli M, Frangipane di Regalbono A. Contamination of Italian parks with canine helminth eggs and health risk perception of the public. Prev Vet Med 2019; 172:104788. [PMID: 31627164 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2019.104788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2019] [Revised: 10/01/2019] [Accepted: 10/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The contamination of public areas by dog faeces is a social behaviour and public health problem. In fact, the most frequently isolated intestinal helminths in dogs are distributed worldwide, and most of them have zoonotic potential (i.e., ascarids and ancylostomatids). The aims of this survey were to evaluate citizen awareness of health risks for animals and humans related to canine faecal pollution and to estimate the presence and prevalence of intestinal helminths in dog faeces collected in green public areas in three municipalities of Italy (Padua, Rome and Teramo). The awareness of citizens about the health risks related to faecal pollution was evaluated using questionnaires submitted to 313 dog owners and 159 non-dog owners in Padua (n = 341) and Rome (n = 131). Most dog owners (85.4%) declared they picked up their dog's faeces every time, and these data were confirmed by operators secretly observing dog owners. Moreover, 84.3% participants were aware of the existence of a municipal regulation concerning the correct management of animals in public areas with no significant differences between dog owners and non-dog owners, whereas Rome citizens were significantly more aware than Padua citizens. Nonetheless, only 10.9% (51/469) of responders knew the health risks related to canine faecal pollution, with no significant differences between dog and non-dog owners. A total of 677 dog stool samples were collected and copromicroscopically analysed. Forty-eight (7.1%) samples were positive for at least one parasite species, with significantly lower prevalence values in Padua (2.2%) than in Rome (11.9%) and Teramo (8.6%). The highest prevalence was detected for Trichuris vulpis (4.4%), followed by Toxocara canis (1.9%); T. vulpis presented significantly lower prevalence in Padua than in the other cities. Other helminths were found with values under 0.5% in the investigated cities. This survey shows that most citizens are unaware of the health risk related to abandoned canine faeces on public soils. Nevertheless, laboratory results suggest a limited risk for dog and human health, but the zoonotic risk due to the high vitality of infective helminths eggs in the soil should always be considered.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Simonato
- Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padua, Viale dell'Università 16, 35020, Legnaro (Padua), Italy.
| | - Rudi Cassini
- Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padua, Viale dell'Università 16, 35020, Legnaro (Padua), Italy.
| | - Simone Morelli
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Località Piano D'Accio, 64100, Teramo, Italy.
| | - Angela Di Cesare
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Località Piano D'Accio, 64100, Teramo, Italy.
| | | | - Federica Marcer
- Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padua, Viale dell'Università 16, 35020, Legnaro (Padua), Italy.
| | - Donato Traversa
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Località Piano D'Accio, 64100, Teramo, Italy.
| | - Mario Pietrobelli
- Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padua, Viale dell'Università 16, 35020, Legnaro (Padua), Italy.
| | - Antonio Frangipane di Regalbono
- Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padua, Viale dell'Università 16, 35020, Legnaro (Padua), Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Momčilović S, Gabrielli S, Golubović M, Smilić T, Krstić M, Đenić S, Ranđelović M, Tasić-Otašević S. Human dirofilariosis of buccal mucosa - First molecularly confirmed case and literature review. Parasitol Int 2019; 73:101960. [PMID: 31442663 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2019.101960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2019] [Revised: 06/03/2019] [Accepted: 07/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
When presented in unusual manner, human dirofilariosis is hard to recognize and often leads to misdiagnosis and unjustified use of various medications. Herein, we report a rare case of Dirofilaria infection localized in buccal mucosa. A 45-year-old male, residing in the Central Serbia, developed striking edema of buccal mucosa followed by leucocytosis, with both neutrophylia and eosinophylia. Thirty days after first symptoms occurred, nodule was formed along the lateral edge of right maxilla. Therefore, patient underwent surgical extirpation and subsequent histopathological analysis of the specimen revealed the presence of a nematode. Based on morphological characteristics of detected parasite, the diagnosis of submucosal Dirofilaria repens-like infection was made. The diagnosis was confirmed, being the first case in the world analyzed by molecular methods. So far, only 13 such cases have been reported worldwide and our paper brings attention to rare form of this zoonosis and updates the data about human dirofilariosis in buccal mucosa.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Momčilović
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Clinic, Clinical Center Niš, Blvd Zorana Djindjica 48, Niš 18000, Serbia; Faculty of Medicine, University of Niš, Blvd Zorana Djindjica 81, Niš 18000, Serbia.
| | - Simona Gabrielli
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Piazza le Aldo Moro 5, Rome 00185, Italy
| | - Milan Golubović
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Niš, Blvd Zorana Djindjica 81, Niš 18000, Serbia
| | - Tanja Smilić
- Center for Radiology, Clinical Center Niš, Blvd Zorana Djindjica 48, Niš 18000, Serbia
| | - Miljan Krstić
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Niš, Blvd Zorana Djindjica 81, Niš 18000, Serbia
| | - Saša Đenić
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Niš, Blvd Zorana Djindjica 81, Niš 18000, Serbia
| | - Marina Ranđelović
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Niš, Blvd Zorana Djindjica 81, Niš 18000, Serbia; Center of Microbiology and Parasitology, Public Health Institute Niš, Blvd Zorana Djindjica 81, Niš 18000, Serbia
| | - Suzana Tasić-Otašević
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Niš, Blvd Zorana Djindjica 81, Niš 18000, Serbia; Center of Microbiology and Parasitology, Public Health Institute Niš, Blvd Zorana Djindjica 81, Niš 18000, Serbia
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Kokkinos P, Dimzas D, Pantchev N, Tamvakis A, Balzer J, Diakou A. Filarial infections in dogs in Cyprus, an apparently heartworm free island. Vet Parasitol Reg Stud Reports 2019; 18:100330. [PMID: 31796181 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2019.100330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2019] [Revised: 08/05/2019] [Accepted: 08/14/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The current study investigated for the first time the occurrence of filarial infections in dogs in Cyprus. Blood samples of dogs from five districts of Cyprus (Lefkosia, Lemessos, Larnaka, Pafos and Ammochostos) were examined by the modified Knott's method and by serology, and the morphological classification of microfilariae was confirmed by molecular methods. A total of 200 dogs, 153 living in shelters and 47 owned dogs, were included in the study. Acanthocheilonema reconditum microfilariae were found in 9 (4.5%) samples and one (0.5%) sample was seropositive for D. immitis. No statistical significance was observed between microfilaraemic samples and the evaluated variables apart from the district (p = .005). The present study showed that dogs in Cyprus can be infected with blood circulating microfilariae and for the first time A. reconditum was reported as autochthonous infection in dogs in the country. No microfilariae of Dirofilaria spp. were detected. However, veterinarians should remain vigilant regarding Dirofilaria infections and should consider preventive protection to the animals, at least in case of travel in enzootic areas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Panagiotis Kokkinos
- General Veterinary Practitioner, MyVet Veterinary Centre, 6035 Larnaka, Cyprus.
| | - Dimitris Dimzas
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece.
| | | | - Androniki Tamvakis
- Laboratory of Ecology and System Dynamics, Department of Marine Sciences, University of the Aegean, 81100 Mytilene, Greece.
| | | | - Anastasia Diakou
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece.
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Mikola N, Oborina V, Jokelainen P. Knowledge About Emerging Zoonotic Vector-Borne Parasites Dirofilaria immitis and Dirofilaria repens in Finland: Questionnaire Survey to Medical Doctors and Veterinarians. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2019; 20:27-32. [PMID: 31407955 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2019.2502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Zoonotic vector-borne parasites Dirofilaria immitis and Dirofilaria repens have been spreading northwards in Europe. Awareness across sectors is a key factor for preparedness to zoonotic emerging diseases. In this study, an online questionnaire was used to survey the knowledge of medical doctors and veterinarians in Finland on whether D. immitis and D. repens can infect humans and dogs, and whether these infections have been detected in Finland. Participants were recruited via two social media discussion groups, and participation was voluntary. The questionnaire was completed by 198 medical doctors and 61 veterinarians in January 2019. Knowing that D. immitis can infect both humans and dogs was indicated by the answers of 7.1% of the medical doctors and 42.6% of the veterinarians-7.6% of the medical doctors and 42.6% of the veterinarians knew D. immitis can infect humans, 9.6% of the medical doctors and 98.4% of the veterinarians knew it can infect dogs. Knowing that D. repens can infect both humans and dogs was indicated by the answers of 3.0% of the medical doctors and 60.7% of the veterinarians-3.0% of the medical doctors and 60.7% of the veterinarians knew D. repens can infect humans; 8.1% of the medical doctors and 88.5% of the veterinarians knew it can infect dogs. Overall, 4.5% of the medical doctors and 59.0% of the veterinarians selected five or more correct "yes" answers. While the results of this survey should be interpreted with caution due to limited number of participants and participation bias, they not only suggest room for improvement but also show presence of cross-sectoral knowledge. Answering "I do not know" was common. Increasing awareness about these emerging zoonotic vector-borne parasites is needed across the sectors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nelly Mikola
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Valentina Oborina
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Pikka Jokelainen
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia.,Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Infectious Disease Preparedness, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
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
|
44
|
A possible relationship between Thromboxane B2 and Leukotriene B4 and the encapsulation of Dirofilaria repens worms in human subcutaneous dirofilariasis. J Helminthol 2019; 94:e67. [PMID: 31339092 DOI: 10.1017/s0022149x19000464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Human subcutaneous dirofilariosis has several clinical presentations. Many cases present as subcutaneous nodules, as a consequence of a local inflammatory reaction that encapsulates and destroys the worms. In addition, there are cases in which migrating worms located in the ocular area remain unencapsulated. In the present work, the levels of two pro-inflammatory eicosanoids, thromboxane B2 (TxB2) and leukotriene B4 (LTB4) are analysed by commercial Enzime-Linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in serum samples from 43 individuals, 28 diagnosed as having subcutaneous dirofilariasis presenting a subcutaneous nodule, five diagnosed as having dirofilariasis, in which the worms remained unencapsulated in the periphery of the eye, and ten healthy individuals living in a non-endemic area, used as controls. The worms were surgically removed, identifying Dirofilaria repens as the causative agent in all cases, by Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). Individuals with nodules showed significantly higher levels of TxB2 and LTB4 than healthy controls, whereas significant differences in LTB4 levels were observed between individuals with unencapsulated worms and healthy controls. It is speculated that the absence of LTB4 may contribute to the fact that worms remain unencapsulated as a part of immune evasion mechanisms.
Collapse
|
45
|
Heym EC, Kampen H, Krone O, Schäfer M, Werner D. Molecular detection of vector-borne pathogens from mosquitoes collected in two zoological gardens in Germany. Parasitol Res 2019; 118:2097-2105. [PMID: 31154526 PMCID: PMC6611737 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-019-06327-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2019] [Accepted: 04/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
In Germany, knowledge of disease agents transmitted by arthropods in zoological gardens is scarce. In the framework of ecological studies, mosquitoes were therefore collected in German zoological gardens and examined for mosquito-borne pathogen DNA and RNA. In total, 3840 mosquitoes were screened for filarial nematodes and three groups of viruses (orthobunyaviruses, flaviviruses, alphaviruses) while 405 mosquitoes were tested for avian malaria parasites. In addition to the filarial nematode species Dirofilaria repens (n = 1) and Setaria tundra (n = 8), Sindbis virus (n = 1) and the haemosporidian genera Haemoproteus (n = 8), Leucocytozoon (n = 10) and Plasmodium (n = 1) were demonstrated. Identified pathogens have the potential to cause disease in zoo and wild animals, but some of them also in humans. Positive mosquitoes were collected most often in July, indicating the highest infection risk during this month. Most of the pathogens were found in mosquito specimens of the Culex pipiens complex, suggesting that its members possibly act as the most important vectors in the surveyed zoos, although the mere demonstration of pathogen DNA/RNA in a homogenised complete mosquito is not finally indicative for a vector role. Outcomes of the study are not only significant for arthropod management in zoological gardens, but also for the general understanding of the occurrence and spread of mosquito-borne disease agents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eva C Heym
- Leibniz Centre for Agricultural Landscape Research, Eberswalder Str. 84, 15374, Muencheberg, Germany.
| | - Helge Kampen
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Greifswald - Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Oliver Krone
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Mandy Schäfer
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Greifswald - Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Doreen Werner
- Leibniz Centre for Agricultural Landscape Research, Eberswalder Str. 84, 15374, Muencheberg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Occurrence of canine and feline extra-intestinal nematodes in key endemic regions of Italy. Acta Trop 2019; 193:227-235. [PMID: 30857861 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2019.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2019] [Revised: 02/22/2019] [Accepted: 03/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Extra-intestinal nematodes of companion animals are of growing concern in veterinary medicine for their pathogenic potential and the current expansion throughout Europe. The present study has evaluated the occurrence of major canine and feline extra-intestinal nematodes in regions of Italy having epidemiological relevance. Associations of various recorded parameters related to the examined animals have been statistically evaluated, along with a comparative analysis with the most recent epidemiological data. Overall, 1055 dogs and 1000 cats were tested. Among extra-intestinal nematodes Angiostrongylus vasorum was the most common in dogs followed by Capillaria aerophila and Dirofilaria spp.; Aelurostrongylus abstrusus was the most recorded parasite in cats, followed by C. aerophila and Troglostrongylus brevior. The statistical analysis revealed that outdoor access is associated with A. vasorum, A. abstrusus and T. brevior infections, that were also more prevalent in animals with cardio-respiratory signs. Moreover, cats aged less than 12 months had more chances to be infected by lungworms. The data herein presented confirm the occurrence and the possible risk of expansion of different extra-intestinal parasitoses of dogs and cats in Italy, underlining the importance of a constant epidemiologic vigilance and of appropriate control methods.
Collapse
|
47
|
Sabūnas V, Radzijevskaja J, Sakalauskas P, Petkevičius S, Karvelienė B, Žiliukienė J, Lipatova I, Paulauskas A. Dirofilaria repens in dogs and humans in Lithuania. Parasit Vectors 2019; 12:177. [PMID: 30999960 PMCID: PMC6472076 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-019-3406-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2018] [Accepted: 03/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Lithuania, the first case of canine subcutaneous dirofilariosis was recorded in 2010. Since then, an increasing number of cases of canine dirofilariosis have been documented in different veterinary clinics throughout the country. Human dirofilariosis was diagnosed in Lithuania for the first time in September 2011. However, to the authors' knowledge, there are no published data on the presence and prevalence of autochthonous dirofilariosis in dogs and humans in the country. The present study provides information about the predominant species and prevalence of Dirofilaria in dogs and describes the cases of human dirofilariosis in Lithuania. It also outlines PCR detection of the bacterial endosymbiont Wolbachia that contributes to the inflammatory features of filarioid infection. RESULTS A total of 2280 blood samples and six adult worms from pet and shelter dogs were collected in the central and eastern regions of Lithuania in 2013-2015. Based on their morphological appearance, morphometric measurements and molecular analysis, all the adult nematodes were identified as Dirofilaria repens. The diagnosis of microfilariae in blood samples was based on blood smear analysis and Knott's test. The PCR and sequence analysis of the ribosomal DNA ITS2 region and cox1 gene confirmed the presence of D. repens. Overall, 61 (2.7%) of the 2280 blood samples were found to be positive for the presence of D. repens. The infection rate of D. repens was significantly higher in shelter dogs (19.0%; 19/100) than in pet dogs (1.9%; 42/2180) (χ2 = 100.039, df = 1, P < 0.0001). Forty-nine DNA samples of D. repens-infected dogs were tested for the presence of the bacterial endosymbiont Wolbachia and, of these, 40 samples (81.6%) were found to be positive. Three ocular and six subcutaneous cases of human dirofilariosis were diagnosed in Lithuania in the period 2011-2018. CONCLUSIONS To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report of autochthonous D. repens infection in dogs and humans in Lithuania. The present data demonstrate that D. repens is the main etiological agent of dirofilariosis in Lithuania. The DNA of the filarioid endosymbiotic bacterium Wolbachia was detected in the vast majority of dogs infected with D. repens.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vytautas Sabūnas
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Vytautas Magnus University, Vileikos str. 8, LT-44404 Kaunas, Lithuania
- Linas Veterinary Clinic, Debreceno str. 5, 94175 Klaipėda, Lithuania
| | - Jana Radzijevskaja
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Vytautas Magnus University, Vileikos str. 8, LT-44404 Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Povilas Sakalauskas
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Vytautas Magnus University, Vileikos str. 8, LT-44404 Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Saulius Petkevičius
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Veterinary Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Tilžės str. 18, 47181 Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Birutė Karvelienė
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Veterinary Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Tilžės str. 18, 47181 Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Jolanta Žiliukienė
- National Public Health Surveillance Laboratory, Žolyno str. 36, 10210 Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Indrė Lipatova
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Vytautas Magnus University, Vileikos str. 8, LT-44404 Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Algimantas Paulauskas
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Vytautas Magnus University, Vileikos str. 8, LT-44404 Kaunas, Lithuania
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Maggi RG, Krämer F. A review on the occurrence of companion vector-borne diseases in pet animals in Latin America. Parasit Vectors 2019; 12:145. [PMID: 30917860 PMCID: PMC6438007 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-019-3407-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2019] [Accepted: 03/21/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Companion vector-borne diseases (CVBDs) are an important threat for pet life, but may also have an impact on human health, due to their often zoonotic character. The importance and awareness of CVBDs continuously increased during the last years. However, information on their occurrence is often limited in several parts of the world, which are often especially affected. Latin America (LATAM), a region with large biodiversity, is one of these regions, where information on CVBDs for pet owners, veterinarians, medical doctors and health workers is often obsolete, limited or non-existent. In the present review, a comprehensive literature search for CVBDs in companion animals (dogs and cats) was performed for several countries in Central America (Belize, Caribbean Islands, Costa Rica, Cuba, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Puerto Rico) as well as in South America (Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana (British Guyana), Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Uruguay, Venezuela) regarding the occurrence of the following parasitic and bacterial diseases: babesiosis, heartworm disease, subcutaneous dirofilariosis, hepatozoonosis, leishmaniosis, trypanosomosis, anaplasmosis, bartonellosis, borreliosis, ehrlichiosis, mycoplasmosis and rickettsiosis. An overview on the specific diseases, followed by a short summary on their occurrence per country is given. Additionally, a tabular listing on positive or non-reported occurrence is presented. None of the countries is completely free from CVBDs. The data presented in the review confirm a wide distribution of the CVBDs in focus in LATAM. This wide occurrence and the fact that most of the CVBDs can have a quite severe clinical outcome and their diagnostic as well as therapeutic options in the region are often difficult to access and to afford, demands a strong call for the prevention of pathogen transmission by the use of ectoparasiticidal and anti-feeding products as well as by performing behavioural changes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo G. Maggi
- Department of Clinical Sciences and the Intracellular Pathogens Research Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC USA
| | - Friederike Krämer
- Institute of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Dirofilaria immitis and D. repens in dog and cat: A questionnaire study in Italy. Vet Parasitol 2019; 267:26-31. [PMID: 30878081 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2019.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2018] [Revised: 01/07/2019] [Accepted: 01/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Dirofilaria immitis and D. repens are vector-borne parasites of dogs and cats, with zoonotic potential, endemic in many parts of Europe, including Italy. Control and prevention of dirofilariosis are essential points to reduce their diffusion in animals and humans and veterinarians are the main subjects involved in this "battle". With the aim to better understand current practice by veterinarians, an online questionnaire on different aspects of D. immitis and D. repens was sent to companion animal veterinary facilities registered with the Italian Veterinary chamber. The overall response rate was 25%. Approximately 47% had diagnosed at least one case of Dirofilaria spp. in dogs in the last year and approximately 6% had diagnosed at least one case of Dirofilaria spp. in cats. Of the 662 facilities surveyed, 83.8% used serology to diagnose heartworm infection. For the diagnosis of D. repens infection in dogs and cats, a high percentage of facilities relied on an external laboratory. Most recommended beginning prevention of canine heartworm disease in April-May. Topical and injectable moxidectin and oral ivermectin were the two most commonly used preventives for D. immitis in dogs. The drug most commonly used for heartworm adulticide treatment in dogs was melarsomine. This study show that veterinary facilities ians working in an endemic area for D. immitis and D. repens are aware of recent developments in adulticide therapy. Results would suggest however that diagnosis is not always carried out according to what is currently recommended by international guidelines and that the timing for starting prevention may not be optimal.
Collapse
|
50
|
Ciuca L, Simòn F, Rinaldi L, Kramer L, Genchi M, Cringoli G, Acatrinei D, Miron L, Morchon R. Seroepidemiological survey of human exposure to Dirofilaria spp. in Romania and Moldova. Acta Trop 2018; 187:169-174. [PMID: 30056075 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2018.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2017] [Revised: 07/16/2018] [Accepted: 07/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The present study aimed to evaluate the extent of Dirofilaria immitis and D. repens exposure in humans from eastern and southern areas of Romania and central Moldova by serological methods. The serological screening was performed on a total of 450 serum samples (187 from Romania and 263 from Moldova). The sera were collected using a convenience sampling with the help of physicians from the hospitals of the study areas. All samples were analysed by a non-commercial ELISA test for the detection of IgG antibodies against adult somatic antigens of D. immitis and D. repens. The results showed a total of 49 (10.9%; 95% CI = 8.3-14.1%) individuals from Romania and Moldova with a positive response to IgG antibodies against both adult somatic antigens of D. immitis and D. repens. Specifically, 48 (10.7%; 95% CI = 8.0-14.0%) patients were positive for IgG-antibodies against adult somatic antigens of D. immitis, one (0.2%; 95% CI = 0.4-1.2%) against D. repens antigens, and four (0.9%; 95% CI = 0.4-3.3%). were positive for antigens of both parasites. At country level, out of 187 samples from Romania, 13 (6.9%; 95% CI = 4.1-11.5%) were positive for anti-D. immitis IgG with high exposure in the southern part of the country (Bucharest). Of the 263 people from Moldova, 36 (13.7%; 95% CI = 10.0-18.4%) were positive for D. immitis antigens from which three (1.1%, 95% CI = 0.4-3.3%) were positive for the antibodies against antigens of both parasites. Only one sample was found positive for anti-D. repens IgG. Positive IgG-ELISA results were confirmed by Western blot analysis. In addition, for further confirmation, a complementary ELISA was performed for anti-WSP IgG antibodies against Wolbachia endosymbionts. Our findings showed a noticeable exposure of humans from Romania and Moldova to Dirofilaria parasites. Serology can be useful for indicating exposure to Dirofilaria spp. in a healthy population in order to obtain useful data on the epidemiological scenario of human dirofilariosis in Eastern Europe.
Collapse
|