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Govendir M, Vogelnest L, Shapiro AJ, Marschner C, Kimble B. Pharmacokinetic profile of oral and subcutaneous administration of paracetamol in the koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) and prediction of its analgesic efficacy. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0300703. [PMID: 38630750 PMCID: PMC11023281 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0300703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
The pharmacokinetic profile of paracetamol in koalas is described when administered orally at 15 mg/kg; followed by the same dose, administered every 12 hours (hrs), repeated five times. After the initial oral administration, the median (range) maximal plasma concentration (Cmax), the time Cmax was reached (Tmax) and elimination half-life (t1/2) were 16.93 μg/mL (13.66 to 20.25 μg/mL); 4 hrs (4 to 8 hrs) and 5.54 hrs (4.66 to 7.67 hrs), respectively. When paracetamol was administered orally at 15 mg/mL every 12 hrs, the trough total plasma concentration range remained comparable to the therapeutic range in humans i.e. 4 to 20 μg/mL that is known to provide some analgesia. However, there is a smaller proportion of free drug (i.e. not bound to plasma proteins; and the active form) available in koala plasma (approximately 40% unbound) compared to human plasma (approximately 80% unbound). Consequently, even when there are similar total drug plasma concentrations in both koala and human plasma, the therapeutic efficacy may be reduced in koalas compared to humans. The initial oral dose and subsequent twice daily doses resulted in no obvious adverse effects in any koala. Haematology, plasma electrolyte and biochemical analyte values remained within their reference ranges eight hrs after the last dose but there was a significant change in alanine transaminase (ALT) levels (an increase), and in total protein (a decrease) (both p = 0.03). A dose of 15 mg/kg was also administered as a subcutaneous injection, diluted 50:50 with saline, to two koalas. As the oral formulation and the subcutaneous administration resulted in comparable absorption, the study focused on the oral profile. Based on these results there is an argument to recommend a slight increase in the oral paracetamol dose for the koala, however further investigation is required to confirm whether repeated administration of a slightly higher dose may be associated with more severe or additional significant changes in haematology, electrolytes or biochemical analytes. However, a preferable recommendation would be to administer this dosage of paracetamol in combination with another analgesic such as tramadol, as a subcutaneous injection, to improve efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merran Govendir
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Larry Vogelnest
- Taronga Conservation Society Australia, Mosman, NSW, Sydney, Australia
| | - Amanda J. Shapiro
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Caroline Marschner
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Benjamin Kimble
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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Lane MR, Lowe A, Vukcevic J, Clark RG, Madani G, Higgins DP, Silver L, Belov K, Hogg CJ, Marsh KJ. Health Assessments of Koalas after Wildfire: A Temporal Comparison of Rehabilitated and Non-Rescued Resident Individuals. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2863. [PMID: 37760263 PMCID: PMC10525633 DOI: 10.3390/ani13182863] [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: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Many koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus) required rehabilitation after the 2019/20 Australian megafires. Little is known about how the post-release health of rehabilitated koalas compares to non-rescued resident koalas. We evaluated health parameters in rehabilitated koalas and resident koalas in burnt and unburnt habitat in southern New South Wales, Australia. Health checks were undertaken within six weeks of fire (rehabilitated group), 5-9 months post-fire and 12-16 months post-fire. Body condition improved significantly over time in rehabilitated koalas, with similar condition between all groups at 12-16 months. Rehabilitated koalas therefore gained body condition at similar rates to koalas who remained and survived in the wild. The prevalence of Chlamydia pecorum was also similar between groups and timepoints, suggesting wildfire and rehabilitation did not exacerbate disease in this population. While there was some variation in measured serum biochemistry and haematology parameters between groups and timepoints, most were within normal reference ranges. Our findings show that koalas were generally healthy at the time of release and when recaptured nine months later. Landscapes in the Monaro region exhibiting a mosaic of burn severity can support koalas, and rehabilitated koala health is not compromised by returning them to burnt habitats 4-6 months post-fire.
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Affiliation(s)
- Murraya R. Lane
- Research School of Biology, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia;
| | - Arianne Lowe
- Stromlo Veterinary Services, P.O. Box 3963, Weston, ACT 2611, Australia;
| | | | - Robert G. Clark
- Research School of Finance, Actuarial Studies and Statistics, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia;
| | - George Madani
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia;
| | - Damien P. Higgins
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia;
| | - Luke Silver
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia; (L.S.); (K.B.); (C.J.H.)
| | - Katherine Belov
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia; (L.S.); (K.B.); (C.J.H.)
| | - Carolyn J. Hogg
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia; (L.S.); (K.B.); (C.J.H.)
| | - Karen J. Marsh
- Research School of Biology, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia;
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Beaman JE, Mulligan C, Moore C, Mitchell D, Narayan E, Burke da Silva K. Resident wild koalas show resilience to large-scale translocation of bushfire-rescued koalas. CONSERVATION PHYSIOLOGY 2023; 11:coac088. [PMID: 36726864 PMCID: PMC9885738 DOI: 10.1093/conphys/coac088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Wildlife translocation is increasingly utilized as a conservation management action, to mitigate the immediate negative effects of habitat loss and fragmentation (e.g. from land clearing or bushfires). Previous research has shown that stress responses can help or hinder survival in translocated wildlife and determine the efficacy of translocation as a conservation action. Yet these translocated animals are only one side of the equation, with translocation also potentially impacting the animals in the recipient population. We measured physiological markers of stress (faecal cortisol metabolite concentrations and neutrophil-lymphocyte ratios) and assessed health condition in a wild koala population one year after a major translocation of bushfire-rescued koalas on Kangaroo Island. We expected to find a high population density at the site (>0.75 koalas per hectare) and that resident koalas would show signs of chronic stress and ill health as a result of territorial conflict over food trees and reproductive opportunities. In contrast, we found that only one-fifth of the population remaining at the site were translocated koalas. The overall population density was also much lower (0.21 koalas per hectare) than anticipated. With no evidence of mass mortality at the site, we suggest that the majority of translocated koalas dispersed away from the site. Our stress marker measurements did not differ between the wild koalas and a sample of captive (non-display) koalas at the nearby Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park and were generally low compared to other studies. Veterinary examinations found that most koalas were in good body condition with very few diagnostic indicators of systemic ill health. Overall, our results suggest that, if there is adequate landscape-scale habitat connectivity and opportunity for dispersal, translocated koalas are likely to disperse from the site of release, with limited impacts on recipient koala populations at translocation release sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julian E Beaman
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Bedford Park, South Australia 5042
| | - Connor Mulligan
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Bedford Park, South Australia 5042
| | - Claire Moore
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Bedford Park, South Australia 5042
| | - Dana Mitchell
- Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park, 4068 Playford Hwy, Duncan, South Australia 5223
- Kangaroo Island Koala & Wildlife Rescue Centre, 4068 Playford Hwy, Duncan, South Australia 5223
| | - Edward Narayan
- School of Agriculture and Food Sciences, The University of Queensland, Lawes, Queensland 4343
| | - Karen Burke da Silva
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Bedford Park, South Australia 5042
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Hashem MA, Kayesh MEH, Maetani F, Goto A, Nagata N, Kasori A, Imanishi T, Tsukiyama-Kohara K. Subtype distribution and expression of the koala retrovirus in the Japanese zoo koala population. INFECTION, GENETICS AND EVOLUTION : JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR EPIDEMIOLOGY AND EVOLUTIONARY GENETICS IN INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2022; 102:105297. [PMID: 35533919 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2022.105297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/01/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
We investigated the proviral copies and RNA expression in koala retrovirus (KoRV)-infected koalas. To ascertain any variation in viral load by institution, age, sex, or body condition score, we quantified KoRV proviral DNA and RNA loads in captive koalas (n = 37) reared in Japanese zoos. All koalas were positive for KoRV genes (pol, LTRs, and env of KoRV-A) in genomic DNA (gDNA), and 91.89% were positive for the pol gene in RNA. In contrast, the distribution rates of KoRV-B, KoRV-C, KoRV-D, and KoRV-F env genes in gDNA were 94.59%, 27.03%, 67.57%, and 54.05%, respectively. A wide inter-individual variation and/or a significant inter-institutional difference in proviral DNA (p < 0.0001) and RNA (p < 0.001) amounts (copies/103 koala β-actin copies) were observed in Awaji Farm England Hill Zoo koalas, which were obtained from southern koala populations, suggesting exogenous incorporation of KoRV in these koalas. Significant (p < 0.05) age differences were noted in KoRV RNA load (p < 0.05) and median total RNA load (p < 0.001), with loads higher in younger koalas (joeys and juveniles). Thus, the current study provides the distribution of KoRV subtypes in Japanese zoo koala populations and identifies several additional risk factors (sex, age, and body condition) associated with KoRV expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Abul Hashem
- Transboundary Animal Diseases Centre, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima, Japan; Department of Animal Hygiene, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima, Japan; Department of Health Chattogram City Corporation, Chattogram 4000, Bangladesh
| | - Mohammad Enamul Hoque Kayesh
- Transboundary Animal Diseases Centre, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima, Japan; Department of Microbiology and Public Health, Patuakhali Science and Technology University, Babuganj, Barishal 8210, Bangladesh
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Kyoko Tsukiyama-Kohara
- Transboundary Animal Diseases Centre, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima, Japan; Department of Animal Hygiene, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima, Japan.
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Chen CJ, Gillett A, Booth R, Kimble B, Govendir M. Pharmacokinetic Profile of Doxycycline in Koala Plasma after Weekly Subcutaneous Injections for the Treatment of Chlamydiosis. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12030250. [PMID: 35158574 PMCID: PMC8833767 DOI: 10.3390/ani12030250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Doxycycline is an antimicrobial used for treating chlamydial infections in various species, including the koala. The dose and route of administration used initially are based on first principles. Therefore, this study investigates the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion of subcutaneous doxycycline injections, and evaluates the suitability of the current dosage regimen for inhibiting chlamydial pathogens. The results suggest that the current doxycycline dosage remained therapeutically effective for up to six days after each dose, with some accumulation over successive doses. All koalas in the study improved clinically and tested negative for chlamydial pathogens post-treatment before being released. This study contributes to determining the optimal dosage of doxycycline to treat chlamydiosis safely and effectively in infected koalas. Abstract Six mature, male koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus), with clinical signs of chlamydiosis, were administered doxycycline as a 5 mg/kg subcutaneous injection, once a week for four weeks. Blood was collected at standardised time points (T = 0 to 672 h) to quantify the plasma doxycycline concentrations through high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC). In five koalas, the doxycycline plasma concentration over the first 48 h appeared to have two distinct elimination gradients; therefore, a two-compartmental analysis was undertaken to describe the pharmacokinetic (PK) profile. The average ± SD maximum plasma concentration (Cmax) was 312.30 ± 107.74 ng/mL, while the average time ± SD taken to reach the maximum plasma concentration (Tmax) was 1.68 ± 1.49 h. The mean ± SD half-life of the distribution phase (T1/2 α) and the elimination phase (T1/2 β) were 10.51 ± 7.15 h and 82.93 ± 37.76 h, respectively. The average ± SD percentage of doxycycline binding to koala plasma protein was 83.65 ± 4.03% at three different concentrations, with a mean unbound fraction (fu) of 0.16. Using probability of target attainment modelling, doxycycline plasma concentrations were likely to inhibit 90% of pathogens with the doxycycline minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 8.0–31.0 ng/mL, and the reported doxycycline MIC to inhibit Chlamydia pecorum isolates at the area under the curve/minimum inhibitory concentration (AUC/MIC) target of ≥24. All koalas were confirmed to be negative for Chlamydia pecorum using loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP), from ocular and penile urethra swabs, three weeks after the last doxycycline injection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chien-Jung Chen
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia; (B.K.); (M.G.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Amber Gillett
- Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital, Beerwah, QLD 4519, Australia; (A.G.); (R.B.)
| | - Rosemary Booth
- Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital, Beerwah, QLD 4519, Australia; (A.G.); (R.B.)
| | - Benjamin Kimble
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia; (B.K.); (M.G.)
| | - Merran Govendir
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia; (B.K.); (M.G.)
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Tokonami F, Kimble B, Govendir M. Pharmacokinetic Profile of Fentanyl in the Koala ( Phascolarctos cinereus) after Intravenous Administration, and Absorption via a Transdermal Patch. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11123550. [PMID: 34944325 PMCID: PMC8698108 DOI: 10.3390/ani11123550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2021] [Revised: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Koalas can be injured by cars and bushfires, and be affected by painful infectious diseases. When koalas undergo surgery to repair broken bones, they require analgesia. Fentanyl is a potent opioid that can be administered during surgery to provide analgesia. This study describes the rate of elimination of fentanyl in koalas’ blood when administered as a single intravenous injection and consequently calculates the dose rate to administer a constant rate fentanyl infusion into the koalas’ veins to provide short-term pain control. Fentanyl can also be absorbed via the skin into the circulation when applied as a transdermal patch. Although the data for transdermal fentanyl patch absorption is from two koalas only, the results demonstrate that when a patch is applied, pain control is likely to occur 12 h after application to koalas’ skin. Fentanyl may provide effective pain control to koalas either as an intravenous infusion or as a transdermal patch. Abstract Fentanyl was administered as a single intravenous bolus injection at 5 µg/kg to five koalas and fentanyl plasma concentrations for a minimum of 2 h were quantified by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The median (range) fentanyl elimination half-life and clearance were 0.53 (0.38–0.91) h, and 10.01 (7.03–11.69) L/kg/h, respectively. Assuming an analgesic therapeutic plasma concentration of 0.23 ng/mL (extrapolated from human studies), an intravenous constant infusion rate was estimated at approximately between 1.7 to 2.7 µg/kg/h (using the clearance 95% confidence intervals). A transdermal fentanyl patch was applied to the antebrachium of an additional two koalas for 72 h. Fentanyl plasma concentrations were determined during the patch application and after patch removal at 80 h. The fentanyl plasma concentration was greater than 0.23 ng/mL after 12 to 16 h. While the patch was applied, the maximum fentanyl concentration was approximately 0.7 ng/mL from 32 to 72 h. Fentanyl plasma concentrations increased to 0.89 ng/mL 1 h after the patch was removed, and then decreased to a mean of 0.47 ng/mL at 80 h. The transdermal fentanyl patch is likely to provide some level of analgesia but should be initially co-administered with another faster acting analgesic for the first 12 h.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fumie Tokonami
- Currumbin Wildlife Hospital, Currumbin, Gold Coast 4223, Australia;
| | - Benjamin Kimble
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, Sydney 2006, Australia;
| | - Merran Govendir
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, Sydney 2006, Australia;
- Correspondence:
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7
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Speight N, Gates M, Scriven J, Stephenson T, Woolford L. Symmetric dimethylarginine values in koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus) based on oxalate nephrosis status. Aust Vet J 2020; 98:247-249. [PMID: 32189333 DOI: 10.1111/avj.12935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2019] [Revised: 02/02/2020] [Accepted: 02/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Oxalate nephrosis is a prevalent renal disease in koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus) of the Mount Lofty Ranges population in South Australia. The symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA) assay is widely used in companion animals to diagnose renal disease, particularly in the early stages. This study aimed to determine: (1) reference intervals for SDMA in koalas and (2) SDMA values of koalas with oxalate nephrosis. Blood samples were collected from 41 Mount Lofty Ranges koalas euthanased on welfare grounds. Koalas were necropsied and, based on renal histopathology, were classified as unaffected (n = 22) or affected (n = 19) by oxalate nephrosis. Serum or plasma samples were analysed for creatinine, urea and SDMA and urine samples for urine specific gravity (USG). The reference interval for SDMA in unaffected koalas was 2.4-22.9 μg/dL. In koalas with oxalate nephrosis, SDMA was elevated in 74% of cases above the upper limit of the confidence interval. SDMA was elevated in three affected koalas with normal creatinine values. A positive correlation was found between SDMA and creatinine (R = 0.775, P < 0.001) and SDMA and urea (R = 0.580, P < 0.001) and a negative correlation between SDMA and USG (R = -0.495, P = 0.027). In conclusion, SDMA correlates well with other commonly used tests of renal function in koalas and should be included as part of the standard diagnostic process to increase the accuracy of oxalate nephrosis diagnosis in koalas.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Speight
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Roseworthy Campus, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, 5371, Australia
| | - M Gates
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Roseworthy Campus, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, 5371, Australia
| | - J Scriven
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Roseworthy Campus, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, 5371, Australia
| | - T Stephenson
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Roseworthy Campus, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, 5371, Australia
| | - L Woolford
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Roseworthy Campus, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, 5371, Australia
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Fabijan J, Sarker N, Speight N, Owen H, Meers J, Simmons G, Seddon J, Emes RD, Tarlinton R, Hemmatzadeh F, Woolford L, Trott DJ. Pathological Findings in Koala Retrovirus-positive Koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus) from Northern and Southern Australia. J Comp Pathol 2020; 176:50-66. [PMID: 32359636 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcpa.2020.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2019] [Revised: 01/29/2020] [Accepted: 02/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Koala retrovirus (KoRV) infection shows differences in prevalence and load between northern and southern Australian koala populations; however, the effect of this on diseases such as lymphoma and chlamydial disease is unclear. This study compared clinicopathological findings, haematology and splenic lymphoid area of KoRV-positive koalas from northern (Queensland [Qld], n = 67) and southern (South Australia [SA], n = 92) populations in order to provide further insight into KoRV pathogenesis. Blood was collected for routine haematology and for measurement of KoRV proviral load by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Plasma samples were assessed for KoRV viral load by reverse transcriptase qPCR and conjunctival and cloacal swabs were collected for measurement of the load of Chlamydia pecorum (qPCR). During necropsy examination, spleen was collected for lymphoid area analysis. Lymphoma was morphologically similar between the populations and occurred in koalas with the highest KoRV proviral and viral loads. Severe ocular chlamydial disease was observed in both populations, but urinary tract disease was more severe in Qld, despite similar C. pecorum loads. No associations between KoRV and chlamydial disease severity or load were observed, except in SA where viral load correlated positively with chlamydial disease severity. In both populations, proviral and viral loads correlated positively with lymphocyte and metarubricyte counts and correlated negatively with erythrocyte and neutrophil counts. Splenic lymphoid area was correlated positively with viral load. This study has shown further evidence for KoRV-induced oncogenesis and highlighted that lymphocytes and splenic lymphoid tissue may be key sites for KoRV replication. However, KoRV infection appears to be highly complex and continued investigation is required to fully understand its pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Fabijan
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, South Australia, Australia.
| | - N Sarker
- School of Veterinary Sciences, The University of Queensland, Gatton, Queensland, Australia
| | - N Speight
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, South Australia, Australia
| | - H Owen
- School of Veterinary Sciences, The University of Queensland, Gatton, Queensland, Australia
| | - J Meers
- School of Veterinary Sciences, The University of Queensland, Gatton, Queensland, Australia
| | - G Simmons
- School of Veterinary Sciences, The University of Queensland, Gatton, Queensland, Australia
| | - J Seddon
- School of Veterinary Sciences, The University of Queensland, Gatton, Queensland, Australia
| | - R D Emes
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Leicestershire, UK
| | - R Tarlinton
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Leicestershire, UK
| | - F Hemmatzadeh
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, South Australia, Australia
| | - L Woolford
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, South Australia, Australia
| | - D J Trott
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, South Australia, Australia
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9
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Fabijan J, Speight N, Boardman W, Hemmatzadeh F, Trott DJ, Woolford L. Haematological reference intervals of wild southern Australian koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus). Aust Vet J 2020; 98:207-215. [PMID: 32037511 DOI: 10.1111/avj.12923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2019] [Revised: 11/21/2019] [Accepted: 01/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Current haematology reference intervals (RIs) for koalas were developed in northern Australian koalas, using low numbers and/or individuals of unknown Chlamydia pecorum and koala retrovirus (KoRV) status. This study developed haematological RIs for wild, clinically healthy southern Australian koalas of known C. pecorum and KoRV infection status and investigated the effects of population, age and sex. METHODS Haematological RIs were determined for 138 clinically healthy South Australian koalas (Mount Lofty Ranges [MLR], n = 68; Kangaroo Island, n = 70) examined in April 2016 and February 2017, respectively. C. pecorum and KoRV status were determined by PCR. RESULTS RIs for southern koala haematological parameters were established for all koalas based on the finding that there were limited differences in haematological values in koalas with subclinical C. pecorum or KoRV infections (P > 0.05), except KoRV-infected koalas had a lower haematocrit than noninfected koalas. MLR koalas had significantly lower erythrocyte mass and leucocyte counts than Kangaroo Island koalas. Young koalas had significantly lower haemoglobin, haematocrit and higher mean cellular haemoglobin concentration and lymphocyte counts than adult koalas. MLR male koalas had elevated erythrocyte, leucocyte and neutrophil counts compared with MLR females. CONCLUSION The haematological RIs developed in this study are based on a large number of clinically healthy koalas, where subclinical C. pecorum and KoRV infections had no effect on haematological values and will be a valuable tool during clinical examination and disease investigation by veterinarians and researchers Australia-wide.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Fabijan
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, the University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, South Australia, Australia
| | - N Speight
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, the University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, South Australia, Australia
| | - Wsj Boardman
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, the University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, South Australia, Australia
| | - F Hemmatzadeh
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, the University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, South Australia, Australia
| | - D J Trott
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, the University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, South Australia, Australia
| | - L Woolford
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, the University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, South Australia, Australia
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10
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Phillips CA, Jaensch S, Hayward D. Systemic mastocytosis and probable mast cell leukaemia in a koala (Phascolarctos cinereus). Aust Vet J 2020; 98:96-99. [PMID: 31919836 DOI: 10.1111/avj.12904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2019] [Revised: 11/07/2019] [Accepted: 11/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report of mast cell neoplasia in a koala (Phascolarctos cinereus). CASE REPORT An adult female koala was presented for rapidly deteriorating health and death of a pouch young. Significant weight loss was apparent despite supplemental feeding; the abdomen was distended; and the koala was weak and mentally depressed. Haematology revealed a significant mastocytosis with a concurrent population of atypical mononuclear cells. The koala was euthanised and tissues were collected for histology. Bone marrow, lymph node, lung, stomach and spleen exhibited significant infiltration by mast cells. Atypical round cells consistent with those identified in the peripheral blood were also identified in the marrow. A diagnosis of systemic mastocytosis and probable mast cell leukaemia was made. Immunocytochemical and immunohistochemical staining was not able to further characterise the atypical cell population, and the mast cells exhibited only weak staining with CD117. CONCLUSION The histological diagnosis, in this case, was systemic mastocytosis and myeloproliferative disease of uncertain origin. There was a dominant population of mast cells in the peripheral blood and marrow, and a population of circulating atypical mononuclear cells, appearing similar to mast cell leukaemia-acute myeloid leukaemia in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- C A Phillips
- Wyoming Greencross Vets, 24 Cary Street, Wyoming, New South Wales, 2250, Australia
| | - S Jaensch
- Vetnostics, 60 Waterloo Road, Macquarie Park, New South Wales, 2113, Australia
| | - D Hayward
- Vetnostics, 60 Waterloo Road, Macquarie Park, New South Wales, 2113, Australia
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Gonzalez‐Astudillo V, Knott L, Valenza L, Henning J, Allavena R. Parasitism by
Ophidascaris robertsi
with associated pathology findings in a wild koala (
Phascolarctos cinereus
). VETERINARY RECORD CASE REPORTS 2019. [DOI: 10.1136/vetreccr-2019-000821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Viviana Gonzalez‐Astudillo
- California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory SystemUniversity of California DavisSan BernardinoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Lyn Knott
- School of Veterinary ScienceThe University of QueenslandBrisbaneQueenslandAustralia
| | - Ludovica Valenza
- School of Veterinary ScienceThe University of QueenslandBrisbaneQueenslandAustralia
| | - Joerg Henning
- School of Veterinary ScienceThe University of QueenslandBrisbaneQueenslandAustralia
| | - Rachel Allavena
- School of Veterinary ScienceThe University of QueenslandBrisbaneQueenslandAustralia
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12
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Schmertmann LJ, Stalder K, Hudson D, Martin P, Makara M, Meyer W, Malik R, Krockenberger MB. Cryptococcosis in the koala (Phascolarctos cinereus): pathogenesis and treatment in the context of two atypical cases. Med Mycol 2019. [PMID: 29529308 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myx146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Disseminated cryptococcosis caused by Cryptococcus gattii (molecular type VGI) was diagnosed in an adult free-ranging female koala (Phascolarctos cinereus). Subclinical cryptococcosis was later diagnosed in this koala's joey. In the adult koala, a pathological fracture of the tibia was associated with the bone lysis of marked focal cryptococcal osteomyelitis. Limb-sparing orthopedic intervention, in the setting of disseminated cryptococcosis, was judged to have a poor prognosis, and the adult koala was euthanized. The joey was removed and hand-reared. Serological testing revealed persistent and increasing cryptococcal capsular antigenemia in the absence of clinical signs of disease and it was subsequently treated with oral fluconazole for approximately 16 months, rehabilitated and released into the wild. It was sighted 3 months post-release in a good state of health and again at 18 months post-release but was not recaptured on either occasion. This is the first published report of cryptococcal appendicular osteomyelitis in a koala. It is also the first report of concurrent disease in a dependent juvenile and the successful treatment of subclinical cryptococcosis to full resolution of the cryptococcal antigenemia in a free-ranging koala. This paper provides a discussion of cryptococcal osteomyelitis in animals, host-pathogen-environment interactions and treatment and monitoring protocols for cryptococcosis in koalas. Published reports describing the treatment of cryptococcosis in koalas are also collated and summarised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura J Schmertmann
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Molecular Mycology Research Laboratory, Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, Westmead Clinical School, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,The Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Kathryn Stalder
- Noah's Ark Veterinary Services, Nelson Bay, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Donald Hudson
- Noah's Ark Veterinary Services, Nelson Bay, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Patricia Martin
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Veterinary Pathology Diagnostic Services, B14, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia 2006
| | - Mariano Makara
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Wieland Meyer
- Molecular Mycology Research Laboratory, Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, Westmead Clinical School, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,The Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia.,Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Richard Malik
- Centre for Veterinary Education, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Mark B Krockenberger
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Veterinary Pathology Diagnostic Services, B14, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia 2006.,Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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13
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Budd C, Flanagan C, Gillett A, Hanger J, Loader JJ, Govendir M. Assessment of florfenicol as a possible treatment for chlamydiosis in koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus). Aust Vet J 2017; 95:343-349. [PMID: 28845567 DOI: 10.1111/avj.12617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2016] [Revised: 10/07/2016] [Accepted: 11/08/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Because of limited availability of chloramphenicol to veterinary suppliers, a preliminary study was performed to predict whether an analogue, florfenicol, is an efficacious treatment for chlamydiosis in koalas. METHODS Florfenicol was administered to koalas with naturally occurring chlamydiosis at 20 mg/kg SC (n = 3) and at 5 mg/kg (n = 3) and 10 mg/kg (n = 3) IV. The estimated areas under the plasma concentration versus time curves (AUC) were compared with the minimum inhibitory concentration to inhibit Chlamydia pecorum. Clinical data were also examined from field trials conducted on koalas (n = 19) with naturally occurring chlamydiosis and treated with florfenicol at a range of dosages (5-20 mg/kg SC and 6-15 mg/kg IV). Florfenicol binding to proteins in plasma was also determined. RESULTS Florfenicol was not detectable in plasma 24 h post-administration at 20 mg/kg SC. The estimated AUC0-24 h following administration at 10 mg/kg IV suggests florfenicol might be effective against Chlamydia spp. via this route. Florfenicol binding to plasma proteins was 13.0% (± 0.30 SEM). After treatment with florfenicol in field trials, 5 of 19 koalas (26%) were released without further treatment, 4 with no long-term follow-up; 6 (32%) required additional treatment with chloramphenicol to resolve chlamydiosis; 7 (36%) failed to clinically improve, of which 3 had clinical signs and/or necropsy findings suggestive of antibiotic-related gastrointestinal dysbiosis; another koala died within minutes of florfenicol administered IV at 7 mg/kg. CONCLUSION When administered at dosages tolerable in the field, florfenicol is a problematic treatment for chlamydiosis based on equivocal outcomes and plasma concentrations below those that inhibit the pathogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Budd
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - C Flanagan
- Port Macquarie Koala Hospital, Port Macquarie, New South Wales, Australia
| | - A Gillett
- Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital, Beerwah, Queensland, Australia
| | - J Hanger
- Endeavour Veterinary Ecology, Toorbul, Queensland, Australia
| | - J J Loader
- Endeavour Veterinary Ecology, Toorbul, Queensland, Australia
| | - M Govendir
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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14
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Schultz BK, Palmieri C, Nicolson V, Larkin R, Keeley T, McGowan M, Johnston SD. First report of a spermatic granuloma and varicocele in a marsupial: A Koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) Case Study. Res Vet Sci 2016; 107:30-33. [PMID: 27473971 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2016.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2016] [Revised: 03/24/2016] [Accepted: 05/07/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
This study reports the first documented clinical case of a spermatic granuloma and varicocele in a marsupial. Initial clinical presentation included gross morphological changes in the left scrotal cord, epididymis and testis. Ultrasonography of the scrotum and spermatic cord, and gross and histopathological examination after hemicastration, confirmed the condition as a spermatic granuloma affecting the left caput epididymis, with a varicocele in the left proximal spermatic cord, which was causing azoospermia and infertility. Semen quality and serum testosterone secretion following a GnRH challenge was assessed prior to, and following surgery. After hemi-castration, an increase in androgen secretion to within normal reference ranges for the koala was observed with a subsequent increase in semen production and sperm quality resulting in the sire of a pouch young, 12months later.
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Affiliation(s)
- B K Schultz
- Wildlife Science Unit, School of Agriculture and Food Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton 4343, Australia; School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton 4343, Australia.
| | - C Palmieri
- School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton 4343, Australia
| | | | - R Larkin
- Moggill Koala Hospital, Queensland Department of Environment Heritage, Moggill 4070, Australia
| | - T Keeley
- Wildlife Science Unit, School of Agriculture and Food Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton 4343, Australia
| | - M McGowan
- School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton 4343, Australia
| | - S D Johnston
- Wildlife Science Unit, School of Agriculture and Food Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton 4343, Australia
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15
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Speight KN, Haynes JI, Boardman W, Breed WG, Taggart DA, Rich B, Woolford L. Plasma biochemistry and urinalysis variables of koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus) with and without oxalate nephrosis. Vet Clin Pathol 2014; 43:244-54. [DOI: 10.1111/vcp.12145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- K. Natasha Speight
- Discipline of Anatomy and Pathology; School of Medical Sciences; University of Adelaide; Adelaide SA Australia
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences; University of Adelaide; Roseworthy SA Australia
| | - Julie I. Haynes
- Discipline of Anatomy and Pathology; School of Medical Sciences; University of Adelaide; Adelaide SA Australia
| | - Wayne Boardman
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences; University of Adelaide; Roseworthy SA Australia
| | - William G. Breed
- Discipline of Anatomy and Pathology; School of Medical Sciences; University of Adelaide; Adelaide SA Australia
| | - David A. Taggart
- Discipline of Ecology, Evolution and Landscape Science; School of Earth and Environmental Sciences; University of Adelaide; Adelaide SA Australia
| | - Brian Rich
- Royal Zoological Society of South Australia; Adelaide SA Australia
| | - Lucy Woolford
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences; University of Adelaide; Roseworthy SA Australia
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16
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Cristescu RH, Banks PB, Carrick FN, Frère C. Potential 'ecological traps' of restored landscapes: koalas Phascolarctos cinereus re-occupy a rehabilitated mine site. PLoS One 2013; 8:e80469. [PMID: 24282544 PMCID: PMC3839991 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0080469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2013] [Accepted: 10/03/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
With progressively increasing anthropogenic habitat disturbances, restoration of impacted landscapes is becoming a critical element of biodiversity conservation. Evaluation of success in restoration ecology rarely includes faunal components, usually only encompassing abiotic and floral components of the ecosystems. Even when fauna is explicitly included, it is usually only species presence/absence criteria that are considered. If restoration is to have a positive outcome, however, populations in restored habitats should exhibit comparable survival and reproductive rates to populations found in undisturbed surroundings. If a species recolonises restored areas but later experiences decreased fitness, restored areas could become ecological sinks or traps. We investigated this possibility in a case study of koalas Phascolarctos cinereus occupying rehabilitated mining areas on North Stradbroke Island, Australia. Our holistic approach compared rehabilitated and undisturbed areas on the basis of their vegetation characteristics, of koalas' body condition, roosting trees, diet, as well as predator index. Koalas using rehabilitated areas appeared to be able to access an adequate supply of roosting and fodder trees, were in good condition and had high reproductive output. We did not find any significant differences in predator density between rehabilitated areas and undisturbed surroundings. The results presented in this study showed there was no evidence that the post-mining rehabilitated areas constitute ecological sinks or traps. However, to reach a definitive conclusion as to whether areas rehabilitated post-mining provide at least equivalent habitat to undisturbed locations, additional research could be undertaken to assess foliar nutrient/water/toxin differences and predation risk in rehabilitated areas compared with undisturbed areas. More generally, the evaluation of whether restoration successfully produces a functional ecological community should include criteria on the fitness of faunal populations reoccupying such sites, so as to ensure functioning ecosystems, rather than ecological sinks or traps, are the outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romane H Cristescu
- School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of New South Wales, Kensington NSW, Australia ; Centre for Mined Land Rehabilitation, Sustainable Minerals Institute, The University of Queensland, St Lucia QLD, Australia
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17
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Black LA, Landersdorfer CB, Bulitta JB, Griffith JE, Govendir M. Evaluation of enrofloxacin use in koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus) via population pharmacokinetics and Monte Carlo simulation. J Vet Pharmacol Ther 2013; 37:301-11. [PMID: 24219009 DOI: 10.1111/jvp.12091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2013] [Accepted: 10/08/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Clinically normal koalas (n = 6) received a single dose of intravenous enrofloxacin (10 mg/kg). Serial plasma samples were collected over 24 h, and enrofloxacin concentrations were determined via high-performance liquid chromatography. Population pharmacokinetic modeling was performed in S-ADAPT. The probability of target attainment (PTA) was predicted via Monte Carlo simulations (MCS) using relevant target values (30-300) based on the unbound area under the curve over 24 h divided by the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) (fAUC0-24 /MIC), and published subcutaneous data were incorporated (Griffith et al., 2010). A two-compartment disposition model with allometrically scaled clearances (exponent: 0.75) and volumes of distribution (exponent: 1.0) adequately described the disposition of enrofloxacin. For 5.4 kg koalas (average weight), point estimates for total clearance (SE%) were 2.58 L/h (15%), central volume of distribution 0.249 L (14%), and peripheral volume 2.77 L (20%). MCS using a target fAUC0-24 /MIC of 40 predicted highest treatable MICs of 0.0625 mg/L for intravenous dosing and 0.0313 mg/L for subcutaneous dosing of 10 mg/kg enrofloxacin every 24 h. Thus, the frequently used dosage of 10 mg/kg enrofloxacin every 24 h subcutaneously may be appropriate against gram-positive bacteria with MICs ≤ 0.03 mg/L (PTA > 90%), but appears inadequate against gram-negative bacteria and Chlamydiae in koalas.
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Affiliation(s)
- L A Black
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
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18
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Pharmacokinetics of fluconazole following intravenous and oral administration to koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus
). J Vet Pharmacol Ther 2013; 37:90-8. [DOI: 10.1111/jvp.12072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2013] [Accepted: 07/05/2013] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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19
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Black LA, McLachlan AJ, Griffith JE, Higgins DP, Gillett A, Krockenberger MB, Govendir M. Pharmacokinetics of chloramphenicol following administration of intravenous and subcutaneous chloramphenicol sodium succinate, and subcutaneous chloramphenicol, to koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus). J Vet Pharmacol Ther 2012; 36:478-85. [PMID: 23157306 DOI: 10.1111/jvp.12024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2012] [Accepted: 10/11/2012] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Clinically normal koalas (n = 19) received a single dose of intravenous (i.v.) chloramphenicol sodium succinate (SS) (25 mg/kg; n = 6), subcutaneous (s.c.) chloramphenicol SS (60 mg/kg; n = 7) or s.c. chloramphenicol base (60 mg/kg; n = 6). Serial plasma samples were collected over 24-48 h, and chloramphenicol concentrations were determined using a validated high-performance liquid chromatography assay. The median (range) apparent clearance (CL/F) and elimination half-life (t(1/2)) of chloramphenicol after i.v. chloramphenicol SS administration were 0.52 (0.35-0.99) L/h/kg and 1.13 (0.76-1.40) h, respectively. Although the area under the concentration-time curve was comparable for the two s.c. formulations, the absorption rate-limited disposition of chloramphenicol base resulted in a lower median C(max) (2.52; range 0.75-6.80 μg/mL) and longer median tmax (8.00; range 4.00-12.00 h) than chloramphenicol SS (C(max) 20.37, range 13.88-25.15 μg/mL; t(max) 1.25, range 1.00-2.00 h). When these results were compared with susceptibility data for human Chlamydia isolates, the expected efficacy of the current chloramphenicol dosing regimen used in koalas to treat chlamydiosis remains uncertain and at odds with clinical observations.
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Affiliation(s)
- L A Black
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
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20
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Whisson DA, Holland GJ, Carlyon K. Translocation of overabundant species: Implications for translocated individuals. J Wildl Manage 2012. [DOI: 10.1002/jwmg.401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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21
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Lau Q, Canfield PJ, Higgins DP. Expression and in vitro upregulation of MHCII in koala lymphocytes. Vet Immunol Immunopathol 2012; 147:35-43. [PMID: 22551982 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetimm.2012.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2012] [Revised: 04/06/2012] [Accepted: 04/10/2012] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Understanding and measuring immune activity of the koala (Phascolarctos cinereus), is important to studies of the epidemiology and impact of the widespread chlamydial and koala retroviral (KoRV) infections that occur in this iconic but increasingly threatened species. To explore the interaction of disease and immunity, and to assess the potential for use of class II major histocompatibility complex (MHCII) upregulation as an indicator of lymphocyte activation in in vitro immune assays, we have investigated the expression of MHCII in koala lymphocytes by flow cytometry. MHCII expression was upregulated in mitogen stimulated B lymphocytes in vitro but no such increase was detected in vivo in free-living koalas with active inflammation. In assessing phenotypic baseline data of captive koalas, we have identified that MHCII is expressed predominantly on circulating B lymphocytes (85.7 ± 2.4%) but on very few T lymphocytes (3.4 ± 1.9%), even following activation, and suggest that the latter finding might be compensated by the greater absolute numbers of peripheral blood B lymphocytes in this species relative to many eutherian species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quintin Lau
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, B14 McMaster Building, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia
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22
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Serum protein electrophoresis values for free-ranging and zoo-based koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus). J Zoo Wildl Med 2012; 43:177-80. [PMID: 22448529 DOI: 10.1638/2011-0071.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
In a clinical setting, especially with species of special interest, it is important to use all clinical pathology testing options for general health monitoring and diagnosis. Protein electrophoresis (EPH) has previously been shown to be an important adjunct tool in veterinary medicine. Serum samples from 18 free-ranging and 12 zoo-based koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus) were subject to EPH analysis. Significant differences were found between the two groups for the following values: total protein, albumin, beta globulins, and albumin-globulin ratio (P < 0.05). By using the combined data, the minimum-maximum values for the EPH fractions were as follows: total protein 5.0-7.8 g/dl, albumin 2.8-4.7 g/dl, alpha-1 globulins 0.5-1.1 g/dl, alpha-2 globulins 0.3-0.7 g/dl, beta globulins 0.4-1.0 g/dl, gamma globulins 0.2-1.0 g/dl, and albumin-globulin ratio 1.0-2.1.
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23
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GOVENDIR M, HANGER J, LOADER JJ, KIMBLE B, GRIFFITH JE, BLACK LA, KROCKENBERGER MB, HIGGINS DP. Plasma concentrations of chloramphenicol after subcutaneous administration to koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus) with chlamydiosis. J Vet Pharmacol Ther 2011; 35:147-54. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2885.2011.01307.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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The potential impact of native Australian trypanosome infections on the health of koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus). Parasitology 2011; 138:873-83. [PMID: 21524321 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182011000369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Whole blood collected from koalas admitted to the Australian Zoo Wildlife Hospital (AZWH), Beerwah, QLd, Australia, during late 2006-2009 was tested using trypanosome species-specific 18S rDNA PCRs designed to amplify DNA from Trypanosoma irwini, T. gilletti and T. copemani. Clinical records for each koala sampled were reviewed and age, sex, blood packed cell volume (PCV), body condition, signs of illness, blood loss, trauma, chlamydiosis, bone marrow disease, koala AIDS and hospital admission outcome ('survival'/ 'non-survival') were correlated with PCR results. Overall 73.8% (439/595) of the koalas were infected with at least 1 species of trypanosome. Trypanosoma irwini was detected in 423/595 (71.1%), T. gilletti in 128/595 (21.5%) and T. copemani in 26/595 (4.4%) of koalas. Mixed infections were detected in 125/595 (21%) with co-infections of T. irwini and T. gilletti (101/595, 17%) being most common. There was a statistical association between infection with T. gilletti with lower PCV values and body condition scores in koalas with signs of chlamydiosis, bone marrow disease or koala AIDS. No association between T. gilletti infection and any indicator of health was observed in koalas without signs of concurrent disease. This raises the possibility that T. gilletti may be potentiating other disease syndromes affecting koalas.
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GRIFFITH JE, HIGGINS DP, LI KM, KROCKENBERGER MB, GOVENDIR M. Absorption of enrofloxacin and marbofloxacin after oral and subcutaneous administration in diseased koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus). J Vet Pharmacol Ther 2010; 33:595-604. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2885.2010.01169.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Tarlinton R, Meers J, Hanger J, Young P. Real-time reverse transcriptase PCR for the endogenous koala retrovirus reveals an association between plasma viral load and neoplastic disease in koalas. J Gen Virol 2005; 86:783-787. [PMID: 15722540 DOI: 10.1099/vir.0.80547-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Koala retrovirus (KoRV) is a newly described endogenous retrovirus and is unusual in that inserts comprise a full-length replication competent genome. As koalas are known to suffer from an extremely high incidence of leukaemia/lymphoma, the association between this retrovirus and disease in koalas was examined. Using quantitative real-time reverse transcriptase PCR it was demonstrated that KoRV RNA levels in plasma are significantly increased in animals suffering from leukaemia or lymphoma when compared with healthy animals. Increased levels of KoRV were also seen for animals with clinical chlamydiosis. A significant positive association between viral RNA levels and age was also demonstrated. Real-time PCR demonstrated as much as 5 log variation in KoRV proviral DNA levels in genomic DNA extracted from whole blood from different animals. Taken together these data indicate that KoRV is an active endogenous retrovirus and suggests that it may be causally linked to neoplastic disease in koalas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachael Tarlinton
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Molecular and Microbial Sciences, University of Queensland, St Lucia 4072, Queensland, Australia
| | - Joanne Meers
- School of Veterinary Science, University of Queensland, St Lucia 4072, Queensland, Australia
| | - Jon Hanger
- Dreamworld, Coomera, Queensland, Australia
| | - Paul Young
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Molecular and Microbial Sciences, University of Queensland, St Lucia 4072, Queensland, Australia
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe a case of diabetes mellitus in a koala (Phascolarctos cinereus). DESIGN A case report with controls. PROCEDURES We describe clinical and laboratory findings in a 6-year-old, free-living, female koala presented with traumatic injury and subsequently found to have polydipsia, hyperglycaemia and glucosuria. Over a 5 week period, serum biochemical analyses, haematological examinations, urinalyses, measurement of serum insulin and fructosamine concentrations, necropsy, histopathological examination of a range of tissues and immunohistochemical examination of the pancreas for insulin-containing cells were done. For reference purposes, serum insulin and fructosamine concentrations were determined in four and two healthy koalas, respectively, and three healthy koalas' pancreases were examined histologically and immunohistochemically. RESULTS The koala had persistent hyperglycaemia, hyperlipidaemia, hyponatraemia, hypochloraemia and glucosuria. Serum insulin concentration of the diabetic koala was only marginally smaller than that of healthy koalas, but all concentrations were smaller than reference concentrations in dogs and people. Fructosamine concentration did not allow the diabetic koala to be distinguished from healthy koalas and concentrations of all koala analytes were greater than expected for healthy dogs and people. Histopathological examination revealed extensive degeneration of pancreatic islet cells and fatty infiltration of hepatocytes. Immunoperoxidase staining revealed decreased or absent insulin in the beta calls of the affected koala. CONCLUSION Clinical signs, clinicopathological results and histopathological changes were consistent with diabetes mellitus. The pathogenesis of the condition could not be determined but may have been related to the administration of a parenteral corticosteroid preparation, the stress of capture or tissue damage and inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Hemsley
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy and Pathology, University of Sydney, New South Wales
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Spencer AJ, Canfield PJ. Age-related changes in the haematology of young koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus) up to one year old. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 1994. [DOI: 10.1007/bf00798355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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30
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Affiliation(s)
- A J Spencer
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, University of Sydney, New South Wales
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