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Lappin MR, Fitzgerald R. Pradofloxacin for Treatment of Bartonella henselae in Experimentally Inoculated Cats. Pathogens 2024; 13:336. [PMID: 38668291 PMCID: PMC11054596 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens13040336] [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: 03/01/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/31/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Bartonella henselae is associated with numerous clinical syndromes in people. Cats are the definitive hosts for B. henselae, develop high levels of bacteremia, and are associated with human infections, particularly in the presence of Ctenocephalides felis. Several antibiotic protocols used for the treatment of B. henselae infection in cats have failed to clear bacteremia. The purpose of this study was to assess the safety and efficacy of a high-dose pradofloxacin protocol to eliminate B. henselae bacteremia. Bartonella henselae infection was initiated in 8 cats by intravenous inoculation of infected feline blood and then pradofloxacin was administered at 7.5 mg/kg, PO, twice daily for 28 days, starting 12 weeks after inoculation. Complete blood cell counts were performed prior to pradofloxacin administration and then every 2 weeks for 10 weeks. Bartonella PCR assay was performed prior to pradofloxacin administration and approximately every 2 weeks for 10 weeks and then weekly for 4 weeks. Methylprednisolone acetate (5 mg/kg) was administered by intramuscular injection to all cats on week 10. The cats remained normal and none developed a hematocrit, platelet count, lymphocyte count, or neutrophil count outside of the normal reference ranges. In the one month prior to pradofloxacin administration, all cats were PCR-positive for Bartonella DNA on at least two of four sample dates; after pradofloxacin administration, all cats were negative for B. henselae DNA in blood on all nine sample dates. The protocol appears to be safe and failure to amplify B. henselae DNA from the blood after the administration of pradofloxacin and one dose of methylprednisolone acetate suggests either an antibiotic effect or the organism was cleared spontaneously.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael R. Lappin
- Center for Companion Animal Studies, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
| | - Ronan Fitzgerald
- Elanco Animal Health, Innovation Way, Greenfield, IN 46140, USA;
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Taber R, Pankowski A, Ludwig AL, Jensen M, Magsamen V, Lashnits E. Bartonellosis in Dogs and Cats, an Update. Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract 2022; 52:1163-1192. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cvsm.2022.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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Williams M, Rao S, Braff J, Buch JS, Chandrashekar R, Lappin MR. Associations between presence of Bartonella species deoxyribonucleic acid and complete blood cell count and serum biochemical changes in client-owned cats. J Vet Intern Med 2022; 36:532-540. [PMID: 35132685 PMCID: PMC8965275 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.16376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Infection with Bartonella species is common in cats but reported effects of bacteremia on laboratory variables differ. Objectives Evaluate for associations between Bartonella bacteremia and CBC and serum biochemical changes in sick and healthy cats throughout the United States. Animals A total of 3964 client‐owned cats. Methods Retrospective cohort study using submissions to a commercial laboratory between 2011 and 2017. Serum biochemistry and CBC abnormalities (categorized as above or below reference intervals), age, and location (high‐ or low‐risk state for Ctenocephalides felis) in presumed healthy and sick cats were evaluated for associations with presence of Bartonella spp. DNA, detected by PCR. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed. Results Bartonella spp. DNA was amplified from 127 (3.2%) of 3964 cats; 126 (99.2%) of 127 were from high flea risk states and 121 (95.3%) of 127 were presumed sick. Fever of unknown origin was the most common PCR panel requested. In the multivariable analysis, neutrophilia, decreased ALP activity, clinical status (presumed sick), and young age (≤2 years) each were positively associated whereas neutropenia and hyperproteinemia both were negatively associated with Bartonella spp. bacteremia. Presence of Bartonella spp. DNA had no association with test results for other infectious disease agents. Conclusions and Clinical Importance In both healthy and sick cats, active Bartonella infections had minimal association with clinically relevant laboratory abnormalities. However, based on these results, in areas considered high risk for C. felis, active infection with Bartonella spp. is a reasonable differential diagnosis for cats presented with unexplained fever and neutrophilia, particularly if the cat is young.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maggie Williams
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - Sangeeta Rao
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | | | | | | | - Michael R Lappin
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
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Prevalence of Vector-Borne Pathogens in Reproductive and Non-Reproductive Tissue Samples from Free-Roaming Domestic Cats in the South Atlantic USA. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10091221. [PMID: 34578253 PMCID: PMC8472639 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10091221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Revised: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Reservoir to multiple species of zoonotic pathogens, free-roaming cats (FRCs) interact with domestic and wild animals, vectors, and humans. To assess the potential for feline vector-borne pathogens to be vertically transmitted, this study surveyed ear tip and reproductive tissues of FRCs from two locations in the South Atlantic United States for Anaplasma, Bartonella, Ehrlichia, hemotropic Mycoplasma, and Rickettsia species. We collected ovary (n = 72), uterus (n = 54), testicle (n = 74), and ear tip (n = 73) tissue from 73 cats, and fetal (n = 20) and placental (n = 19) tissue from 11 queens. Pathogen DNA was amplified utilizing qPCR, confirmed by sequencing. Cats were more frequently Bartonella henselae positive on reproductive tissues (19%, 14/73) than ear tip (5%, 4/73; p = 0.02). B. henselae was amplified from fetus (20%, 4/20) and placenta samples (11%, 2/19). Bartonella spp. infection was more common in cats from North Carolina (76%, 26/34) than Virginia (13%, 5/39; p < 0.0001). Fourteen percent (10/73) of both ear tip and reproductive tissues were positive for hemotropic Mycoplasma spp. Anaplasma, Ehrlichia, and Rickettsia spp. DNA was not amplified from any cat/tissue. These findings suggest that B. henselae preferentially infected cats' reproductive tissue and reinforces the importance of investigating the potential for B. henselae vertical transmission or induction of reproductive failure.
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Castel A, Olby NJ, Breitschwerdt EB, Thomas B, Maggi RG, Shelton GD. Co-infection with Bartonella henselae and Sarcocystis sp. in a 6-year-old male neutered domestic longhair cat with progressive multifocal neurological signs. Vet Q 2020; 39:168-173. [PMID: 31822209 PMCID: PMC6913637 DOI: 10.1080/01652176.2019.1697012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Aude Castel
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Natasha J Olby
- The Comparative Medicine Institute, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Edward B Breitschwerdt
- The Comparative Medicine Institute, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA.,The Intracellular Pathogens Research Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Brittany Thomas
- The Intracellular Pathogens Research Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Ricardo G Maggi
- The Intracellular Pathogens Research Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - G Diane Shelton
- The Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
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Lappin MR, Tasker S, Roura X. Role of vector-borne pathogens in the development of fever in cats: 1. Flea-associated diseases. J Feline Med Surg 2020; 22:31-39. [PMID: 31916873 PMCID: PMC11135721 DOI: 10.1177/1098612x19895941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
PRACTICAL RELEVANCE There has been increasing identification of vector-borne pathogens in cats presented to veterinary clinics around the world for evaluation of fever and the associated secondary effects, such as signs of depression and loss of appetite. AIM The aim of this article is to summarize the clinically relevant information concerning fever in cats that is associated with pathogens known or suspected to be vectored by fleas, with an emphasis on presenting clinical abnormalities and optimal diagnostic, treatment and prevention strategies. Fever in cats that is associated with pathogens vectored by ticks or sandflies is discussed in Part 2 of this article series.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael R Lappin
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Colorado State University, 300 West Drake Road, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
| | - Séverine Tasker
- Bristol Veterinary School, University of Bristol, Langford, Bristol BS40 5DU, UK
- The Linnaeus Group, Shirley B90 4BN, UK
| | - Xavier Roura
- Hospital Clínic Veterinari, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra (Barcelona), Spain
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Pereira A, Valente J, Parreira R, Cristovão JM, Azinheira S, Campino L, Maia C. An Unusual Case of Feline Leishmaniosis With Involvement of the Mammary Glands. Top Companion Anim Med 2019; 37:100356. [PMID: 31837752 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcam.2019.100356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2019] [Revised: 07/31/2019] [Accepted: 08/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
We report an unusual case of leishmaniosis with the involvement of mammary glands in an old cat with what seems to be a concurrent regressive feline leukemia virus infection. Leishmania donovani complex parasites were identified for the first time in inflammatory breast fluid during a clinical recurrence manifested about 4 years after the first diagnosis of feline leishmaniosis. Combined treatment with allopurinol and meglumine antimoniate resulted in clinical cure of mammary lesion and a concurrent uveitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- André Pereira
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade Nova de Lisboa (NOVA), Lisbon, Portugal; Medical Parasitology Unit, IHMT, NOVA, Lisbon, Portugal
| | | | - Ricardo Parreira
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade Nova de Lisboa (NOVA), Lisbon, Portugal; Medical Microbiology Unit, IHMT, NOVA, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - José Manuel Cristovão
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade Nova de Lisboa (NOVA), Lisbon, Portugal; Medical Parasitology Unit, IHMT, NOVA, Lisbon, Portugal
| | | | - Lenea Campino
- Medical Parasitology Unit, IHMT, NOVA, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Carla Maia
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade Nova de Lisboa (NOVA), Lisbon, Portugal; Medical Parasitology Unit, IHMT, NOVA, Lisbon, Portugal.
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Silva BTGD, Souza AMD, Campos SDE, Macieira DDB, Lemos ERSD, Favacho ARDM, Almosny NRP. Bartonella henselae and Bartonella clarridgeiae infection, hematological changes and associated factors in domestic cats and dogs from an Atlantic rain forest area, Brazil. Acta Trop 2019; 193:163-168. [PMID: 30825447 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2019.02.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2018] [Revised: 02/25/2019] [Accepted: 02/26/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Cats are considered main reservoir of Bartonella henselae, which is transmitted to other cats especially through Ctenocephalides felis fleas, and to humans through scratching and biting. Serra da Tiririca State Park (PESET) is an Atlantic Forest area that shelters a wide variety of endemic fauna. Recently, the park has been suffering due to irregular housing construction and domestic animal population that interacts with humans and wildlife. Given that surveillance policies for animals are part of the global Strategic Framework for One Health, the aim of this study was to detect Bartonella spp. DNA in cats and dogs, evaluating laboratory changes and associated factors. Blood samples of 124 dogs and 89 cats were collected for hematology and serum chemistry analysis. DNA was extracted and tested by conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) targeting a fragment of the citrate synthase (gltA) gene of Bartonella spp. with specific primers. Positive samples were sequenced to identify species. Bartonella henselae and B. clarridgeiae were detected in 24.7% of cats, being, for our knowledge, the first report of B. clarridgeiae in cats from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. None of the samples obtained from dogs tested positive in the PCR assays. No statistical significance was observed in physical and laboratory exams. We suggest that cats that inhabit PESET can be considered sources of Bartonella sp. for other cats and humans. We highlight that infected cats did not present clinical or laboratory alterations. We alert for the need of care measures, avoiding scratch and bite, particularly in immunocompromised people.
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Abstract
"In North America, with the exceptions of Bartonella henselae and Cytauxzoon felis, feline vector-borne diseases (FVBDs) have been minimally studied in domestic cats. Cats can be infected with many of the same vector-borne pathogens that infect dogs. Nonspecific clinical signs linked to FVBDs and low prevalence of certain vector-borne pathogens contribute to a limited awareness of FVBDs in sick cats. As clinicians become informed about FVBDs and as vector-borne disease diagnostics are routinely applied to evaluate sick cats, we will gain a stronger understanding of vector-borne pathogens in cats. This article focuses on recent findings related to FVBDs."
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Qurollo
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Research Building, Office 464, 1060 William Moore Drive, Raleigh, NC 27606, USA.
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Garden OA, Kidd L, Mexas AM, Chang YM, Jeffery U, Blois SL, Fogle JE, MacNeill AL, Lubas G, Birkenheuer A, Buoncompagni S, Dandrieux JRS, Di Loria A, Fellman CL, Glanemann B, Goggs R, Granick JL, LeVine DN, Sharp CR, Smith-Carr S, Swann JW, Szladovits B. ACVIM consensus statement on the diagnosis of immune-mediated hemolytic anemia in dogs and cats. J Vet Intern Med 2019; 33:313-334. [PMID: 30806491 PMCID: PMC6430921 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.15441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2018] [Accepted: 01/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA) is an important cause of morbidity and mortality in dogs. IMHA also occurs in cats, although less commonly. IMHA is considered secondary when it can be attributed to an underlying disease, and as primary (idiopathic) if no cause is found. Eliminating diseases that cause IMHA may attenuate or stop immune-mediated erythrocyte destruction, and adverse consequences of long-term immunosuppressive treatment can be avoided. Infections, cancer, drugs, vaccines, and inflammatory processes may be underlying causes of IMHA. Evidence for these comorbidities has not been systematically evaluated, rendering evidence-based decisions difficult. We identified and extracted data from studies published in the veterinary literature and developed a novel tool for evaluation of evidence quality, using it to assess study design, diagnostic criteria for IMHA, comorbidities, and causality. Succinct evidence summary statements were written, along with screening recommendations. Statements were refined by conducting 3 iterations of Delphi review with panel and task force members. Commentary was solicited from several professional bodies to maximize clinical applicability before the recommendations were submitted. The resulting document is intended to provide clinical guidelines for diagnosis of, and underlying disease screening for, IMHA in dogs and cats. These should be implemented with consideration of animal, owner, and geographical factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oliver A Garden
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Linda Kidd
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, California
| | - Angela M Mexas
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Midwestern University, Downers Grove, Illinois
| | - Yu-Mei Chang
- Royal Veterinary College, University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Unity Jeffery
- College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas
| | - Shauna L Blois
- Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jonathan E Fogle
- College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina
| | - Amy L MacNeill
- College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado
| | - George Lubas
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Adam Birkenheuer
- College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina
| | - Simona Buoncompagni
- Internal Medicine Service, Central Oklahoma Veterinary Specialists, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - Julien R S Dandrieux
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Antonio Di Loria
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Napoli Federico II, Napoli, Italy
| | - Claire L Fellman
- Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Tufts University, Massachusetts
| | - Barbara Glanemann
- Royal Veterinary College, University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Robert Goggs
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York
| | - Jennifer L Granick
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, Minnesota
| | - Dana N LeVine
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa
| | - Claire R Sharp
- College of Veterinary Medicine, School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Perth, Australia
| | | | - James W Swann
- Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Balazs Szladovits
- Royal Veterinary College, University of London, London, United Kingdom
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Abdullah S, Helps C, Tasker S, Newbury H, Wall R. Pathogens in fleas collected from cats and dogs: distribution and prevalence in the UK. Parasit Vectors 2019; 12:71. [PMID: 30728050 PMCID: PMC6366081 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-019-3326-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2018] [Accepted: 01/29/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Fleas (Siphonaptera) are the most clinically important ectoparasites of dogs and cats worldwide. Rising levels of pet ownership, climate change and globalisation are increasing the importance of a detailed understanding of the endemicity and prevalence of flea-borne pathogens. This requires continued surveillance to detect change. This study reports a large-scale survey of pathogens in fleas collected from client-owned cats and dogs in the UK. Methods Recruited veterinary practices were asked to follow a standardised flea inspection protocol on a randomised selection of cats and dogs brought into the practice in April and June 2018. A total of 326 practices participated and 812 cats and 662 dogs were examined. Fleas were collected, identified to species and pooled flea samples from each host were analysed for the presence of pathogens using PCR and sequence analysis. Results Overall, 28.1% of cats and 14.4% of dogs were flea infested. More than 90% of the fleas on both cats and dogs were cat fleas, Ctenocephalides felis felis. Fleas of the same species from each infested host were pooled. DNA was amplified from 470 of the pooled flea samples using conventional PCR, 66 of which (14% ± 95% CI 3.14%) were positive for at least one pathogen. Fifty-three (11.3% ± 95% CI 2.85%) of the pooled flea DNA samples were positive for Bartonella spp., 35 were from cats and 4 from dogs, the remainder had no host record. Seventeen of the Bartonella spp. samples were found to be Bartonella henselae, 27 were Bartonella clarridgeiae (of two different strains), 4 samples were Bartonella alsatica and one was Bartonella grahamii; 4 samples could not be identified. Fourteen (3% ± 95% CI 1.53%) of the flea DNA samples were found to be positive for Dipylidium caninum, 10 of the D. caninum-infected samples were collected from cats and one from a dog, the other 3 positive flea samples had no host species record. Only 3 flea samples were positive for Mycoplasma haemofelis or Mycoplasma haemocanis; 2 were collected from cats and one had no host species record. Three fleas were positive for both D. caninum and Bartonella spp. One flea was positive for both Bartonella spp. and M. haemofelis or M. haemocanis. Conclusions This study highlights the need for ongoing flea control, particularly given the relatively high prevalence of Bartonella spp., which is of concern for both animal welfare and human health. The study demonstrates the ongoing need to educate pet owners about the effects of both flea infestation and also the pathogen risks these fleas present.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swaid Abdullah
- Veterinary Parasitology and Ecology Group, School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK. .,Present address: School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton, Australia.
| | - Chris Helps
- Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Langford Vets and Bristol Veterinary School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Séverine Tasker
- Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Langford Vets and Bristol Veterinary School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.,Present address: The Linnaeus Group, Shirley, UK
| | - Hannah Newbury
- MSD Animal Health, Walton Manor, Walton, Milton Keynes, UK
| | - Richard Wall
- Veterinary Parasitology and Ecology Group, School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
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Álvarez-Fernández A, Breitschwerdt EB, Solano-Gallego L. Bartonella infections in cats and dogs including zoonotic aspects. Parasit Vectors 2018; 11:624. [PMID: 30514361 PMCID: PMC6280416 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-018-3152-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2018] [Accepted: 10/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Bartonellosis is a vector-borne zoonotic disease with worldwide distribution that can infect humans and a large number of mammals including small companion animals (cats and dogs). In recent years, an increasing number of studies from around the world have reported Bartonella infections, although publications have predominantly focused on the North American perspective. Currently, clinico-pathological data from Europe are more limited, suggesting that bartonellosis may be an infrequent or underdiagnosed infectious disease in cats and dogs. Research is needed to confirm or exclude Bartonella infection as a cause of a spectrum of feline and canine diseases. Bartonella spp. can cause acute or chronic infections in cats, dogs and humans. On a comparative medical basis, different clinical manifestations, such as periods of intermittent fever, granulomatous inflammation involving the heart, liver, lymph nodes and other tissues, endocarditis, bacillary angiomatosis, peliosis hepatis, uveitis and vasoproliferative tumors have been reported in cats, dogs and humans. The purpose of this review is to provide an update and European perspective on Bartonella infections in cats and dogs, including clinical, diagnostic, epidemiological, pathological, treatment and zoonotic aspects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandra Álvarez-Fernández
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Edward B. Breitschwerdt
- Department of Clinical Sciences and the Comparative Medicine Institute, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, 1060 William Moore Dr, Raleigh, NC 27607 USA
| | - Laia Solano-Gallego
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
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Persichetti MF, Pennisi MG, Vullo A, Masucci M, Migliazzo A, Solano-Gallego L. Clinical evaluation of outdoor cats exposed to ectoparasites and associated risk for vector-borne infections in southern Italy. Parasit Vectors 2018; 11:136. [PMID: 29554931 PMCID: PMC5859451 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-018-2725-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2017] [Accepted: 02/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cats can be carriers of infected arthropods and be infected with several vector-borne pathogens (VBP) but there is limited knowledge about their pathogenic role in cats. RESULTS A cross-sectional controlled study investigated the clinical status and antibody (Bartonella henselae, Rickettsia conorii, Ehrlichia canis, Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Babesia microti and Leishmania infantum) and/or blood PCR (Mycoplasma spp., Bartonella spp., Rickettsia spp., Ehrlichia/Anaplasma spp., piroplasmids, L. infantum, Hepatozoon felis) prevalence in 197 cats. Outdoor cats lacking ectoparasiticide treatment or hosting ectoparasites (study group [SG], n = 134) and indoor cats treated against ectoparasites (control group [CG], n = 63) were enrolled. Clinical data and retroviral co-infections were compared between the two groups. Multivariable analysis tested associations between variables and VBP exposure. Lymphadenia, stomatitis, and various haematological abnormalities were statistically more frequent in SG. Antibodies against R. conorii, B. henselae, A. phagocytophylum, B. microti, E. canis and L. infantum were detected. Bartonella henselae, Bartonella clarridgeiae, Mycoplasma haemofelis, "Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum" and "Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis" DNA were identified. Very high antibody (87.8%) and PCR (40.1%) positivity to at least one pathogen were detected and were significantly higher in SG. Co-infections were confirmed in about one-third of the cats and were more frequent in SG cats. Molecular and overall (antibody and PCR) positivity to Bartonella and antibody positivity to R. conorii were higher in SG. Multivariable analysis found significant associations of Bartonella spp. infection with Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) infection and increased globulins, and of Mycoplasma spp. infection with adult age, FIV infection, anaemia, and increased creatinine. CONCLUSIONS A very high prevalence of exposure to zoonotic VBP was found in cats, with Rickettsia and Bartonella infections being most prevalent. Some risk factors were documented namely for Mycoplasma spp. and Bartonella spp. The lifestyle of cats is clinically relevant and requires specific preventative measures to protect their health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Flaminia Persichetti
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia, A. Mirri, Via G. Marinuzzi 3, 90129, Palermo, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Pennisi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie, Università degli Studi di Messina, Polo Universitario Annunziata, 98168, Messina, Italy.
| | - Angela Vullo
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia, A. Mirri, Via G. Marinuzzi 3, 90129, Palermo, Italy
| | - Marisa Masucci
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie, Università degli Studi di Messina, Polo Universitario Annunziata, 98168, Messina, Italy
| | - Antonella Migliazzo
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia, A. Mirri, Via G. Marinuzzi 3, 90129, Palermo, Italy
| | - Laia Solano-Gallego
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Cerdanyola, 08193, Barcelona, Spain
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Bergmann M, Hartmann K. Vector-borne diseases in cats in Germany. TIERAERZTLICHE PRAXIS AUSGABE KLEINTIERE HEIMTIERE 2017; 45:329-335. [PMID: 28905982 DOI: 10.15654/tpk-160874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2016] [Accepted: 02/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Vector-borne diseases (VBDs) are caused by a wide range of pathogens, which are transmitted by a variety of vectors, such as ticks and fleas. As a result of climate changes, more vector-borne diseases are becoming endemic in Germany, not only in dogs, but also in cats. For some of the pathogens prevalence data still need to be investigated in Germany. However, natural infections with Bartonella, Anaplasma, haemotropic Mycoplasma and Borrelia species have already been described in German cats. Clinical relevance of these pathogens is not fully understood, and it is still unknown, why most infected cats stay asymptomatic and which predisposing factors contribute to the development of clinical signs in cats. Moreover, there is a risk of zoonotic transmission for some of the pathogens, e. g., for some Bartonella spp. infections that are associated with cat scratch disease in humans. Due to the increasing number of VBDs in cats in Germany, preventive measures, such as the use of acaricides and insecticides, should be performed on a regular base in order to reduce the risk of these infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michèle Bergmann
- Michèle Bergmann, Medizinische Kleintierklinik, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Veterinärstraße 13, 80539 München, Germany,
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Mylonakis ME, Schreeg M, Chatzis MK, Pearce J, Marr HS, Saridomichelakis MN, Birkenheuer AJ. Molecular detection of vector-borne pathogens in Greek cats. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2017; 9:171-175. [PMID: 28887102 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2017.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2017] [Revised: 08/20/2017] [Accepted: 08/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Infectious diseases have been increasingly recognized in cats worldwide. The objective of this study was the molecular investigation of the prevalence of selected pathogens in healthy and sick cats from Greece, a country highly endemic for several canine vector-borne pathogens. Blood and/or bone marrow samples from 50 clinically healthy and 50 sick adult (>1 year-old) cats were retrospectively examined for the amplification of Bartonella spp., haemoplasmas, Ehrlichia spp., Anaplasma spp., Babesia spp., and Cytauxzoon spp. DNA. Overall, 14.9% of the cats were found to be infected or co-infected by haemoplasmas, including Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum and M. haemofelis. In addition, 8.5% of the cats were infected by Bartonella henselae, Bartonella clarridgeiae or Bartonella koehlerae. In contrast, DNA of Ehrlichia spp., Anaplasma spp., Babesia spp. and Cytauxzoon spp. was not amplified from the blood or bone marrow of any cat. There was no significant difference in either haemoplasma or Bartonella infection rates when comparing healthy and sick cats. This study represents the first description of Bartonella koehlerae in Greek cats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathios E Mylonakis
- Companion Animal Clinic, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 11 Stavrou Voutyra Str., 54627, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Megan Schreeg
- College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University (NCSU-CVM), 4700 Hillsborough Str., 27606, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Manolis K Chatzis
- Clinic of Medicine, School of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 224 Trikalon Str., 43132, Karditsa, Greece
| | - Julian Pearce
- College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University (NCSU-CVM), 4700 Hillsborough Str., 27606, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Henry S Marr
- College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University (NCSU-CVM), 4700 Hillsborough Str., 27606, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Manolis N Saridomichelakis
- Clinic of Medicine, School of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 224 Trikalon Str., 43132, Karditsa, Greece
| | - Adam J Birkenheuer
- College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University (NCSU-CVM), 4700 Hillsborough Str., 27606, Raleigh, NC, USA.
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16
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Breitschwerdt EB. Bartonellosis, One Health and all creatures great and small. Vet Dermatol 2017; 28:96-e21. [PMID: 28133871 DOI: 10.1111/vde.12413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/16/2016] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bartonellosis is a zoonotic infectious disease of worldwide distribution, caused by an expanding number of recently discovered Bartonella spp. OBJECTIVES This review serves as an update on comparative medical aspects of this disease, including the epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical diagnosis, treatment and challenges. RESULTS Of comparative medical importance, Bartonella spp. are transmitted by several arthropod vectors, including fleas, keds, lice, sand flies, ticks and, potentially, mites and spiders. Prior to 1990, there was only one named Bartonella species (B. bacilliformis), whereas there are now over 36, of which 17 have been associated with an expanding spectrum of animal and human diseases. Recent advances in diagnostic techniques have facilitated documentation of chronic bloodstream and dermatological infections with Bartonella spp. in healthy and sick animals, in human blood donors, and in immunocompetent and immunocompromised human patients. The field of Bartonella research remains in its infancy and is rich in questions, for which patient relevant answers are badly needed. Directed Bartonella research could substantially reduce a spectrum of chronic and debilitating animal and human diseases, and thereby reduce suffering throughout the world. CONCLUSION A One Health approach to this emerging infectious disease is clearly needed to define disease manifestations, to establish the comparative infectious disease pathogenesis of this stealth pathogen, to validate effective treatment regimens and to prevent zoonotic disease transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward B Breitschwerdt
- Department of Clinical Sciences, The Comparative Medicine Institute, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, 1060 William Moore Drive, Raleigh, NC, 27607, USA
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Bergmann M, Englert T, Stuetzer B, Hawley JR, Lappin MR, Hartmann K. Prevalence of Bartonella
species infections in cats in Southern Germany. Vet Rec 2017; 180:325. [DOI: 10.1136/vr.103843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/02/2017] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- M. Bergmann
- Clinic of Small Animal Medicine; Centre for Clinical Veterinary Medicine, LMU Munich; Veterinaerstrasse 13 Munich 80539 Germany
| | - T. Englert
- Clinic of Small Animal Medicine; Centre for Clinical Veterinary Medicine, LMU Munich; Veterinaerstrasse 13 Munich 80539 Germany
| | - B. Stuetzer
- Clinic of Small Animal Medicine; Centre for Clinical Veterinary Medicine, LMU Munich; Veterinaerstrasse 13 Munich 80539 Germany
| | - J. R. Hawley
- Center for Companion Animal Studies; Department of Clinical Sciences; College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University; Fort Collins Colorado USA
| | - M. R. Lappin
- Center for Companion Animal Studies; Department of Clinical Sciences; College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University; Fort Collins Colorado USA
| | - K. Hartmann
- Clinic of Small Animal Medicine; Centre for Clinical Veterinary Medicine, LMU Munich; Veterinaerstrasse 13 Munich 80539 Germany
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Breitschwerdt EB, Broadhurst JJ, Cherry NA. Bartonella henselae as a cause of acute-onset febrile illness in cats. JFMS Open Rep 2015; 1:2055116915600454. [PMID: 28491382 PMCID: PMC5362002 DOI: 10.1177/2055116915600454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/20/2015] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Case series summary At different time points spanning 6 months, three adopted feral flea-infested cats, residing in the household of a veterinary technician, became acutely anorexic, lethargic and febrile. Enrichment blood culture/PCR using Bartonella alpha Proteobacteria growth medium (BAPGM) confirmed initial infection with the same Bartonella henselae genotype in all three cases. With the exception of anemia and neutropenia, complete blood counts, serum biochemical profiles and urinalysis results were within reference intervals. Also, tests for feline leukemia virus, feline immunodeficiency virus, Toxoplasma gondii and feline coronavirus antibodies were negative. Serial daily temperature monitoring in one case confirmed a cyclic, relapsing febrile temperature pattern during 1 month, with resolution during and after treatment with azithromycin. Bartonella henselae Western immunoblot (WB) results did not consistently correlate with BAPGM enrichment blood culture/PCR results or B henselae indirect fluorescent antibody (IFA) titers, and WB titration results were not informative for establishing antibiotic treatment failure. During the respective follow-up periods, no illnesses or additional febrile episodes were reported, despite repeat documentation of B henselae bacteremia in two cats available for follow-up (one with the same genotype and the other with a different B henselae genotype); one cat was, unfortunately, killed by dogs before follow-up testing. Relevance and novel information We conclude that microbiological diagnosis and treatment of B henselae infection in cats can be challenging, that antibody titration results and resolution of clinical abnormalities may not correlate with a therapeutic cure, and that fever and potentially neutropenia should be differential diagnostic considerations for young cats with suspected bartonellosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward B Breitschwerdt
- Intracellular Pathogens Research Laboratory and the Center for Comparative Medicine and Translational Research, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
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Qurollo BA, Balakrishnan N, Cannon CZ, Maggi RG, Breitschwerdt EB. Co-infection with Anaplasma platys, Bartonella henselae, Bartonella koehlerae and ‘Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum’ in a cat diagnosed with splenic plasmacytosis and multiple myeloma. J Feline Med Surg 2014; 16:713-20. [DOI: 10.1177/1098612x13519632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Anaplasma platys ( Apl), ‘ Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum’ ( CMh), Bartonella henselae ( Bh) and Bartonella koehlerae ( Bk) were confirmed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification and DNA sequencing in a cat diagnosed with multiple myeloma. Other inconsistently documented hematologic abnormalities included anemia, thrombocytopenia, eosinophilia and hypoglycemia. Persistent Apl infection was confirmed for the first time in a North American cat by sequencing three bacterial genes ( 16S rRNA, p44 and GroEL) in peripheral blood samples collected 100 days apart. Following doxycycline treatment for Apl, multiple myeloma was diagnosed based upon a monoclonal gammopathy and splenic plasmacytosis, and the cat was treated with melphalan, chlorambucil and prednisolone. Apl DNA was not amplified from post-treatment blood samples and the hyperglobulinemia resolved temporarily following chemotherapy. Retrospective PCR analysis of stored DNA extracts identified CMh, Bk and Bh infections. Retrospective PCR for antigen receptor rearrangements (PARR) of splenic aspirates did not confirm B- or T-cell clonality. Co-infection with multiple vector-borne pathogens should be a diagnostic consideration in cats with chronic hypergammaglobulinemia, monoclonal gammopathy and splenic plasmacytosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara A Qurollo
- Intracellular Pathogens Research Laboratory, Center for Comparative Medicine and Translational Research, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University (NCSU), Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Nandhakumar Balakrishnan
- Intracellular Pathogens Research Laboratory, Center for Comparative Medicine and Translational Research, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University (NCSU), Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Coralie Zegre Cannon
- Intracellular Pathogens Research Laboratory, Center for Comparative Medicine and Translational Research, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University (NCSU), Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Ricardo G Maggi
- Intracellular Pathogens Research Laboratory, Center for Comparative Medicine and Translational Research, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University (NCSU), Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Edward B Breitschwerdt
- Intracellular Pathogens Research Laboratory, Center for Comparative Medicine and Translational Research, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University (NCSU), Raleigh, NC, USA
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Pennisi MG, Marsilio F, Hartmann K, Lloret A, Addie D, Belák S, Boucraut-Baralon C, Egberink H, Frymus T, Gruffydd-Jones T, Hosie MJ, Lutz H, Möstl K, Radford AD, Thiry E, Truyen U, Horzinek MC. Bartonella Species Infection in Cats. J Feline Med Surg 2013; 15:563-9. [DOI: 10.1177/1098612x13489214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Overview: Over 22 Bartonella species have been described in mammals, and Bartonella henselae is most common worldwide. Cats are the main reservoir for this bacterium. B henselae is the causative agent of cat scratch disease in man, a self-limiting regional lymphadenopathy, but also of other potentially fatal disorders in immunocompromised people. Infection: B henselae is naturally transmitted among cats by the flea Ctenocephalides felis felis, or by flea faeces. A cat scratch is the common mode of transmission of the organism to other animals, including humans. Blood transfusion also represents a risk. Disease signs: Most cats naturally infected by B henselae do not show clinical signs but cardiac (endocarditis, myocarditis) or ocular (uveitis) signs may be found in sporadic cases. B vinsonii subspecies berkhoffii infection has reportedly caused lameness in a cat affected by recurrent osteomyelitis and polyarthritis. Diagnosis: Isolation of the bacterium is the gold standard, but because of the high prevalence of infection in healthy cats in endemic areas, a positive culture (or polymerase chain reaction) is not confirmatory. Other compatible diagnoses must be ruled out and response to therapy gives a definitive diagnosis. Serology (IFAT or ELISA) is more useful for exclusion of the infection because of the low positive predictive value (39–46%) compared with the good negative predictive value (87–97%). Laboratory testing is required for blood donors. Disease management: Treatment is recommended in the rare cases where Bartonella actually causes disease.
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Stützer B, Hartmann K. Chronic Bartonellosis in cats: what are the potential implications? J Feline Med Surg 2012; 14:612-21. [PMID: 22918844 DOI: 10.1177/1098612x12458208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
PRACTICAL RELEVANCE Bartonellae are small, vector-transmitted Gram-negative intracellular bacteria that are well adapted to one or more mammalian reservoir hosts. Cats are the natural reservoir for Bartonella henselae, which is a (re-)emerging bacterial pathogen. It can cause cat scratch disease in humans and, in immunocompromised people, may lead to severe systemic diseases, such as bacillary angiomatosis. Cats bacteraemic with B henselae constitute the main reservoir from which humans become infected. Most cats naturally infected with B henselae show no clinical signs themselves, but other Bartonella species for which cats are accidental hosts appear to have more pathogenicity. GLOBAL IMPORTANCE Several studies have reported a prevalence of previous or current Bartonella species infection in cats of up to 36%. B henselae is common in cats worldwide, and bacteraemia can be documented by blood culture in about a quarter of healthy cats. The distribution of B henselae to various parts of the world has largely occurred through humans migrating with their pet cats. The pathogen is mainly transmitted from cat to cat by fleas, and the majority of infected cats derive from areas with high flea exposure. No significant difference in B henselae prevalence has been determined between male and female cats. In studies on both naturally and experimentally infected cats, chronic bacteraemia has mainly been found in cats under the age of 2 years, while those over 2 years of age are rarely chronically bacteraemic. EVIDENCE BASE This article reviews published studies and case reports on bartonellosis to explore the clinical significance of the infection in cats and its impact on humans. The article also discusses possible treatment options for cats and means of minimising the zoonotic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bianca Stützer
- Clinic for Small Animal Medicine, LMU University of Munich, 80539 Munich, Germany
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