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Keckeisen C, Šujanová A, Himmel T, Matt J, Nedorost N, Chagas CRF, Weissenböck H, Harl J. Isospora and Lankesterella Parasites (Eimeriidae, Apicomplexa) of Passeriform Birds in Europe: Infection Rates, Phylogeny, and Pathogenicity. Pathogens 2024; 13:337. [PMID: 38668292 PMCID: PMC11053544 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens13040337] [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: 02/20/2024] [Revised: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Wild birds are common hosts to numerous intracellular parasites such as single-celled eukaryotes of the family Eimeriidae (order Eucoccidiorida, phylum Apicomplexa). We investigated the infection rates, phylogeny, and pathogenicity of Isospora and Lankesterella parasites in wild and captive passerine birds. Blood and tissue samples of 815 wild and 15 deceased captive birds from Europe were tested using polymerase chain reaction and partial sequencing of the mitochondrial cytochrome b and cytochrome c oxidase I and the nuclear 18S rRNA gene. The infection rate for Lankesterella in wild birds was 10.7% compared to 5.8% for Isospora. Chromogenic in situ hybridization with probes targeting the parasites' 18S rRNA was employed to identify the parasites' presence in multiple organs, and hematoxylin-eosin staining was performed to visualize the parasite stages and assess associated lesions. Isospora parasites were mainly identified in the intestine, spleen, and liver. Extraintestinal tissue stages of Isospora were accompanied by predominantly lymphohistiocytic inflammation of varying severity. Lankesterella was most frequently detected in the spleen, lung, and brain; however, infected birds presented only a low parasite burden without associated pathological changes. These findings contribute to our understanding of Isospora and Lankesterella parasites in wild birds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carina Keckeisen
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Biological Sciences and Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, 1210 Vienna, Austria; (C.K.); (T.H.)
| | - Alžbeta Šujanová
- Institute of Zoology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, 845 06 Bratislava, Slovakia;
- Nature Research Centre, 084 12 Vilnius, Lithuania;
| | - Tanja Himmel
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Biological Sciences and Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, 1210 Vienna, Austria; (C.K.); (T.H.)
- Clinical Institutes of the MedUni Vienna, Department of Pathology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Julia Matt
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Biological Sciences and Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, 1210 Vienna, Austria; (C.K.); (T.H.)
| | - Nora Nedorost
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Biological Sciences and Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, 1210 Vienna, Austria; (C.K.); (T.H.)
| | | | - Herbert Weissenböck
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Biological Sciences and Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, 1210 Vienna, Austria; (C.K.); (T.H.)
| | - Josef Harl
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Biological Sciences and Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, 1210 Vienna, Austria; (C.K.); (T.H.)
- Clinical Institutes of the MedUni Vienna, Department of Pathology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
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Lacerda MDSC, de Magalhães Santos WH, Lopes MC, Fonseca CS, de Carvalho MPN, da Silva Martins NR, Ecco R. A Survey of Diseases in Different Species of Wild, Captive, and Illegally Traded Birds in Brazil. Animals (Basel) 2023; 14:25. [PMID: 38200756 PMCID: PMC10778533 DOI: 10.3390/ani14010025] [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: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Native and exotic avian species can act as reservoirs of pathogens, including bacteria and viruses, with conservation and public health implications. A retrospective study on the diagnosis and frequency of diseases in wild and exotic avian species was conducted. The occurrence of particular diseases was associated with the type of captivity or the bird's origin. The investigation included macroscopic and microscopic descriptions and the molecular determination of the causative agent(s). Additional immunohistochemical (IHC) analysis, PCR, and genetic sequencing were conducted. A total of 243 cases were compiled for the study, mainly consisting of native wild species (39.1%) obtained from illegal trade. Primary infectious diseases, mainly parasitic (18.1%) and viral (17.7%), were the most common, although coinfections were substantial (18.1%) in birds rescued from trafficking. Fractures and neoplasms accounted for 3.7% and 3.3% of the cases, respectively. Parasitic and viral diseases were the most common in both exotic and wild birds. Chlamydia psittaci, a lethal and zoonotic bacterium, was an important cause of death, especially in native Psittaciformes. The recent detection of Psittacid alphaherpesvirus 5 (PsAHV 5) in exotic psittacines and the diagnosis of coinfections in trafficked birds highlight the importance of monitoring avian health to control potential pathogens that may endanger conservation efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maira dos Santos Carneiro Lacerda
- Sector of Pathology and MULTILAB, Department of Veterinary Clinic and Surgery, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31310-250, Brazil; (M.d.S.C.L.); (W.H.d.M.S.); (M.C.L.); (C.S.F.)
| | - Willian Henrique de Magalhães Santos
- Sector of Pathology and MULTILAB, Department of Veterinary Clinic and Surgery, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31310-250, Brazil; (M.d.S.C.L.); (W.H.d.M.S.); (M.C.L.); (C.S.F.)
| | - Marcelo Coelho Lopes
- Sector of Pathology and MULTILAB, Department of Veterinary Clinic and Surgery, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31310-250, Brazil; (M.d.S.C.L.); (W.H.d.M.S.); (M.C.L.); (C.S.F.)
| | - Clarissa Silva Fonseca
- Sector of Pathology and MULTILAB, Department of Veterinary Clinic and Surgery, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31310-250, Brazil; (M.d.S.C.L.); (W.H.d.M.S.); (M.C.L.); (C.S.F.)
| | - Marcelo Pires Nogueira de Carvalho
- Medical Clinic Sector, Department of Veterinary Clinic and Surgery, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31310-250, Brazil;
| | - Nelson Rodrigo da Silva Martins
- Avian Diseases Laboratory, Department of Veterinary and Preventive Medicine, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31310-250, Brazil;
| | - Roselene Ecco
- Sector of Pathology and MULTILAB, Department of Veterinary Clinic and Surgery, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31310-250, Brazil; (M.d.S.C.L.); (W.H.d.M.S.); (M.C.L.); (C.S.F.)
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McEntire MS, Landolfi JA, Adkesson MJ, Papich MG, Sander SJ, Roy L, Talley A, Vincent L, Allender MC. THE PHARMACOKINETICS AND PHARMACODYNAMICS OF ORAL PONAZURIL IN THE TREATMENT OF SYSTEMIC ISOSPOROSIS IN PASSERINE BIRDS. J Zoo Wildl Med 2023; 54:561-572. [PMID: 37817622 DOI: 10.1638/2022-0091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Systemic isosporosis, previously atoxoplasmosis, is a significant cause of mortality in juvenile passerine birds. Recommended treatment regimens are empiric and vary in efficacy. The goal of this study was to determine the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of ponazuril for treatment of systemic isosporosis. Ponazuril, diluted with water to create an oral suspension (50 mg/ml), was administered (100 mg/kg) to 72 European starlings (Sturnus vulgaris) by a single dose via direct oral gavage (n = 24), a single dose injected into superworm larvae (Zophobas morio; n = 24), or a daily dose mixed with commercial dog food to top-dress feed for 5 d (n = 24). Peak plasma concentrations were 5.84, 2.46, and 9.13 µg/ml for the direct gavage, injected larvae, and top-dressed feed groups, respectively. With repeated dosing, mean plasma concentrations from the top-dressed feed group were maintained between 8.12 to 13.11 µg/ml. Results suggested ponazuril at a dosage of 100 mg/kg administered via direct gavage or top-dressed feed, but not via injected larvae, would exceed the concentrations needed to inhibit merogony of other apicomplexan parasites in cell culture (5 µg/ml). To assess the pharmacodynamics of this dose, seven passerine birds, red-vented bulbuls (Pycnonotus cafer; n = 2), blue-grey tanager (Thraupis episcopus; n = 1), and red-capped cardinals (Paroaria gularis; n = 4), were identified as shedders of systemic Isospora spp. via fecal qPCR. Birds were then treated with ponazuril (100 mg/kg) daily on top-dressed feed for 14 d. Fecal shedding was assessed via qPCR for 6 wk from the initiation of treatment. Treatment was associated with reduction in proportions of fecal shedding during the treatment period and the week following treatment, but shedding resumed in all birds by the end of sampling. Results support that treatment of breeding birds with 100 mg/kg ponazuril could reduce the shedding of active oocysts and decrease risk of clinical infection in susceptible juveniles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael S McEntire
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana, Urbana, IL 61802, USA,
| | - Jennifer A Landolfi
- Zoological Pathology Program, University of Illinois, Brookfield, IL 60513, USA
| | | | - Mark G Papich
- Department of Molecular and Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27606, USA
| | - Samantha J Sander
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
| | - Leena Roy
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
| | - Alexandria Talley
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
| | - Lauren Vincent
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
| | - Matthew C Allender
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
- Chicago Zoological Society, Brookfield Zoo, Brookfield, IL 60513, USA
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Cruz CEF, Driemeier D, Sonne L, Pavarini SP, Panziera W, Funkler GR, Böelter NS, Homem JLC, Soares CES, Tres GZ, Silva VGC, Correa ML, Caporal FJM, Marques ST, Soares JF, Wagner PGC, Nisa-Castro-Neto W, Andretta I. Rehabilitation and release of confiscated songbirds into the wild: A pilot study. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1109568. [PMID: 37065241 PMCID: PMC10098152 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1109568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Songbirds are currently the most prevalent animals in illegal trafficking in Brazil and other countries, so they are often confiscated, and this poses legal, ethical, and conservation challenges. Returning them to nature requires complex and expensive management, a topic that is sparingly addressed in the literature. Here, we described the processes and costs associated with an attempt to rehabilitate and release confiscated songbirds into the wild. A total of 1,721 songbirds of several species were quarantined, rehabilitated, and released, primarily on two farms located within their typical geographical distribution. Health assessments were performed on samples from 370 birds. Serology revealed no antibodies against Newcastle disease, and Salmonella spp. cultures were negative. Real-time polymerase chain reactions detected M. gallisepticum in samples from seven birds. Atoxoplasma spp. and Acuaria spp. infections, sepsis, and trauma were the top causes of bird death. About 6% of the released birds were recaptured, within an average period of 249 days after release, and at a mean distance of 2,397 meters from the release sites. The majority of these birds were found with free-living mates within or close to fragments of transitional ecoregions with native or cultivated grasslands, and native groves/forests, and shrublands. However, eucalyptus plantations with rich understory regeneration provided a suitable environment for the released forest species to settle, since they were recaptured during the defense of these sites. Over half of the recaptured birds presented behavioral profiles with both dominant and tame traits. Birds with dominant traits are more likely to settle in habitats and face the live decoys during fieldwork, whereas birds with tame characteristics tend to accept close contact with humans. Ultramarine grosbeak (Cyanoloxia brissonii), the least common species among those released, at the release sites showed an almost 2-fold recapture rate in the shortest mean distances from the release sites. This suggests less territory competition, perhaps a major factor of bird re-establishment here. The total per-bird cost was USD 57. Our findings suggested suitable survival and re-establishment of confiscated songbirds in the wild, when managed as we describe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cláudio Estêvão Farias Cruz
- Centro de Estudos em Manejo de Aves Silvestres (CEMAS), Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Veterinárias, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
- *Correspondence: Cláudio Estêvão Farias Cruz
| | - David Driemeier
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Veterinárias, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Setor de Patologia Veterinária, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Luciana Sonne
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Veterinárias, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Setor de Patologia Veterinária, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Saulo P. Pavarini
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Veterinárias, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Setor de Patologia Veterinária, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Welden Panziera
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Veterinárias, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Setor de Patologia Veterinária, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Gustavo R. Funkler
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Veterinárias, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Laboratório Porto Belo, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Nicole S. Böelter
- Centro de Estudos em Manejo de Aves Silvestres (CEMAS), Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Juan L. C. Homem
- Centro de Estudos em Manejo de Aves Silvestres (CEMAS), Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Camila E. S. Soares
- Centro de Estudos em Manejo de Aves Silvestres (CEMAS), Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Gabrielle Z. Tres
- Centro de Estudos em Manejo de Aves Silvestres (CEMAS), Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Vitor G. C. Silva
- Centro de Estudos em Manejo de Aves Silvestres (CEMAS), Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Miguel L. Correa
- Centro de Estudos em Manejo de Aves Silvestres (CEMAS), Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | | | - Sandra T. Marques
- Laboratório de Parasitologia Veterinária, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - João F. Soares
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Veterinárias, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Laboratório de Protozoologia e Rickettsioses Vetoriais, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Paulo Guilherme Carniel Wagner
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Veterinárias, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Centro de Triagem de Animais Silvestres (CETAS), Instituto Brasileiro do Meio Ambiente e dos Recursos Naturais Renováveis (IBAMA), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Walter Nisa-Castro-Neto
- Organização para a Pesquisa e a Conservação de Esqualus no Brasil (PRÓ-SQUALUS), Tôrres, Brazil
| | - Inês Andretta
- Laboratório de Ensino Zootécnico, Faculdade de Agronomia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
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Moura GHF, Nascimento GSD, Oliveira PRFD, Santana VS, Shimabukuro A, Valença YM, Calabuig C, Melo RPBD, Mota RA. Occurrence of Apicomplexa protozoa in wild birds in the Northeast region of Brazil. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA = BRAZILIAN JOURNAL OF VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY : ORGAO OFICIAL DO COLEGIO BRASILEIRO DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA 2023; 32:e014722. [PMID: 37075420 PMCID: PMC10124610 DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612023020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023]
Abstract
Protozoa of the Apicomplexa phylum are worldwide distributed with capacity to infect endothermic animals. The study of these protozoa in wild birds in Brazil is scarce. This study aimed to evaluate the occurrence of apicomplexan protozoa in wild birds in the Northeast of Brazil. From October to December 2019, brain tissue samples were collected from 71 captive birds from the Wild Animal Screening Center of the Pernambuco State (CETRAS-Tangara) and 25 free-living birds from the Caatinga biome in Rio Grande do Norte, totaling 96 animals (41 species). Brain fragments were subjected to molecular diagnosis by nested PCR for the 18s rDNA gene of Apicomplexa parasites, followed by DNA sequencing. This gene was detected in 25% (24/96) of the samples, and it was possible to perform DNA sequencing of 14 samples, confirming three genera: Isospora, Sarcocystis and Toxoplasma from eight bird species (Amazona aestiva, Coereba flaveola, Egretta thula, Paroaria dominicana, Sporophila nigricollis, Cariama cristata, Columbina talpacoti, Crypturellus parvirostris). The occurrence these coccidia in wild birds provides important epidemiological information for the adoption of preventive measures for its conservation. Future studies are needed to better understand the consequence of Apicomplexa infection in birds in Caatinga and Atlantic Forest biomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Hémylin Ferreira Moura
- Laboratório de Doenças Infectocontagiosas dos Animais Domésticos, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco - UFRPE, Recife, PE, Brasil
| | - Gleyce Silva do Nascimento
- Laboratório de Doenças Infectocontagiosas dos Animais Domésticos, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco - UFRPE, Recife, PE, Brasil
| | - Pollyanne Raysa Fernandes de Oliveira
- Laboratório de Doenças Infectocontagiosas dos Animais Domésticos, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco - UFRPE, Recife, PE, Brasil
| | - Vanessa Silva Santana
- Laboratório de Ecologia e Conservação de Fauna Terrestre, Departamento de Biociência, Universidade Federal do Semi-Árido - UFERSA, Mossoró, RN, Brasil
| | - Ayko Shimabukuro
- Laboratório de Ecologia e Conservação de Fauna Terrestre, Departamento de Biociência, Universidade Federal do Semi-Árido - UFERSA, Mossoró, RN, Brasil
| | - Yuri Marinho Valença
- Centro de Triagem e Reabilitação de Animais Silvestres de Pernambuco - CETRAS-Tangara, Recife, PE, Brasil
| | - Cecilia Calabuig
- Laboratório de Ecologia e Conservação de Fauna Terrestre, Departamento de Biociência, Universidade Federal do Semi-Árido - UFERSA, Mossoró, RN, Brasil
| | - Renata Pimentel Bandeira de Melo
- Laboratório de Doenças Infectocontagiosas dos Animais Domésticos, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco - UFRPE, Recife, PE, Brasil
| | - Rinaldo Aparecido Mota
- Laboratório de Doenças Infectocontagiosas dos Animais Domésticos, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco - UFRPE, Recife, PE, Brasil
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Wong TS, Stalis IH, Witte C, Kubiski SV. Unique Isospora-associated histologic lesions in white-rumped shama ( Copsychus malabaricus). Vet Pathol 2022; 59:869-872. [PMID: 35611703 PMCID: PMC9358608 DOI: 10.1177/03009858221098425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Twenty-one white-rumped shamas (19 necropsied, 2 biopsied) (Copsychus malabaricus) housed at the San Diego Zoo between 1992 and 2020 were diagnosed with Isospora infection based on evaluation of histologic sections. Review of these cases revealed a consistent histologic lesion characterized by nodular aggregates of atypical epithelioid macrophages containing few intracytoplasmic protozoa, with or without lymphocytic infiltrates. Of the 19 necropsied cases, 16 (84%) had systemic lesions variably affecting the liver, spleen, gastrointestinal tract, lung, pancreas, connective tissues, or bone marrow, while all 21 diagnosed cases had skin involvement. The findings suggest that white-rumped shamas have a unique inflammatory response to isosporosis with a predilection for the skin. Skin may be a diagnostically sensitive sampling site for histologic diagnosis of Isospora in this species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Talia S Wong
- San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, San Diego, CA.,University of California, Davis, Davis, CA
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Gibson DJ, Nemeth NM, Beaufrère H, Varga C, Garner MM, Susta L. Lymphoma in Psittacine Birds: A Histological and Immunohistochemical Assessment. Vet Pathol 2021; 58:663-673. [PMID: 33813951 PMCID: PMC8290990 DOI: 10.1177/03009858211002180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
In psittacine birds, round cell neoplasms that originate from lymphocytes, plasma cells, histiocytes, or mast cells are sporadic and poorly described. The lack of morphological and immunohistochemical diagnostic criteria or grading schemes make specific diagnoses and prognoses challenging. We assessed cases of psittacine birds diagnosed with round cell neoplasia from 3 North American veterinary diagnostic laboratories to describe the diagnostic features of these tumors. For all cases, demographic data, anatomic distribution, histological features, and immunoreactivity for T (CD3) and B (Pax5 and MUM-1) cell markers were assessed using tissue microarrays and whole slide mounts. Thirty-eight psittacine birds representing 14 species were included. Tumors were mainly infiltrative and multicentric, were composed of homogenous sheets of round to polygonal cells, and commonly presented with a high mitotic count (average 21 mitoses per high-power field). Based on Pax5 immunoreactivity, B-cell lymphoma was most common (19/38 [50%]), and was significantly associated with involvement of the gastrointestinal and urogenital systems. Of the 38 cases, 6 (16%) were consistent with T-cell lymphoma, 3 (8%) with plasma cell tumor, and 3 (8%) were double-reactive for both B- and T-lymphocyte markers. This is the first study to describe morphologic and immunohistochemical features of round cell neoplasia in a large number of psittacine birds, and provides benchmark data for future studies aimed at elucidating the diagnosis and prognosis of these neoplasms. These data also provide useful information about reactivity of commercially available antibodies as lymphocyte markers in tissues of multiple psittacine species.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Csaba Varga
- University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
- University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, USA
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Rakhshandehroo E, Fakhrahmad F, Aliabadi J, Alavi AM, Asadpour M. Detection and characterization of the Isospora lunaris infection from different finch hosts in southern Iran. Parasitol Res 2020; 120:257-265. [PMID: 33179153 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-020-06962-3] [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: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
This study was conducted to investigate the Isosporoid protozoan infections in finch types. Fecal samples were collected from marketed domestic Java sparrows (Lonchura oryzivora), colored and white Zebra finch (Taeniopygia guttata), and European goldfinch (Carduelis carduelis) in southern Iran. The coccidial oocysts were recovered and investigated according to the morphological features and the ribosomal gene markers. Additionally, a challenge infection was conducted with 5 × 104 and 5 × 103 sporulated oocysts in four java sparrows to estimate the clinical manifestations. Based on the morphology, the oocysts of Isospora lunaris were identified in all sampled bird types; however, the molecular method revealed the isolates had considerable similarities with some of Isospora and systemic Isospora-like organisms named as Atoxoplasma. Phylogenetic data also constructed an Atoxoplasma/Isospora clade with high sequence identities. High dose of the challenge with the parasite led to severe depression and sudden death, but it did not coincide with remarkable lesions and parasitic invasion in visceral organs. Contrary to molecular results, this feature is consistent with the common Isospora infections in passerines and differs from those described for Atoxoplasma species. Because of the prevalence, possibility of transmission, and clinical consequences, preventive measures are necessary to avoid outbreaks of isosporoid infections among finch type birds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ehsan Rakhshandehroo
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Shiraz University, P.O. Box 71441-69155, Shiraz, Iran.
| | - Fatemeh Fakhrahmad
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Shiraz University, P.O. Box 71441-69155, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Jalal Aliabadi
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Shiraz University, P.O. Box 71441-69155, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Amir Mootabi Alavi
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Shiraz University, P.O. Box 71441-69155, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Asadpour
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Shiraz University, P.O. Box 71441-69155, Shiraz, Iran
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Barbón AR, López J, Jamriška J, Price E, Thomasson A, Whitehead H, Braun J, Stidworthy MF. Clinical and Pathological Aspects of Systemic Isospora Infection in Blue-crowned Laughing Thrushes ( Garrulax courtoisi) at Jersey Zoo. J Avian Med Surg 2020; 33:265-277. [PMID: 31893622 DOI: 10.1647/2018-377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Based on a review of species mortalities, systemic Isospora species was identified as the primary cause of death in 22% (19 of 87) of blue-crowned laughing thrushes (BCLTs; Garrulax courtoisi) at the Jersey Zoo between 1997 and 2016. Fifty-eight percent of the affected birds were between 1 and 2 years old, and in 89% of cases, death occurred between August and December. Abnormal clinical findings in BCLTs with Isospora species infections included hepatomegaly and pectoral muscle myositis in 79% of the cases. The results of diagnostic blood testing in 90% of infected BCLTs 30 days before death were consistent with a severe leukocytosis with greater than 20% of mononuclear cells infected by merozoites. The most common lesions identified during gross necropsy examination were splenomegaly (100%), hepatomegaly (95%), and multifocal, raised, white foci in pectoral (84%) and heart (79%) muscle. Lymphohistiocytic inflammation was identified in the liver, heart, spleen, lung, striated muscle, and kidney tissue of birds with positive results for Isospora species. Merozoites were often observed in spleen, liver, pectoral muscle, and hearts of infected BCLTs. Polymerase chain reaction diagnostic testing that targeted the cytochrome c oxidase subunit, followed by Sanger sequencing, was used to confirm Isospora species in all 14 birds tested. Of samples tested, the highest genetic correlation was with GenBank accession number KT203397 (Isospora species JRB-2016 mitochondrion).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Javier López
- North of England Zoological Society, Upton-by-Chester, Chester CH2 2LH, England
| | - Jan Jamriška
- Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation Center-Into the Wild/Navrat do divociny, Borinka, Slovakia
| | - Eluned Price
- Jersey Zoo, Les Augres Manor, Jersey JE3 5BP, England
| | - Ann Thomasson
- Jersey Zoo, Les Augres Manor, Jersey JE3 5BP, England
| | | | - Josephine Braun
- Institute for Conservation Research, San Diego Zoo Global, Escondido, CA 92927-7000, USA
| | - Mark F Stidworthy
- International Zoo Veterinary Group, Station House, Keighley, West Yorkshire BD21 4NQ, England
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Gosbell MC, Olaogun OM, Luk K, Noormohammadi AH. Investigation of systemic isosporosis outbreaks in an aviary of greenfinch (Carduelis chloris) and goldfinch (Carduelis carduelis) and a possible link with local wild sparrows (Passer domesticus). Aust Vet J 2020; 98:338-344. [PMID: 32430906 DOI: 10.1111/avj.12947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2019] [Revised: 03/17/2020] [Accepted: 03/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
CASE REPORT An outbreak of systemic isosporosis caused mortalities in greenfinches (Carduelis chloris) and goldfinches (Carduelis carduelis) kept in an aviary in the western suburbs of Melbourne. The following year, a further outbreak in the same aviary occurred in a different flock of goldfinches. At the time of the second outbreak, dead and sick common sparrows (Passer domesticus) discovered near the aviary were also found to have systemic isosporosis. METHOD The systemic isosporosis was investigated and described using histopathology, electron microscopy and sequence analysis of the 18s gene. RESULTS Isospora spp. infecting the greenfinch and the goldfinch caused significant thickening of the duodenal lamina propria. Measurements in the goldfinches showed an inverse correlation coefficient between the thickening of the duodenum and the weightof the birds. Electron microscopy confirmed the presence of Isospora spp. within lymphocytes migrating into the lamina propria of the duodenum. Analysis of the 18s sequence discovered two different gene sequences across the three species of birds that didn't completely match any sequences previously deposited in GenBank. CONCLUSION Although the sparrows were found to have died from causes other than systemic Isospora, molecular studies of samples from their liver revealed the presence of an Isospora with 18s gene sequence identical to that found in the captive greenfinches.
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Affiliation(s)
- M C Gosbell
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, 3030, Australia.,Melbourne Bird Veterinary Clinic, Scoresby, Victoria, 3179, Australia
| | - O M Olaogun
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, 3030, Australia
| | - Khy Luk
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, 3030, Australia
| | - A H Noormohammadi
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, 3030, Australia
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Oliveira ARD, Souza TDD, Mol JPS, Flecher MC, Hiura E, Santos RL. Pathological and molecular characterization of systemic isosporosis (atoxoplasmosis) in captive green-winged saltator (Saltator similis). Vet Parasitol 2018; 255:98-101. [PMID: 29773145 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2018.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2018] [Revised: 04/11/2018] [Accepted: 04/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Systemic isosporosis, also called atoxoplasmosis or visceral coccidiosis, is a disease that affects birds in general. Pathogenesis of systemic isosporosis and its etiologic agent have not been well characterized, but taxonomically Atoxoplasma is currently considered a junior objective synonym of Isospora. The present report aimed to describe pathological and molecular findings of systemic isosporosis in captive green-winged saltators (Saltator similis) from the State of Espírito Santo, Brazil. In a commercial breeding facility eleven birds with two to nine months of age died from 2015 to 2016. These birds developed nonspecific clinical signs, including bristly feathers, hyporexia, loss of weight, and apathy. Two birds were necropsied, and grossly there were hepatomegaly, splenomegaly, necrosis of lymphoid follicles, hepatic necrosis, and severe enteritis. Merozoites were observed in the heart, small intestine, proventriculus, brain, liver, spleen, and kidneys. 23 S RNA PCR amplicons from DNA extracted from the liver and the intestinal contents had 99% identity with Atoxoplasma sp., whereas amplicons of mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 ha d 97% identity with Isospora greineri. In conclusion, this report indicates that systemic isosporosis in green-winged saltator is a disease that affects the spleen, liver, and small intestine, with high mortality for young birds, resulting in significant loses to commercial breeding facilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayisa Rodrigues de Oliveira
- Departamento de Clínica e Cirurgia Veterinárias, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
| | - Tayse Domingues de Souza
- Curso de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Vila Velha (UVV), Vila Velha, Espírito Santo, Brazil.
| | - Juliana P S Mol
- Departamento de Clínica e Cirurgia Veterinárias, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
| | - Mayra Cunha Flecher
- Curso de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Vila Velha (UVV), Vila Velha, Espírito Santo, Brazil.
| | - Emy Hiura
- Curso de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Vila Velha (UVV), Vila Velha, Espírito Santo, Brazil.
| | - Renato Lima Santos
- Departamento de Clínica e Cirurgia Veterinárias, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
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Hafeez MA, Barta JR. The complete mitochondrial genome sequences of two Isospora species (Eimeriidae, Eucoccidiorida, Coccidiasina, Apicomplexa) causing coccidiosis in superb glossy starlings, Lamprotornis superbus (Aves: Sturnidae). MITOCHONDRIAL DNA PART B-RESOURCES 2017; 2:895-896. [PMID: 33490480 PMCID: PMC7800974 DOI: 10.1080/23802359.2017.1407698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Complete mitochondrial genomes are reported for two Isospora species causing systemic coccidiosis in Superb Glossy Starlings (Aves: Sturnidae). The A/T rich (34.7% G/C) genomes were 6223 bp in length for Isospora greineri and 6217 bp for Isospora superbusi. Each encoded 3 protein-coding genes, (COI, COIII and CytB) plus 18 LSU and 14 SSU rDNA fragments. Arrangement of protein- and rRNA-coding regions was identical to known Eimeria sp. mt genomes; start codon usage was conventional. The mitochondrial genome structures of Isospora and Eimeria species are conserved and reflect the close phylogenetic association between these eimeriid genera of apicomplexan parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mian A Hafeez
- Department of Pathobiology, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada.,Department of Parasitology, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - John R Barta
- Department of Pathobiology, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
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INVESTIGATION OF THE PRESENCE OF ATOXOPLASMA SPP. IN BLUE-CROWNED LAUGHINGTHRUSH (DRYONASTES COURTOISI) ADULTS AND NEONATES. J Zoo Wildl Med 2017; 48:1-6. [PMID: 28363058 DOI: 10.1638/2016-0044.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Between 1996 and 2013, 71 blue-crowned laughingthrush (Dryonastes courtoisi) chicks, a small passerine bird endemic to China, were born at Mulhouse Zoo in northeast France. None of them survived past 1 yr, and 82% died between 0 and 6 days old of an unidentified cause and despite an attempt to establish an artificial breeding protocol. Atoxoplasma spp., causing a disease known as systemic isosporosis, is a coccidian parasite that can infect several species of birds. Mulhouse's adult birds were suspected to be infected with Atoxoplasma spp. and to transmit this parasite to their offspring. A treatment with toltrazuril (Baycox® 2.5%) was implemented in the four adult birds. Coprologic examinations were performed before, during, and after the treatment to quantify the parasite load in feces. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays were used to test blood samples from the adult and liver, lung, gizzard, and kidney samples from 10 chicks to detect Atoxoplasma spp. Five of the 10 chicks had some tissue samples positive for Atoxoplasma spp. in at least one of the three repeats of the atoxoplasmosis PCR. An average of 181 Isospora spp. oocysts per gram of feces were found in the group of adults before treatment. This number was reduced to zero 1 wk after the beginning of the toltrazuril treatment. The PCR results suggest a transovarian transmission of Atoxoplasma spp., but further investigation is needed for confirmation. The treatment with toltrazuril appears to allow a significant reduction of the parasite excretion.
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Ogedengbe ME, Brash M, Barta JR. The complete mitochondrial genome sequence of an Isospora sp. (Eimeriidae, Eucoccidiorida, Coccidiasina, Apicomplexa) causing systemic coccidiosis in domestic Canaries (Serinus canaria Linn.). Mitochondrial DNA A DNA Mapp Seq Anal 2015; 27:3315-7. [PMID: 25714148 DOI: 10.3109/19401736.2015.1018201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
We report a complete mitochondrial genome sequence for an Isospora sp. causing systemic coccidiosis in canaries, Serinus canaria. The A + T rich (65.2%) genome was 6216 bp in length and possessed 3 protein-coding genes, (COI; COIII and CytB), 19 LSU and 14 SSU rDNA fragments, including 1 newly identified putative LSU fragment. Arrangement of coding regions was identical to that of available Eimeria sp. mt genomes and start codon usage for protein-coding genes was conventional. The similar mitochondrial genome sequences and structures of Isospora and Eimeria species confirm the close relationship between these eimeriid genera of apicomplexan parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mosun E Ogedengbe
- a Department of Pathobiology , University of Guelph , ON , Canada and
| | - Marina Brash
- b Animal Health Laboratory (AHL) , University of Guelph , ON Canada
| | - John R Barta
- a Department of Pathobiology , University of Guelph , ON , Canada and
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Hafeez MA, Stasiak I, Delnatte P, El-Sherry S, Smith DA, Barta JR. Description of two new Isospora species causing visceral coccidiosis in captive superb glossy starlings, Lamprotornis superbus (Aves: Sturnidae). Parasitol Res 2014; 113:3287-97. [PMID: 24948107 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-014-3992-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2014] [Accepted: 06/06/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Isospora greineri sp. n. and Isospora superbusi sp. n. are described from captive superb glossy starlings, Lamprotornis superbus, from the Toronto Zoo succumbing to visceral coccidiosis. Sequence data from nuclear 18S recombinant DNA (rDNA) and mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) loci from sporulated oocysts and infected tissues (liver, lung, or spleen) demonstrated two distinct Isospora sp. genotypes that varied in their relative abundance. In the tissues of one affected bird, as well as its associated fecal sample, two distinct COI sequences (1.7% divergence) and two distinct 18S rDNA sequences (0.6% divergence) were found at almost the same abundance; in other specimens, one of the 18S and one of the COI sequences were less abundant than the other. In the tissues of some birds, only a single COI and single 18S sequence were present. In all cases, the same pair of 18S rDNA and COI sequences fluctuated in abundance in parallel, indicating that there were two distinct species present rather than one species with more than one COI or 18S locus. The oocysts of these new species cannot be differentiated morphologically. Sporulated oocysts of both were spherical to subspherical measuring 17.7 ± 0.22 μm by 17.1 ± 0.20 μm with a mean L/W ratio of 1.03 ± 0.004. Sporocysts were ovoid measuring 13.5 ± 0.17 μm by 9.3 ± 0.15 μm with a mean L/W ratio of 1.4 ± 0.02. Sporocysts had a small Stieda body with indistinct sub-Stieda body; each sporocyst had a compact residuum. Two morphologically similar but genetically divergent Isospora species were shown to cause simultaneous enteric and extraintestinal infections in captive superb glossy starlings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mian A Hafeez
- Department of Pathobiology, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, N1G 2 W1, Canada
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