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Tam WYJ, Nekouei O, Rizzo F, Cheng LST, Choi YR, Staples M, Hobi S, Gray J, Woodhouse F, Shuen PYM, Chai YF, Beatty JA, Barrs VR. Seroreactivity against Leptospira spp. differs between community cats and privately-owned cats in Hong Kong. One Health 2024; 19:100851. [PMID: 39099887 PMCID: PMC11296049 DOI: 10.1016/j.onehlt.2024.100851] [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] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Leptospirosis is a bacterial zoonotic disease of major One Health significance and public health impact globally, with a wide host range including mammals, cetaceans and herpetofauna. This study aimed to determine Leptospira seroprevalence, risk factors for seroreactivity and prevalence of urinary Leptospira shedding among domestic cats in Hong Kong. Microagglutination testing of 22 Leptospira serovars from 20 serogroups was performed on 738 sera from outdoor free-roaming "community" cats (n = 391) and privately-owned (n = 347) cats. Urine from 268 community cats was tested for pathogenic Leptospira DNA by qPCR targeting lipL32. Potential risk factors associated with exposure were assessed using logistic regression. Overall Leptospira seroprevalence was 9.35%. Of 14 serogroups detected, Javanica (4.3%), Djasiman (2.3%) and Australis (1.5%) were most common. Seroreactivity was significantly higher among community (13.3%) than privately-owned cats (4.9%; OR 2.98 [95% CI 1.68-5.25], P < 0.001), especially to Javanica (7.65% of community cats versus 0.58% of privately-owned cats (P < 0.001). Antibody titres to all serogroups ranged from 1:100 to 1:6400 (median 1:200) and were highest for Javanica (median 1:800). Leptospira DNA was detected in urine from 12/268 community cats (4.48%; median load 6.42 × 102 copies/mL urine; range 1.40 × 101-9.63 × 104). One in three seroreactive community cats with paired urine and blood samples had leptospiruria. After adjusting for source, none of breed, sex, neuter status, age, district rodent infestation rate, serum alanine transaminase or creatinine values were associated with seroreactivity. Cats in Hong Kong are exposed to a diversity of Leptospira serogroups and can shed Leptospira silently in urine. The higher seroprevalence among outdoor free-roaming community cats highlights the importance of environmental drivers in leptospirosis transmission and risks of exposure for sympatric human populations. Gloves should be worn when handling feline urine to minimise the risk of zoonotic transmission from subclinically infected cats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wing Yan Jacqueline Tam
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Omid Nekouei
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Public Health, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Francesca Rizzo
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Lok See Tiffany Cheng
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yan Ru Choi
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong, China
- Centre for Animal Health and Welfare, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Megan Staples
- World Health Organisation Collaborating Centre for Reference and Research on Leptospirosis, at Queensland Health Forensic and Scientific Services, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Stefan Hobi
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Jane Gray
- Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Hong Kong), Wan Chai, Hong Kong, China
| | - Fiona Woodhouse
- Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Hong Kong), Wan Chai, Hong Kong, China
| | - Patricia Yi Man Shuen
- Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Hong Kong), Wan Chai, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ying Fei Chai
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Julia A. Beatty
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong, China
- Centre for Animal Health and Welfare, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Vanessa R. Barrs
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong, China
- Centre for Animal Health and Welfare, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong, China
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Miotto BA, Camelo QC, Grolla ACMM, de Oliveira ABM, Silva MMB, Hagiwara MK, Esteves SB. Current knowledge on leptospirosis in cats: A systematic review with metanalysis on direct detection, serological response, and clinical data. Res Vet Sci 2024; 174:105292. [PMID: 38759347 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2024.105292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Revised: 04/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024]
Abstract
Leptospirosis is a neglected bacterial zoonosis that affects a wide range of mammals, with important implications from a One Health perspective. Over the past years feline leptospirosis has gained increased attention in the scientific community. Here we describe a systematic review with meta-analysis that followed the PRISMA guidelines, with an additional PROSPERO registration. The study provides global seropositivity, urinary shedding rates, global serogroup distribution, descriptive data of leptospires that had been isolated from cats and clinical and laboratory features presented by symptomatic cats with acute disease. The search was carried out in six different databases, with the identification of 79 reports describing leptospiral infection in cats. The pooled frequency of seroreactive cats was 11% (95% CI: 9%-13%), with Javanica and Pomona as the most frequent serogroups found. Frequency for urinary shedding was 8% (95% CI: 5%-10%), with L. interrogans identified in most samples. A total of 16 isolates were isolated from cats, with Bataviae as the most frequent serogroup. Twenty symptomatic cats with confirmed leptospiral infection were identified. Anorexia, lethargy, polydipsia, and bleeding disorders were the clinical signs most frequently reported. The results suggest that cats from some locations are exposed to leptospires and may act as urinary shedders of this pathogen, thus indicating a possible role of this species in disease transmission. Clinical data indicates that acute infection is mostly atypical when compared to dogs, and due to difficulties to define an archetypal clinical presentation in cats, feline leptospirosis is likely to be underdiagnosed disease in this species.
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Paim MG, Rivas BB, Sebastião GA, Kaefer K, Rodrigues RO, Mayer FQ, Nunes LN, Costa FVAD. Investigation of anti-Leptospira spp. antibodies and leptospiruria in cats attended to a veterinary teaching hospital in southern Brazil. Comp Immunol Microbiol Infect Dis 2024; 107:102138. [PMID: 38367297 DOI: 10.1016/j.cimid.2024.102138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024]
Abstract
Leptospirosis is a bacterial zoonosis that affects both humans and animals worldwide. Currently, it is known that cats may be susceptible to infection. This study aims to investigate the presence of anti-Leptospira spp. antibodies and leptospiruria in cats, using Microscopic Agglutination Test (MAT) and Real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) techniques, respectively. A total of 76 cats, undergoing comprehensive anamnesis, general physical examination, and complementary exams were included in the investigation. Among the 76 cats tested, 9.2% (7/76) exhibited the presence of anti-Leptospira spp. antibodies, while Leptospira spp. DNA was detected in at 1.3% (1/76) of the evaluated urine samples. No significant associations were observed between the serological and molecular diagnostic results and the assessed variables, including clinical data and laboratory results of cats testing positive. This study provides insight into the occurrence of Leptospira spp. infection and leptospiruria in cats treated at a veterinary teaching hospital in southern Brazil.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirela Grünwalder Paim
- Hospital de Clínicas Veterinárias, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
| | - Bárbara Basseggio Rivas
- Hospital de Clínicas Veterinárias, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Grasiele Amorim Sebastião
- Hospital de Clínicas Veterinárias, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Kauana Kaefer
- Hospital de Clínicas Veterinárias, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Rogério Oliveira Rodrigues
- Laboratório de Leptospirose, Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor, Fundação Estadual de Pesquisa Agropecuária, Eldorado do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Fabiana Quoos Mayer
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor, Fundação Estadual de Pesquisa Agropecuária, Eldorado do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Luciana Neves Nunes
- Instituto de Matemática, Departamento de Estatística, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Vieira Amorim da Costa
- Hospital de Clínicas Veterinárias, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
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Murillo A, Pastor J, Serrano E, Tvarijonaviciute A, Cerón J, Goris M, Ahmed A, Cuenca R. Acute phase proteins and total antioxidant capacity in free-roaming cats infected by pathogenic leptospires. BMC Vet Res 2023; 19:148. [PMID: 37679743 PMCID: PMC10483874 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-023-03697-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Leptospirosis is a neglected but widespread zoonotic disease throughout the world. Most mammals are hosts of Leptospira spp., including domestic cats, species in which no consensus has been reached on the clinical presentation or diagnosis of the disease. The study of acute-phase proteins (APPs) and biomarkers of oxidative status would contribute to knowledge about the disease in cats. This report evaluated four APPs: Serum amyloid A-SAA, Haptoglobin-Hp, albumin and Paraoxonase 1-PON1 and the antioxidant response through Total Antioxidant Capacity-TAC, in 32 free-roaming cats. Cats were classified as seroreactive for anti-leptospiral antibodies (group 1, n = 8), infected with Leptospira spp (group 2, n = 5) and leptospires-free cats (group 3, n = 19). RESULTS SAA differences were observed between groups 1 and 2 (p-value = 0.01) and between groups 2 and 3 (p-value = 0.0001). Hp concentration differences were only detected between groups 2 and 3 (p-value = 0.001). Albumin concentrations only differed between groups 1 and 3 (p-value = 0.017) and 2 and 3 (p-value < 0.005). Cats in groups 1 (p-value < 0.005) and 2 (p-value < 0.005) had lower PON1 concentrations than group 3. No statistically significant differences between pairs of groups were detected for TAC concentrations. The principal component analysis (PCA) retained two principal components, (PC1 and PC2), explaining 60.1% of the observed variability of the inflammatory proteins and the antioxidant TAC. CONCLUSIONS Increases in Serum SAA, Hp, and decreases in PON1 activity may indicate an active inflammatory state in infected cats (currently or recently infected).
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Murillo
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Wildlife Ecology & Health group (WE&H), Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Barcelona, 08193, Spain.
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona (UAB), Barcelona, 08193, Spain.
| | - Josep Pastor
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Wildlife Ecology & Health group (WE&H), Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Barcelona, 08193, Spain
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona (UAB), Barcelona, 08193, Spain
| | - Emmanuel Serrano
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Wildlife Ecology & Health group (WE&H), Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Barcelona, 08193, Spain
- Servei d'Ecopatologia de Fauna Salvatge (SEFaS), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Barcelona, 08193, Spain
| | - Asta Tvarijonaviciute
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Clinical Analysis Interlab-UMU, University of Murcia, Murcia, 30100, Spain
| | - José Cerón
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Clinical Analysis Interlab-UMU, University of Murcia, Murcia, 30100, Spain
| | - Marga Goris
- OIE and National Collaborating Centre for Reference and Research on Leptospirosis (NRL), Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Medical Microbiology, Amsterdam, 1105 AZ, the Netherlands
| | - Ahmed Ahmed
- OIE and National Collaborating Centre for Reference and Research on Leptospirosis (NRL), Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Medical Microbiology, Amsterdam, 1105 AZ, the Netherlands
| | - Rafaela Cuenca
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Wildlife Ecology & Health group (WE&H), Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Barcelona, 08193, Spain
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona (UAB), Barcelona, 08193, Spain
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Ricardo T, Azócar-Aedo L, Signorini M, Previtali MA. Leptospiral infection in domestic cats: Systematic review with meta-analysis. Prev Vet Med 2023; 212:105851. [PMID: 36706556 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2023.105851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
The role of domestic cats in the transmission of Leptospira is controversial, being considered either as a protective factor or a potential source of infection for humans. The aims of this study were to obtain an integrated estimate of the prevalence of leptospiral infection in domestic cats, and to characterize those individuals most susceptible to infection. For this systematic review and meta-analysis, five electronic databases, as well as the reference lists of eligible reports were screened for observational studies published during 1979-2022. The overall prevalence of leptospiral antibodies and of pathogenic Leptospira in kidney/urine was estimated using three-level meta-analysis models. To investigate potential sources of heterogeneity, moderator analyses was performed using the sampling year, health status, living environment, and origin of the cats. The odds-ratio (OR) of potential risk factors was estimated using random-effects meta-analysis models for binary outcomes. The literature search identified 61 eligible publications, containing 114 effect estimates. The overall seroprevalence was 11.7 % (95 % CI: 9.3-14.6 %), the prevalence of leptospires in urine was 3.7 % (95 % CI: 1.7-8.1 %), and the prevalence of leptospires in kidney tissue was 12.8 % (95 % CI: 3.2-39.9 %). There were no significant differences in the estimated prevalence after removing articles with medium risk of bias. Seroprevalence was higher in Europe when compared to Latin America and the Caribbean (P = 0.047) and showed a mild decrease over time (P = 0.023). Outdoor cats had almost three times greater probabilities of infection with Leptospira (OR: 2.74, 95 % CI: 1.10-6.84). No other significant effect was detected among the tested moderators or potential risk factors (P > 0.05). Results suggest that feline leptospirosis should receive particular attention in veterinary care, as exposure to leptospires can occur in approximately 1 in every 10 cats, and more frequently in cats with street access. Domestic cats should be considered as potential Leptospira carriers when designing public health strategies for the control and prevention of leptospirosis. Further investigation is required to improve knowledge of the role of these animals in the environmental transmission cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamara Ricardo
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Colectora Ruta Nac. Nº 168, Km. 0, Paraje El Pozo, Santa Fe, Argentina; Dpto. de Cs. Naturales, Facultad de Humanidades y Ciencias, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Ciudad Universitaria, Paraje El Pozo, Santa Fe, Argentina.
| | - Lucía Azócar-Aedo
- Escuela de Medicina Veterinaria, Facultad de Ciencias de la Naturaleza, Universidad San Sebastián, Sede de la Patagonia, Chile
| | - Marcelo Signorini
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Colectora Ruta Nac. Nº 168, Km. 0, Paraje El Pozo, Santa Fe, Argentina; Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, R.P. Kreder 2805, Esperanza, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - María Andrea Previtali
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Colectora Ruta Nac. Nº 168, Km. 0, Paraje El Pozo, Santa Fe, Argentina; Dpto. de Cs. Naturales, Facultad de Humanidades y Ciencias, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Ciudad Universitaria, Paraje El Pozo, Santa Fe, Argentina.
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Mazzotta E, De Zan G, Cocchi M, Boniotti MB, Bertasio C, Furlanello T, Lucchese L, Ceglie L, Bellinati L, Natale A. Feline Susceptibility to Leptospirosis and Presence of Immunosuppressive Co-Morbidities: First European Report of L. interrogans Serogroup Australis Sequence Type 24 in a Cat and Survey of Leptospira Exposure in Outdoor Cats. Trop Med Infect Dis 2023; 8:tropicalmed8010054. [PMID: 36668961 PMCID: PMC9865706 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed8010054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Leptospirosis is one of the most widespread zoonotic diseases and can infect both humans and animals worldwide. The role of the cat as a susceptible host and potential environmental reservoir of Leptospira is still not well understood, due to the lack of obvious clinical signs associated with Leptospira spp. infection in this species. This study aims to describe the first European detection of Leptospira interrogans serogroup Australis ST 24 in a young outdoor cat with a severe comorbidity (feline panleukopenia virus). In addition, the results of a preliminary study conducted in 2014-2016 are presented (RC IZSVE 16/12), which reports an investigation of Leptospira exposure of outdoor cats in Northeast Italy by means of serological investigation and molecular evaluation of urine. The animals included in the survey are part of samples collected during active and passive surveillance (diagnostic samples). The study reported a seroprevalence of 10.5% among outdoor cats and the serogroups identified were Grippotyphosa, Icterohaemorrhagiae, Bratislava, Canicola and Ballum. Symptomatic cats reported high MAT titres (ranging from 1:800 to 1:1600) towards antigens belonging to the serovars Grippotyphosa (1:800), Bratislava (1:1600), Icterohaemorrhagiae (1:200) and Copenhageni (1:200-1:800). In one subject, urine tested positive for Leptospira PCR. Cats with high antibody titres for Leptospira and/or positivity on molecular test suffered from immunosuppressive comorbidities (feline immunodeficiency virus and feline leukaemia virus; feline herpesvirus and lymphoma; hyperthyroidism). The overall prevalence of serum antibodies against Leptospira found in free-ranging cats (10.53%, 95% CI: 4.35-16.70%) and the identification of L. interrogans ST 24 in a young cat with immunosuppressive disease (feline panleukopenia virus) suggest the possibility of natural resistance to clinical leptospirosis in healthy cats. In a One Health perspective, further studies are needed to better define the pathogenesis of leptospirosis in cats and their epidemiological role as environmental sentinels or possible carriers of pathogenic Leptospira.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Mazzotta
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie (IZSVe), Viale dell’Università 10, 35020 Legnaro, Italy
- Correspondence: (E.M.); (G.D.Z.); Tel.: +39-0498084461 (E.M.)
| | - Gabrita De Zan
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie (IZSVe), Viale dell’Università 10, 35020 Legnaro, Italy
- Correspondence: (E.M.); (G.D.Z.); Tel.: +39-0498084461 (E.M.)
| | - Monia Cocchi
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie (IZSVe), Viale dell’Università 10, 35020 Legnaro, Italy
| | - Maria Beatrice Boniotti
- National Reference Centre for Animal Leptospirosis (NRCL), Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia ed Emilia Romagna “Bruno Ubertini”, Via Bianchi 7/9, 25121 Brescia, Italy
| | - Cristina Bertasio
- National Reference Centre for Animal Leptospirosis (NRCL), Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia ed Emilia Romagna “Bruno Ubertini”, Via Bianchi 7/9, 25121 Brescia, Italy
| | - Tommaso Furlanello
- Veterinary Clinic and Laboratory San Marco, Viale dell’Industria, 35030 Veggiano, Italy
| | - Laura Lucchese
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie (IZSVe), Viale dell’Università 10, 35020 Legnaro, Italy
| | - Letizia Ceglie
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie (IZSVe), Viale dell’Università 10, 35020 Legnaro, Italy
| | - Laura Bellinati
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie (IZSVe), Viale dell’Università 10, 35020 Legnaro, Italy
| | - Alda Natale
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie (IZSVe), Viale dell’Università 10, 35020 Legnaro, Italy
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Leptospira spp. Prevalence in Cats from Southern Italy with Evaluation of Risk Factors for Exposure and Clinical Findings in Infected Cats. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11101129. [PMID: 36297186 PMCID: PMC9609655 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11101129] [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: 09/12/2022] [Revised: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Leptospirosis is a worldwide zoonotic disease, but feline leptospirosis is rarely reported. This study aimed at investigating Leptospira spp. prevalence in cats from southern Italy, evaluating risk factors, clinical findings and laboratory data associated with infection. The serum of 112 cats was investigated by microscopic agglutination test (MAT), detecting anti-Leptospira antibodies against 14 pathogenic serovars. Blood and urine samples were tested by a real-time polymerase chain reaction targeting the lipL32 gene of pathogenic Leptospira. Antibodies against serovars Poi, Bratislava, Arborea, Ballum, Pomona and Lora were detected in 15.3% (17/111) of cats (titers range: 20-320). Leptospira spp. DNA was found in 3% (4/109) of blood and 9% (10/111) of urine samples. The spring season was the only risk factor for urinary Leptospira DNA shedding. Laboratory abnormalities significantly associated and/or correlated with Leptospira spp. positivity were anemia, monocytosis, neutrophilia, eosinopenia, increased alanine aminotransferase activity, hypoalbuminemia and hyperglobulinemia. In the investigated areas, cats are frequently infected by Leptospira spp. and can represent an additional reservoir or sentinel for a risk of infection. Moreover, some laboratory changes could be compatible with a pathogenic effect of Leptospira spp. in the feline host.
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Žákovská A, Treml F, Nejezchlebová H, Nepeřený J, Budíková M, Bártová E. Leptospira interrogans Sensu Lato in Wild Small Mammals in Three Moravian Localities of the Czech Republic. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11080888. [PMID: 36015009 PMCID: PMC9416344 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11080888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Leptospirosis is a widespread zoonosis, affecting humans, domestic animals and wildlife, with small mammals as a reservoir of this infection. In recent years, this disease has been re-emerging and affects approximately 1 million people all over the world each year. Due to this disease having a significant health impact, it is important to identify the source and method of infection. The risk of Leptospira sp. infection is higher mainly in the cities of developed and industrialised countries. The aim of the study was the detection of antibodies against Leptospira sp. in some wild small mammals captured in the Czech Republic. In total, samples of 855 animals captured in three locations of Moravia during a six-year study (2010–2015) were examined by a microscopic agglutination test, using eight serovars of Leptospira interrogans sensu lato, representing serogroups Grippotyphosa, Icterohaemorrhagiae, Australis, Canicola, Sejroe, Javanica, Pomona and Pyrogenes, as antigens. Antibodies to Leptospira sp. were detected in 6.1% (52/855) of animals, with a prevalence of 6.4% (51/801) and 1.9% (1/54) in rodents and insectivores, respectively. The only statistically significant difference (p ≤ 0.05) was in prevalence between individual species (0–33%), while there were no differences in sex (6.7% in females and 5.1% in males), locality (1.8–8%) and year of trapping (0–8.4%). Only two serovars, L. interrogans serovar Pomona and L. interrogans serovar Grippotyphosa, were detected in 5.5% and 0.5% of animals, respectively. The prevailing serovar of pathogenic L. interrogans s.l. can be identified in a number of infected people in the Czech Republic. The composition of vaccines should be based on the current occurrence of Leptospira serovars in the actual territory. For this reason, the occurrence of Leptospira and its serovars should therefore be regularly monitored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alena Žákovská
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Education, Masaryk University, Kamenice 753/5, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
- Department of Animal Physiology and Immunology, Institute of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kamenice 753/5, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - František Treml
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Veterinary Sciences Brno, Palackého tř. 1946/1, 612 42 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Helena Nejezchlebová
- Department of Animal Physiology and Immunology, Institute of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kamenice 753/5, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jiří Nepeřený
- Bioveta, a.s., Komenského 212, 683 23 Ivanovice na Hané, Czech Republic
| | - Marie Budíková
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kotlářská 267/2, 611 37 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Eva Bártová
- Department of Biology and Wildlife Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Hygiene and Ecology, University of Veterinary Sciences Brno, Palackého tř. 1946/1, 612 42 Brno, Czech Republic
- Correspondence:
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Webb JK, Keller KA, Sander SJ, Allender MC, Sheldon JD. Clinical disease and treatment of Leptospira kirschneri sv Grippotyphosa in a Sumatran tiger (Panthera tigris sumatrae). J Am Vet Med Assoc 2022; 260:1-6. [PMID: 35298403 DOI: 10.2460/javma.21.04.0185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
CASE DESCRIPTION A 12-year-old sexually intact male zoo-managed Sumatran tiger (Panthera tigris sumatrae) was evaluated for a 3-day history of vomiting, hyporexia, and lethargy. Radiographs were supportive of gastrointestinal obstruction, and an exploratory laparotomy was performed. CLINICAL FINDINGS Diffuse tan foci were present on the liver parenchyma, and the tiger became icteric throughout the procedure. Hepatic histopathology and immunohistochemistry resulted in a diagnosis of leptospirosis. Serum microagglutination testing for Leptospira spp antibody titers were positive for L kirschneri serovar Grippotyphosa, rising from 1:400 to 1:3,200 in 2 days. TREATMENT AND OUTCOME The tiger was treated with antimicrobials, ursodiol, and mirtazapine, and increased biosecurity measures were instituted. Free-ranging wildlife on grounds were trapped, euthanized, and submitted for necropsy to screen for disease vectors. The tiger's urine was intermittently opportunistically collected from the enclosure and remained PCR assay negative for Leptospira spp until being positive once again on day 595. Although the tiger was without clinical signs at that time, antimicrobial therapy and increased biosecurity protocols were instituted a second time until urinary Leptospira shedding was confirmed to have stopped. By 1,071 days after initial presentation, the tiger remained nonclinical, with no additional urinary shedding episodes. CLINICAL RELEVANCE While domestic and nondomestic free-ranging felids have been reported as subclinical Leptospira spp carriers, this report indicates the clinical importance of leptospirosis when a tiger presents with generalized gastrointestinal signs and icterus. Due to the zoonotic potential, biosecurity measures are necessary. This patient had a clinically successful outcome with antimicrobial therapy and supportive care.
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Bourassi E, Savidge C, Foley P, Hartwig S. Serologic and urinary survey of exposure to Leptospira species in a feral cat population of Prince Edward Island, Canada. J Feline Med Surg 2021; 23:1155-1161. [PMID: 33719673 PMCID: PMC8637349 DOI: 10.1177/1098612x211001042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Recent studies show that cats could play an important role in the transmission of Leptospira species. There are few reports of leptospirosis on Prince Edward Island (PEI) and none in cats. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of serum antibodies against Leptospira serovars and of Leptospira DNA in the urine of a population of free-roaming cats. METHODS Paired blood and urine samples were collected from 200 cats brought to a trap-neuter-return program. Antibody titers against six Leptospira serovars (Bratislava, Canicola, Gryppotyphosa, Hardjo, Pomona, Icterohaemorrhagiae) were determined by microscopic agglutination test. PCR was performed on urine samples to identify urine shedding of Leptospira DNA. RESULTS Antibodies were detected in 20/200 cats (10%) for at least one serovar, with titers ranging from 1:50 to 1:6400 (all serovars tested, except Hardjo). Urine samples of 7/200 cats (3.5%) were PCR-positive. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE Feral cats in PEI had a higher than expected exposure to leptospirosis and can shed DNA from pathogenic Leptospira species in urine. Further studies are needed to determine the prevalence of exposure to leptospirosis in other species on PEI and the potential role of feral cats in transmission of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilia Bourassi
- Department of Companion Animals, Atlantic Veterinary College, University of Prince Edward Island, Charlottetown, PE, Canada
| | - Christine Savidge
- Department of Companion Animals, Atlantic Veterinary College, University of Prince Edward Island, Charlottetown, PE, Canada
| | - Peter Foley
- Department of Companion Animals, Atlantic Veterinary College, University of Prince Edward Island, Charlottetown, PE, Canada
| | - Sunny Hartwig
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Atlantic Veterinary College, University of Prince Edward Island, Charlottetown, PE, Canada
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Wild Small Mammals and Ticks in Zoos-Reservoir of Agents with Zoonotic Potential? Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10060777. [PMID: 34205547 PMCID: PMC8235793 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10060777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 06/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Wild small mammals and ticks play an important role in maintaining and spreading zoonoses in nature, as well as in captive animals. The aim of this study was to monitor selected agents with zoonotic potential in their reservoirs and vectors in a zoo, and to draw attention to the risk of possible contact with these pathogens. In total, 117 wild small mammals (rodents) and 166 ticks were collected in the area of Brno Zoo. Antibodies to the bacteria Coxiella burnetii, Francisella tularensis, and Borrelia burgdorferi s.l. were detected by a modified enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in 19% (19/99), 4% (4/99), and 15% (15/99) of rodents, respectively. Antibodies to Leptospira spp. bacteria were detected by the microscopic agglutination test in 6% (4/63) of rodents. Coinfection (antibodies to more than two agents) were proved in 14.5% (15/97) of animals. The prevalence of C. burnetii statistically differed according to the years of trapping (p = 0.0241). The DNAs of B. burgdorferi s.l., Rickettsia sp., and Anaplasma phagocytophilum were detected by PCR in 16%, 6%, and 1% of ticks, respectively, without coinfection and without effect of life stage and sex of ticks on positivity. Sequencing showed homology with R. helvetica and A. phagocytophilum in four and one positive samples, respectively. The results of our study show that wild small mammals and ticks in a zoo could serve as reservoirs and vectors of infectious agents with zoonotic potential and thus present a risk of infection to zoo animals and also to keepers and visitors to a zoo.
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12
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Lehtla A, Must K, Lassen B, Orro T, Jokelainen P, Viltrop A. Leptospira spp. in Cats in Estonia: Seroprevalence and Risk Factors for Seropositivity. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2020; 20:524-528. [PMID: 32202985 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2019.2555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Leptospirosis is a zoonotic bacterial disease that affects humans and animals worldwide. Recently, more attention has been paid to Leptospira spp. infections in domestic cats. In this seroepidemiological study, we estimated the prevalence of anti-Leptospira spp. antibodies in domestic cats in Estonia and evaluated risk factors for the seropositivity. A total of 546 surplus feline plasma and serum samples, collected in collaboration with small animal clinics and an animal shelter in 2013 and 2015, were included in this study. The samples were tested for antibodies against Leptospira spp. using a microscopic agglutination test. The panel included Leptospira interrogans serovars Pomona, Icterohaemorrhagiae, Bratislava, Canicola, and Hardjo, and Leptospira kirschneri serovar Grippotyphosa. Titers ≥100 (positive reactions at dilutions ≥1/100) were considered positive. Anti-Leptospira spp. antibodies were detected in 12.8% of the cats. The percentage of cats that tested positive for antibodies against L. interrogans serovars Pomona, Icterohaemorrhagiae, Bratislava, Canicola, and Hardjo were 9.3%, 3.5%, 2.4%, 0.4%, and 0.2%, respectively, and the percentage of cats that tested positive for antibodies against L. kirschneri serovar Grippotyphosa was 7.3%. Of the seropositive cats, 46.5%, 35.2%, 12.7%, 4.2%, and 1.4% tested positive for 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 serovars, respectively. The prevalence of anti-Leptospira spp. antibodies was 11.2% in pet cats and 16.3% in shelter cats. Among pet cats, the seroprevalence was over four times higher in cats that had access to the outdoors (17.2%) than in indoor cats (3.9%). Multivariable models, one based on data on pet cats only and another including also data on shelter cats, identified having access to the outdoors, being a shelter cat, and being from Western Estonia as the risk factors for seropositivity. Cats could be better protected from exposure to Leptospira spp. by not allowing them to roam freely outdoors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andžela Lehtla
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Kärt Must
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Brian Lassen
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia.,Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Toomas Orro
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Pikka Jokelainen
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia.,Department of Bacteria, Parasites & Fungi, Infectious Disease Preparedness, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Arvo Viltrop
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
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Alashraf AR, Lau SF, Khairani-Bejo S, Khor KH, Ajat M, Radzi R, Roslan MA, Abdul Rahman MS. First report of pathogenic Leptospira spp. isolated from urine and kidneys of naturally infected cats. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0230048. [PMID: 32155209 PMCID: PMC7064249 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0230048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2019] [Accepted: 02/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Leptospirosis is one of the most widespread zoonotic diseases and can infect both humans and animals worldwide. Healthy cat, as a potential source of exposure to humans, are likely underestimated owing to the lack of overt clinical signs associated with Leptospira spp. infection in this species. The aim of the study was to determine the exposure, shedding, and carrier status of leptospires in shelter cats in Malaysia by using serological, molecular, and bacteriological methods. For this study, 82 healthy cats from two shelters were sampled. The blood, urine, and kidneys were tested using the microscopic agglutination test (MAT), polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and bacterial culture. On the basis of serological, molecular, and/or culture techniques, the total detection of leptospiral infection was 29.3% (n = 24/82). Through culture techniques, 16.7% (n = 4/24) of the cats that tested positive were carriers with positive kidney cultures, and one cat was culture positive for both urine and kidney. The Leptospira spp. isolates were identified as pathogenic L. interrogans serovar Bataviae through serological and molecular methods. Through serological techniques, 87.5% (n = 21/24) had positive antibody titers (100-1600) and most of the Bataviae serogroup (n = 19/21). Using PCR, 16.7% (n = 4/24) of cats were shown to have pathogenic Leptospira spp. DNA in their urine. Furthermore, three out of four culture positive cats were serology negative. The present study reports the first retrieval of pathogenic leptospires from urine and kidneys obtained from naturally infected cats. The results provide evidence of the potential role of naturally infected cats in the transmission of leptospires. Additionally, leptospiral infection occurs sub-clinically in cats. The culture isolation provides evidence that healthy cats could be reservoirs of leptospiral infection, and this information may promote the development of disease prevention strategies for the cat population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdul Rahman Alashraf
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Seng Fong Lau
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Siti Khairani-Bejo
- Department of Veterinary Pathology and Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Kuan Hua Khor
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Mokrish Ajat
- Department of Veterinary Preclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Rozanaliza Radzi
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Muhammad Azri Roslan
- Department of Veterinary Pathology and Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Muhammad Sabri Abdul Rahman
- Department of Veterinary Pathology and Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
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Murillo A, Cuenca R, Serrano E, Marga G, Ahmed A, Cervantes S, Caparrós C, Vieitez V, Ladina A, Pastor J. Leptospira Detection in Cats in Spain by Serology and Molecular Techniques. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E1600. [PMID: 32121670 PMCID: PMC7084519 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17051600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2020] [Revised: 02/26/2020] [Accepted: 02/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Leptospirosis is the most neglected widespread zoonosis worldwide. In Spain, leptospirosis reports in people and animals have increased lately. Cats can become infected with Leptospira, as well as be chronic carriers. The aim of this study was to determine serological antibody prevalence against Leptospira sp., blood DNA, and shedding of DNA from pathogenic Leptospira species in the urine of cats in Spain. Microagglutination tests (MAT) and blood and urine TaqMan real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) were performed. Leptospira antibodies were detected in 10/244 cats; with 4.1% positive results (95% confidence interval (CI): 2.1-7.18%). Titers ranged from 1:20 to 1:320 (serovars Ballum; Bataviae; Bratislava; Cynopteri; Grippotyphosa Mandemakers; Grippotyphosa Moskva; Pomona; and Proechimys). The most common serovar was Cynopteri. Blood samples from 1/89 cats amplified for Leptospira DNA (1.12%; 95% CI: 0.05-5.41%). Urine samples from 4/232 cats amplified for Leptospira DNA (1.72%; 95% CI: 0.55-4.10%). In conclusion free-roaming cats in Spain can shed pathogenic Leptospira DNA in their urine and may be a source of human infection. Serovars not previously described in cats in Spain were detected; suggesting the presence of at least 4 different species of pathogenic leptospires in the country (L. borgpetersenii; L. interrogans; L. kirschneri; and L. noguchii).
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Murillo
- Department de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona (UAB), CP 08193 Bellaterra, Espana; (R.C.); (J.P.)
| | - Rafaela Cuenca
- Department de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona (UAB), CP 08193 Bellaterra, Espana; (R.C.); (J.P.)
| | - Emmanuel Serrano
- Wildlife Ecology & Health group (WE&H), Servei d’Ecopatologia de Fauna Salvatge (SEFaS), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), CP 08193 Bellaterra, Espana;
| | - Goris Marga
- OIE and National Collaborating Centre for Reference and Research on Leptospirosis (NRL), Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Medical Microbiology, Meibergdreef 39, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (G.M.); (A.A.)
| | - Ahmed Ahmed
- OIE and National Collaborating Centre for Reference and Research on Leptospirosis (NRL), Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Medical Microbiology, Meibergdreef 39, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (G.M.); (A.A.)
| | | | - Cristina Caparrós
- Clínica Felina Barcelona, CP 08015 Barcelona, Espana; (S.C.); (C.C.)
| | - Verónica Vieitez
- Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Extremadura, CP 10003 Cáceres, Espana; (V.V.); (A.L.)
| | - Andrea Ladina
- Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Extremadura, CP 10003 Cáceres, Espana; (V.V.); (A.L.)
| | - Josep Pastor
- Department de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona (UAB), CP 08193 Bellaterra, Espana; (R.C.); (J.P.)
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15
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Murillo A, Goris M, Ahmed A, Cuenca R, Pastor J. Leptospirosis in cats: Current literature review to guide diagnosis and management. J Feline Med Surg 2020; 22:216-228. [PMID: 32093581 PMCID: PMC11132596 DOI: 10.1177/1098612x20903601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
GLOBAL IMPORTANCE Leptospirosis is the most widespread zoonosis worldwide. Mammals (eg, rats, horses, cows, pigs, dogs, cats and aquatic species, such as sea lions and northern elephant seals) can all be infected by leptospires. Infection in animals occurs through contact with urine or water contaminated with the bacteria. In people, the disease is acquired mainly from animal sources or through recreational activities in contaminated water. PRACTICAL RELEVANCE Literature on the clinical presentation of leptospirosis in cats is scarce, although it has been demonstrated that cats are susceptible to infection and are capable of developing antibodies. The prevalence of antileptospiral antibodies in cats varies from 4% to 33.3% depending on the geographical location. Urinary shedding of leptospires in naturally infected cats has been reported, with a prevalence of up to 68%. Infection in cats has been associated with the consumption of infected prey, especially rodents. Thus, outdoor cats have a higher risk of becoming infected. CLINICAL CHALLENGES Clinical presentation of this disease in cats is rare and it is not known what role cats have in the transmission of leptospirosis. Ongoing work is needed to characterise feline leptospirosis. AUDIENCE This review is aimed at all veterinarians, both general practitioners who deal with cats on a daily basis in private practice, as well as feline practitioners, since both groups face the challenge of diagnosing and treating infectious and zoonotic diseases. EVIDENCE BASE The current literature on leptospirosis in cats is reviewed. To date, few case reports have been published in the field, and information has mostly been extrapolated from infections in people and dogs. This review is expected to serve as a guide for the diagnosis and management of the disease in cats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Murillo
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marga Goris
- OIE and National Collaborating Centre for Reference and Research on Leptospirosis (NRL), Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Medical Microbiology, Meibergdreef 39, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Ahmed Ahmed
- OIE and National Collaborating Centre for Reference and Research on Leptospirosis (NRL), Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Medical Microbiology, Meibergdreef 39, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Rafaela Cuenca
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Josep Pastor
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain
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Lappin MR, Elston T, Evans L, Glaser C, Jarboe L, Karczmar P, Lund C, Ray M. 2019 AAFP Feline Zoonoses Guidelines. J Feline Med Surg 2019; 21:1008-1021. [PMID: 31613173 PMCID: PMC10814210 DOI: 10.1177/1098612x19880436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
AIM The overarching purpose of the 2019 AAFP Feline Zoonoses Guidelines (hereafter referred to as the 'Guidelines') is to provide accurate information about feline zoonotic diseases to owners, physicians and veterinarians to allow logical decisions to be made concerning cat ownership. SCOPE AND ACCESSIBILITY The Panelists are physicians and veterinarians who worked closely together in an attempt to make these Guidelines a document that can be used to support the International One Health movement. This version of the Guidelines builds upon the first feline zoonosis panel report, published in 2003 ( catvets.com/guidelines ), and provides an updated reference list and recommendations. Each of the recommendations received full support from every Panelist. Primary recommendations are highlighted in a series of 'Panelists' advice' boxes.
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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
| | - Tom Elston
- The Cat Hospital, 3069 Edinger Avenue, Tustin, CA, USA
| | - Lisanne Evans
- All Pets Veterinary Hospital, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA, USA
| | - Carol Glaser
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Kaiser Permanente, CA, USA
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17
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Hässle SN, Rodriguez-Campos S, Howard J, Speiser-Fontaine C, Schuller S. Serological detection of anti-leptospiral antibodies in outdoor cats in Switzerland. Vet Anim Sci 2019; 8:100068. [PMID: 32734085 PMCID: PMC7386758 DOI: 10.1016/j.vas.2019.100068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2019] [Revised: 07/05/2019] [Accepted: 08/13/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Leptospirosis is endemic in Switzerland affecting a broad range of hosts. The aim of this study was to estimate the exposure of cats to Leptospira in Switzerland. Plasma samples from 107 outdoor cats with an array of clinical problems were tested via microscopic agglutination test for the presence of anti-leptospiral antibodies against 12 serovars of 9 serogroups. Using a reciprocal cut-off titre of 1:100, an overall seroprevalence of 10.3% (95%CI 5.2-17.7) was observed. Seroreactivity against serovars Bratislava (n = 6), Australis (2), Pomona (3) and Copenhageni (1) was detected with reciprocal titres ranging from 1:100 to 1:800. The serologic status of the cats was independent of the disease group (p = 0.62). These results show that cats in Switzerland are commonly exposed to Leptospira and confirm the importance of serogroup Australis in this region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Noëmi Hässle
- Department Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Division of Small Animal Internal Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Länggassstrasse 128, CH-3001, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Sabrina Rodriguez-Campos
- Institute of Veterinary Bacteriology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Länggassstrasse 122, CH-3012, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Judith Howard
- Central Diagnostic Laboratory, Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Länggassstrasse 124, CH-3012, Bern, Switzerland
| | | | - Simone Schuller
- Department Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Division of Small Animal Internal Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Länggassstrasse 128, CH-3001, Bern, Switzerland
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18
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Alashraf AR, Lau SF, Khor KH, Khairani-Bejo S, Bahaman AR, Roslan MA, Rahman MSA, Goh SH, Radzi R. Serological Detection of Anti-Leptospira Antibodies in Shelter Cats in Malaysia. Top Companion Anim Med 2019; 34:10-13. [DOI: 10.1053/j.tcam.2018.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2018] [Revised: 11/24/2018] [Accepted: 12/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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19
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Palerme JS, Lamperelli E, Gagne J, Cazlan C, Zhang M, Olds JE. Seroprevalence of Leptospira spp., Toxoplasma gondii, and Dirofilaria immitis in Free-Roaming Cats in Iowa. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2019; 19:193-198. [DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2017.2255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Sébastien Palerme
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa
| | - Elizabeth Lamperelli
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa
| | - Jordan Gagne
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa
| | - Callie Cazlan
- Ocean State Veterinary Specialists, East Greenwich, Rhode Island
| | - Min Zhang
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa
| | - June E. Olds
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa
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20
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Weis S, Rettinger A, Bergmann M, Llewellyn JR, Pantchev N, Straubinger RK, Hartmann K. Detection of Leptospira DNA in urine and presence of specific antibodies in outdoor cats in Germany. J Feline Med Surg 2017; 19:470-476. [PMID: 26927819 PMCID: PMC11119650 DOI: 10.1177/1098612x16634389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Objectives Clinical manifestation of infection with Leptospira species in cats is rare. Nevertheless, cats can develop specific antibodies against the spirochetes after infection. In Canada, Taiwan and the USA it was recently demonstrated that naturally infected cats can also shed DNA from pathogenic Leptospira species in their urine, but the zoonotic potential of infected cats is still unclear. The objective of this study was to demonstrate if outdoor cats in Germany shed DNA from pathogenic Leptospira species in their urine. As a second aim, antibody prevalence was determined. Methods Two hundred and fifteen outdoor cats were prospectively recruited. Urine samples were tested by real-time PCR targeting the lipL32 gene of pathogenic Leptospira species. Antibody titres against eight serovars (Australis, Autumnalis, Bratislava, Canicola, Copenhageni, Grippotyphosa, Pomona, Saxkoebing) belonging to seven serogroups (Australis, Autumnalis, Canicola, Grippotyphosa, Icterohaemorrhagiae, Pomona, Sejroe) were determined by microscopic agglutination test. Results Urine samples from 7/215 cats (3.3%; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.9-5.7) were PCR-positive. Specific antibodies were detected in 35/195 cats (17.9%; 95% CI: 12.5-23.3) with titres ranging from 1:100 to 1:6400. Australis, Bratislava and Grippotyphosa were the most common serovars. Conclusions and relevance Outdoor cats in Germany can shed DNA from pathogenic Leptospira species. Therefore, outdoor cats should be considered as a possible source of infection for dogs or humans. Further studies are needed to determine the role of Leptospira species as a cause of disease in cats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Weis
- Clinic of Small Animal Medicine, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Anna Rettinger
- Bacteriology and Mycology, Institute for Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Department of Veterinary Sciences, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | | | | | | | - Reinhard K Straubinger
- Bacteriology and Mycology, Institute for Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Department of Veterinary Sciences, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Katrin Hartmann
- Clinic of Small Animal Medicine, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
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Weis S, Hartmann K. [Leptospira infections in cats]. TIERAERZTLICHE PRAXIS AUSGABE KLEINTIERE HEIMTIERE 2017; 45:103-108. [PMID: 28327780 DOI: 10.15654/tpk-160912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2016] [Accepted: 01/07/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Leptospirosis is a widespread zoonosis found in over 150 mammalian species. Subclinically infected rodents and farm animals serve as reservoir hosts. Cats are exposed to leptospires regularly, particularly through hunting infected rodents. However, clinical leptospirosis is rare in cats. Nevertheless, infected cats can shed the pathogen through urine and thus, cats could play an important role in the epidemiology of leptospires.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Weis
- Sonia Weis, Medizinische Kleintierklinik, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Veterinärstraße 13, 80539 München, E-Mail:
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Current Understanding of the Pathogenesis of Progressive Chronic Kidney Disease in Cats. Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract 2016; 46:1015-48. [PMID: 27461408 DOI: 10.1016/j.cvsm.2016.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
In cats with chronic kidney disease (CKD), the most common histopathologic finding is tubulointerstitial inflammation and fibrosis. However, these changes reflect a nonspecific response of the kidney to any inciting injury. The risk of developing CKD is likely to reflect the composite effects of genetic predisposition, aging, and environmental and individual factors that affect renal function over the course of a cat's life. However, there is still little information available to determine exactly which individual risk factors predispose a cat to develop CKD. Although many cats diagnosed with CKD have stable disease for years, some cats show overtly progressive disease.
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