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Tarlinton R, Greenwood AD. Koala retrovirus and neoplasia: correlation and underlying mechanisms. Curr Opin Virol 2024; 67:101427. [PMID: 39047314 DOI: 10.1016/j.coviro.2024.101427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 07/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
The koala retrovirus, KoRV, is one of the few models for understanding the health consequences of retroviral colonization of the germline. Such colonization events transition exogenous infectious retroviruses to Mendelian traits or endogenous retroviruses (ERVs). KoRV is currently in a transitional state from exogenous retrovirus to ERV, which in koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus) has been associated with strongly elevated levels of neoplasia. In this review, we describe what is currently known about the associations and underlying mechanisms of KoRV-induced neoplasia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachael Tarlinton
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Alex D Greenwood
- Department of Wildlife Diseases, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany; School of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
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2
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Donato G, Caspanello T, Caprì A, De Majo M, Iannelli NM, Rosace F, Bruno F, Castelli G, Pennisi MG, Masucci M. The erythrocyte sedimentation rate and other markers of inflammation in cats tested for Leishmania infantum and feline immunodeficiency virus antibodies. Parasit Vectors 2024; 17:324. [PMID: 39080701 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-024-06396-1] [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: 04/20/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In endemic areas, Leishmania infantum and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) co-infection occurs in cats, and may favour a progressive course of feline leishmaniosis. Abnormalities in serum protein fractions have been reported, but inflammation markers have scarcely been studied. Erythrocyte sediment rate (ESR) is a marker of inflammation that is poorly used in veterinary medicine, but it has been evaluated in EDTA blood using a recently introduced automatic device. We studied ESR and a pool of feline markers of inflammation (MoI) in cats L. infantum (Li+) and/or FIV antibody-positive (Li+FIV+/FIV+) with the aims (a) to evaluate ESR as MoI in cats with the infectious and clinical conditions considered and (b) to provide data about a pool of MoI never investigated in the feline infections studied and in other cat diseases before. METHODS This prospective controlled study included 35 study group cats (Li+, n = 20; FIV +, n = 8; Li+FIV+, n = 7) and ten healthy antibody-negative control cats. Clinical findings at physical examination and selected clinical pathological abnormalities related to inflammation were statistically analysed in relation to the infectious status and ESR values. RESULTS ESR values were higher in Li+, FIV+, and Li+FIV+ cats compared with control cats, and 40% of the study group cats had ESR values above the reference interval (RI). ESR positively correlated with some positive MoI and negatively with some negative MoI studied. Additionally, a higher prevalence of ESR values above the RI has been detected in cats with hypoalbuminemia or hypergammaglobulinemia and higher ESR values were measured in cats with serum protein electrophoresis (SPE) fraction abnormalities. Correlations were also found with erythrocytes, hemoglobin, hematocrit and some erythrocyte indices. FIV+ and Li+FIV+ cats had a higher prevalence of increased ESR values, and almost all had SPE abnormalities and more severe clinical presentations compared with Li+ cats. CONCLUSIONS Abnormal levels of MoI were found in almost all parameters studied, particularly in FIV+ and Li+FIV+ cats. Also, ESR can be used as a marker of inflammation in cats with L. infantum and/or FIV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Donato
- Università di Messina, Messina, Italy
- ASC "I Periodeuti", Reggio Calabria, Italy
| | - Tiziana Caspanello
- Università di Messina, Messina, Italy
- ASC "I Periodeuti", Reggio Calabria, Italy
| | - Alessandra Caprì
- ASC "I Periodeuti", Reggio Calabria, Italy
- Clinica Veterinaria Camagna-VetPartners, Reggio Calabria, Italy
| | - Massimo De Majo
- Università di Messina, Messina, Italy
- ASC "I Periodeuti", Reggio Calabria, Italy
| | - Nicola Maria Iannelli
- Università di Messina, Messina, Italy
- ASC "I Periodeuti", Reggio Calabria, Italy
- Clinica Veterinaria Camagna-VetPartners, Reggio Calabria, Italy
| | - Flavia Rosace
- Università di Messina, Messina, Italy
- ASC "I Periodeuti", Reggio Calabria, Italy
- Clinica Veterinaria Camagna-VetPartners, Reggio Calabria, Italy
| | - Federica Bruno
- National Reference Center for Leishmaniasis (C.Re.Na.L.), Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia, Palermo, Italy
| | - Germano Castelli
- National Reference Center for Leishmaniasis (C.Re.Na.L.), Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia, Palermo, Italy
| | | | - Marisa Masucci
- Università di Messina, Messina, Italy
- ASC "I Periodeuti", Reggio Calabria, Italy
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3
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Westman ME, Hall E, Norris JM, Meili T, Hofmann-Lehmann R, Malik R. Antiviral therapy in cats progressively infected with feline leukaemia virus: lessons from a series of 18 consecutive cases from Australia. Aust Vet J 2024. [PMID: 39042044 DOI: 10.1111/avj.13363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 06/23/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is doubtful that any of the treatments proposed for feline leukaemia virus (FeLV) infection are effective, despite the entity being described 60 years ago. METHODS Eighteen pet cats with progressive FeLV infections were recruited in Australia. One or more antiviral drugs were trialled in 16 cats, while two FeLV-infected cats were not handleable and served as untreated controls. Six cats were administered RetroMAD1™ only (0.5 mg/kg orally twice daily), a commercially available recombinant chimeric protein with proposed antiretroviral activity. Three cats were administered the integrase inhibitor raltegravir only (10-15 mg/kg orally twice daily), a drug used as a component of highly effective antiretroviral therapy for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1) infection. Three cats were administered RetroMAD1™ and raltegravir concurrently, and four cats were administered raltegravir and the reverse transcriptase inhibitor zidovudine (AZT, 5 mg/kg orally twice daily) concurrently. FeLV RNA and p27 antigen loads were measured at two timepoints (T1-2 months and T3-5 months) during therapy and compared to baseline (pretreatment) levels, to assess the response to therapy using linear modelling. The median survival time (MST) of the cats from commencement of FeLV treatment to death was also determined and compared between treatments. RESULTS The MST for the 16 FeLV-positive cats which received antiviral therapy was 634 days, while the MST from FeLV diagnosis to death for the two untreated control cats was 780 days. In cats treated with RetroMAD1™, FeLV viral load decreased from T0 to T1-2 months (median viral load reduced from 1339 × 106 to 705 × 106 copies/mL plasma; P = 0.012), but MST was reduced compared to cats not given RetroMAD1™ (426 days vs 1006 days; P = 0.049). Cats treated with raltegravir and AZT had no significant changes in FeLV viral load over time, but p27 antigen load was decreased from T0 to T3-5 months in cats treated with raltegravir (median p27 antigen level reduced from 50.2% to 42.7%; P = 0.005). All other results were not significantly affected by the treatment provided. Importantly, statistically significant and substantial associations were found between age at FeLV diagnosis and survival time (P = 0.046, R2 = 18.6) and between FeLV viral load at T0 and survival time (P = 0.004, R2 = 44.4). Younger cats, and cats with higher levels of pretreatment FeLV RNA, had reduced survival times. Cats treated with RetroMAD1™ were typically younger (median age 2.0 vs 8.0 years), likely explaining the observed reduction in MST. A significant association was found between FeLV viral load and p27 antigen load at T0 (P = 0.015, R2 = 32.9). CONCLUSIONS Results from this small case series do not provide convincing support for the use of RetroMAD1™, raltegravir or AZT, alone or in combination, for the treatment of cats progressively infected with FeLV. The changes observed were biologically insignificant. Age and FeLV viral load at diagnosis are useful prognostic markers, and p27 antigen concentration can be used to predict viral load. Larger field trials should be performed examining antiretroviral therapy in FeLV-positive cats with progressive infections, preferably using three or more drugs from at least two classes, as is standard with human antiretroviral therapy. Future studies would be easier in countries with a higher prevalence of FeLV infections than Australia.
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Affiliation(s)
- M E Westman
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - E Hall
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - J M Norris
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Sydney Institute for Infectious Diseases, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - T Meili
- Clinical Laboratory, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, and Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, The University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - R Hofmann-Lehmann
- Clinical Laboratory, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, and Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, The University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - R Malik
- Centre for Veterinary Education, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Veterinary and Animal Science, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, New South Wales, Australia
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Nehring M, Dickmann EM, Billington K, VandeWoude S. Study of feline immunodeficiency virus prevalence and expert opinions on standards of care. J Feline Med Surg 2024; 26:1098612X241245046. [PMID: 39073897 DOI: 10.1177/1098612x241245046] [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] [Indexed: 07/31/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to identify knowledge gaps in the global prevalence of feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and to obtain professional opinions and experiences regarding FIV in selected countries. We conducted a literature review of abstracts that reported the prevalence of FIV and interviewed experts in feline medicine and retroviruses from different countries to determine regional perspectives. METHODS A total of 90 articles reporting FIV prevalence as a primary unbiased population-level analysis between 1980 and 2017 were indexed. FIV prevalence, demographics, year and location were analyzed. Statistics were evaluated and compared. In total, 10 experts were interviewed. Results were analyzed for congruence with the findings of the literature review. RESULTS FIV prevalence was typically in the range of 5-8%, with a global prevalence of 4.7%, and remained largely constant over the reporting period (1980-2017). Over 90% of articles reported greater prevalence in older male cats. More studies were conducted in North America and Europe and reported the lowest prevalence. Expert-estimated prevalence approximated literature review prevalence. Attitudes and recommendations for management were consistent among experts. The limitations of the present review include varying inclusion criteria of cats tested in different studies, variation in testing modalities and the inability to conduct summary statistics across dissimilar cohorts. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE The global prevalence of FIV has not changed since its discovery 40 years ago. Prevalence is higher in older male cats and is lower in North America and Europe than other continents. Experts agree that FIV is not typically a disease of high concern and is often associated with infections of the oral cavity. Vaccination is not typically recommended and has been discontinued in North America. The evaluation of risk factors for FIV progression is useful in managing infections. Recommendations for future research include analyses to determine copathogen and environmental factors that impact progression, assessment of life span impacts and investigations of treatment efficacy and side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Nehring
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Pathology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Ellyn M Dickmann
- Institute for Research in the Social Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
- Dickmann and Associates, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Kara Billington
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Pathology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Sue VandeWoude
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Pathology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
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5
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Mortier F, Daminet S, Marynissen S, Smets P, Paepe D. Value of repeated health screening in 259 apparently healthy mature adult and senior cats followed for 2 years. J Vet Intern Med 2024; 38:2089-2098. [PMID: 38967102 PMCID: PMC11256131 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.17138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although regular health screening is recommended, long-term follow-up data in healthy aged cats are lacking. OBJECTIVES Determine the most common conditions in a large group of apparently healthy older cats and which diseases are manifested within 2 years in cats confirmed to be healthy based on extensive health screening. ANIMALS Client-owned cats. METHODS Prospective study. Thorough history, physical examination, blood tests, and urinalysis were performed in 259 apparently healthy mature adult (7-10 years) and senior (>10 years) cats. Semi-annual follow-up examinations were performed in 201 confirmed healthy cats. RESULTS At baseline, 21% of apparently healthy cats were not considered healthy but were diagnosed with International Renal Interest Society (IRIS) ≥ stage 2 chronic kidney disease (CKD; 7.7%) or hyperthyroidism (4.6%), among other disorders. Disease occurred significantly more frequently in senior cats compared with mature adult cats. In addition, 40% cats were overweight, 35% had moderate to severe dental disease, and 22% had abnormal cardiac auscultation findings. Within 2 years, 28% of mature adult and 54% of senior cats that were confirmed healthy at inclusion developed new diseases, most commonly IRIS ≥ stage 2 CKD (cumulative incidence, 13.4%), hyperthyroidism (8.5%), chronic enteropathy, hepatopathy or pancreatitis (7.5%), or neoplasia (7%). CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE The high prevalence and 2-year incidence of physical examination abnormalities and systemic diseases in apparently healthy older cats argue for regular health screening in cats ≥7 years of age. Although more common in senior cats, occult disease also occurs in mature adult cats, and owners should be informed accordingly.
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Barbosa WZ, Magalhães KA, Pussi KF, Lima MSDC, Neitzke-Abreu HC. Feline immunodeficiency virus, feline leukemia virus and Leishmania spp. prevalence in cats from shelters in Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA = BRAZILIAN JOURNAL OF VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY : ORGAO OFICIAL DO COLEGIO BRASILEIRO DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA 2024; 33:e006324. [PMID: 38958295 PMCID: PMC11253815 DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612024035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
Diseases such as those caused by feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and feline leukemia virus (FeLV) represent health problems for cats. Feline leishmaniasis (FL) has been reported in several cities across the country. The objective was to carry out a clinical-epidemiological and laboratory study of FIV, FeLV and FL in cats from shelters in Dourados, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. Blood samples and swabs from the conjunctival and nasal mucosa were obtained from 75 cats, from four animal shelters. Serology for FIV and FeLV was performed. For Leishmania, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed on blood, conjunctiva and nasal mucosa. In the immunochromatographic serological test, seven cats tested positive for FIV and none for FeLV. No samples was positive in PCR for Leishmania. The study showed that despite the presence of human and canine leishmaniasis in the studied region, Leishmania spp. were absent in the cats studied. To avoid an increase in contagion in shelters, it is essential isolate cats with FIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Walderson Zuza Barbosa
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Faculdade de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal da Grande Dourados – UFGD, Dourados, MS, Brasil
| | - Karen Araújo Magalhães
- Faculdade de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal da Grande Dourados – UFGD, Dourados, MS, Brasil
| | - Kamily Fagundes Pussi
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Faculdade de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal da Grande Dourados – UFGD, Dourados, MS, Brasil
| | | | - Herintha Coeto Neitzke-Abreu
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Faculdade de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal da Grande Dourados – UFGD, Dourados, MS, Brasil
- Faculdade de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal da Grande Dourados – UFGD, Dourados, MS, Brasil
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Ferri F, Ferro S, Benali SL, Aresu L, Muscardin L, Porporato F, Rossi F, Guglielmetti C, Gallo E, Palizzotto C, Callegari C, Ricagno S, Mazza M, Coppola LM, Gerardi G, Lavatelli F, Caminito S, Mazzini G, Palladini G, Merlini G, Zini E. Renal alterations in cats ( Felis catus) housed in shelters and affected by systemic AA-amyloidosis: Clinicopathological data, histopathology, and ultrastructural features. Vet Pathol 2024:3009858241257903. [PMID: 38864284 DOI: 10.1177/03009858241257903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
AA-amyloidosis is frequent in shelter cats, and chronic kidney disease is the foremost cause of death. The aims were to describe kidney laboratory and microscopic findings in shelter cats with AA-amyloidosis. Cats were included if kidney specimens were collected post-mortem and laboratory data were available within 6 months before death. Renal lesions were evaluated with optical and electron microscopy. Mass spectrometry was used to characterize amyloid. Nine domestic short-hair cats were included; 4 females and 5 males with a median age of 8 years (range = 2-13). All cats had blood analyses and urinalyses available. Serum creatinine concentrations were increased in 6 cats and symmetric dimethylarginine was increased in all of the cats. All of the cats had proteinuria. Eight of 9 cats had amyloid in the medulla, and 9 had amyloid in the cortex (glomeruli). All cats had amyloid in the interstitium. Six cats had concurrent interstitial nephritis and 1 had membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis. All cats had extrarenal amyloid deposits. Amyloid was AA in each case. In conclusion, renal deposition of amyloid occurs in both cortex and medulla in shelter cats and is associated with azotemia and proteinuria. Renal involvement of systemic AA-amyloidosis should be considered in shelter cats with chronic kidney disease. The cat represents a natural model of renal AA-amyloidosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filippo Ferri
- AniCura Istituto Veterinario Novara, Novara, Italy
- Studio Veterinario Associato Vet2Vet di Ferri e Porporato, Torino, Italy
- Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Silvia Ferro
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | | | - Luca Aresu
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | | | - Federico Porporato
- AniCura Istituto Veterinario Novara, Novara, Italy
- Studio Veterinario Associato Vet2Vet di Ferri e Porporato, Torino, Italy
| | | | - Chiara Guglielmetti
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte Liguria e Valle d'Aosta, S.C. Diagnostica Specialistica, Torino, Italy
| | - Enrico Gallo
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | | | | | - Stefano Ricagno
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Cardiology, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, Milan, Italy
- Departments of Biosciences, La Statale, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Mazza
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte Liguria e Valle d'Aosta, S.C. Diagnostica Specialistica, Torino, Italy
| | - Luigi Michele Coppola
- Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Gabriele Gerardi
- Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Francesca Lavatelli
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Serena Caminito
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Amyloidosis Research and Treatment Center, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Giulia Mazzini
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Amyloidosis Research and Treatment Center, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Giovanni Palladini
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Amyloidosis Research and Treatment Center, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Giampaolo Merlini
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Amyloidosis Research and Treatment Center, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Eric Zini
- AniCura Istituto Veterinario Novara, Novara, Italy
- Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- Clinic for Small Animal Internal Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Rossi A, Proverbio D, Perego R, Baggiani L, Spada E. Evaluation of leukocyte ratios as survival prognostic markers in feline retrovirus infections. Vet J 2024; 305:106128. [PMID: 38754624 DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2024.106128] [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: 02/02/2024] [Revised: 03/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
The utility of neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), monocyte-lymphocyte ratio (MLR), and platelet-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) as prognostic markers in Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) infections has not yet been investigated. The aim of this study was to investigate these leukocyte ratios in retrovirus-positive cats and to evaluate their prognostic value for survival. This retrospective case-control study included 142 cats, 75 FIV-Antibodies (Ab)-positive, 52 FeLV-Antigen (Ag)-positive, and 15 FIV-Ab+FeLV-Ag-positive, and a control population of 142 retrovirus-negative age-, sex-, and lifestyle-matched cats. Signalment, complete blood count at the time of serological testing, and outcome were recorded. Leukocyte ratios were compared within the same case-control population, among the three retrovirus-seropositive populations, and were related to survival time. No significant difference was found in NLR, MLR, or PLR between FIV-Ab-positive and FIV-Ab+FeLV-Ag-positive cats and their cross-matched controls. In the FeLV-Ag-positive population, MLR was significantly lower than in the control population (0.05 and 0.14, respectively, P=0.0008). No ratio discriminated among the three infectious states. No ratio was significantly different between survivors and non-survivors in the population of FIV-Ab-positive cats. MLR at diagnosis was significantly higher in FeLV-Ag-positive cats that died 1-3 years after diagnosis than in FeLV-Ag-positive cats still alive at 3 years (P=0.0284). None of the three ratios could predict retroviruses-positive cats that would survive to the end of the study. Overall the results indicate that NLR, MLR, and PLR are not significantly different among retrovirus statuses evaluated and had a very limited prognostic value for the survival time in retrovirus-positive cats.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Rossi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences (DIVAS), University of Milan, via dell'Università 6, Lodi 26900, Italy
| | - D Proverbio
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences (DIVAS), University of Milan, via dell'Università 6, Lodi 26900, Italy.
| | - R Perego
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences (DIVAS), University of Milan, via dell'Università 6, Lodi 26900, Italy
| | - L Baggiani
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences (DIVAS), University of Milan, via dell'Università 6, Lodi 26900, Italy
| | - E Spada
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences (DIVAS), University of Milan, via dell'Università 6, Lodi 26900, Italy
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Balboni A, Facile V, Gallina L, Sabetti MC, Dondi F, Battilani M. Molecular Detection and Genetic Characterization of Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) in Seropositive Cats in Northern Italy. Pathogens 2024; 13:463. [PMID: 38921761 PMCID: PMC11206283 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens13060463] [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: 04/19/2024] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) is responsible for immunodeficiency syndrome in cats. Several viral subtypes have been identified, each with a variable geographical distribution. To date, the subtype B is known to be the genotype spread in Italy. In this study, the genetic diversity of FIV in northern Italy was assessed by detecting proviral DNA in the blood samples of 50 cats determined to be positive through an anti-FIV antibodies test. These cats were tested using six different PCR assays, and the identified viruses were sequenced and analyzed. Forty-eight cats were confirmed positive, and several FIV subtypes were characterized. As expected, the subtype B was the most commonly observed, and the subtype A was reported for the first time in Italy. Moreover, a new taxon possibly representing an additional FIV subtype was detected, and one virus belonging to subtype B potentially had a recombinant origin. The genetic variability between the FIV viruses that emerged in this study may lead to the potential diagnostic failure of single molecular tests. Therefore, a new diagnostic strategy, which adopts different molecular tests and sequencing, is recommended to monitor the evolution and spread of FIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Balboni
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Ozzano Emilia, 40064 Bologna, Italy; (A.B.); (V.F.); (F.D.); (M.B.)
| | - Veronica Facile
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Ozzano Emilia, 40064 Bologna, Italy; (A.B.); (V.F.); (F.D.); (M.B.)
| | - Laura Gallina
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Ozzano Emilia, 40064 Bologna, Italy; (A.B.); (V.F.); (F.D.); (M.B.)
| | | | - Francesco Dondi
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Ozzano Emilia, 40064 Bologna, Italy; (A.B.); (V.F.); (F.D.); (M.B.)
| | - Mara Battilani
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Ozzano Emilia, 40064 Bologna, Italy; (A.B.); (V.F.); (F.D.); (M.B.)
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Bezerra JAB, Landim CP, Ribeiro YSR, Tertulino MD, Santos Junior RDF, Miranda Maranhão ACPD, Brasil AWDL, Antunes JMADP, de Azevedo SS. Epidemiological and clinicopathological findings of feline immunodeficiency virus and feline leukemia virus infections in domestic cats from the Brazilian semiarid region. Prev Vet Med 2024; 226:106167. [PMID: 38461703 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2024.106167] [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: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and feline leukemia virus (FeLV) are retroviruses of great importance for domestic cats with a worldwide distribution. A retrospective study was conducted to determine the epidemiological and clinicopathological aspects of the infection by FIV and FeLV in cats from the Brazilian semiarid region. Cats treated between 2011 and 2021 at the teaching veterinary hospital of the Federal Rural University of the Semi-Arid Region that were submitted to a point-of-care (POC) test to detect anti-FIV IgG antibodies and FeLV antigen were enrolled in the study. Overall, 454 cats were selected, of which 30.2% [95% CI = 26.0% - 34.3%] were FIV-positive, 1.1% [95% CI = 0.9% - 1.2%] were FeLV-positive, and 0.7% [95% CI = 0.1% - 1.3%] were coinfected by both retroviruses. No statistical association was found between the studied retroviruses (P = 0.144). Multivariable analysis detected significant associations between FIV infection and male sex [OR = 5.7, 95% CI = 3.0-10.7, P < 0.0001), age between 19 and 78 months [OR = 5.2, 95% CI = 2.2-12.1, P < 0.0001], age greater than 78 months [OR = 12.8, 95% CI = 5.1-31.9, P < 0.0001], crossbreed [OR = 4.1, 95% CI = 1.2-13.4, P = 0.021], the presence of oral disease [OR = 2.1, 95% CI = 1.3-3.4, P = 0.004], reduced red blood cell (RBC) count [OR = 3.7, 95% CI = 1.9-7.2, P < 0.0001], and an albumin:globulin (A:G) ratio lower than 0.6 [OR = 3.4, 95% CI = 1.6-7.1, P = 0.001]. No statistical analyses were performed for FeLV infection due to the low number of positive animals. In the quantitative analyses of hematological parameters, FIV-positive cats presented lower values for RBC, hemoglobin, hematocrit, lymphocytes, and platelets compared to the negative animals. In the biochemical profile, cats infected with FIV showed higher creatinine, urea, total protein, and globulin values, while lower values for albumin and A:G ratio were observed (P < 0.05). The findings of this study characterized the prevalence, clinicopathological findings, and risk factors associated with FIV and FeLV in cats from the Brazilian semiarid region. They may help support veterinary practitioners in diagnosing feline retroviruses. The FIV prevalence observed is among the highest reported in Brazil, demonstrating the need for prevention and control strategies for this retrovirus.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Artur Brilhante Bezerra
- Centro de Saúde e Tecnologia Rural (CSTR), Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, UFCG, Av. Universitária, s/n, Santa Cecília, Patos, PB 58708-110, Brazil
| | - Camila Pontes Landim
- Hospital Veterinário Jerônimo Dix-Huit Rosado Maia, Universidade Federal Rural do Semi-Árido, UFERSA, Av. Francisco Mota, 572, Costa e Silva, Mossoró, RN 59625-900, Brazil
| | - Yara Stephanne Ramos Ribeiro
- Hospital Veterinário Jerônimo Dix-Huit Rosado Maia, Universidade Federal Rural do Semi-Árido, UFERSA, Av. Francisco Mota, 572, Costa e Silva, Mossoró, RN 59625-900, Brazil
| | - Moisés Dantas Tertulino
- Hospital Veterinário Jerônimo Dix-Huit Rosado Maia, Universidade Federal Rural do Semi-Árido, UFERSA, Av. Francisco Mota, 572, Costa e Silva, Mossoró, RN 59625-900, Brazil
| | - Ricardo de Freitas Santos Junior
- Hospital Veterinário Jerônimo Dix-Huit Rosado Maia, Universidade Federal Rural do Semi-Árido, UFERSA, Av. Francisco Mota, 572, Costa e Silva, Mossoró, RN 59625-900, Brazil
| | - Ana Carolina Pontes de Miranda Maranhão
- Hospital Veterinário Jerônimo Dix-Huit Rosado Maia, Universidade Federal Rural do Semi-Árido, UFERSA, Av. Francisco Mota, 572, Costa e Silva, Mossoró, RN 59625-900, Brazil
| | - Arthur Willian de Lima Brasil
- Departamento de Morfologia, Universidade Federal da Paraíba, UFPB, Cidade Universitária, s/n, Campus I, Castelo Branco, João Pessoa, PB 58051-900, Brazil
| | - João Marcelo Azevedo de Paula Antunes
- Hospital Veterinário Jerônimo Dix-Huit Rosado Maia, Universidade Federal Rural do Semi-Árido, UFERSA, Av. Francisco Mota, 572, Costa e Silva, Mossoró, RN 59625-900, Brazil
| | - Sérgio Santos de Azevedo
- Centro de Saúde e Tecnologia Rural (CSTR), Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, UFCG, Av. Universitária, s/n, Santa Cecília, Patos, PB 58708-110, Brazil.
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11
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Squires RA, Crawford C, Marcondes M, Whitley N. 2024 guidelines for the vaccination of dogs and cats - compiled by the Vaccination Guidelines Group (VGG) of the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA). J Small Anim Pract 2024; 65:277-316. [PMID: 38568777 DOI: 10.1111/jsap.13718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- R A Squires
- Formerly, Discipline of Veterinary Science, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, 4814, Australia
| | - C Crawford
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, 2015 SW 16th Avenue, Gainesville, FL, 32608, USA
| | - M Marcondes
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Surgery and Animal Reproduction, São Paulo State University, Rua Sergipe 575, ap. 32, São Paulo, 01243-001, SP, Brazil
| | - N Whitley
- Internal Medicine, Davies Veterinary Specialists, Manor Farm Business Park, Higham Gobion, Hertfordshire, SG5 3HR, UK
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12
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Gallina L, Facile V, Roda N, Sabetti MC, Terrusi A, Urbani L, Magliocca M, Vasylyeva K, Dondi F, Balboni A, Battilani M. Molecular investigation and genetic characterization of feline leukemia virus (FeLV) in cats referred to a veterinary teaching hospital in Northern Italy. Vet Res Commun 2024:10.1007/s11259-024-10380-6. [PMID: 38644457 DOI: 10.1007/s11259-024-10380-6] [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: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024]
Abstract
Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is responsible for feline leukemia syndrome in domestic cats. The prevention and control of disease caused by FeLV are primarily based on vaccination and identification and isolation of infected subjects. Antigen diagnostic methods, which are the most widely used in clinical practices, can be associated to molecular tests to characterize the FeLV detected. In this study, a quantitative SYBR Green Real-Time PCR (qPCR) assay was used to detect FeLV proviral DNA in blood samples from antigen positive cats referred to a veterinary teaching hospital in Northern Italy in 2018-2021. To genetically characterize the identified viruses, a portion of the viral envelope (env) gene was amplified using six different end-point PCRs and sequenced. Twenty-two of 26 (84.6%) cats included in the study tested positive by qPCR assay. This suggests a high performance of the qPCR adopted but further studies are required to investigate the cause of discordant results between the antigen test and qPCR in four cats. From env gene analysis, 15/22 qPCR-positive cats were infected by FeLV subtype A and 5/15 shown coinfection with subtype B.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Gallina
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, Ozzano Emilia, Bologna, 40064, Italy
| | - Veronica Facile
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, Ozzano Emilia, Bologna, 40064, Italy
| | - Nicola Roda
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, Ozzano Emilia, Bologna, 40064, Italy
| | - Maria Chiara Sabetti
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Parma, Strada del Taglio 10, Parma, 43126, Italy
| | - Alessia Terrusi
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, Ozzano Emilia, Bologna, 40064, Italy
| | - Lorenza Urbani
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, Ozzano Emilia, Bologna, 40064, Italy
| | - Martina Magliocca
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, Ozzano Emilia, Bologna, 40064, Italy
| | - Kateryna Vasylyeva
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, Ozzano Emilia, Bologna, 40064, Italy
| | - Francesco Dondi
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, Ozzano Emilia, Bologna, 40064, Italy
| | - Andrea Balboni
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, Ozzano Emilia, Bologna, 40064, Italy.
| | - Mara Battilani
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, Ozzano Emilia, Bologna, 40064, Italy
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13
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Giselbrecht J, Jähne S, Bergmann M, Meli ML, Teichmann-Knorrn S, Zablotski Y, Pennisi MG, Layachi N, Serra R, Bo S, Hofmann-Lehmann R, Hartmann K. Evaluation of a Revised Point-of-Care Test for the Detection of Feline Leukaemia p27 Antigen and Anti-p15E Antibodies in Cats. Viruses 2024; 16:614. [PMID: 38675954 PMCID: PMC11054206 DOI: 10.3390/v16040614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The first point-of-care (PoC) test (v-RetroFel®; modified version 2021) determining the presence of FeLV p27 antigen and FeLV anti-p15E antibodies has become recently commercially available to identify different feline leukaemia virus (FeLV) infection outcomes. This study aimed to assess this PoC test's performance concerning FeLV p27 antigen and FeLV anti-p15E antibody detection. Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values (PPV, NPV) were assessed after ten minutes (recommended) and 20 min (prolonged) incubation times. The test results were evaluated as either positive or negative. Serum samples from 934 cats were included, originating from Italy (n = 269), Portugal (n = 240), Germany (n = 318), and France (n = 107). FeLV p27 antigen and anti-p15E antibodies were measured by reference standard ELISAs and compared to the PoC test results. The PoC test was easy to perform and the results easy to interpret. Sensitivity and specificity for FeLV p27 antigen were 82.8% (PPV: 57.8%) and 96.0% (NPV: 98.8%) after both, ten and 20 minues of incubation time. Sensitivity and specificity for anti-p15E antibodies were 31.4% (PPV: 71.6%) and 96.9% (NPV: 85.1%) after ten minutes incubation time; sensitivity was improved by a prolonged incubation time (20 min) to 40.0% (PPV: 76.3%), while specificity remained the same (96.9%, NPV: 86.7%). Despite the improved sensitivity using the prolonged incubation time, lower than ideal sensitivities for both p27 antigen and especially anti-p15E antibodies were found, indicating that the PoC test in its current version needs further improvement prior to application in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana Giselbrecht
- LMU Small Animal Clinic, Centre for Clinical Veterinary Medicine, 80539 Munich, Germany
| | - Stéphanie Jähne
- LMU Small Animal Clinic, Centre for Clinical Veterinary Medicine, 80539 Munich, Germany
| | - Michèle Bergmann
- LMU Small Animal Clinic, Centre for Clinical Veterinary Medicine, 80539 Munich, Germany
| | - Marina L. Meli
- Clinical Laboratory, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, and Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | - Yury Zablotski
- LMU Small Animal Clinic, Centre for Clinical Veterinary Medicine, 80539 Munich, Germany
| | | | | | - Rodrigo Serra
- Investigacao Veterinaria Independente, 1700-119 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Stefano Bo
- Ambulatorio Veterinario Bo-Ferro, 10123 Turin, Italy
| | - Regina Hofmann-Lehmann
- Clinical Laboratory, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, and Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Katrin Hartmann
- LMU Small Animal Clinic, Centre for Clinical Veterinary Medicine, 80539 Munich, Germany
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14
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Diesel LP, de Mello LS, de Oliveira Santana W, Ikuta N, Fonseca ASK, Kipper D, Redaelli R, Pereira VRZB, Streck AF, Lunge VR. Epidemiological Insights into Feline Leukemia Virus Infections in an Urban Cat ( Felis catus) Population from Brazil. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1051. [PMID: 38612290 PMCID: PMC11010845 DOI: 10.3390/ani14071051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2024] [Revised: 03/17/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is a retrovirus distributed worldwide in domestic cats and with different outcomes (progressive, regressive, abortive, focal). The present study reports an epidemiological survey of FeLV frequency and the evaluation of some risk factors and the two main disease outcomes (progressive and regressive) in an urban cat population from Brazil. A total of 366 cats with sociodemographic information and p27 FeLV antigen test performed were included in the study. FeLV DNA (provirus) in the blood samples of all cats was detected via real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Plasma samples from 109 FeLV-positive and FeLV-negative cats were also submitted to reverse transcription (RT-qPCR) to determine the FeLV viral load. The results demonstrated that 112 (30.6%) cats were positive through the p27 antigen and/or qPCR. A risk factor analysis demonstrated that cats without vaccination against FeLV (OR 9.9, p < 0.001), clinically ill (OR 2.9, p < 0.001), with outdoors access (OR 2.7, p < 0.001), and exhibiting apathetic behavior (OR 3.1, p < 0.001) were more likely to be infected with FeLV. FeLV-infected cats were also more likely to present with anemia (OR 13, p < 0.001) and lymphoma (OR 13.7, p = 0.001). A comparative analysis of the different detection methods in a subset of 109 animals confirmed FeLV infection in 58 cats, including 38 (65.5%) with progressive, 16 (27.6%) with regressive, and 4 (6.9%) with probably focal outcome diseases. In conclusion, this study demonstrates a high prevalence of FeLV in this urban cat population from Brazil and highlights the need to establish more effective prevention strategies (such as viral testing, vaccination programs, specific care for FeLV-positive cats) to reduce diseases associated with this virus in Brazil.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Pancich Diesel
- Veterinary Medicine Diagnostic Laboratory (LDMV), Institute of Biotechnology (IB), Postgraduate Programs in Animal Health (PPGSA) and Biotechnology (PPGBIO), University of Caxias do Sul (UCS), Caxias do Sul 95070-560, RS, Brazil; (L.P.D.); (W.d.O.S.); (V.R.Z.B.P.); (A.F.S.)
| | - Lauren Santos de Mello
- Simbios Biotechnologia, Cachoeirinha 94950-000, RS, Brazil; (L.S.d.M.); (N.I.); (A.S.K.F.); (D.K.)
| | - Weslei de Oliveira Santana
- Veterinary Medicine Diagnostic Laboratory (LDMV), Institute of Biotechnology (IB), Postgraduate Programs in Animal Health (PPGSA) and Biotechnology (PPGBIO), University of Caxias do Sul (UCS), Caxias do Sul 95070-560, RS, Brazil; (L.P.D.); (W.d.O.S.); (V.R.Z.B.P.); (A.F.S.)
| | - Nilo Ikuta
- Simbios Biotechnologia, Cachoeirinha 94950-000, RS, Brazil; (L.S.d.M.); (N.I.); (A.S.K.F.); (D.K.)
| | | | - Diéssy Kipper
- Simbios Biotechnologia, Cachoeirinha 94950-000, RS, Brazil; (L.S.d.M.); (N.I.); (A.S.K.F.); (D.K.)
| | - Raquel Redaelli
- Gatices Veterinary Hospital, Caxias do Sul 95000-000, RS, Brazil;
| | - Vagner Reinaldo Zingali Bueno Pereira
- Veterinary Medicine Diagnostic Laboratory (LDMV), Institute of Biotechnology (IB), Postgraduate Programs in Animal Health (PPGSA) and Biotechnology (PPGBIO), University of Caxias do Sul (UCS), Caxias do Sul 95070-560, RS, Brazil; (L.P.D.); (W.d.O.S.); (V.R.Z.B.P.); (A.F.S.)
| | - André Felipe Streck
- Veterinary Medicine Diagnostic Laboratory (LDMV), Institute of Biotechnology (IB), Postgraduate Programs in Animal Health (PPGSA) and Biotechnology (PPGBIO), University of Caxias do Sul (UCS), Caxias do Sul 95070-560, RS, Brazil; (L.P.D.); (W.d.O.S.); (V.R.Z.B.P.); (A.F.S.)
| | - Vagner Ricardo Lunge
- Veterinary Medicine Diagnostic Laboratory (LDMV), Institute of Biotechnology (IB), Postgraduate Programs in Animal Health (PPGSA) and Biotechnology (PPGBIO), University of Caxias do Sul (UCS), Caxias do Sul 95070-560, RS, Brazil; (L.P.D.); (W.d.O.S.); (V.R.Z.B.P.); (A.F.S.)
- Simbios Biotechnologia, Cachoeirinha 94950-000, RS, Brazil; (L.S.d.M.); (N.I.); (A.S.K.F.); (D.K.)
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15
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Nájera F, López G, Del Rey-Wamba T, Malik RA, Garrote G, López-Parra M, Fernández-Pena L, García-Tardío M, Arenas-Rojas R, Simón MA, Zorrilla I, Fernández I, Alcaide EM, Ruiz C, Revuelta L, Salcedo J, Hofmann-Lehmann R, Meli ML. Long-term surveillance of the feline leukemia virus in the endangered Iberian lynx (Lynx pardinus) in Andalusia, Spain (2008-2021). Sci Rep 2024; 14:5462. [PMID: 38443503 PMCID: PMC10914683 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-55847-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) infection is considered one of the most serious disease threats for the endangered Iberian lynx (Lynx pardinus) Over 14 years (2008-2021), we investigated FeLV infection using point-of-care antigen test and quantitative real-time TaqMan qPCR for provirus detection in blood and tissues in lynxes from Andalusia (Southern Spain). A total of 776 samples from 586 individuals were included in this study. The overall prevalence for FeLV antigen in blood/serum samples was 1.4% (5/360) (95% CI: 0.2-2.6), FeLV proviral DNA prevalence in blood samples was 6.2% (31/503) (95% CI: 4.1-8.6), and FeLV proviral DNA in tissues samples was 10.2% (34/333) (95% CI: 7-13.5). From a subset of 129 longitudinally sampled individuals, 9.3% (12/129) PCR-converted during the study period. Our results suggest that FeLV infection in the Andalusian population is enzootic, with circulation of the virus at low levels in almost all the sampling years. Moreover, since only one viremic individual succumbed to the infection, this study suggests that lynxes may therefore control the infection decreasing the possibility of developing a more aggressive outcome. Although our results indicate that the FeLV infection in the Iberian lynx from Andalusia tends to stay within the regressive stage, continuous FeLV surveillance is paramount to predict potential outbreaks and ensure the survival of this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Nájera
- Wildlife Health Center, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, 95616, USA.
- Department of Animal Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040, Madrid, Spain.
- Asistencia Técnica de la Dirección General del Medio Natural y Desarrollo Sostenible de la Junta de Comunidades de Castilla-La Mancha, Plaza del Cardenal Siliceo s/n, 45071, Toledo, Spain.
| | - Guillermo López
- Agencia de Medio Ambiente y Agua de Andalucía, C/ Johan G. Gutenberg 1, Isla de la Cartuja, 41092, Seville, Spain.
| | - Tere Del Rey-Wamba
- Agencia de Medio Ambiente y Agua de Andalucía, C/ Johan G. Gutenberg 1, Isla de la Cartuja, 41092, Seville, Spain
| | - Rimsha A Malik
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, 08544, USA
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
| | - Germán Garrote
- Agencia de Medio Ambiente y Agua de Andalucía, C/ Johan G. Gutenberg 1, Isla de la Cartuja, 41092, Seville, Spain
| | - Marcos López-Parra
- Agencia de Medio Ambiente y Agua de Andalucía, C/ Johan G. Gutenberg 1, Isla de la Cartuja, 41092, Seville, Spain
| | - Leonardo Fernández-Pena
- Agencia de Medio Ambiente y Agua de Andalucía, C/ Johan G. Gutenberg 1, Isla de la Cartuja, 41092, Seville, Spain
| | - Maribel García-Tardío
- Agencia de Medio Ambiente y Agua de Andalucía, C/ Johan G. Gutenberg 1, Isla de la Cartuja, 41092, Seville, Spain
| | - Rafael Arenas-Rojas
- Agencia de Medio Ambiente y Agua de Andalucía, C/ Johan G. Gutenberg 1, Isla de la Cartuja, 41092, Seville, Spain
| | - Miguel A Simón
- Consejería de Sostenibilidad, Medio Ambiente y Economía Azul, avda. Manuel Siurot, nº 50, 41013, Seville, Spain
| | - Irene Zorrilla
- Agencia de Medio Ambiente y Agua de Andalucía, C/ Johan G. Gutenberg 1, Isla de la Cartuja, 41092, Seville, Spain
| | - Isabel Fernández
- Agencia de Medio Ambiente y Agua de Andalucía, C/ Johan G. Gutenberg 1, Isla de la Cartuja, 41092, Seville, Spain
| | - Eva M Alcaide
- Agencia de Medio Ambiente y Agua de Andalucía, C/ Johan G. Gutenberg 1, Isla de la Cartuja, 41092, Seville, Spain
| | - Carmen Ruiz
- Agencia de Medio Ambiente y Agua de Andalucía, C/ Johan G. Gutenberg 1, Isla de la Cartuja, 41092, Seville, Spain
| | - Luis Revuelta
- Department of Animal Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Javier Salcedo
- Consejería de Sostenibilidad, Medio Ambiente y Economía Azul, avda. Manuel Siurot, nº 50, 41013, Seville, Spain
| | - Regina Hofmann-Lehmann
- Clinical Laboratory, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, and Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Marina L Meli
- Clinical Laboratory, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, and Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
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16
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Meli ML, Pineroli B, Geisser E, Hofmann-Lehmann R. Prospective Investigation of Feline Leukemia Virus Infection in Stray Cats Subjected to a Trap-Neuter-Return Program in Switzerland. Viruses 2024; 16:394. [PMID: 38543760 PMCID: PMC10975613 DOI: 10.3390/v16030394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2024] [Revised: 02/24/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) remains a serious concern in some countries despite advances in diagnostics and vaccines. FeLV-infected cats often have reduced lifespans due to FeLV-associated diseases. The infection is transmitted through social interactions. While Northern European countries have reported a decrease in FeLV among pet cats, Switzerland's rates remain stagnant at 2.7% (2016/17: 95% CI 1.4-5.2%). Research on FeLV in Swiss stray cats has been lacking, even though these animals could serve as a virus reservoir. Sampling stray cats that do not receive regular veterinary care can be challenging. Collaboration with the Swiss Network for Animal Protection (NetAP) allowed for the prospective collection of saliva samples from 1711 stray cats during a trap-neuter-return program from 2019 to 2023. These samples were tested for FeLV RNA using RT-qPCR as a measure for antigenemia. Viral RNA was detected in 4.0% (95% CI 3.1-5.0%) of the samples, with 7.7% (95% CI 4.9-11.3%) in sick cats and 3.3% (95% CI 2.4-4.4%) in healthy ones. We identified three geographically independent hotspots with alarmingly high FeLV infection rates in stray cats (up to 70%). Overall, including the previous data of privately owned cats, FeLV-positive cats were scattered throughout Switzerland in 24/26 cantons. Our findings underscore welfare concerns for FeLV infections among stray cats lacking veterinary attention, highlighting the potential risk of infection to other free-roaming cats, including those privately owned. This emphasizes the critical significance of vaccinating all cats with outdoor access against FeLV and developing programs to protect cats from FeLV infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina L. Meli
- Clinical Laboratory, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, and Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland; (M.L.M.)
| | - Benita Pineroli
- Clinical Laboratory, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, and Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland; (M.L.M.)
| | - Esther Geisser
- Network for Animal Protection (NetAP), 8133 Esslingen, Switzerland;
| | - Regina Hofmann-Lehmann
- Clinical Laboratory, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, and Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland; (M.L.M.)
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17
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Beatty JA, Choi YR, Nekouei O, Woodhouse FM, Gray JJ, Hofmann-Lehmann R, Barrs VR. Epidemiology of Pathogenic Retroviruses and Domestic Cat Hepadnavirus in Community and Client-Owned Cats in Hong Kong. Viruses 2024; 16:167. [PMID: 38399943 PMCID: PMC10893229 DOI: 10.3390/v16020167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Understanding the local epidemiology of feline leukaemia virus (FeLV) and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) in Hong Kong will inform retrovirus prevention strategies. Domestic cat hepadnavirus (DCH), a novel hepatitis-B-like virus, is commonly detected among client-owned cats in Hong Kong, but community cats have not been studied. The aims of this study were to investigate the frequency and potential risk factors for (i) FeLV and FIV among community and client-owned cats and (ii) perform molecular detection of DCH among community cats in Hong Kong. Blood samples from 713 cats were obtained from client-owned (n = 415, residual diagnostic) and community cats (n = 298, at trap-neuter-return). Point-of-care (POC) testing for FeLV antigen and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) anti-p15 and p24 antibodies was performed. FeLV-positive samples were progressed to p27 sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Whole blood DNA was tested with qPCRs for FeLV U3 and gag, and nested PCRs where additional information was required. DCH qPCR was performed on a subset of community cats (n = 193). A single, regressive, FeLV infection was detected in a client-owned cat (1/415 FeLV U3 qPCR positive, 0.2%, 95% CI 0.0-1.3%). Five/415 client-owned cats tested presumably false FeLV-antigen positive (qPCR negative). No markers of FeLV infection were detected in community cats (0/298; 0%). FIV seroprevalence was much higher in community cats (46/298, 15.4%) than in client-owned cats (13/415, 3.1%) (p < 0.001). Mixed breed was a risk factor for FIV infection in client-owned cats. Neither sex nor age were associated with FIV infection. DCH DNA was detected in 34/193 (17.6%) community cats (median viral load 6.32 × 103 copies/reaction). FeLV infection is rare in Hong Kong, negatively impacting the positive predictive value of diagnostic tests. FeLV-antigen testing remains the screening test of choice, but confirmation of a positive result using FeLV qPCR is essential. FIV infection is common in community cats and the absence of a sex predisposition, seen previously in cats managed similarly, raises questions about virus-transmission dynamics in these groups. DCH infection is very common in Hong Kong, both in client-owned and community cats, highlighting the importance of understanding the pathogenic potential of this virus for cats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia A. Beatty
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; (J.A.B.); (Y.R.C.)
- Centre for Animal Health and Welfare, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Yan Ru Choi
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; (J.A.B.); (Y.R.C.)
- Centre for Animal Health and Welfare, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Omid Nekouei
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Public Health, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China;
| | - Fiona. M. Woodhouse
- The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, Wan Chai, Hong Kong SAR, China; (F.M.W.); (J.J.G.)
| | - Jane. J. Gray
- The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, Wan Chai, Hong Kong SAR, China; (F.M.W.); (J.J.G.)
| | - Regina Hofmann-Lehmann
- Clinical Laboratory, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Vanessa R. Barrs
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; (J.A.B.); (Y.R.C.)
- Centre for Animal Health and Welfare, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
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Bezerra JAB, Haisi A, Rocha GDS, Lima SG, Brasil AWDL, Tomaz KLR, Fornazari F, Langoni H, Araújo Junior JP, Antunes JMADP, de Azevedo SS. Coinfection with Leishmania infantum and Toxoplasma gondii in Domestic Cats from a Region with a High Prevalence of Feline Immunodeficiency Virus. Microorganisms 2023; 12:71. [PMID: 38257898 PMCID: PMC10820695 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12010071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the coinfection of feline retroviruses (feline immunodeficiency virus-FIV, and the feline leukemia virus-FeLV) with Leishmania infantum and Toxoplasma gondii and the factors associated with these pathogens in domestic cats from Mossoró, a city endemic for canine and human leishmaniasis situated in the semiarid region of Northeast Brazil. Blood samples from 120 cats were collected, and an epidemiological questionnaire was applied to investigate the risk factors associated with the infections. Retroviruses, L. infantum, and T. gondii infections were assessed using a point-of-care ELISA and quantitative PCR (qPCR), indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT) and qPCR, and IFAT, respectively. The overall seroprevalences observed were 35% (95% CI = 27.0-43.8%) for FIV, 0.8% (95% CI = 0.1-4.5%) for FeLV, 25.8% (95% CI = 18.8-34.3%) for T. gondii, and 4.2% (95% CI = 1.7-9.3%) for L. infantum. Coinfection with FIV and L. infantum was observed in 2.5% (3/120) of the assessed cats, while 12.5% (15/120) were coinfected with FIV and T. gondii. No significant association was found among the investigated agents (p > 0.05). The factors associated with FIV infection in the multivariable analysis were male sex and age above 78 months. The findings of this study demonstrated a high rate of FIV infection in cats from the Brazilian semiarid region and the exposure of these animals to zoonotic and opportunistic agents. Due to the immunosuppressive potential of FIV, cats infected with this retrovirus should be screened for coinfections with L. infantum and T. gondii, and preventative measures should be adopted.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Artur Brilhante Bezerra
- Centro de Saúde e Tecnologia Rural, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande (UFCG), Av. Universitária, s/n, Santa Cecília, Patos 58708-110, Brazil;
| | - Amanda Haisi
- Instituto de Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Alameda das Tecomarias, s/n, Chácara Capão Bonito, Botucatu 18607-440, Brazil; (A.H.); (J.P.A.J.)
| | - Gabrielle dos Santos Rocha
- Departamento de Produção Animal e Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Rua Prof. Doutor Walter Mauricio Correa, s/n, Rubião Júnior, Botucatu 18618-681, Brazil; (G.d.S.R.); (S.G.L.); (F.F.); (H.L.)
| | - Suellen Gonçalves Lima
- Departamento de Produção Animal e Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Rua Prof. Doutor Walter Mauricio Correa, s/n, Rubião Júnior, Botucatu 18618-681, Brazil; (G.d.S.R.); (S.G.L.); (F.F.); (H.L.)
| | - Arthur Willian de Lima Brasil
- Departamento de Morfologia, Universidade Federal da Paraíba (UFPB), Cidade Universitária, s/n, Campus I, Castelo Branco, João Pessoa 58051-900, Brazil;
| | - Klívio Loreno Raulino Tomaz
- Hospital Veterinário Jerônimo Dix-Huit Rosado Maia, Universidade Federal Rural do Semi-Árido (UFERSA), Av. Francisco Mota, 572, Costa e Silva, Mossoro 59625-900, Brazil;
| | - Felipe Fornazari
- Departamento de Produção Animal e Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Rua Prof. Doutor Walter Mauricio Correa, s/n, Rubião Júnior, Botucatu 18618-681, Brazil; (G.d.S.R.); (S.G.L.); (F.F.); (H.L.)
| | - Helio Langoni
- Departamento de Produção Animal e Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Rua Prof. Doutor Walter Mauricio Correa, s/n, Rubião Júnior, Botucatu 18618-681, Brazil; (G.d.S.R.); (S.G.L.); (F.F.); (H.L.)
| | - João Pessoa Araújo Junior
- Instituto de Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Alameda das Tecomarias, s/n, Chácara Capão Bonito, Botucatu 18607-440, Brazil; (A.H.); (J.P.A.J.)
| | - João Marcelo Azevedo de Paula Antunes
- Hospital Veterinário Jerônimo Dix-Huit Rosado Maia, Universidade Federal Rural do Semi-Árido (UFERSA), Av. Francisco Mota, 572, Costa e Silva, Mossoro 59625-900, Brazil;
| | - Sérgio Santos de Azevedo
- Centro de Saúde e Tecnologia Rural, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande (UFCG), Av. Universitária, s/n, Santa Cecília, Patos 58708-110, Brazil;
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Dall’Ara P, Lauzi S, Turin L, Servida F, Barbieri L, Zambarbieri J, Mazzotti G, Granatiero F, Scarparo E, Mirabile A, Bo S, Filipe J. Prevalence of Serum Antibody Titers against Core Vaccine Antigens in Italian Cats. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:2249. [PMID: 38137850 PMCID: PMC10744740 DOI: 10.3390/life13122249] [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: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Feline core vaccines strongly recommended for all cats are against Feline panleukopenia virus (FPV), Felid herpesvirus type 1 (FeHV-1), and Feline calicivirus (FCV), but cats can be classified as low- and high-risk based on their lifestyle. The aim of this study was to determine the actual seroprotection against FPV, FeHV-1, and FCV in a large cohort of Italian cats by using the VacciCheck test. A total of 740 cats (567 owned and 173 stray cats; 435 vaccinated and 305 unvaccinated) were analyzed for Protective Antibody Titers (PATs). Differences related to origin, sex, age, breed, FIV/FeLV status, health status, and time elapsed since last vaccination were evaluated. Less than half of the entire cohort (36.4%) had PATs for all three diseases simultaneously, increasing to 48.6% if weak positive values were also considered and 50.3% when considering only the 435 vaccinated cats. Particularly, antibodies were detected against FCV, FPV, and FeHV-1 at protective titers (PATs) in 78.6%, 68.1, and 49.1% of the cats, respectively. In general, owned, neutered, and adult FIV- and/or FeLV-negative cats were the most protected categories, even if not always for the three viruses. Most cats maintained high PATs for 3 years or longer after vaccination against FPV and FCV but not FeHV-1. Long-lasting protective immunity persisted for many years after the last vaccination (more than 18 years in the oldest cats). Nevertheless, since not all cats were protected after so many years and for all pathogens, checking protection via antibody titration could be the best choice to prevent immunity breakdowns. The discussion also focuses on the reliability of antibody titration for the two URTD (upper respiratory tract disease) viruses which, unlike for FPV, is not widely accepted as a valid index of protection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Dall’Ara
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences (DIVAS), University of Milan, Via dell’Università 6, 26900 Lodi, LO, Italy (J.F.)
| | - Stefania Lauzi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences (DIVAS), University of Milan, Via dell’Università 6, 26900 Lodi, LO, Italy (J.F.)
| | - Lauretta Turin
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences (DIVAS), University of Milan, Via dell’Università 6, 26900 Lodi, LO, Italy (J.F.)
| | - Francesco Servida
- Clinica Veterinaria Pegaso, Via Dante Alighieri 169, 22070 Rovello Porro, CO, Italy
| | - Laura Barbieri
- Clinica Veterinaria Turro, Via Gerolamo Rovetta 8, 20127 Milano, MI, Italy
| | - Jari Zambarbieri
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences (DIVAS), University of Milan, Via dell’Università 6, 26900 Lodi, LO, Italy (J.F.)
| | - Giulia Mazzotti
- Ambulatorio Veterinario Mazzotti, Via Papa Giovanni XXIII 93, 24054 Calcio, BG, Italy
| | | | - Elena Scarparo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences (DIVAS), University of Milan, Via dell’Università 6, 26900 Lodi, LO, Italy (J.F.)
| | - Aurora Mirabile
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences (DIVAS), University of Milan, Via dell’Università 6, 26900 Lodi, LO, Italy (J.F.)
| | - Stefano Bo
- Ambulatorio Veterinario Bo-Ferro, Via Fratelli Calandra 3, 10123 Torino, TO, Italy
| | - Joel Filipe
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences (DIVAS), University of Milan, Via dell’Università 6, 26900 Lodi, LO, Italy (J.F.)
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20
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Singh S, Davenport KA, Schooley E, Ruggiero A, Nassar S, Buch J, Chandrashekar R. Diagnostic Accuracy of a Point-of-Care Immunoassay for Feline Immunodeficiency Virus Antibodies, Feline Leukemia Virus Antigen, and Dirofilaria immitis Antigen. Viruses 2023; 15:2117. [PMID: 37896893 PMCID: PMC10612086 DOI: 10.3390/v15102117] [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: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and feline leukemia virus (FeLV) are retroviral infections of cats worldwide whose clinical manifestations range from mild to severe disease. In both cases, infected cats can live a long life with proper care and should be managed to prevent infection of other cats. Dirofilaria immitis, the nematode that causes heartworm disease, can infect cats in any region where dogs are infected. Though cats are more resistant to infection, clinical diseases in the form of heartworm-associated respiratory disease can cause death. Screening for these infectious diseases enables veterinarians to manage their cases and prevent the spread to other cats. We describe the diagnostic accuracy of a point-of-care immunoassay for FIV, FeLV, and heartworm, compared to reference methods commonly available through reference laboratories to the practicing veterinarian. For FIV, we report 100% sensitivity (95% confidence limits (CL): 96.2-100%) and 97.8% specificity (95% CL: 95.4-99.4%). For FeLV, we report 100% sensitivity (95% CL: 97.7-100%) and 99.2% specificity (95% CL: 97.1-99.9%). And for heartworm, we report 90.2% sensitivity (95% CL: 76.9-97.3%) and 100% specificity (95% CL: 98.3-100%). Veterinarians may expect this performance relative to the reference methods they use for confirmatory serological testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seema Singh
- IDEXX Laboratories, Inc., Westbrook, ME 04092, USA; (K.A.D.); (E.S.); (A.R.); (S.N.); (J.B.)
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21
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Marques S, Gomes-Neves E, Baptista CS, Pereira FR, Alves-Pereira A, Osório P, Müller A. A Survey on Vaccination and Disease Occurrence in Municipal and Non-Profit Animal Shelters in Portugal. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2723. [PMID: 37684987 PMCID: PMC10486493 DOI: 10.3390/ani13172723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Few studies are available describing animal shelters in Portugal. The aim was to characterize prophylactic measures and disease occurrence in shelters with a questionnaire. The response rates of 67 shelters (42 municipal shelters, 25 associations) were compared by the Fisher's exact test. More veterinarians answered for municipal shelters (98%) than for associations (40%; p < 0.001). Over 80% of the respondents indicated using individual medical records and routine prophylaxis. Excessive length of stay for dogs was reported by 54% of associations and 33% of municipal shelters. Management tools should be promoted to improve the situation. Puppy vaccinations were similar and a final vaccination at 16 weeks was indicated by >33% of shelters. Annual revaccination of dogs was reported more frequently by associations (88%) than municipal shelters (55%; p = 0.02). The three most reported diseases were parvovirus and mange in dogs, upper respiratory disease and panleukopenia in cats, and dermatophytosis in both species. Similar response rates for diagnostic options were obtained by both shelter types, except for distemper. Testing for feline retroviruses was indicated by most shelters (>69%), but only a few (<24%) confirmed positive test results. Clinical diagnoses should be complemented by testing. Additional information on disease occurrence should be obtained by objective monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Marques
- Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; (E.G.-N.); (C.S.B.); (F.R.P.)
- Centro de Investigação em Biodiversidade e Recursos Genéticos (CIBIO), Laboratório Associado em Biodiversidade e Biologia Evolutiva (InBIO), University of Porto, Campus Agrário de Vairão, Rua Padre Armando Quintas No. 7, 4485-661 Vila do Conde, Portugal
| | - Eduarda Gomes-Neves
- Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; (E.G.-N.); (C.S.B.); (F.R.P.)
- Centro de Estudos de Ciência Animal (CECA), Instituto de Ciências, Tecnologias e Agroambiente (ICETA), Laboratório Associado AL4AnimalS, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Cláudia S. Baptista
- Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; (E.G.-N.); (C.S.B.); (F.R.P.)
- Centro de Estudos de Ciência Animal (CECA), Instituto de Ciências, Tecnologias e Agroambiente (ICETA), Laboratório Associado AL4AnimalS, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Francisca R. Pereira
- Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; (E.G.-N.); (C.S.B.); (F.R.P.)
| | | | - Pedro Osório
- Shelter Veterinarian, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; (A.A.-P.); (P.O.)
| | - Alexandra Müller
- Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; (E.G.-N.); (C.S.B.); (F.R.P.)
- Centro de Estudos de Ciência Animal (CECA), Instituto de Ciências, Tecnologias e Agroambiente (ICETA), Laboratório Associado AL4AnimalS, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
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Giselbrecht J, Jähne S, Bergmann M, Meli ML, Pineroli B, Boenzli E, Teichmann-Knorrn S, Zablotski Y, Pennisi MG, Layachi N, Serra R, Bo S, Hofmann-Lehmann R, Hartmann K. Prevalence of Different Courses of Feline Leukaemia Virus Infection in Four European Countries. Viruses 2023; 15:1718. [PMID: 37632060 PMCID: PMC10459464 DOI: 10.3390/v15081718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Prevalence of progressive feline leukaemia virus (FeLV) infection is known to still be high in cats in Europe, especially in Southern Europe, but the prevalence of other outcomes of FeLV infection has not been determined in most countries. The present study aimed to investigate the prevalence of progressive, regressive, abortive, and focal infection in four European countries, two with a high (Italy, Portugal) and two with a low expected prevalence (Germany, France). Blood samples of 934 cats (Italy: 269; Portugal: 240; France: 107; Germany: 318) were evaluated for the p27 antigen, as well as anti-whole virus, anti-SU, and anti-p15E antibodies by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in serum and for proviral DNA by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) in whole blood. Positive p27 antigen ELISA results were confirmed by reverse transcriptase-qPCR (RT-qPCR) detecting viral RNA in saliva swabs and/or blood. The outcome of FeLV infection was categorised as progressive (antigen-positive, provirus-positive), regressive (antigen-negative, provirus-positive), abortive (antigen- and provirus-negative, antibody-positive), and focal (antigen-positive, provirus-negative) infection. Overall FeLV prevalence was 21.2% in Italy, 20.4% in Portugal, 9.5% in Germany, and 9.3% in France. Prevalence of progressive, regressive, abortive, and focal infection in Italy was 7.8%, 4.5%, 6.3%, and 2.6%; in Portugal 3.8%, 8.3%, 6.7%, and 1.7%; in Germany 1.9%, 1.3%, 3.5%, and 2.8%; in France 1.9%, 3.7%, 2.8%, and 0.9%, respectively. In conclusion, overall FeLV prevalence is still very high, especially in Southern European countries. Therefore, testing, separation of infected cats, and vaccination are still important measures to reduce the risk of FeLV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana Giselbrecht
- LMU Small Animal Clinic, Centre for Clinical Veterinary Medicine, 80539 Munich, Germany; (S.J.); (M.B.); (Y.Z.); (K.H.)
| | - Stéphanie Jähne
- LMU Small Animal Clinic, Centre for Clinical Veterinary Medicine, 80539 Munich, Germany; (S.J.); (M.B.); (Y.Z.); (K.H.)
| | - Michèle Bergmann
- LMU Small Animal Clinic, Centre for Clinical Veterinary Medicine, 80539 Munich, Germany; (S.J.); (M.B.); (Y.Z.); (K.H.)
| | - Marina L. Meli
- Clinical Laboratory, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, and Centre for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland; (M.L.M.); (B.P.); (E.B.); (R.H.-L.)
| | - Benita Pineroli
- Clinical Laboratory, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, and Centre for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland; (M.L.M.); (B.P.); (E.B.); (R.H.-L.)
| | - Eva Boenzli
- Clinical Laboratory, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, and Centre for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland; (M.L.M.); (B.P.); (E.B.); (R.H.-L.)
| | | | - Yury Zablotski
- LMU Small Animal Clinic, Centre for Clinical Veterinary Medicine, 80539 Munich, Germany; (S.J.); (M.B.); (Y.Z.); (K.H.)
| | | | | | - Rodrigo Serra
- Investigacao Veterinaria Independente, 1700-119 Lisbon, Portugal;
| | - Stefano Bo
- Ambulatorio Veterinario Bo-Ferro, 10123 Turin, Italy;
| | - Regina Hofmann-Lehmann
- Clinical Laboratory, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, and Centre for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland; (M.L.M.); (B.P.); (E.B.); (R.H.-L.)
| | - Katrin Hartmann
- LMU Small Animal Clinic, Centre for Clinical Veterinary Medicine, 80539 Munich, Germany; (S.J.); (M.B.); (Y.Z.); (K.H.)
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23
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Soltero-Rivera M, Goldschmidt S, Arzi B. Feline chronic gingivostomatitis current concepts in clinical management. J Feline Med Surg 2023; 25:1098612X231186834. [PMID: 37548475 PMCID: PMC10811996 DOI: 10.1177/1098612x231186834] [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] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
PRACTICAL RELEVANCE Feline chronic gingivostomatitis (FCGS) is a debilitating disease for cats and a challenge for veterinarians and cat caregivers alike. Recent literature indicates that the disease is immune-mediated in nature and likely associated with a chronic viral infection in patients with higher alpha diversity of their subgingival microbiome. The immune-mediated nature of FCGS includes both local as well as systemic effects, and the transcriptomic analysis of affected patients supports these findings. TREATMENT OPTIONS Localized therapy in the form of surgical extraction of all, or nearly all, teeth continues to be the mainstay of treatment. For cats that do not respond to surgical management, medical management, in the form of immunosuppressive or immunomodulatory therapy, remains an option. Analgesia is of fundamental importance. Immunomodulation utilizing mesenchymal stromal cell therapy provides an alternative treatment avenue for refractory patients and likely targets the chronic viral infection present in this disease. The potential for treatment stratification and use of novel systemic treatment options may be revealed as the molecular pathways involved in this disease are better described. AIMS This review outlines current and emerging concepts linking available science pertaining to FCGS and clinical management of the disease. EVIDENCE BASE The article draws on the best evidence base at this juncture and is also driven by the authors' collective experience of working on the disease for over a decade.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Stephanie Goldschmidt
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Boaz Arzi
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, University of California, Davis, CA, USA; and Veterinary Institute for Regenerative Cures, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
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24
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de Almeida JCN, de Carvalho HCT, Gila LI, Martins NB, Szabó MPJ, da Hora AS. Use of selected samples to diagnose a tricky feline viral disease in a cat with uveitis and neurological signs. BRAZILIAN JOURNAL OF VETERINARY MEDICINE 2023; 45:e001223. [PMID: 37521360 PMCID: PMC10374292 DOI: 10.29374/2527-2179.bjvm001223] [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: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
This case involved a 2-year-old neutered male domestic mixed-breed cat that was rescued from the street eight months earlier. The animal presented with weakness, hyporexia, progressive weight loss, fatigue, uveitis, pale mucous membranes, dehydration (7%), and pelvic limb paresis. Aqueous humor was collected for molecular analysis for the differential diagnosis of potential etiological agents [Feline coronavirus (FCoV), Feline leukemia virus (FeLV), Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), Toxoplasma gondii, Cryptococcus spp., Felid herpesvirus-1 (FHV-1) and Bartonella spp.] of feline uveitis. The sample was positive by real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) for FCoV and RT-qPCR and real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) for FeLV and qPCR FIV. The cat was euthanized due to poor clinical outcomes and prognosis. A cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) sample was collected and tested, and the same pathogens were found in the aqueous humor. Small-cell follicular multicenter lymphoma and multifocal pyogranulomatous meningoencephalitis were observed upon histopathological analysis. In this study, aqueous humor and cerebrospinal fluid samples were efficient for the detection of coinfection with FIV, FeLV, and FCoV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julio Cesar Neves de Almeida
- Veterinarian, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Veterinárias (PPGCV), Universidade Federal de Uberlândia (UFU). Umuarama, Umuarama, MG, Brazil
| | | | - Lana Isabella Gila
- Veterinarian, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Veterinárias (PPGCV), Universidade Federal de Uberlândia (UFU). Umuarama, Umuarama, MG, Brazil
| | - Nathana Beatriz Martins
- Veterinarian, MSc., Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Veterinárias (PPGCV), Universidade Federal de Uberlândia (UFU). Umuarama, Umuarama, MG, Brazil
| | | | - Aline Santana da Hora
- Veterinarian, DSc. Laboratório de Investigação Etiológica Veterinária UFU. Umuarama, Umuarama, MG, Brazil
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25
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Kornya M, Bienzle D, Beeler-Marfisi J. Discordant FeLV p27 immunoassay and PCR test results in 21 cats with hematologic disorders. J Feline Med Surg 2023; 25:1098612X231183297. [PMID: 37439634 PMCID: PMC10812061 DOI: 10.1177/1098612x231183297] [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] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
CASE SERIES SUMMARY A total of 1692 medical records from a primary care feline practice and a veterinary referral hospital were evaluated retrospectively to assess discordant feline leukemia virus (FeLV) test results. In total, 73 cats were positive for FeLV using serum in a lateral flow immunoassay (LFI) or laboratory-based ELISA. Of these cats, 21 subsequently tested negative for FeLV proviral DNA by non-quantitative PCR on EDTA whole blood (16/21, 76.2%), bone marrow (4/21, 19%) or both (1/21, 4.7%). The proportional morbidity (an estimate of prevalence in a sample of the total population) for FeLV by LFI/ELISA and PCR assays was 3.1%, consistent with that reported in previous studies for cats in North America. Cats with discordant LFI/ELISA and PCR results had either primary bone marrow disease (18 autoimmune, one neoplastic), a bone marrow insult (hemotrophic mycoplasmosis) or systemic inflammation (pyothorax with a marked neutrophilic leukocytosis). The percentage of cats with a positive LFA/ELISA result and negative PCR assay surviving to discharge was 85.7% (18/21). Of these, 88.9% (16/18) survived 4 months to 6 years. Seven cats (33.3%) were re-tested with LFI or ELISA once primary disease was controlled, and all tested negative. RELEVANCE AND NOVEL INFORMATION These findings indicate that in cats with bone marrow disease that shares features of progressive FeLV infection, positive LFI and ELISA FeLV test results should be followed up with FeLV proviral DNA PCR testing, particularly in populations where disease prevalence is low.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Kornya
- Department of Clinical Studies, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Dorothee Bienzle
- Department of Pathobiology, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Janet Beeler-Marfisi
- Department of Pathobiology, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
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FIV testing and feral cats in the UK. Vet Rec 2023; 192:487-488. [PMID: 37326198 DOI: 10.1002/vetr.3197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
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Ortiz R, Barajas A, Pons-Grífols A, Trinité B, Tarrés-Freixas F, Rovirosa C, Urrea V, Barreiro A, Gonzalez-Tendero A, Cardona M, Ferrer L, Clotet B, Carrillo J, Aguilar-Gurrieri C, Blanco J. Exploring FeLV-Gag-Based VLPs as a New Vaccine Platform-Analysis of Production and Immunogenicity. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24109025. [PMID: 37240371 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24109025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is one of the most prevalent infectious diseases in domestic cats. Although different commercial vaccines are available, none of them provides full protection. Thus, efforts to design a more efficient vaccine are needed. Our group has successfully engineered HIV-1 Gag-based VLPs that induce a potent and functional immune response against the HIV-1 transmembrane protein gp41. Here, we propose to use this concept to generate FeLV-Gag-based VLPs as a novel vaccine strategy against this retrovirus. By analogy to our HIV-1 platform, a fragment of the FeLV transmembrane p15E protein was exposed on FeLV-Gag-based VLPs. After optimization of Gag sequences, the immunogenicity of the selected candidates was evaluated in C57BL/6 and BALB/c mice, showing strong cellular and humoral responses to Gag but failing to generate anti-p15E antibodies. Altogether, this study not only tests the versatility of the enveloped VLP-based vaccine platform but also sheds light on FeLV vaccine research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel Ortiz
- AIDS Research Institute, IrsiCaixa, Campus Can Ruti, 08916 Badalona, Spain
- Doctorate School, Microbiology Department, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Ana Barajas
- AIDS Research Institute, IrsiCaixa, Campus Can Ruti, 08916 Badalona, Spain
- Doctorate School, Medicine Department, University of Vic-Central University of Catalonia (UVic-UCC), 08500 Vic, Spain
| | - Anna Pons-Grífols
- AIDS Research Institute, IrsiCaixa, Campus Can Ruti, 08916 Badalona, Spain
- Doctorate School, Microbiology Department, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Benjamin Trinité
- AIDS Research Institute, IrsiCaixa, Campus Can Ruti, 08916 Badalona, Spain
| | | | - Carla Rovirosa
- AIDS Research Institute, IrsiCaixa, Campus Can Ruti, 08916 Badalona, Spain
| | - Victor Urrea
- AIDS Research Institute, IrsiCaixa, Campus Can Ruti, 08916 Badalona, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | - Bonaventura Clotet
- AIDS Research Institute, IrsiCaixa, Campus Can Ruti, 08916 Badalona, Spain
- Doctorate School, Medicine Department, University of Vic-Central University of Catalonia (UVic-UCC), 08500 Vic, Spain
- Infectious Diseases Department, Germans Trias I Pujol Hospital, 08916 Badalona, Spain
| | - Jorge Carrillo
- AIDS Research Institute, IrsiCaixa, Campus Can Ruti, 08916 Badalona, Spain
- CIBERINFEC, ISCIII, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Julià Blanco
- AIDS Research Institute, IrsiCaixa, Campus Can Ruti, 08916 Badalona, Spain
- Doctorate School, Microbiology Department, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
- Doctorate School, Medicine Department, University of Vic-Central University of Catalonia (UVic-UCC), 08500 Vic, Spain
- CIBERINFEC, ISCIII, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Germans Trias I Pujol Research Institute (IGTP), Campus Can Ruti, 08916 Badalona, Spain
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Biezus G, Grima de Cristo T, da Silva Casa M, Lovatel M, Vavassori M, Brüggemann de Souza Teixeira M, Miletti LC, Maciel da Costa U, Assis Casagrande R. Progressive and regressive infection with feline leukemia virus (FeLV) in cats in southern Brazil: Prevalence, risk factors associated, clinical and hematologic alterations. Prev Vet Med 2023; 216:105945. [PMID: 37209619 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2023.105945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for viral antigen is commonly used for the diagnosis of progressive feline leukemia virus (FeLV) infection but is not able to determine the true prevalence of infection when used as the sole test. Additional testing to detect proviral DNA will identify regressive (antigen negative) FeLV infections as well as progressive infections. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the prevalence of progressive and regressive FeLV infection, outcome-associated factors, and hematologic changes. A cross-sectional study was performed on 384 cats selected from routine hospital care. Blood samples were subjected to complete blood count, ELISA for FeLV antigen and FIV antibody, and nested PCR amplifying the U3- LTR region and gag gene, which are conserved in most exogenous FeLV. The prevalence of FeLV infection was 45.6% (CI95% 40.6-50.6%). The prevalence of progressive infection (FeLV+P) was 34.4% (CI95% 29.6-39.1%), that of regressive infection (FeLV+R) was 10.4% (CI95% 7.4-13.4%), for discordant but positive results 0.8% (CI95% 0.75-0.84%), for FeLV+P coinfected with FIV 2.6% (CI95% 1.2-4.0%), and FeLV+R coinfected with FIV 1.5% (CI95% 0.3-2.7%). Male cats were three times more likely to be in the FeLV+P group. Cats coinfected with FIV were 4.8 times more likely to belong to the FeLV+R group. In the FeLV+P group, the main clinical changes were lymphoma (38.5%), anemia (24.4%), leukemia (17.9%), concomitant infections (15.4%), and feline chronic gingivostomatitis - FCGS (3.8%). In the FeLV+R group, the main clinical signs were anemia (45.4%), leukemia (18.2%), concomitant infections (18.2%), lymphoma (9.1%), and FCGS (9.1%). Cats in the FeLV+P and FeLV+R groups showed mainly thrombocytopenia (56.6% and 38.2%), non-regenerative anemia (32.8% and 23.5%), and lymphopenia (33.6% and 20.6%). Hemoglobin concentration, packed cell volume (PCV), platelet count, lymphocytes, and eosinophils in the FeLV+P and FeLV+R groups had lower medians than the control group (FeLV/FIV-uninfected, healthy). Erythrocyte and eosinophil counts were statistically different among the three groups, with the medians of the FeLV+P and FeLV+R groups being lower than those of the control group. In addition, the median PCV and band neutrophil counts were higher in FeLV+P than in FeLV+R. Our results show a high prevalence of FeLV, different factors associated with the course of infection, and more frequent and severe hematologic changes in progressive infections compared with regressive infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovana Biezus
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina (UDESC), Av. Luís de Camões 2090, Lages, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Thierry Grima de Cristo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina (UDESC), Av. Luís de Camões 2090, Lages, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Mariana da Silva Casa
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina (UDESC), Av. Luís de Camões 2090, Lages, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Mariângela Lovatel
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina (UDESC), Av. Luís de Camões 2090, Lages, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Mayara Vavassori
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina (UDESC), Av. Luís de Camões 2090, Lages, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | | | - Luiz Claudio Miletti
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina (UDESC), Av. Luís de Camões 2090, Lages, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Ubirajara Maciel da Costa
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina (UDESC), Av. Luís de Camões 2090, Lages, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Renata Assis Casagrande
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina (UDESC), Av. Luís de Camões 2090, Lages, Santa Catarina, Brazil.
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Moyadee W, Chiteafea N, Tuanthap S, Choowongkomon K, Roytrakul S, Rungsuriyawiboon O, Boonkaewwan C, Tansakul N, Rattanasrisomporn A, Rattanasrisomporn J. The first study on clinicopathological changes in cats with feline infectious peritonitis with and without retrovirus coinfection. Vet World 2023; 16:820-827. [PMID: 37235153 PMCID: PMC10206975 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2023.820-827] [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: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) is an infectious, immune-mediated, and fatal disease in cats caused by a mutant feline coronavirus (FCoV) infection. Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and feline leukemia virus (FeLV) are two common retroviruses that play a role in reducing feline immune function with opportunistic retrovirus infection being a predisposing factor for the development of FIP. This study aimed to evaluate the clinicopathological parameters of FIP in cats with and without retrovirus coinfection. Materials and Methods In total, 62 cats presenting with pleural and/or peritoneal effusion at the Kasetsart University Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand, were selected for the study. Effusion samples were collected and a reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assay was performed on all samples using the 3' untranslated region primer. All FCoV-positive cats were tested for retrovirus infection using a commercial kit (Witness FeLV-FIV [Zoetis]; United States). Clinical signs, hematological, and biochemical parameters of these cats were investigated and grouped. Results Of the 62 cats with pleural and/or peritoneal effusion, FCoV was detected in 32, of which 21 were highly suspicious for FIP. The cats suspected of FIP were divided into three subgroups following viral detection. A total of 14 had only FCoV infection (Group A), four had FCoV and FeLV infection (Group B), and three had FCoV, FeLV, and FIV infection (Group C). Of the rest, 11 had definitive diagnoses, which included three being FCoV and FeLV-positive (Group D), and eight were retrovirus-negative (Group E). Mild anemia and lymphopenia were found in cats infected with these three viruses. An albumin-to-globulin ratio lower than 0.5 was found in FIP cats with only FCoV infection. Conclusion Typically, cats with clinical effusion and FIP, with and without retrovirus coinfection, had similar hematological findings. Clinical signs, blood parameters, fluid analysis with cytological assessment, and RT-PCR assays could identify better criteria to diagnose FIP with and without retrovirus coinfection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wassamon Moyadee
- Center for Advanced Studies for Agriculture and Food, Institute for Advanced Studies, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Graduate Program in Animal Health and Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Natdaroon Chiteafea
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Supansa Tuanthap
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Rajamangala University of Technology Tawan-ok, Chonburi, Thailand
| | | | - Sittiruk Roytrakul
- Functional Proteomics Technology Laboratory, Functional Ingredients and Food Innovation Research Group, National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, National Science and Technology for Development Agency, Pathum Thani, Thailand
| | - Oumaporn Rungsuriyawiboon
- Department of Veterinary Technology, Faculty of Veterinary Technology, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Chaiwat Boonkaewwan
- Akkhraratchakumari Veterinary College, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand
| | - Natthasit Tansakul
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Amonpun Rattanasrisomporn
- Interdisciplinary of Genetic Engineering and Bioinformatics, Graduate School, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Jatuporn Rattanasrisomporn
- Center for Advanced Studies for Agriculture and Food, Institute for Advanced Studies, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Graduate Program in Animal Health and Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
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30
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Morishita M, Sunden Y, Horiguchi M, Sakoya H, Yokogawa M, Ino H, Une S, Kawata M, Hosoido T, Morita T. Wavy changes in the whiskers of domestic cats are correlated with feline leukemia virus infection. BMC Vet Res 2023; 19:58. [PMID: 36871053 PMCID: PMC9985215 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-023-03610-7] [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: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is a retrovirus with global impact on the health of domestic cats and is usually examined by serology. In our daily clinical practice, we noticed that cats infected with FeLV often possess wavy whiskers (sinus hairs on the face). To investigate the relationship between wavy whiskers (WW) and FeLV infection, the association between the presence or absence of wavy changes in whiskers and serological FeLV infection was examined in a total of 358 cats including 56 cats possessing WW, using the chi-square test. The results of blood tests from 223 cases were subjected to multivariate analysis (logistic analysis). Isolated whiskers were observed under light microscopy, and upper lip tissues (proboscis) were subjected to histopathological and immunohistochemical analyses. RESULTS The prevalence of WW was significantly correlated with FeLV antigen positivity in the blood. Of 56 cases with WW, 50 (89.3%) were serologically positive for FeLV. The significant association between WW and serological FeLV positivity was also confirmed by multivariate analysis. In WW, narrowing, degeneration, and tearing of the hair medulla were observed. Mild infiltration of mononuclear cells in the tissues, but no degeneration or necrosis, was found. By immunohistochemistry, FeLV antigens (p27, gp70 and p15E) were observed in various epithelial cells including the sinus hair follicular epithelium of the whisker. CONCLUSIONS The data suggest that the wavy changes in whiskers, a unique and distinctive external sign on a cat's face, were associated with FeLV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masataka Morishita
- Niihama Animal Hospital, 2-1-11 Wakamizu Niihama, Ehime, 792-0017, Japan.,Neovets VR Center, 3-8-15 Nakamichi, Higashinari, Osaka, 537-0025, Japan
| | - Yuji Sunden
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, Joint Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Agriculture, Tottori University, 4-101 Koyama-Minami, Tottori, 680-8553, Japan.
| | - Misaki Horiguchi
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, Joint Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Agriculture, Tottori University, 4-101 Koyama-Minami, Tottori, 680-8553, Japan
| | - Hirosei Sakoya
- Niihama Animal Hospital, 2-1-11 Wakamizu Niihama, Ehime, 792-0017, Japan.,Sigenobu Animal Hospital, 1054-1 Ushibuchi Touon, Ehime, 791-0213, Japan
| | - Mana Yokogawa
- Niihama Animal Hospital, 2-1-11 Wakamizu Niihama, Ehime, 792-0017, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Ino
- Niihama Animal Hospital, 2-1-11 Wakamizu Niihama, Ehime, 792-0017, Japan
| | - Satoshi Une
- Neovets VR Center, 3-8-15 Nakamichi, Higashinari, Osaka, 537-0025, Japan
| | - Mutsumi Kawata
- Neovets VR Center, 3-8-15 Nakamichi, Higashinari, Osaka, 537-0025, Japan
| | - Taisei Hosoido
- Neovets VR Center, 3-8-15 Nakamichi, Higashinari, Osaka, 537-0025, Japan
| | - Takehito Morita
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, Joint Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Agriculture, Tottori University, 4-101 Koyama-Minami, Tottori, 680-8553, Japan
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de Mello LS, Ribeiro PR, de Almeida BA, Bandinelli MB, Sonne L, Driemeier D, Pavarini SP. Diseases associated with feline leukemia virus and feline immunodeficiency virus infection: A retrospective study of 1470 necropsied cats (2010-2020). Comp Immunol Microbiol Infect Dis 2023; 95:101963. [PMID: 36858000 DOI: 10.1016/j.cimid.2023.101963] [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: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023]
Abstract
Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) are retroviruses affecting cats worldwide, and the prevalence of infection varies considerably according to the geographic area. We retrospectively described FIV- and FeLV-associated diseases in a population of 1470 necropsied cats, of which 396 (26.9%) were infected with FeLV, 199 (13.5%) with FIV, and 134 (9.1%) with FeLV and FIV concomitantly. Cats infected with FeLV (OR 3.4) and co-infected with FeLV and FIV (OR 1.9) were more likely to have neoplasms. The diagnosis of lymphoma and leukemia was higher in cats infected with FeLV (OR 3.9 and 19.4, respectively) and coinfected with FeLV and FIV (OR 1.9 and 19.3, respectively). The odds of diagnosing bacterial diseases were higher in cats coinfected with FeLV and FIV (OR: 2.8), whereas the odds of viral diseases were higher in those infected with FeLV (OR: 2.8), with 2.2 times more diagnoses of feline infectious peritonitis. Neoplastic and infectious diseases in FIV-infected cats did not differ significantly from those in uninfected cats. According to our results, a high prevalence of retroviral infections was observed in southern Brazil, mainly in relation to FeLV. Infected cats were significantly younger than uninfected cats. The main causes of death associated with FeLV infection and FeLV and FIV coinfection were neoplastic and infectious diseases. In contrast, FIV infection was not associated with any specific condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Santos de Mello
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), 9090 Av. Bento Gonçalves, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil.
| | - Paula Reis Ribeiro
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), 9090 Av. Bento Gonçalves, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil.
| | - Bruno Albuquerque de Almeida
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), 9090 Av. Bento Gonçalves, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil.
| | - Marcele Bettim Bandinelli
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), 9090 Av. Bento Gonçalves, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil.
| | - Luciana Sonne
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), 9090 Av. Bento Gonçalves, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil.
| | - David Driemeier
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), 9090 Av. Bento Gonçalves, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil.
| | - Saulo Petinatti Pavarini
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), 9090 Av. Bento Gonçalves, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil.
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Westman ME, Giselbrecht J, Norris JM, Malik R, Green J, Burton-Bradley E, Cheang A, Meili T, Meli ML, Hartmann K, Hofmann-Lehmann R. Field Performance of a Rapid Test to Detect Progressive, Regressive, and Abortive Feline Leukemia Virus Infections in Domestic Cats in Australia and Germany. Viruses 2023; 15:v15020491. [PMID: 36851705 PMCID: PMC9967048 DOI: 10.3390/v15020491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Different feline leukemia virus (FeLV) infection outcomes are possible in cats following natural exposure, such as progressive infections (persistent viremia), regressive infections (transient or no viremia followed by proviral persistence) and abortive infections (presence of only antibodies). Laboratory-based testing is currently required for categorization of infection outcomes in cats. The aim of this study was to evaluate the field performance of a novel, rapid, combination point-of-care (PoC) test kit commercially available in Europe (v-RetroFel®Ag/Ab; 2020-2021 version) to determine different FeLV infection outcomes by concurrent detection of FeLV antigen (p27) and antibodies against FeLV transmembrane envelope protein (p15E). A secondary aim was to evaluate the performance of the same test kit (v-RetroFel®FIV) to determine positive/negative feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) infection status by the detection of antibodies to FIV capsid protein (p24) and transmembrane glycoprotein (gp40). Two cohorts of domestic cats were recruited and tested with v-RetroFel® using plasma or serum, including cats in Australia (n = 200) and cats in Germany (n = 170). Results from p27 antigen PoC testing, proviral DNA PCR, and neutralizing antibody testing or testing for antibodies against non-glycosylated surface unit envelope protein (p45) were used to assign cats to groups according to different FeLV infection outcomes. Testing with a laboratory-based FeLV p15E antibody ELISA was also performed for comparison. In the first cohort, v-RetroFel®Ag/Ab correctly identified 89% (109/122) FeLV-unexposed cats and 91% (21/23) progressive infections, but no regressive (0/23) or abortive (0/32) infections. In the second cohort, v-RetroFel®Ag/Ab correctly identified 94% (148/158) FeLV-unexposed cats and 100% (4/4) progressive infections, but no regressive (0/2) and only 17% (1/6) abortive infections. There was test agreement between v-RetroFel®Ab and the p15E laboratory ELISA in 58.9% of samples. As a secondary outcome of this study, the sensitivity and specificity of v-RetroFel®FIV testing in cohort 1 were 94.7% (18/19) and 98.3% (178/181), and in cohort 2, 30.0% (3/10) and 100.0% (160/160), respectively. Prior history of FIV vaccination did not produce any false-positive FIV results. In conclusion, v-RetroFel®Ag/Ab (2020-2021 version) was unable to accurately determine different FeLV infection outcomes in the field. Improvements of the test prior to application to field samples are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark E. Westman
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
- Correspondence:
| | - Juliana Giselbrecht
- Clinic of Small Animal Medicine, Centre for Clinical Veterinary Medicine LMU Munich, Veterinaerstrasse 13, 80539 Munich, Germany
- Clinical Laboratory, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, and Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, The University of Zurich, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Jacqueline M. Norris
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
- The Sydney Institute for Infectious Diseases, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Richard Malik
- Centre for Veterinary Education, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
- School of Veterinary and Animal Science, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW 2678, Australia
| | - Jennifer Green
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Elle Burton-Bradley
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Ashley Cheang
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Theres Meili
- Clinical Laboratory, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, and Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, The University of Zurich, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Marina L. Meli
- Clinical Laboratory, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, and Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, The University of Zurich, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Katrin Hartmann
- Clinic of Small Animal Medicine, Centre for Clinical Veterinary Medicine LMU Munich, Veterinaerstrasse 13, 80539 Munich, Germany
| | - Regina Hofmann-Lehmann
- Clinical Laboratory, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, and Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, The University of Zurich, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland
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Miguel-Pastor L, Satué K, Chicharro D, Peláez P, Torres-Torrillas M, Carrillo JM, Cerón JJ, Sopena JJ, Rubio M. Evaluation of Platelet-Rich Plasma by means of PRGF ®-Endoret ® protocol in leukemia cats: PDGF-BB and TGF-ß1 valuation. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1110055. [PMID: 36777664 PMCID: PMC9909748 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1110055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is a chronic disease that leads to the weakening of a cat's immune system. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) offers therapeutic effects for multiple diseases, the use of PRP and growth factors (GFs) determination could be an alternative treatment to improve the quality of life in these patients. The objectives of this study were to determine and compare the concentration of platelets (PLTs), red blood cells (RBCs) and white blood cells (WBCs) between samples of whole blood (WB), PRP and platelet-poor plasma (PPP) fractions, and to evaluate the concentration of platelet-derived growth factor BB (PDGF-BB) and transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) in both fractions in FeLV cats using a PRGF®-Endoret® protocol previously standardized in this species. Methods WB was collected from 11 asymptomatic FeLV-positive cats. PRP and PPP was obtained following PRGF®-Endoret® technology according to centrifugation at 265 g for 10 min. Cellular components, RBCs, WBCs, PLTs, and the PDGF-BB and TGF-β1 concentrations in PRP and PPP fractions were determined. Results PLT in the PRP fraction was statistically higher than WB and PPP fraction, with no statistical differences between WB and PPP. PLT concentration increased 1.4 times in PRP fraction compared to WB. Mean platelet volume (MPV) did not differ significantly between the WB, PRP, and PPP fractions. Compared to WB, the absolute numbers of RBCs and WBCs were decreased by 99% and more than 95% in the PRP and PPP fractions, respectively. TGF-ß1 concentrations increased in PRP vs. PPP, with no changes in PDGF-BB. Discussion Based on the degree of PLT enrichment and the absence of RBCs and WBCs, this blood product could be classified as a Pure Platelet-Rich Plasma (P-PRP). The presence of GFs in PRP and PPP samples suggests that the PRGF®-Endoret® methodology is suitable for obtaining PRP in FeLV cats, despite future studies are necessary to optimize the technique, standardize the results and assess clinical efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Miguel-Pastor
- Bioregenerative Medicine and Applied Surgery Research Group, Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, CEU Cardenal Herrera University, CEU Universities, Valencia, Spain
| | - Katy Satué
- Bioregenerative Medicine and Applied Surgery Research Group, Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, CEU Cardenal Herrera University, CEU Universities, Valencia, Spain
| | - Deborah Chicharro
- Bioregenerative Medicine and Applied Surgery Research Group, Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, CEU Cardenal Herrera University, CEU Universities, Valencia, Spain
| | - Pau Peláez
- Bioregenerative Medicine and Applied Surgery Research Group, Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, CEU Cardenal Herrera University, CEU Universities, Valencia, Spain
| | - Marta Torres-Torrillas
- Bioregenerative Medicine and Applied Surgery Research Group, Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, CEU Cardenal Herrera University, CEU Universities, Valencia, Spain
| | - José M. Carrillo
- Bioregenerative Medicine and Applied Surgery Research Group, Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, CEU Cardenal Herrera University, CEU Universities, Valencia, Spain,García Cugat Foundation CEU-UCH Chair of Medicine and Regenerative Surgery, CEU Cardenal Herrera University, CEU Universities, Valencia, Spain
| | - José J. Cerón
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Clinical Analysis, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Joaquín J. Sopena
- Bioregenerative Medicine and Applied Surgery Research Group, Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, CEU Cardenal Herrera University, CEU Universities, Valencia, Spain,García Cugat Foundation CEU-UCH Chair of Medicine and Regenerative Surgery, CEU Cardenal Herrera University, CEU Universities, Valencia, Spain,*Correspondence: Joaquín J. Sopena ✉
| | - Mónica Rubio
- Bioregenerative Medicine and Applied Surgery Research Group, Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, CEU Cardenal Herrera University, CEU Universities, Valencia, Spain,García Cugat Foundation CEU-UCH Chair of Medicine and Regenerative Surgery, CEU Cardenal Herrera University, CEU Universities, Valencia, Spain
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Dezubiria P, Amirian ES, Spera K, Crawford PC, Levy JK. Animal shelter management of feline leukemia virus and feline immunodeficiency virus infections in cats. Front Vet Sci 2023; 9:1003388. [PMID: 36744227 PMCID: PMC9890067 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.1003388] [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: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Approximately 5% of cats in animal shelters in the United States test positive for either feline leukemia virus (FeLV) or feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), which translates to more than 100,000 positive cats managed by shelters each year. Little is known about the current status of retroviral management in animal shelters, particularly in regions burdened by chronic pet overpopulation and high shelter admissions, such as the southern United States. The purpose of this study was to describe feline retroviral management in Florida shelters. Shelters were surveyed on practices including selection of cats for testing, diagnostic techniques, and outcome options for cats with positive test results. Responses were received from 139 of 153 animal shelters known to admit cats, including 55 municipal shelters (40%), 70 private shelters (50%), and 14 private shelters with municipal contracts (10%). A total of 115 shelters (83%) performed at least some testing, most using combination point-of-care devices for simultaneous FeLV antigen and FIV antibody screening. Of shelters that performed any testing, 56 (49%) tested all cats for FeLV and 52 (45%) tested all cats for both FeLV and FIV. The most common reason for testing was screening adoptable cats (108 shelters; 94%) and cats available for transfer to other organizations (78; 68%). Testing cats in trap-neuter-return/return-to-field programs was least common (21; 18%). Most common outcome options for positive cats included adoption (74; 64%), transfer (62; 54%), and euthanasia (49; 43%). Euthanasia following a positive test result was more common for cats with FeLV (49; 43%) than for cats with FIV (29; 25%) and was more common in municipal shelters, rural shelters, shelters taking in <500 cats a year, and shelters with overall live outcome rates for cats <70%. Although Florida shelter compliance with national guidelines for identification and management of FeLV and FIV positive cats was variable, most had live outcome options for at least some of their cats with positive test results. Increased access to training and practical programmatic tools may help more shelters implement cost-effective testing protocols, reduce risk for transmission to other cats, and support the best outcomes for this vulnerable population of cats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Dezubiria
- Maddie's Shelter Medicine Program, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - E. Susan Amirian
- Research Department, Austin Pets Alive!, Austin, TX, United States
| | - Keegan Spera
- Maddie's Shelter Medicine Program, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - P. Cynda Crawford
- Maddie's Shelter Medicine Program, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Julie K. Levy
- Maddie's Shelter Medicine Program, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States,*Correspondence: Julie K. Levy
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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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Acevedo-Jiménez GE, Sarmiento-Silva RE, Alonso-Morales RA, Córdova-Ponce R, Ramírez-Álvarez H. Detection and genetic characterization of feline retroviruses in domestic cats with different clinical signs and hematological alterations. Arch Virol 2023. [DOI: https:/doi.org/10.1007/s00705-022-05627-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
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Montoya M, Morrison JA, Arrignon F, Spofford N, Charles H, Hours MA, Biourge V. Life expectancy tables for dogs and cats derived from clinical data. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1082102. [PMID: 36896289 PMCID: PMC9989186 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1082102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
There are few recent and methodologically robust life expectancy (LE) tables for dogs or cats. This study aimed to generate LE tables for these species with clinical records from >1,000 Banfield Pet hospitals in the USA. Using Sullivan's method, LE tables were generated across survey years 2013-2019, by survey year, and for subpopulations defined by sex, adult body size group (purebred dogs only: toy, small, medium, large and giant), and median body condition score (BCS) over life. The deceased population for each survey year comprised animals with a recorded date of death in that year; survivors had no death date in that year and were confirmed living by a veterinary visit in a subsequent year. The dataset totaled 13,292,929 unique dogs and 2,390,078 unique cats. LE at birth (LEbirth) was 12.69 years (95% CI: 12.68-12.70) for all dogs, 12.71 years (12.67-12.76) for mixed-breed dogs, 11.18 years (11.16-11.20) for cats, and 11.12 (11.09-11.14) for mixed-breed cats. LEbirth increased with decreasing dog size group and increasing survey year 2013 to 2018 for all dog size groups and cats. Female dogs and cats had significantly higher LEbirth than males: 12.76 years (12.75-12.77) vs. 12.63 years (12.62-12.64), and 11.68 years (11.65-11.71) vs. 10.72 years (10.68-10.75), respectively. Obese dogs (BCS 5/5) had a significantly lower LEbirth [11.71 years (11.66-11.77)] than overweight dogs (BCS 4/5) [13.14 years (13.12-13.16)] and dogs with ideal BCS 3/5 [13.18 years (13.16-13.19)]. The LEbirth of cats with BCS 4/5 [13.67 years (13.62-13.71)] was significantly higher than cats with BCS 5/5 [12.56 years (12.45-12.66)] or BCS 3/5 [12.18 years (12.14-12.21)]. These LE tables provide valuable information for veterinarians and pet owners and a foundation for research hypotheses, as well as being a stepping-stone to disease-associated LE tables.
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Detection and genetic characterization of feline retroviruses in domestic cats with different clinical signs and hematological alterations. Arch Virol 2023; 168:2. [DOI: 10.1007/s00705-022-05627-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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Edinboro CH. Feral Cat Populations and Feline Retrovirus Prevalence in San Mateo County, California in Three Time Periods between 2001 and 2016. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12243477. [PMID: 36552398 PMCID: PMC9774651 DOI: 10.3390/ani12243477] [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: 11/14/2022] [Revised: 12/04/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
This study was initiated in 2004 because the prevalence of feline leukemia virus (FeLV) and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) infections in feral cats in San Mateo County (SMC) was not known. The cities attributed to the feral cat population presented to the Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA’s Spay/Neuter Clinic and to the Shelter itself were analyzed to examine potential geographic concentrations of feral cats with positive retroviral status. Trends in FIV and FeLV status were examined in three 3-year periods (2001−2003, 2005−2007, and 2014−2016). Population trends over the 15 years of this study for feral cats admitted to the Shelter were also examined. In each study period, more female feral cats were presented to the S/N Clinic (54.06%, 57.37%, 54.89%). FIV prevalence increased from 5.52% to 6.41% (p = 0.29) from the first to third period; FeLV prevalence decreased significantly from 1.73% to 0.29% (p = 0.01). Significantly more FIV-positive males than females were identified each year and for each period (p < 0.01). The four largest SMC cities were the major source of feral cats to the Shelter, S/N Clinic, and of FIV- and FeLV-positive cats in the first two periods; in the third period, 50% of feral cats to the Shelter and of FeLV-positive cats were from these cities. Despite a 61.63% reduction in feral cat admissions to the S/N Clinic, the FIV prevalence for males remained similar and increased for females. The retrovirus prevalence suggests the need for continued testing and surveillance of FIV among SMC free-living cats.
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Clinicopathological Findings in Cats Tested for Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) and Feline Leukaemia Virus (FeLV). ACTA VET-BEOGRAD 2022. [DOI: 10.2478/acve-2022-0034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the clinicopathological changes in a population of cats tested for feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and feline leukaemia virus (FeLV), in an Italian Veterinary University Hospital, in the period between January 2002 and May 2016. During the period of 14 years, 1834 cats were tested, and of these 241/1834 (13.1%) were positive for FIV antibodies and 92/1834 (5%) cats were positive for FeLV antigen. These data confirm the presence of a high prevalence of these viruses on Italian territory. To the authors’ knowledge, this study describes findings that have never been evaluated before, such as iron status in retrovirus-infected cats and urinalysis in FeLV-positive cats. In this study, FIV-positive cats were more likely to have higher serum protein concentration and lower albumin-globulin ratio than other groups of cats. Lower urine specific gravity and higher urine protein to creatinine ratio were also detected for FIV-positive cats when compared with negative and healthy cats. FeLV-positive cats were more likely to have cytopenia, decreased haemoglobin, haematocrit and RBC compared with other groups of cats. The data obtained underline the importance of considering retroviral infections in the presence of a broad spectrum of risk factors and laboratory anomalies.
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Cheang A, Westman ME, Green J. Evaluation of a Point-of-Care Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) Test Kit (RapidSTATUS™ FIV) to Determine the FIV Status of FIV-Vaccinated and FIV-Unvaccinated Pet Cats in Australia. Vet Sci 2022; 9:vetsci9110618. [PMID: 36356095 PMCID: PMC9695518 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci9110618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary This study evaluated a commercial point-of-care (PoC) feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) test kit (RapidSTATUS™ FIV) for its accuracy in determining the FIV status of FIV-vaccinated and FIV-unvaccinated pet cats in Australia. In countries where FIV vaccination is used, veterinarians need a PoC kit that will produce a negative result for a FIV-uninfected cat, even if the cat is FIV-vaccinated or the FIV vaccination history is unknown, since incorrect diagnoses can impact negatively on the welfare of cats. FIV PoC kits also need to produce positive results in FIV-infected cats to help with appropriate management and to enable strategies to be implemented to prevent other cats from becoming FIV-infected. Results presented here show RapidSTATUS™ FIV to be highly accurate (98.8−100%) in a range of FIV-vaccinated and FIV-unvaccinated scenarios. Therefore, Australian veterinarians can reliably use RapidSTATUS™ FIV to rapidly and accurately determine the FIV status of all cats. Abstract Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) is a retrovirus that can cause immunosuppression, co-morbidities, and neoplasia in infected cats, and is commonly tested for in veterinary clinics and animal shelters in Australia. FIV diagnosis using point-of-care (PoC) kits to detect FIV antibodies in Australia is complicated by the commercial availability of an inactivated whole-FIV vaccine. The aim of this study was to determine the accuracy of the RapidSTATUS™ FIV antibody test kit in FIV-vaccinated and FIV-unvaccinated cats in Australia. Plasma from pet cats of known FIV vaccination and FIV infection statuses (n = 361), comprised of 57 FIV-uninfected cats annually vaccinated against FIV, 10 FIV-uninfected cats with lapsed FIV vaccination histories, 259 FIV-unvaccinated/FIV-uninfected cats, and 35 FIV-infected cats, was tested. RapidSTATUS™ FIV testing had sensitivity of 97.1% (34/35) and specificity of 100% (326/326), with an overall accuracy of 99.7% (360/361). Additional testing was undertaken using plasma from FIV-uninfected cats recently administered a primary FIV vaccination course (n = 12) or an annual booster FIV vaccination (n = 10). RapidSTATUS™ FIV was 98.8% (81/82) accurate and 100% (32/32) accurate in cats recently administered primary or annual FIV vaccinations, respectively. The high level of accuracy of RapidSTATUS™ FIV (98.8–100%) therefore establishes this PoC kit as a DIVA (differentiating infected from vaccinated animals) test. RapidSTATUS™ FIV is recommended to aid animal shelters, veterinarians, and researchers in Australia to accurately determine FIV infection status, irrespective of FIV vaccination history.
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Maggi RG, Halls V, Krämer F, Lappin M, Pennisi MG, Peregrine AS, Roura X, Schunack B, Scorza V, Tasker S, Baneth G, Bourdeau P, Bowman DD, Breitschwerdt EB, Capelli G, Cardoso L, Dantas-Torres F, Dobler G, Ferrer L, Gradoni L, Irwin P, Jongejan F, Kempf VAJ, Kohn B, Little S, Madder M, Maia C, Marcondes M, Miró G, Naucke T, Oliva G, Otranto D, Penzhorn BL, Pfeffer M, Sainz Á, Shin S, Solano-Gallego L, Straubinger RK, Traub R, Wright I. Vector-borne and other pathogens of potential relevance disseminated by relocated cats. Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:415. [DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05553-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractLarge populations of unowned cats constitute an animal welfare, ecological, societal and public health issue worldwide. Their relocation and homing are currently carried out in many parts of the world with the intention of relieving suffering and social problems, while contributing to ethical and humane population control in these cat populations. An understanding of an individual cat’s lifestyle and disease status by veterinary team professionals and those working with cat charities can help to prevent severe cat stress and the spread of feline pathogens, especially vector-borne pathogens, which can be overlooked in cats. In this article, we discuss the issue of relocation and homing of unowned cats from a global perspective. We also review zoonotic and non-zoonotic infectious agents of cats and give a list of practical recommendations for veterinary team professionals dealing with homing cats. Finally, we present a consensus statement consolidated at the 15th Symposium of the Companion Vector-Borne Diseases (CVBD) World Forum in 2020, ultimately to help veterinary team professionals understand the problem and the role they have in helping to prevent and manage vector-borne and other pathogens in relocated cats.
Graphical Abstract
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Santos CRGR, Ferreira IT, Beranger R, Santi JP, Jardim MPDB, de Souza HJM. Undetectable proviral DNA and viral RNA levels after raltegravir administration in two cats with natural feline leukemia virus infection. BRAZILIAN JOURNAL OF VETERINARY MEDICINE 2022; 44:e003522. [PMID: 36324639 PMCID: PMC9622269 DOI: 10.29374/2527-2179.bjvm003522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) infection was discovered over 50 years ago; however, the serious clinical changes associated with FeLV infection still have great importance in the diagnosis, prevention, and clinical management of symptomatic patients. Progressive infection with FeLV leads to a reduction in the patient's life expectancy and quality of life. This report describes the use of an antiretroviral integrase inhibitor, raltegravir, in two cats with natural FeLV infection. Raltegravir was administered orally at a dose of 40 mg/cat every 12 h in both cases. In case one, 13 weeks after starting raltegravir, RNA loads were undetectable, while proviral DNA loads were still detectable. In case two, proviral DNA loads were undetectable after 32 weeks of medication, while RNA loads were undetectable throughout the treatment. No adverse effects or laboratory test abnormalities were detected with the use of raltegravir in either patient. The patients are currently clinically healthy, still receiving the drug, and are under close observation. To our knowledge, this is the first report describing the use of raltegravir in naturally infected FeLV-positive cats and its effects on circulating viral load. Moreover, the patients described here were followed-up for a longer period than those in previously reported cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Regina Gomes Rodrigues Santos
- Veterinarian, MSc. Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina Veterinária (PPGMV), Departamento de Clínica e Cirurgia Veterinária (DMCV), Instituto de Veterinária (IV), Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro (UFRRJ). Seropédica, Seropédica, RJ, Brazil.,Correspondence Carla Regina Gomes Rodrigues Santos Departamento de Clínica e Cirurgia Veterinária (DMCV), Instituto de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro – UFRRJ Rodovia BR 465, Km 7, Campus Universitário, Bairro Zona Rural CEP 23897-000 - Seropédica (RJ), Brasil E-mail: Tel: +55 (21) 96469-2559
| | | | | | - Julia Possebon Santi
- Veterinarian, Resident. Programa de Residência em Medicina Veterinária – Clínica Médica dos Gatos Domésticos, DMCV, IV, UFRRJ. Seropédica, Seropédica, RJ, Brazil.
| | - Mariana Palha de Brito Jardim
- Veterinarian, MSc. Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina Veterinária (PPGMV), Departamento de Clínica e Cirurgia Veterinária (DMCV), Instituto de Veterinária (IV), Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro (UFRRJ). Seropédica, Seropédica, RJ, Brazil.
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Sequeira I, Pires MDA, Leitão J, Henriques J, Viegas C, Requicha J. Feline Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Critical Review of Etiologic Factors. Vet Sci 2022; 9:vetsci9100558. [PMID: 36288171 PMCID: PMC9609408 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci9100558] [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: 08/01/2022] [Revised: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Feline oral squamous cell carcinoma (FOSCC) is the most common oral neoplasia in cats. This malignant tumor is locally invasive, has a high mortality rate, and its etiology is not yet known. A critical review about the potential etiologic factors of FOSCC was performed, considering publications between 2000 and 2022. The initial search resulted in 553 publications, with only 26 of these being included in the review. Sixteen studies were related to viral etiology and nine related to environmental factors such as exposure to tobacco smoke, ectoparasitic products, and the presence of oral comorbidities. When evaluated, feline papillomavirus was detected in 16.2% of samples of FOSCC. In the three studies focused on exposure to tobacco smoke, 35.2% (30/85) of cats with FOSCC had a history of this exposure. Among 485 cats with FOSCC, 6.4% had dental and oral pathology. The present study demonstrates that the available evidence on the etiology of FOSCC is still limited, however, there has been increasing interest in this topic. Abstract Feline oral squamous cell carcinoma (FOSCC) is the most common oral neoplasia in cats. This malignant tumor is locally invasive, has a high mortality rate, and its etiology is not yet known. In humans, head and neck squamous cell carcinoma is associated with tobacco smoke, alcohol consumption, and human papillomavirus infection. Herein, a critical review about the potential etiologic factors of FOSCC was performed, considering publications between 2000 and 2022, aiming to synthesize all available scientific evidence regarding this issue. Recommendations of the PRISMA statement and the Cochrane Collaboration were followed and the PubMed database searched by using the MeSH terms MeSH terms “oral”, “mouth”, “lingual”, “labial”, “gingiva”, “carcinoma”, “squamous”, and “feline”. The selection process for eligible studies was based on specific inclusion and exclusion criteria and the quality of the studies assessed. The initial search resulted in 553 publications, with only 26 of these being included in the review. Sixteen studies were related to viral etiology and nine related to environmental factors such as exposure to tobacco smoke, ectoparasitic products, and the presence of oral comorbidities. When evaluated, feline papillomavirus was detected in 16.2% of samples of FOSCC. In the three studies focused on exposure to tobacco smoke, 35.2% (30/85) of cats with FOSCC had a history of this exposure. The consumption of canned food and the use of deworming collars were associated, in only one publication, with a risk of neoplasia increased by 4.7 and 5.3 times, respectively. Among 485 cats with FOSCC, 6.4% had dental and oral pathology (i.e., periodontal disease or feline chronic gingivostomatitis). The present study demonstrates that the available evidence on the etiology of FOSCC is still limited, however, there has been an increasing interest on this topic. To better understand the role of the possible etiological factors of this aggressive disease, and model for its human counterpart, large, prospective multi-institutional studies are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inês Sequeira
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Maria dos Anjos Pires
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- Animal and Veterinary Research Center (CECAV), University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - José Leitão
- Department of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Joaquim Henriques
- Oncology Service, Centre Hospitalière Vétérinaire Frégis, 94110 Arcueil, France
| | - Carlos Viegas
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- Animal and Veterinary Research Center (CECAV), University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - João Requicha
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- Animal and Veterinary Research Center (CECAV), University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +351-967-793-272
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45
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Clinicopathological and Epidemiological Findings in Pet Cats Naturally Infected with Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) in Australia. Viruses 2022; 14:v14102177. [PMID: 36298731 PMCID: PMC9608632 DOI: 10.3390/v14102177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) infection in experimentally infected domestic cats produces characteristic clinical manifestations including hematological changes, neurological disease, neoplasia (most notably lymphoma) and lymphopenia-mediated immunodeficiency predisposing cats to a range of secondary infections. Conflicting reports exist, however, with regard to disease associations and survival time in naturally FIV-infected cats. The purpose of this retrospective case−control study was to investigate the effect of natural FIV infection on hematological, blood biochemical and urinalysis parameters and survival time in three cohorts of pet cats in Australia. Cohorts 1 and 2 were recruited from a large veterinary hospital in Melbourne, Victoria (n = 525 and 282), while a third cohort consisted of cats recruited from around Australia as part of a FIV field vaccine efficacy trial (n = 425). FIV-infected cats in cohorts 1, 2 and 3 were found to have 15/37 (41%), 13/39 (33%) and 2/13 (15%) clinicopathological parameters significantly different to FIV-uninfected cats, respectively. Two changes in FIV-infected cats in cohort 1, hypochromia (low hemoglobin) and hyperglobulinemia, were outside the supplied reference intervals and should serve as diagnostic triggers for FIV testing. Kaplan−Meier survival analysis of cats in cohorts 1 and 2 combined did not find any difference between FIV-infected and FIV-uninfected cats, however a confounding factor was a large euthanasia rate within the first 12 months in both groups. Three significant (p < 0.05) spatial clusters of FIV infection were identified in Melbourne. A possible relationship between FIV infection status and socioeconomic disadvantage was discovered, based on three government indices of socioeconomic status (p < 0.001). Until longitudinal field studies are performed in Australia to further investigate the long-term effects of natural FIV infection, Australian veterinarians should consider FIV to be an important infection of pet cats, and recommend measures to prevent FIV infection.
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46
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Spada E, Jung H, Proverbio D, Perego R, Baggiani L, Ciuti S, Sharp CR, Nash KJ, Westman M, Lait PJP, Davidow EB. Lack of association between feline AB blood groups and retroviral status: a multicenter, multicountry study. J Feline Med Surg 2022; 24:e194-e202. [PMID: 35635064 PMCID: PMC10812261 DOI: 10.1177/1098612x221100082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The relationship between blood group antigens and disease has been studied in humans. Blood types have been associated with both decreased and increased rates of various infections. In addition, blood group expression has been shown to vary with some cancers and gastrointestinal diseases. The objective of this study was to explore whether there is a relationship between blood type and retroviral infections in cats. METHODS Case records from a veterinary research laboratory, veterinary teaching hospitals and veterinary blood banks were retrospectively searched for cats where both blood type and retroviral status (feline leukemia [FeLV], feline immunodeficiency virus [FIV] or both) were listed (part 1). In addition, a sample of 33 cats with confirmed FIV infection was genotyped to determine blood groups (part 2). RESULTS In part 1, 709 cats were identified, 119 of which were positive for retroviral infection. Among all cases, 621 were type A (87.6%), 68 were type B (9.6%) and 20 were type AB (2.8%). There was no relationship between overall retroviral status (positive/negative) and blood type (P = 0.43), between FeLV status and blood type (P = 0.86) or between FIV status and blood type (P = 0.94). There was no difference in the distribution of blood types between cats that were healthy and typed as possible blood donors vs sick cats that were typed prior to a possible transfusion (P = 0.13). In part 2, of the 33 FIV-infected cats, all blood group genotypes were identified, although this test did not discriminate type A from type AB. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE No relationship was identified between feline retroviral status and blood type in this study. The relationship between blood type and other disease states requires further study in veterinary patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Spada
- Veterinary Transfusion Research Laboratory (REVLab), Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences (DIVAS), University of Milan, Lodi, Italy
| | - Hyein Jung
- Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
| | - Daniela Proverbio
- Veterinary Transfusion Research Laboratory (REVLab), Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences (DIVAS), University of Milan, Lodi, Italy
| | - Roberta Perego
- Veterinary Transfusion Research Laboratory (REVLab), Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences (DIVAS), University of Milan, Lodi, Italy
| | - Luciana Baggiani
- Veterinary Transfusion Research Laboratory (REVLab), Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences (DIVAS), University of Milan, Lodi, Italy
| | - Silvia Ciuti
- Veterinary Transfusion Research Laboratory (REVLab), Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences (DIVAS), University of Milan, Lodi, Italy
| | - Claire R Sharp
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Murdoch University, Perth, Australia
| | - Katherine J Nash
- School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD, Australia
| | - Mark Westman
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Philippa JP Lait
- Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Diagnostic Laboratories, Langford Vets, Langford, Bristol, UK
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Giselbrecht J, Bergmann M, Hofmann-Lehmann R, Hartmann K. [Feline leukemia virus infection - a guide to diagnosis]. TIERARZTLICHE PRAXIS. AUSGABE K, KLEINTIERE/HEIMTIERE 2022; 50:198-212. [PMID: 35790167 DOI: 10.1055/a-1845-0750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) infection affects cats worldwide. The course of FeLV infection can change and vary over time. The complex pathogenesis, the availability of many different testing methods, and the interpretation of test results are often challenging for veterinarians. Cats with progressive infection (persistently p27 antigen-positive) shed FeLV mainly through saliva and are therefore considered a source of infection for uninfected cats. Diagnosing regressive infection is often challenging, since it usually cannot be detected by commonly used point of care-tests (p27 antigen test) and thus, it often remains undetected. Nevertheless, cats with regressive infection are FeLV carriers (provirus-positive) and when the immune system is suppressed, reactivation of the infection and FeLV-associated clinical signs can occur. Abortively infected cats are never viraemic, do not shed virus, and do not develop clinical signs. Abortive infection can solely be diagnosed via antibodies detection in blood. A new point-of-care test for the identification of antibodies against FeLV p15E antigen has recently been introduced on the European market and is currently being evaluated.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Michèle Bergmann
- Medizinische Kleintierklinik, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München
| | | | - Katrin Hartmann
- Medizinische Kleintierklinik, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München
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Gainor K, Ghosh S. A comprehensive review of viruses in terrestrial animals from the Caribbean islands of Greater and Lesser Antilles. Transbound Emerg Dis 2022; 69:e1299-e1325. [PMID: 35578793 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.14595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Viruses pose a major threat to animal health worldwide, causing significant mortalities and morbidities in livestock, companion animals and wildlife, with adverse implications on human health, livelihoods, food safety and security, regional/national economies, and biodiversity. The Greater and Lesser Antilles consist of a cluster of islands between the North and South Americas and is habitat to a wide variety of animal species. This review is the first to put together decades of information on different viruses circulating in companion animals, livestock, and wildlife from the Caribbean islands of Greater and Lesser Antilles. Although animal viral diseases have been documented in the Caribbean region since the 1940s, we found that studies on different animal viruses are limited, inconsistent, and scattered. Furthermore, a significant number of the reports were based on serological assays, yielding preliminary data. The available information was assessed to identify knowledge gaps and limitations, and accordingly, recommendations were made, with the overall goal to improve animal health and production, and combat zoonoses in the region. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerry Gainor
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, St. Kitts, West Indies
| | - Souvik Ghosh
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, St. Kitts, West Indies
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Westman ME, Coggins SJ, van Dorsselaer M, Norris JM, Squires RA, Thompson M, Malik R. Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) infection in domestic pet cats in Australia and New Zealand: Guidelines for diagnosis, prevention and management. Aust Vet J 2022; 100:345-359. [PMID: 35578381 PMCID: PMC9546031 DOI: 10.1111/avj.13166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Despite the passage of over 30 years since its discovery, the importance of feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) on the health and longevity of infected domestic cats is hotly debated amongst feline experts. Notwithstanding the absence of good quality information, Australian and New Zealand (NZ) veterinarians should aim to minimise the exposure of cats to FIV. The most reliable way to achieve this goal is to recommend that all pet cats are kept exclusively indoors, or with secure outdoor access (e.g., cat enclosures, secure gardens), with FIV testing of any in‐contact cats. All animal holding facilities should aim to individually house adult cats to limit the spread of FIV infection in groups of animals that are stressed and do not have established social hierarchies. Point‐of‐care (PoC) FIV antibody tests are available in Australia and NZ that can distinguish FIV‐infected and uninfected FIV‐vaccinated cats (Witness™ and Anigen Rapid™). Although testing of whole blood, serum or plasma remains the gold standard for FIV diagnosis, PoC testing using saliva may offer a welfare‐friendly alternative in the future. PCR testing to detect FIV infection is not recommended as a screening procedure since a negative PCR result does not rule out FIV infection and is only recommended in specific scenarios. Australia and NZ are two of three countries where a dual subtype FIV vaccine (Fel‐O‐Vax® FIV) is available and offers a further avenue for disease prevention. Since FIV vaccination only has a reported field effectiveness of 56% in Australia, and possibly lower in NZ, FIV‐vaccinated cats should undergo annual FIV testing prior to annual FIV re‐vaccination using a suitable PoC kit to check infection has not occurred in the preceding year. With FIV‐infected cats, clinicians should strive to be even more thorough than usual at detecting early signs of disease. The most effective way to enhance the quality of life and life expectancy of FIV‐infected cats is to optimise basic husbandry and to treat any concurrent conditions early in the disease course. Currently, no available drugs are registered for the treatment of FIV infection. Critically, the euthanasia of healthy FIV‐infected cats, and sick FIV‐infected cats without appropriate clinical investigations, should not occur.
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Affiliation(s)
- M E Westman
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - S J Coggins
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | | | - J M Norris
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,The Sydney Institute for Infectious Diseases, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - R A Squires
- College of Public Health, Medical & Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, Australia
| | - M Thompson
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - R Malik
- Centre for Veterinary Education, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,School of Veterinary and Animal Science, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, New South Wales, Australia
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50
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Azadian A, Gunn-Moore DA. Age-related cognitive impairments in domestic cats naturally infected with feline immunodeficiency virus. Vet Rec 2022; 191:e1683. [PMID: 35512238 DOI: 10.1002/vetr.1683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Revised: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Age-related dementia has been documented in domestic cats; however, its interaction with naturally occurring feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) infection has been investigated minimally. METHODS Visuospatial working memory (VSWM) and problem-solving (PS) ability were evaluated in FIV-infected (n = 37) and control cats (n = 39) using two cognitive tasks tested serially, which assessed the ability of cats to remember the location of a baited container after a set delay, then evaluated the capability of the cats to manipulate the container to obtain the food within a time limit. Cats were categorized using 7 years of age as a cut-off to determine age-related differences. The relationship between cognitive performance and FIV viral load was investigated using real-time PCR cycle threshold (Ct ) values. RESULTS Age significantly affected VSWM and PS ability. Younger cats had better VSWM performance and PS ability compared to older cats with the same FIV status. There was no difference between younger FIV-positive and negative cats in either part of the task. While older FIV-positive cats had significantly worse VSWM than older FIV-negative cats, no differences were found in PS ability. Additionally, Ct values predicted VSWM but not PS ability. CONCLUSION Age-related cognitive impairments and FIV infection appear synergetic, causing greater cognitive deficits in older FIV-infected cats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amin Azadian
- Animal Welfare Program, Faculty of Land and Food System, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada.,Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Danièlle A Gunn-Moore
- Division of Companion Animals, Hospital for Small Animals, Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Midlothian, UK.,Division of Infection & Immunity, The Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh, Midlothian, UK
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