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Ramsay L, Eberhardt C, Schoster A. Acute leptospirosis in horses: A retrospective study of 11 cases (2015-2023). J Vet Intern Med 2024; 38:2729-2738. [PMID: 39194176 PMCID: PMC11423456 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.17184] [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: 03/10/2024] [Accepted: 08/08/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Reports of leptospirosis in horses are limited. OBJECTIVES To describe the clinical and diagnostic findings of acute systemic leptospirosis in horses. ANIMALS Eleven client-owned horses presented to an equine hospital because of acute onset of disease between 2015 and 2023. METHODS Retrospective case series. Horses diagnosed with leptospirosis by 1 or more of urine PCR, serologic microscopic agglutination test (MAT), and histopathology. RESULTS Common clinical signs included lethargy (10), anorexia (10), fever (9), tachypnea (9), abnormal lung sounds (9), and epistaxis (6). Acute kidney injury was present in all cases. Evidence of pulmonary hemorrhage and liver disease was found in 8 (73%) and 6 (55%) horses, respectively. In 6 (55%) horses, kidneys, lungs, and liver were affected. Urine quantitative polymerase chain reaction for detection of pathogenic Leptospira spp. was positive in 6 (55%) cases. On serology Leptospira interrogans serovar Australis, Autumnalis, and Bratislava accounted for 86% of all titers ≥1 : 800. Overall case fatality rate was 4/11 (36%). Main findings on necropsy were tubular necrosis, interstitial nephritis, hemorrhage in the alveoli, pulmonary edema, periportal hepatitis and necrosis, cholestasis, and cholangitis. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE Leptospirosis should be considered as a differential diagnosis in horses with evidence of acute systemic inflammation and acute renal injury, epistaxis, or hepatic disease. For increased likelihood of identifying positive cases, both MAT serology and urine PCR should be performed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lynette Ramsay
- Ramsay Equine Medical, Odense, Denmark
- Vetsuisse Faculty, Clinic for Equine Internal Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Christina Eberhardt
- Vetsuisse Faculty, Clinic for Equine Internal Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Angelika Schoster
- Vetsuisse Faculty, Clinic for Equine Internal Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Equine Clinic, Center for Clinical Veterinary Medicine, LMU Munich, Germany
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Ramos-Vázquez JR, Sánchez-Montes S, Esparza-González SC, Romero-Salas D, Pardio-Sedas V, Estrada-Coates AT, Alva-Trujillo M, Ballados-González GG, Grostieta E, Becker I, Cruz-Romero A. Isolation and molecular identification of Leptospira santarosai and Leptospira interrogans in equines from eastern Mexico. Acta Trop 2024; 256:107242. [PMID: 38782111 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2024.107242] [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: 12/26/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Leptospirosis is an infectious disease with a worldwide distribution, which represents a major challenge in animal production across developing countries, mainly in tropical areas. Horses are particularly susceptible to the disease, presenting manifestations ranging from subclinical to the development of uveitis that compromises the visual health of the animals. In recent years, serological studies have been carried out in equid populations from America, demonstrating high exposure. For this reason, the aim of this study was to demonstrate microbiologically and molecularly the presence of the members of the genus Leptospira in urine samples from equids in an endemic state of leptospirosis in Mexico, and to detect the serological presence of anti-Leptospira antibodies in the sampled animals. For this reason, blood and urine samples were collected from 28 horses and one mule from three localities in the state of Veracruz, Mexico. Urine samples were inoculated in Ellinghausen-McCullough-Johnson-Harris (EMJH) medium, and the recovered isolates were typed using a short Multi Locus Sequence Typing scheme. Amplifications of the expected size were subjected to sequencing, and the recovered sequences were compared with those of reference deposited in GenBank using the BLAST tool. To identify their phylogenetic position, we performed a phylogenetic reconstruction using the maximum likelihood method. Additionally, Microscopic Agglutination test was performed on the serum samples to identify anti-Leptospira antibodies. We recovered 16 urine isolates which tested positive for the presence of Leptospira DNA. The phylogenetic reconstruction and the MLST analysis confirmed the presence of several genotypes of Leptospira interrogans and Leptospira santarosai. An overall serological frequency of 97.1 % was detected. Our results represent the first record of the presence of Leptospira through bacteriological isolates in equids from Mexico.
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Affiliation(s)
- José R Ramos-Vázquez
- Laboratorio de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Posta Zootécnica Torreón del Molino, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Veracruzana, Veracruz, Mexico
| | - Sokani Sánchez-Montes
- Laboratorio de Diagnóstico, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas y Agropecuarias, región Poza Rica-Tuxpan, Universidad Veracruzana, Tuxpan de Rodríguez Cano, Veracruz, Mexico; Centro de Medicina Tropical, División de Investigación, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, Mexico.
| | | | - Dora Romero-Salas
- Laboratorio de Parasitología, Posta Zootécnica Torreón del Molino, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Veracruzana, Veracruz, Mexico
| | - Violeta Pardio-Sedas
- Laboratorio de Seguridad Agroalimentaria, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Veracruzana, Veracruz, Mexico
| | - Alejandro T Estrada-Coates
- Hospital de Grandes Especies, Posta Zootécnica Torreón del Molino, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Veracruzana, Veracruz, Mexico
| | - Miriam Alva-Trujillo
- Hospital de Grandes Especies, Posta Zootécnica Torreón del Molino, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Veracruzana, Veracruz, Mexico
| | - Gerardo G Ballados-González
- Laboratorio de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Posta Zootécnica Torreón del Molino, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Veracruzana, Veracruz, Mexico
| | - Estefanía Grostieta
- Centro de Medicina Tropical, División de Investigación, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Ingeborg Becker
- Centro de Medicina Tropical, División de Investigación, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Anabel Cruz-Romero
- Laboratorio de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Posta Zootécnica Torreón del Molino, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Veracruzana, Veracruz, Mexico.
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Hamond C, Adam EN, Stone NE, LeCount K, Anderson T, Putz EJ, Camp P, Hicks J, Stuber T, van der Linden H, Bayles DO, Sahl JW, Schlater LK, Wagner DM, Nally JE. Identification of equine mares as reservoir hosts for pathogenic species of Leptospira. Front Vet Sci 2024; 11:1346713. [PMID: 38784659 PMCID: PMC11112012 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2024.1346713] [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: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Equine leptospirosis can result in abortion, stillbirth, neonatal death, placentitis, and uveitis. Horses can also act as subclinical reservoir hosts of infection, which are characterized as asymptomatic carriers that persistently excrete leptospires and transmit disease. In this study, PCR and culture were used to assess urinary shedding of pathogenic Leptospira from 37 asymptomatic mares. Three asymptomatic mares, designated as H2, H8, and H9, were PCR-positive for lipL32, a gene specific for pathogenic species of Leptospira. One asymptomatic mare, H9, was culture-positive, and the recovered isolate was classified as L. kirschneri serogroup Australis serovar Rushan. DNA capture and enrichment of Leptospira genomic DNA from PCR-positive, culture-negative samples determined that asymptomatic mare H8 was also shedding L. kirschneri serogroup Australis, whereas asymptomatic mare H2 was shedding L. interrogans serogroup Icterohaemorrhagiae. Sera from all asymptomatic mares were tested by the microscopic agglutination test (MAT) and 35 of 37 (94.6%) were seropositive with titers ranging from 1:100 to 1:3200. In contrast to asymptomatic mares, mare H44 presented with acute spontaneous abortion and a serum MAT titer of 1:102,400 to L. interrogans serogroup Pomona serovar Pomona. Comparison of L. kirschneri serogroup Australis strain H9 with that of L. interrogans serogroup Pomona strain H44 in the hamster model of leptospirosis corroborated differences in virulence of strains. Since lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is a protective antigen in bacterin vaccines, the LPS of strain H9 (associated with subclinical carriage) was compared with strain H44 (associated with spontaneous abortion). This revealed different LPS profiles and immunoreactivity with reference antisera. It is essential to know what species and serovars of Leptospira are circulating in equine populations to design efficacious vaccines and diagnostic tests. Our results demonstrate that horses in the US can act as reservoir hosts of leptospirosis and shed diverse pathogenic Leptospira species via urine. This report also details the detection of L. kirschneri serogroup Australis serovar Rushan, a species and serotype of Leptospira, not previously reported in the US.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camila Hamond
- National Veterinary Services Laboratories, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Ames, IA, United States
- National Centers for Animal Health Leptospira Working Group, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Ames, IA, United States
| | - Emma N. Adam
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Maxwell H. Gluck Equine Research Center, Lexington, KY, United States
| | - Nathan E. Stone
- The Pathogen and Microbiome Institute, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, United States
| | - Karen LeCount
- National Veterinary Services Laboratories, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Ames, IA, United States
- National Centers for Animal Health Leptospira Working Group, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Ames, IA, United States
| | - Tammy Anderson
- National Veterinary Services Laboratories, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Ames, IA, United States
- National Centers for Animal Health Leptospira Working Group, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Ames, IA, United States
| | - Ellie J. Putz
- Infectious Bacterial Diseases Research Unit, Agricultural Research Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Ames, IA, United States
| | - Patrick Camp
- National Veterinary Services Laboratories, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Ames, IA, United States
| | - Jessica Hicks
- National Veterinary Services Laboratories, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Ames, IA, United States
| | - Tod Stuber
- National Veterinary Services Laboratories, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Ames, IA, United States
| | - Hans van der Linden
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) and National Collaborating Centre for Reference and Research on Leptospirosis, Amsterdam University Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Darrell O. Bayles
- Infectious Bacterial Diseases Research Unit, Agricultural Research Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Ames, IA, United States
| | - Jason W. Sahl
- The Pathogen and Microbiome Institute, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, United States
| | - Linda K. Schlater
- National Veterinary Services Laboratories, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Ames, IA, United States
- National Centers for Animal Health Leptospira Working Group, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Ames, IA, United States
| | - David M. Wagner
- The Pathogen and Microbiome Institute, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, United States
| | - Jarlath E. Nally
- National Centers for Animal Health Leptospira Working Group, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Ames, IA, United States
- Infectious Bacterial Diseases Research Unit, Agricultural Research Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Ames, IA, United States
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Morén S, Kallberg M, Strom L. Equine uveitis: Outcome and adverse effects after one or two intravitreal low-dose gentamicin injections. Equine Vet J 2024. [PMID: 38329024 DOI: 10.1111/evj.14056] [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: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Uveitis is common in horses, potentially turning chronic (persistent or recurrent) resulting in impaired vision or blindness. All mainstay therapeutics aims at controlling inflammation, but long-term or lifelong treatment is often needed with possibly severe side effects. Therefore, intravitreal injections with low-dose gentamicin (IVGI) have been used in attempt to give a long-lasting result with potentially less side effects. OBJECTIVES To retrospectively assess outcome and long-term complications following one or two low-dose IVGI in Swedish horses with chronic uveitis. STUDY DESIGN Retrospective case series. METHODS Medical records of horses diagnosed with uveitis examined at the Equine Clinic of the University Animal Hospital of Sweden between 2016 and 2021 were reviewed. Inclusion criteria were horses with a diagnosis of chronic uveitis that were treated with 4 mg IVGI. After injection, tapering doses of anti-inflammatory medications were administered. Due to persistence or recurrence of uveitis despite IVGI, some horses received a second injection. A positive outcome was defined as controlled uveitis, despite no or minimal anti-inflammatory medication. RESULTS 32 eyes (29 horses) were included. Based on clinical evaluation, uveitis was classified as anterior (91%) or panuveitis (9%). 10 eyes were treated with IVGI twice. A positive outcome was observed in 13/32 eyes (41%). Inflammation in 9/32 eyes was controlled after the first, and in 4/10 eyes after the second IVGI treatment. Long-term complications included retinal degeneration in seven eyes, and mature cataracts in five eyes. Enucleations were performed in 14/32 eyes, due to lack of favourable response of IVGI, or due to complications, that is, glaucoma, corneal ulceration, and/or corneal mineralisation. One horse was euthanised due to painful bouts of inflammation in both eyes despite treatment. MAIN LIMITATIONS Small sample size, retrospective design with no control group, no histopathology performed, infrequent sampling for Leptospira and no standardised treatment protocol after the IVGI. CONCLUSIONS In this group of Swedish horses, predominantly diagnosed clinically with anterior uveitis, a positive outcome was observed in 41% of eyes following one or two low-dose IVGI. Retinal degeneration in the visual streak was observed in 22% of eyes, which is a higher proportion of this complication than previously described.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Morén
- Equine Clinic, University Animal Hospital, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - M Kallberg
- Equine Clinic, University Animal Hospital, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - L Strom
- Equine Clinic, University Animal Hospital, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
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Díaz EA, Arroyo G, Sáenz C, Mena L, Barragán V. Leptospirosis in horses: Sentinels for a neglected zoonosis? A systematic review. Vet World 2023; 16:2110-2119. [PMID: 38023277 PMCID: PMC10668546 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2023.2110-2119] [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: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim Leptospirosis is considered a neglected tropical zoonosis in low-income countries due to surveillance system limitations and non-specificity of symptoms. Humans become infected through direct contact with carrier animals or indirectly through Leptospira-contaminated environments. Conventionally, equines have been considered an uncommon source of leptospirosis, but recent publications in Latin America suggest that their role in the maintenance and dispersion of the bacteria could be more relevant than expected, as horses are susceptible to a wide variety of zoonotic Leptospira spp. from domestic and wild animals with which they share the environment. A systematic review of the published literature was conducted to compile the available information on Leptospira spp. in Ecuador, with a special focus on equine leptospirosis, to better understand the epidemiology of the bacterium and identify possible knowledge gaps. Materials and Methods A systematic review of the published literature was conducted in PubMed, SciELO and Web of Science databases to compile the available information on Leptospira spp. in Ecuador, with a special focus on equine leptospirosis, to better understand the epidemiology of the bacterium. We used a combination of the terms (Leptospira OR Leptospirosis) AND Ecuador, without restrictions on language or publication date. Results Our literature review reveals that published scientific information is very scarce. Eighteen full-text original scientific articles related to Leptospira or leptospirosis cases in Ecuador were included in the systematic review. Most of the studies reported data obtained from one of the four regions (Coast), and specifically from only one of the 24 Provinces of Ecuador (Manabí), which evidence a large information bias at the geographical level. Furthermore, only the studies focused on humans included clinical signs of leptospirosis and there is only one study that analyzes the presence of Leptospira spp. in water or soil as a risk factor for pathogen transmission. Finally, only one study investigated Leptospira in horses. Conclusion Since sentinel species can provide useful data on infectious diseases when epidemiologic al information is lacking, and horses could be considered excellent sentinel species to reveal circulating serovars, we propose developing a nationwide surveillance system using horses. This cost-effective epidemiological survey method provides a baseline for implementing specific prevention and control programs in Ecuador and neighboring developing countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo A. Díaz
- Escuela de Medicina Veterinaria, Colegio de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Diego Robles, Quito, 170157, Ecuador
| | - Gabriela Arroyo
- Escuela de Medicina Veterinaria, Colegio de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Diego Robles, Quito, 170157, Ecuador
| | - Carolina Sáenz
- Hospital de Fauna Silvestre Tueri, Instituto iBIOTROP, Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Diego Robles, Quito, 170157, Ecuador
| | - Luis Mena
- Carrera de Medicina Veterinaria, Facultad de Ciencias Pecuarias, Escuela Superior Politécnica de Chimborazo ESPOCH, Riobamba, 060155, Ecuador
| | - Verónica Barragán
- Colegio de Ciencias Biológicas y Ambientales, Instituto de Microbiología, Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Diego Robles, Quito, 170157, Ecuador
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Romanowski TNDA, Dias RA, Heinemann MB, Carvalho SF, Silva TA, Martins ADS, Caetano GDDC, Ferreira Júnior Á, dos Santos JP, Borsanelli AC. Seroprevalence of Equine Leptospirosis in the State of Goiás, Brazil. Vet Sci 2023; 10:590. [PMID: 37888542 PMCID: PMC10610622 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci10100590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Leptospirosis, caused by Leptospira, is a zoonotic disease that, in horses, is linked to abortions, uveitis, and sporadic occurrences of liver and kidney disease, often resulting in significant economic losses for farmers. Research on the prevalence of leptospirosis in horses in the central-west region of Brazil has been relatively scarce. Thus, the present study aimed to determine the prevalence of leptospirosis in equine herds in the state of Goiás (Central Brazil). Blood samples were collected from 894 equids at 294 randomly selected farms divided into three different strata according to their herd characteristics. The microscopic agglutination test for the detection of anti-Leptospira agglutinins was carried out and the results showed that among the 294 sampled farms, 213 (72.9%; CI 95% 71.7-78.9) had one or more animals positive for leptospirosis, and of the 894 horses sampled, 513 (61.6%; CI 95% 54.3-69.0) were seropositive for leptospirosis. Djasiman, Icterohaemorrhagiae, and Australis were the most prevalent serogroups. The results showed a high prevalence of seropositive animals and a widespread distribution of positive farms in the state of Goiás. Thus, environmental sanitation measures and health education to prevent and control equine leptospirosis in the state are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatiana Nunes de Azevedo Romanowski
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia 74690-900, GO, Brazil; (T.N.d.A.R.); (S.F.C.); (T.A.S.); (A.d.S.M.); (G.D.d.C.C.); (Á.F.J.)
| | - Ricardo Augusto Dias
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-270, SP, Brazil; (R.A.D.); (M.B.H.)
| | - Marcos Bryan Heinemann
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-270, SP, Brazil; (R.A.D.); (M.B.H.)
| | - Stephani Félix Carvalho
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia 74690-900, GO, Brazil; (T.N.d.A.R.); (S.F.C.); (T.A.S.); (A.d.S.M.); (G.D.d.C.C.); (Á.F.J.)
| | - Tamires Ataides Silva
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia 74690-900, GO, Brazil; (T.N.d.A.R.); (S.F.C.); (T.A.S.); (A.d.S.M.); (G.D.d.C.C.); (Á.F.J.)
| | - Andressa da Silva Martins
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia 74690-900, GO, Brazil; (T.N.d.A.R.); (S.F.C.); (T.A.S.); (A.d.S.M.); (G.D.d.C.C.); (Á.F.J.)
| | - Geovanna Domingues da Cunha Caetano
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia 74690-900, GO, Brazil; (T.N.d.A.R.); (S.F.C.); (T.A.S.); (A.d.S.M.); (G.D.d.C.C.); (Á.F.J.)
| | - Álvaro Ferreira Júnior
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia 74690-900, GO, Brazil; (T.N.d.A.R.); (S.F.C.); (T.A.S.); (A.d.S.M.); (G.D.d.C.C.); (Á.F.J.)
| | | | - Ana Carolina Borsanelli
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia 74690-900, GO, Brazil; (T.N.d.A.R.); (S.F.C.); (T.A.S.); (A.d.S.M.); (G.D.d.C.C.); (Á.F.J.)
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7
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Strand TM, Olsson Engvall E, Lahti E, Hjertqvist M, Lundkvist Å. Leptospira Status in Sweden during the Past Century, Neglected and Re-Emerging? Microorganisms 2023; 11:1991. [PMID: 37630551 PMCID: PMC10459319 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11081991] [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: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
We compiled data on notified cases of leptospirosis in animals and humans in Sweden. Published studies on leptospirosis in humans and animals from the beginning of the 20th century onwards are summarized. During the Second World War, hundreds of leptospirosis cases in humans were reported in Sweden, but since then, there have been only a few severe cases. Surveillance of leptospirosis in domestic animals demonstrates that the pathogen is still occurring. The occurrence of Leptospira in humans and animals in the other Nordic countries resembles that in Sweden. Leptospirosis is an underdiagnosed and underreported disease globally, both in animals and humans, partly due to the lack of simple, rapid diagnostic tools but possibly also due to the lack of awareness among physicians, veterinarians and nurses. Traditionally, leptospirosis has been mostly diagnosed by serology, but development of molecular methodshas improved the capability for correct diagnosis. As of today, leptospirosis is regarded as a relatively uncommon disease in the Nordic countries, but in some other countries, it is considered a neglected zoonosis or a (re-)emerging disease that may become more common in the future. Possible factors that could contribute to an increase in incidence are discussed in this review. Active surveillance of humans and domestic and wild animals and stringent rodent control in society and animal farms are of outmost importance for prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanja M. Strand
- National Veterinary Institute, SE-751 89 Uppsala, Sweden
- Zoonosis Science Center, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Uppsala University, SE-751 23 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Eva Olsson Engvall
- Zoonosis Science Center, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Uppsala University, SE-751 23 Uppsala, Sweden
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Veterinary Public Health, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, SE-750 07 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Elina Lahti
- National Veterinary Institute, SE-751 89 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Marika Hjertqvist
- Department of Communicable Disease Control and Health Protection, Public Health Agency of Sweden, SE-171 82 Solna, Sweden
| | - Åke Lundkvist
- Zoonosis Science Center, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Uppsala University, SE-751 23 Uppsala, Sweden
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8
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Malalana F, Ireland JL, Pinchbeck GL, McGowan CM. Risk factors for a first episode of primary uveitis in the UK and proportion of cases that experience recurrence following this first episode. Equine Vet J 2023; 55:42-47. [PMID: 35305037 DOI: 10.1111/evj.13576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Risk factors for a first episode of primary uveitis in horses have not been determined. In addition, disease progression and the proportion of horses that develop recurrence following the original episode are not known. OBJECTIVES To determine the risk factors for the development of a first episode of primary uveitis in horses in the UK and to document the proportion of cases that experience recurrence following this first episode. STUDY DESIGN Prospective case-control longitudinal study. METHODS Horses with a first episode of primary uveitis between July 2014 and August 2018 were recruited to the study. For each case, two controls were selected. A questionnaire was completed for each horse and multivariable logistic regression analysis was carried out to identify associations between horse and management-level variables and the risk of uveitis. Each case was then followed longitudinally to determine the rate of recurrence of uveitis. RESULTS Twenty-three cases and 46 controls were recruited. Being close to a pig farm (OR 27.8, CI 1.31-592.06) and a recent history of flooding of the pasture (OR 15.43, CI 2.80-84.98) was associated with increased risk of uveitis. Being in the same owner's possession for a longer amount of time had a protective effect (OR 0.79, CI 0.68-0.93). Horses recovered uneventfully following treatment and showed no evidence of recurrence in 59.1% of the cases (n = 13). In five horses (22.7%), the initial episode of uveitis could not be controlled and required surgical therapy. Recurrence was observed in four horses (18.2%). MAIN LIMITATIONS Small sample size. Recall bias from owners for some of the data. Possibility of selection bias. CONCLUSIONS Clinicians can use this information to identify horses with increased risk of uveitis and provide advice to the owners of these horses. The proportion of cases that experience recurrence appears low in the UK.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Malalana
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Neston, UK
| | - Joanne L Ireland
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Neston, UK
| | - Gina L Pinchbeck
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Neston, UK
| | - Catherine M McGowan
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Neston, UK
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9
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Equine genital leptospirosis: Evidence of an important silent chronic reproductive syndrome. Theriogenology 2022; 192:81-88. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.08.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Revised: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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10
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Fischer BM, Brehm W, Reese S, McMullen RJ. Equine recurrent uveitis—A review. EQUINE VET EDUC 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/eve.13695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Britta M. Fischer
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, JT Vaughan Large Animal Teaching Hospital Auburn University Auburn Alabama USA
- Department of Ophthalmology Clinic for Animals Hofheim Germany
| | - Walter Brehm
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department for Horses University of Leipzig Leipzig Germany
| | - Sven Reese
- Chair of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine LMU Munich Germany
| | - Richard J. McMullen
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, JT Vaughan Large Animal Teaching Hospital Auburn University Auburn Alabama USA
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11
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Wollanke B, Gerhards H, Ackermann K. Infectious Uveitis in Horses and New Insights in Its Leptospiral Biofilm-Related Pathogenesis. Microorganisms 2022; 10:387. [PMID: 35208842 PMCID: PMC8875353 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10020387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Uveitis is a sight-threatening eye disease in equids known worldwide that leads to considerable pain and suffering. By far the most common type of uveitis in Germany and neighboring countries is classical equine recurrent uveitis (ERU), which is caused by chronic intraocular leptospiral infection and is the main cause of infectious uveitis in horses. Other infectious causes are extremely rare and are usually clinically distinguishable from ERU. ERU can be treated very effectively by vitreous cavity lavage (vitrectomy). For proper indications of this demanding surgery, it is necessary to differentiate ERU from other types of uveitis in which vitrectomy is not helpful. This can be conducted on the basis of anamnesis in combination with ophthalmologic findings and by aqueous humor examination. During vitrectomy, vitreous material is obtained. These vitreous samples have historically been used for numerous etiologic studies. In this way, a chronic intraocular leptospiral infection has been shown to be the cause of typical ERU and, among other findings, ERU has also been recognized as a biofilm infection, providing new insights into the pathogenesis of ERU and explaining some thus far unexplainable phenomena of ERU. ERU may not only have transmissible aspects to some types of uveitis in humans but may also serve as a model for a spontaneously occurring biofilm infection. Vitreous material obtained during therapeutically indicated vitrectomy can be used for further studies on in vivo biofilm formation, biofilm composition and possible therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bettina Wollanke
- Equine Clinic, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, 80539 Munich, Germany; (H.G.); (K.A.)
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Geiger T, Gerhards H, Wollanke B. Detection of Anti-LipL32 Antibodies in Serum Samples from Horses with Chronic Intraocular Infection with Leptospira spp. Pathogens 2021; 10:1325. [PMID: 34684272 PMCID: PMC8537251 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10101325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Revised: 10/02/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Equine recurrent uveitis (ERU) is typically caused by chronic intraocular leptospiral infection in warm-blooded horses in central Europe. The most effective therapy for leptospiral-induced ERU is the surgical removal of diseased vitreous (vitrectomy). Since vitrectomy is a highly specialized and invasive surgery, the indication must be determined very carefully. In order to obtain evidence of intraocular leptospiral infection by laboratory diagnostics in questionable leptospiral ERU-cases, sampling of aqueous humor is required, because serum tests using microscopic agglutination test (MAT) are too unspecific. The SNAP Lepto is a cross-species rapid test for the detection of anti-Lipl32 antibodies that has a high sensitivity (0.97) and specificity (1.00) for the detection of anti-leptospiral antibodies using aqueous humor or vitreous samples, which is comparable to MAT. To evaluate sensitivity and specificity of SNAP Lepto using serum, serum samples from 90 horses with confirmed leptospiral ERU and from 103 ocularly healthy horses were tested by both MAT and SNAP Lepto. Sensitivity was similar for both tests (0.82 vs. 0.79), but specificity was lower for MAT (0.52 vs. 0.95). Sensitivity and specificity are therefore lower in serum samples compared to intraocular samples, however, the SNAP Lepto is far superior to MAT and suitable as a screening method using equine serum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Geiger
- Clinic for Horses, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, 30559 Hanover, Germany;
| | - Hartmut Gerhards
- Equine Clinic, Clinical Department, Ludwig Maximilians University, 80539 Munich, Germany;
| | - Bettina Wollanke
- Equine Clinic, Clinical Department, Ludwig Maximilians University, 80539 Munich, Germany;
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13
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Serological Survey of Leptospira Infection in Arabian Horses in Poland. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10060688. [PMID: 34206112 PMCID: PMC8228686 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10060688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Revised: 05/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Leptospirosis is one of the most common zoonotic infections worldwide, including in most livestock, some companion animals, horses, wildlife, and humans. Epidemiological estimation of its prevalence in all species is difficult due to the variety of clinical presentations and challenges regarding laboratory diagnosis. The purpose of this study was to measure the seroprevalence of leptospiral infection in Arabian horses kept in the largest breeding farms in Poland, representing over 15% of the Polish Arabian horse population. Leptospira antibodies were detected by MAT (cut-off 1:100) in 33.2% of serum samples (204 of 615 animals) (CI 95%: 29.6–37.0%), most frequently reacting with the serovar Grippotyphosa, similar to previous reports in populations of randomly selected horses. These results indicated high Leptospira seropositivity, thus, although any form of clinical leptospirosis is rare, it may be postulated that the leptospiral exposure is widespread.
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Zilch TJ, Lee JJ, Saleem MZ, Zhang H, Cortese V, Voris N, McDonough SP, Divers TJ, Chang YF. Equine leptospirosis: Experimental challenge of Leptospira interrogans serovar Bratislava fails to establish infection in naïve horses. Equine Vet J 2021; 53:845-854. [PMID: 33617667 DOI: 10.1111/evj.13442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2020] [Revised: 02/16/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little information is available about experimental inoculation of leptospirosis in horses and the pathogenicity of Leptospira interrogans serovar Bratislava in this host. OBJECTIVES To determine the serological, clinical, pathological and haematological responses of horses to L. interrogans serovar Bratislava strain PigK151. STUDY DESIGN Randomised controlled in vivo experiment. METHODS Ten seronegative female foals were divided into 2 groups, control (n = 4) and challenged (n = 6). The challenged group received 1 × 109 leptospires divided equally between topical ocular and intraperitoneal injections. Blood and urine samples were analysed. The temperature was recorded daily for the first 9 days, then weekly. Sera were tested by microscopic agglutination test (MAT). Automated complete blood count, differential and chemistry panel were performed. Histopathological analysis was performed on sections of liver, kidney, urinary bladder, uterine body and pineal gland. Sample culturing was performed from blood, urine, liver, kidney, reproductive tract and vitreous humour. RESULTS No pyrexia was noted. PCR and culture were negative from all samples. Differences between groups were found in CBC, differential counts and serum biochemistry panel (or profile), suggesting that leptospiral challenge triggered an inflammatory response. No evidence of leptospirosis was found from histopathological analysis. All challenged foals developed a humoral response. The MAT allowed the confirmation of the infecting serovar at a later stage, but it also revealed cross-reactive results that were further explained by genomic analysis. MAIN LIMITATIONS This experimental challenge had two main limitations: (a) the results might have varied if another strain from the same serovar had been used and (b) the use of another route of infection and a higher bacterial dose might have achieved colonisation. CONCLUSIONS Based on these findings, it may suggest that L. interrogans serovar Bratislava is neither pathogenic nor host-adapted serovar for horses, although these results might have varied if another strain from the same serovar had been used instead.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiago J Zilch
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Jen-Jie Lee
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Muhammad Zain Saleem
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Hui Zhang
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA.,College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guanfzhou, China
| | | | | | - Sean P McDonough
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Thomas J Divers
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Yung-Fu Chang
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
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15
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Zilch TJ, Lee JJ, Bressan GC, McDonough SP, Mohammed HO, Divers TJ, Chang YF. Evaluation of new leptospiral antigens for the diagnosis of equine leptospirosis: An approach using pan-genomic analysis, reverse vaccinology and antigenic selection. Equine Vet J 2020; 53:1025-1035. [PMID: 33135163 DOI: 10.1111/evj.13380] [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: 03/27/2020] [Revised: 08/10/2020] [Accepted: 10/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The current gold standard diagnostic test for leptospirosis is the microscopic agglutination test (MAT), which has many drawbacks; therefore, the development of a better and easier serological test for leptospirosis is needed. OBJECTIVES To apply reverse vaccinology (RV) and antigenic selection on the assortment of leptospiral targets and evaluate their potential for use as reagents for the diagnosis of equine leptospirosis. STUDY DESIGN Cross-sectional study. METHODS The antigenic selection parameters were: proteins with antigenicity score ≥0.5 (VaxiJen), at least one B cell epitope and size between 10 and 275 KDa. New leptospiral proteins were cloned, expressed and serologically screened against equine sera (n = 128) on a single analysis and comparative combinations. Sensitivity (Se) and specificity (Sp), accuracy, positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) were calculated. A BLAST with nucleotide and protein sequences was used to identify the serovar or species specificity. MAIN LIMITATIONS This cross-sectional analysis had three main limitations: (a) The equine sera used in these tests were limited to sera submitted to the Animal Health Diagnosis Center and were only tested against seven serovars; (b) MAT results were considered being 'perfect', and the highest titre presented was considered being the infecting serovar, which may not hold true; (c) The strains used to represent the serovars and the limited number of different serovars and species included in the genetic analysis, which leads to the possibility that these proteins might be present in different species or serovars that perhaps would be seroprevalent in another geographic region. CONCLUSIONS The new leptospiral antigens described in this research could increase the sensitivity and specificity of ELISA for detection of Leptospira exposure and the detection of leptospirosis in horses along with support from other clinical signs. Some of these new antigens might be used to improve the detection of infecting serovar.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiago J Zilch
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Jen-Jie Lee
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Gustavo C Bressan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Viçosa, Viçosa, MG, Brazil
| | - Sean P McDonough
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Hussni O Mohammed
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Thomas J Divers
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Yung-Fu Chang
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
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16
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Fagre AC, Mayo CE, Pabilonia KL, Landolt GA. Seroprevalence of Leptospira spp. in Colorado equids and association with clinical disease. J Vet Diagn Invest 2020; 32:718-721. [PMID: 32715980 DOI: 10.1177/1040638720943155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Detection of Leptospira interrogans is difficult as a result of intermittent leptospiruria and brief leptospiremia. Hence, diagnosis relies heavily on serologic testing, the reference method of which is the microscopic agglutination test (MAT). In horses, clinical leptospirosis has been associated with abortion, recurrent uveitis, and sporadic cases of hepatic and renal disease. Little information exists on the seroprevalence of antibodies to L. interrogans in equids in the United States; past nationwide studies suggest that the seroprevalence in some areas is as high as 77% (reciprocal titer ≥ 100). We tested sera from 124 apparently healthy horses previously submitted for equine infectious anemia (EIA) serology using MAT for 6 serovars-Bratislava, Canicola, Grippotyphosa, Hardjo, Icterohaemorrhagiae, and Pomona. When using a reciprocal MAT titer cutoff of ≥ 100, 102 of 124 (82%) of the samples were positive for at least one serovar. Seropositivity was significantly associated with increasing age. Query of specimens from clinical cases submitted to the Colorado State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory for MAT since 2010 indicated significantly greater seroprevalence (p = 0.015) of pathogenic serovar Pomona in clinical cases compared to sera submitted from healthy equids for routine EIA testing. Information from our diagnostic laboratory submission forms also suggests a correlation between uveitis or other ophthalmic problems and serovar Pomona.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna C Fagre
- Departments of Microbiology, Immunology, and Pathology (Fagre, Mayo, Pabilonia) and Clinical Sciences (Landolt), College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO
| | - Christie E Mayo
- Departments of Microbiology, Immunology, and Pathology (Fagre, Mayo, Pabilonia) and Clinical Sciences (Landolt), College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO
| | - Kristy L Pabilonia
- Departments of Microbiology, Immunology, and Pathology (Fagre, Mayo, Pabilonia) and Clinical Sciences (Landolt), College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO
| | - Gabriele A Landolt
- Departments of Microbiology, Immunology, and Pathology (Fagre, Mayo, Pabilonia) and Clinical Sciences (Landolt), College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO
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17
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Fouché N, Graubner C, Lanz S, Schweighauser A, Francey T, Gerber V. Acute kidney injury due to Leptospira interrogans in 4 foals and use of renal replacement therapy with intermittent hemodiafiltration in 1 foal. J Vet Intern Med 2020; 34:1007-1012. [PMID: 31999382 PMCID: PMC7096627 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.15713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2019] [Accepted: 01/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Four 2‐month‐old foals were presented to an equine hospital with acute kidney injury caused by Leptospira interrogans infection. Clinical signs were nonspecific and included lethargy, fever, and unwillingness to nurse. The most important hematologic and clinicopathologic findings were azotemia, anemia, thrombocytopenia, hyponatremia, and hypochloremia. The diagnosis was based on urinary real‐time PCR, serology using a microscopic agglutination test, or both. The most important serovars involved were L. interrogans serogroup australis serovar Bratislava and Australis. Treatment consisted of IV fluid therapy and antimicrobial treatment. Renal replacement therapy with hemodiafiltration was performed in 1 of the foals. All foals survived to discharge. This report highlights the importance of early diagnosis and treatment in foals with acute kidney injury caused by L. interrogans infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathalie Fouché
- Swiss Institute of Equine Medicine, University of Bern, and Agroscope, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Claudia Graubner
- Swiss Institute of Equine Medicine, University of Bern, and Agroscope, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Simone Lanz
- Swiss Institute of Equine Medicine, University of Bern, and Agroscope, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Ariane Schweighauser
- Small Animal Internal Medicine, Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Thierry Francey
- Small Animal Internal Medicine, Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Vinzenz Gerber
- Swiss Institute of Equine Medicine, University of Bern, and Agroscope, Bern, Switzerland
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Vera E, Taddei S, Cavirani S, Schiavi J, Angelone M, Cabassi CS, Schiano E, Quintavalla F. Leptospira Seroprevalence in Bardigiano Horses in Northern Italy. Animals (Basel) 2019; 10:ani10010023. [PMID: 31877658 PMCID: PMC7022626 DOI: 10.3390/ani10010023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2019] [Revised: 12/17/2019] [Accepted: 12/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
A cross-sectional study was carried out in Bardigiano horses in the Province of Parma, Northern Italy, to assess the seroprevalence of Leptospira spp. and to investigate risk factors associated with the infection. A representative sample of 134 horses from 43 farms was selected by stratified systematic randomization. Blood sera were examined by MAT for the presence of antibodies against seven Leptospira serovars. Ninety animals (67.2%; 95% Confidence Interval 63.2-71.1) and 41 farms (95.3%; 95% CI 92.2-98.5%) were found positive to at least one of the serovars. The most frequently detected reactions were against serovar Bratislava (41.8%), followed by Canicola (36.6%), Tarassovi (28.4%), Copenhageni (17.9%), Pomona (10.4%) and Hardjo (2.2%). None of the sera reacted against serovar Grippothyphosa. Forty-eight horses (53.3% of the seropositives) were positive for more than one serovar and 21 (15.7% of the seropositives) had serum titres ≥ 1000. Bratislava was the serovar providing the highest antibody titres. Prevalence was significantly higher between adult horses and in farms lacking rodent control (p = 0.006 and p = 0.025, respectively). No significant gender or housing-related difference in seroprevalence was found. The anamnestic data suggest that the infection in Bardigiano horses is subclinical in most of the cases. The high seroprevalence indicates that Bardigiano horses living in the investigated area are at high risk of exposure and infection by Leptospira spp.
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19
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Malalana F. Leptospirosis in horses: A European perspective. Equine Vet J 2019; 51:285-286. [PMID: 30950557 DOI: 10.1111/evj.13022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2018] [Accepted: 09/17/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- F Malalana
- Institute of Veterinary Science, University of Liverpool, Neston, UK
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Siqueira CC, Fraga DBM, Chagas-Junior AD, Athanazio DA, Silva MMN, Cerqueira RB, da C McBride FW, Pinna MH, Ayres MCC. Seroprevalence and risk factors associated with equineleptospirosis in the metropolitan region of Salvador and Recôncavo Baiano region, Bahia state (NE Brazil). Trop Anim Health Prod 2019; 52:31-39. [PMID: 31289965 DOI: 10.1007/s11250-019-01956-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2018] [Accepted: 05/29/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Equine leptospirosis, although usually asymptomatic, has been associated with recurrent uveitis, abortion, and other systemic signs, constituting a major economic loss in the equine agribusiness sector. The occurrence of anti-Leptospira spp. agglutinins were investigated in 1200 serum samples of horses from 27 municipalities of the Recôncavo Baiano region, Bahia state (NE Brazil), besides the risk factors related to animals and their cattle farms. The microscopic agglutination test (MAT) was performed using 13 serogroups of Leptospira spp. as antigens. From 1200 analyzed equines, 97 (8%) were considered as positive, which obtained titer equal to or higher than 200. In 22 (78.6%) from the 28 properties, at least one animal was detected as seropositive. The most prevalent serogroup in animals, raised in stables, was the Australis (serovar Bratislava) 67%; in mounted police animals was the Sejroe (serovar Wolffi and Hardjobovis) 50%; and equestrian animals was the Australis (serovar Bratislava) 25% and Icterohaemorrhagiae (serovar Copenhageni) 25%. Equine leptospirosis is present in most cattle farms of the region studied. The risk factors of major importance regarded the semi-extensive livestock farming, the land topography of the cattle farm, the contact with animals in neighboring properties, and cohabitation with goats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cândida C Siqueira
- Post Graduate Program in Animal Science in the Tropics, Federal University of Bahia, Av. Adhemar de Barros, 500, Ondina, Salvador, BA, 40170-110, Brazil
| | - Deborah B M Fraga
- Post Graduate Program in Animal Science in the Tropics, Federal University of Bahia, Av. Adhemar de Barros, 500, Ondina, Salvador, BA, 40170-110, Brazil
| | - Adenizar D Chagas-Junior
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz), Centro de Pesquisas Gonçalo Moniz, Rua Waldemar Falcão 121, Candeal, Salvador, BA, 40296-710, Brazil
| | - Daniel A Athanazio
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz), Centro de Pesquisas Gonçalo Moniz, Rua Waldemar Falcão 121, Candeal, Salvador, BA, 40296-710, Brazil
| | - Marta M N Silva
- Post Graduate Program in Animal Science in the Tropics, Federal University of Bahia, Av. Adhemar de Barros, 500, Ondina, Salvador, BA, 40170-110, Brazil
| | - Robson B Cerqueira
- Bacteriosis Laboratory, Federal University of the Recôncavo of Bahia, Cruz das Almas, BA, Brazil
| | - Flávia W da C McBride
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz), Centro de Pesquisas Gonçalo Moniz, Rua Waldemar Falcão 121, Candeal, Salvador, BA, 40296-710, Brazil
| | - Melissa H Pinna
- Post Graduate Program in Animal Science in the Tropics, Federal University of Bahia, Av. Adhemar de Barros, 500, Ondina, Salvador, BA, 40170-110, Brazil
| | - Maria C C Ayres
- Post Graduate Program in Animal Science in the Tropics, Federal University of Bahia, Av. Adhemar de Barros, 500, Ondina, Salvador, BA, 40170-110, Brazil.
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Epidemiological characterization of Leptospira spp. infection in working horses and in an occupationally exposed population in six Colombian police stations. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 39:19-34. [PMID: 31529846 DOI: 10.7705/biomedica.v39i1.4475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: Police working horses are in close contact with their managers and the general population during recreational and patrol activities, which can favor the transmission of leptospirosis among the horses and the occupationally exposed personnel.
Objective. To characterize epidemiologically leptospirosis through serology, urine culture and PCR in working horses and in the occupationally exposed population in six police stations in Colombia.
Materials and methods. We tested 153 castrated male horses and 123 people in six police stations in the municipalities of Manizales, Pereira, Armenia, Ibagué, Tuluá, and Cali. Three structured formats were applied and blood samples were obtained from people and horses, which were processed with the Macroscopic Agglutination Test, (MAT) for 24 serogroups. Horses were subject to a clinical examination, and urine samples were obtained for urine culture and conventional PCR.
Results. The seroprevalence of human Leptospira spp. was 3.25% (n=4) while in horses it was 85% (n=130). Among the horses, serogroups Djasiman and Shermani were the most prevalent. The urine culture was positive in 64.7% (99/153) of the samples, whereas PCR analyzes were negative. A statistically significant association was found between the frequency of exiting the facilities (p=0.009) and the presence of wildlife (p=0.0051) with the infection by serogroup Shermani.
Conclusion. The epidemiological characteristics of leptospirosis in horses suggest an endemic presentation of the infection and its role as reservoirs of the bacteria; however, it is necessary to elucidate the pathogenesis of the disease with complementary studies.
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Lara MDCCDSH, Villalobos EMC, Cunha EMS, Oliveira JVD, Castro V, Nassar AFDC, Silva LMP, Okuda LH, Romaldini AHDCN, Cunha MS, Marques EC, Mori E. Occurrence of antibodies against Leptospira spp. in donkeys of São Paulo state. ARQUIVOS DO INSTITUTO BIOLÓGICO 2019. [DOI: 10.1590/1808-1657000582018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT: Among the diseases that affect equines, bacterial diseases play an important role from a health and economic point of view, especially leptospirosis and brucellosis. The study aimed to provide information on the occurrence of anti-Leptospira spp. and anti-Brucella abortus antibodies in donkeys of São Paulo state. We found a frequency of 62.4% (53/85) antibodies against Leptospira spp. The donkeys were not seropositive for Brucella spp.
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23
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Trimble AC, Blevins CA, Beard LA, Deforno AR, Davis EG. Seroprevalence, frequency of leptospiuria, and associated risk factors in horses in Kansas, Missouri, and Nebraska from 2016-2017. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0206639. [PMID: 30372498 PMCID: PMC6205653 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0206639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2018] [Accepted: 10/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Leptospirosis is a worldwide veterinary and public health concern, and well recognized infectious disease of horses. Seroprevalence rates vary with geography, but many studies have confirmed a high exposure rate. The correlation between seropositivity and shedding status has not been made in horses, however. The aims of this study were to use semi-nested PCR on urine from apparently healthy horses to determine period prevalence of leptospiral shedding and to correlate these findings with MAT results to establish associations with client based survey data regarding horse management and environment. Serum and free-catch urine were collected from 204 healthy horses between May 2016-December 2017. Serum was used to determine GGT, creatinine concentrations, and six serovar MAT. Urine samples were submitted for PCR testing of leptospiral 23S rRNA. Client consent and survey data were collected for all subjects. Potential risk factors included drinking water source, exposure to livestock and dogs, geographical location, season, and precipitation. Two horses were positive on urine PCR for leptospirosis (shedding prevalence 1%), yet only one had a high reciprocal MAT titer of ≥ 800. Both horses were negative on urine PCR one month later without treatment. Approximately 77% of horses (157/204) were seroreactive (MAT reciprocal titer ≥ 100) with titers to serogroup Australis detected more frequently than others (47.5%; (97/204)). Apparently healthy horses infrequently shed Leptospira spp. in urine, yet seroreactivity in clinically normal horses is high (77%), confirming high exposure rates to Leptospira spp. in the Central Midwest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda C. Trimble
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, United States of America
- * E-mail: (ACT); (EGD)
| | - Christopher A. Blevins
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, United States of America
| | - Laurie A. Beard
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, United States of America
| | - Ashley R. Deforno
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, United States of America
| | - Elizabeth G. Davis
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, United States of America
- * E-mail: (ACT); (EGD)
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Delaude A, Rodriguez-Campos S, Dreyfus A, Counotte MJ, Francey T, Schweighauser A, Lettry S, Schuller S. Canine leptospirosis in Switzerland—A prospective cross-sectional study examining seroprevalence, risk factors and urinary shedding of pathogenic leptospires. Prev Vet Med 2017; 141:48-60. [DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2017.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2016] [Revised: 04/23/2017] [Accepted: 04/25/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Simbizi V, Saulez MN, Potts A, Lötter C, Gummow B. A study of leptospirosis in South African horses and associated risk factors. Prev Vet Med 2016; 134:6-15. [PMID: 27836047 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2016.09.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2016] [Revised: 09/16/2016] [Accepted: 09/23/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Most leptospiral infections in horses are asymptomatic; however, acute disease manifestations as well as reproductive failure and recurrent uveitis have been reported. In South Africa, the epidemiology of the disease in horses is not well documented. A serosurvey to determine what serovars were present in horses from Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal and Western Cape Provinces and to get an estimate of the seroprevalence of leptospirosis was carried out from January 2013 until April 2014 with the assistance of four large equine hospitals located in these provinces. Furthermore, associations between potential risk factors and both seropositive horses to the predominant serovar Bratislava and to Leptospira spp. were statistically evaluated using univariate analysis and multivariable logistic regression models. A total of 663 horse sera were collected and tested against a panel of 24 leptospiral serovars using the microscopic agglutination test. The most predominant serovars in Gauteng were Bratislava [32%, 95% CI: 29-35%]; Djasiman [10.4%, 95% CI: 8-12%] and Arborea [8.9%, 95% CI: 7-11%], in the Western Cape Province, Bratislava [27.35%, 95% CI: 23-32]; Djasiman [15.4%, 95% CI: 12-19%] and Arborea [14.5%, 95% CI: 11-18%] and in KwaZulu-Natal, Bratislava [39.4%, 95% CI: 34-44%]; Arborea [9.6%, 95% CI: 7-13%]; and Tarassovi [7.7%, 95% CI: 5-10%] respectively. Twenty one serovars representing 17 serogroups were detected with serovar Bratislava being the most serodominant. The apparent prevalence to one or more serovars of Leptospira spp. at a serum dilution of 1:100 in Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal and Western Cape Provinces were 49%; 37% and 32% respectively. The true prevalence was calculated for each province taking into account the clustering effect during the sampling and was found to be between 24 and 74% in Gauteng; 26-39% in the Western Cape and 20-54% in KwaZulu-Natal. Nooitgedacht (South African horse breed) horses were found to be at greater risk of being seropositive to both serovar Bratislava (OR=5.08) and Leptospira spp. (OR=6.3). Similarly, horses residing on properties with forestry in the vicinity were found to be at greater risk of being seropositive to both serovar Bratislava (OR=9.3) and Leptospira spp. (OR=5.2). This study has shown that a high proportion of horses in South Africa are exposed to a wide range of serovars, inferring a complex epidemiology. It also describes for the first time new serovars of Leptospira in South African horses that have not previously been reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Simbizi
- State Veterinary Services, Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform, Lady Frere, South Africa; Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - M N Saulez
- Winelands Equine Vet, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - A Potts
- Bacterial Serology Laboratory: ARC-Onderstepoort Veterinary Institute, Onderstepoort, South Africa
| | - C Lötter
- Bacterial Serology Laboratory: ARC-Onderstepoort Veterinary Institute, Onderstepoort, South Africa
| | - B Gummow
- Discipline of Veterinary Sciences, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville 4811, Queensland, Australia; Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.
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Velineni S, Timoney JF. Preliminary evaluation of a dual antigen ELISA to distinguish vaccinated from Leptospira infected horses. Vet Rec 2016; 179:574. [PMID: 27650465 DOI: 10.1136/vr.103686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/02/2016] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Immunogenic proteins of Leptospira interrogans serovar Pomona type kennewicki (Lk) including Sph1, LigA, Hsp15 and LipL45 (Qlp42) are up-regulated in infected horses but are undetectable or expressed in trace amounts on cultured organisms. In contrast, LipL32 is abundant on cultured Lk and elicits infection antibody responses. The aim of this study was to develop an ELISA based on LipL32 or Lk sonicate and host-induced proteins to differentiate vaccine from infection serum antibody. IgG specific for recombinant Sph1, LigA, Lk90 (LigA; 379-1225 a.a), Hsp15, LipL45 and LipL32 of Lk were assayed in sera of horses infected naturally with Lk and before and after immunisation with serovar Pomona bacterin. Infection but not vaccine sera reacted strongly with Sph1, LigA and Lk90. LipL45 and Hsp15 reacted moderately with infection sera and weakly with vaccine sera. Lk sonicate and LipL32 reacted strongly with both infection and vaccine sera. As expected, culture-based vaccine failed to stimulate antibody to host-induced proteins. Therefore a dual antigen ELISA based on Lk sonicate or LipL32 combined with host-induced Sph1 and Lk90 will be valuable in differentiating infection from vaccine responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Velineni
- Gluck Equine Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40546, USA
| | - J F Timoney
- Gluck Equine Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40546, USA
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Sohail ML, Khan MS, Avais M, Zahoor MY, Ijaz M, Ullah A, Fatima Z, Naseer O, Khattak I, Ali S. Seroprevalence of Leptospira spp. in Horses of Distinct Climatic Regions of Punjab, Pakistan. J Equine Vet Sci 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2016.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Seroprevalence of Leptospira spp. in Working Horses Located in the Central Region of Chile. J Equine Vet Sci 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2015.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Tsegay K, Potts AD, Aklilu N, Lötter C, Gummow B. Circulating serovars of Leptospira in cart horses of central and southern Ethiopia and associated risk factors. Prev Vet Med 2016; 125:106-15. [PMID: 26809943 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2016.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2015] [Revised: 01/03/2016] [Accepted: 01/05/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Little work has been done on diseases of horses in Ethiopia or tropical regions of the world. Yet, Ethiopia has the largest horse population in Africa and their horses play a pivotal role in their economy as traction animals. A serological and questionnaire survey was therefore conducted to determine the circulating serovars of Leptospira and their association with potential risk factors in the cart horse population of Central and Southern Ethiopia. A total of 184 out of 418 cart horses from 13 districts had antibody titres of 1:100 or greater to at least one of 16 serovars of Leptospira species in Central and Southern Ethiopian horses. A significantly higher seropositivity (62.1%) was noted in horses from the highland agroecology followed by midland (44.4%) and lowland (39.8%). Serovar Bratislava (34.5%) was the predominant serovar followed by serovars Djasiman (9.8%), Topaz (5.98%) and Pomona (5.3%). Age and location proved to be associated with seropositive horses with older horses being more commonly affected and the districts of Ziway (Batu) (Apparent Prevalence (AP)=65.5%), Shashemene (AP=48.3%) and Sebeta (AP=41.4%) having the highest prevalence. Multivariable logistic regression found risk factors significantly associated with Leptospira seropositive horses were drinking river water (OR=2.8) and horses 7-12 years old (OR=5) and risk factors specifically associated with serovar Bratislava seropositive horses were drinking river water (OR=2.5), horses ≥13 years (OR=3.5) and the presence of dogs in adjacent neighbouring properties (OR=0.3). Dogs had a protective effect against seropositivity to serovars Bratislava and Djasiman, which may be due to their ability to control rodents. The high seroprevalence confirm that leptospirosis is endemic among horses of Central and Southern Ethiopia. The predominance of serovar Bratislava supports the idea that serovar Bratislava may be adapted to and maintained by the horse population of Central and Southern Ethiopia. This study emphasizes the need for further countrywide serological surveys and isolation of circulating leptospires in animals and humans in order to understand the role of horses in the epidemiology of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Tsegay
- Discipline of Veterinary Science, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, 4811, Australia
| | - A D Potts
- Agricultural Research Council, Onderstepoort Veterinary Institute, Private Bag X05, Onderstepoort, South Africa
| | - N Aklilu
- Society for the Protection of Animals Abroad-Ethiopia project, College of Veterinary Medicine and Agriculture, Addis Ababa University, Bishoftu, Ethiopia
| | - C Lötter
- Agricultural Research Council, Onderstepoort Veterinary Institute, Private Bag X05, Onderstepoort, South Africa
| | - B Gummow
- Discipline of Veterinary Science, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, 4811, Australia; Department of Production Animal Studies, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.
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Velineni S, Timoney JF, Artiushin SC, Donahue JM, Steinman M. Multiple specificities of immunoglobulin M in equine fetuses infected with Leptospira interrogans indicate a competent immune response. Equine Vet J 2015; 48:704-709. [PMID: 26671764 DOI: 10.1111/evj.12527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2015] [Accepted: 10/14/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
REASONS FOR PERFORMING STUDY Foals of mares infected with Leptospira interrogans serovar Pomona type kennewicki (Lk) may be aborted/stillborn or delivered as healthy foals. Is fetal survival explained in part by the immune response of the fetus to Leptospira antigens? OBJECTIVES To describe an outbreak of Leptospira abortion in which infected mares delivered dead/sick or normal foals and determine specificities of antibody in a collection of 54 fetuses from similar outbreaks. STUDY DESIGN Outbreak investigation in combination with a case-control study of a larger set of samples from aborted fetuses. METHODS Serology and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) on urine and amniotic fluids were used to diagnose infection during an outbreak of Leptospira abortion. Specificities of immunoglobulin (Ig)M, IgGa and IgGb for recombinant proteins of Lk in archived fluids of fetuses from similar outbreaks were compared by ELISA with those of fluids of fetuses not infected with Leptospira spp. RESULTS Five fetuses of 11 infected mares in an outbreak survived in utero in the presence of persistent placental infection and were healthy at foaling. Fetuses of 6 mares in the outbreak were aborted or died soon after birth. Significantly greater (P<0.05) IgM reactivity with all recombinant proteins and with Lk sonicate was observed in 54 archived fluids from Leptospira infected fetuses than in fluids of 30 of non-Leptospira infected fetuses. Low levels of IgGa and IgGb specific for LipL32 and Lk sonicate and traces of LigA and Hsp15 specific IgGa were detected in a minority of archived fluids from Leptospira infected fetuses. CONCLUSION Although mainly mediated by IgM, a high level of immune competence in aborted fetuses was evidenced by the multiplicity of Leptospira proteins targeted. This is likely to contribute to survival of foals in mares with evidence of placental infection at foaling as detailed in a typical outbreak.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Velineni
- Gluck Equine Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, USA
| | - J F Timoney
- Gluck Equine Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, USA.
| | - S C Artiushin
- Gluck Equine Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, USA
| | - J M Donahue
- University of Kentucky Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, Lexington, USA
| | - M Steinman
- University of Kentucky Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, Lexington, USA
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Strand TM, Löhmus M, Persson Vinnersten T, Råsbäck T, Sundström K, Bergström T, Lundkvist Å. Highly Pathogenic Leptospira Found in Urban Brown Rats (Rattus norvegicus) in the Largest Cities of Sweden. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2015; 15:779-81. [PMID: 26579782 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2015.1800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Leptospirosis is an emerging zoonosis of global concern; however, its contemporary occurrence in Sweden, a European country partly located north of the Arctic Circle, is poorly known. Four out of 30 brown rats, captured within urban districts in Sweden, were found to be positive for antibodies to Leptospira interrogans serovar Icterohaemorrhagiae. This serovar causes Weil's disease in humans, a severe infection with jaundice, renal failure, and hemorrhage. Our study is the first finding of this highly pathogenic serovar in Swedish rats since the 1930s.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanja M Strand
- 1 Zoonosis Science Center, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Uppsala University , Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Mare Löhmus
- 2 Institute for Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institute and Zoonosis Science Center, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Uppsala University , Uppsala, Sweden
| | | | - Therese Råsbäck
- 4 Department of Bacteriology, National Veterinary Institute , Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Karin Sundström
- 5 Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School, Emerging Infectious Diseases Program, Singapore and Zoonosis Science Center, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Uppsala University , Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Tomas Bergström
- 6 Department of Infectious Medicine, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Gothenburg , Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Åke Lundkvist
- 7 Zoonosis Science Center, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Uppsala University , Uppsala, Sweden
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Molecular studies on European equine isolates of Leptospira interrogans serovars Bratislava and Muenchen. INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2015; 34:26-31. [DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2015.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2015] [Revised: 07/06/2015] [Accepted: 07/07/2015] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Malalana F, Stylianides A, McGowan C. Equine recurrent uveitis: Human and equine perspectives. Vet J 2015; 206:22-9. [PMID: 26188862 DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2015.06.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2014] [Revised: 06/22/2015] [Accepted: 06/30/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Equine recurrent uveitis (ERU) is a spontaneous disease characterised by repeated episodes of intraocular inflammation. The epidemiology of ERU has not been fully elucidated, but the condition appears to be much more common in horses than is recurrent uveitis in humans, especially in certain breeds and geographical regions. Both humans and horses show a similarly altered immune response and a marked autoimmune response as the primary disease pathophysiology. However, an inciting cause is not always clear. Potential inciting factors in horses include microbial agents such as Leptospira spp. Microbial factors and genetic predisposition to the disease may provide clues as to why the horse appears so susceptible to this disease. The aim of this review is to discuss the immunology and genetics of ERU, compare the disease in horses with autoimmune anterior uveitis in humans, and discuss potential reasons for the increased prevalence in the horse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Malalana
- The Philip Leverhulme Equine Hospital, The University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Neston, Wirral, CH64 7TE, UK.
| | - Amira Stylianides
- St. Paul's Eye Unit, Royal Liverpool University Hospital, Prescot Street, Liverpool, L7 8XP, UK
| | - Catherine McGowan
- Department of Musculoskeletal Biology, Institute of Ageing and Chronic disease, The University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Neston, Wirral, CH64 7TE, UK
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Evaluación serológica a Leptospira spp. en equinos aparentemente sanos en municipios del Meta y Guaviare, Colombia. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015. [DOI: 10.22507/rli.v12n1a14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
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Abstract
Leptospirosis is a global disease of animals, which can have a major economic impact on livestock industries and is an important zoonosis. The current knowledge base is heavily biased towards the developed agricultural economies. The disease situation in the developing economies presents a major challenge as humans and animals frequently live in close association. The severity of disease varies with the infecting serovar and the affected species, but there are many common aspects across the species; for example, the acute phase of infection is mostly sub-clinical and the greatest economic losses arise from chronic infection causing reproductive wastage. The principles of, and tests for, diagnosis, treatment, control and surveillance are applicable across the species.
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Esteve-Gassent MD, Pérez de León AA, Romero-Salas D, Feria-Arroyo TP, Patino R, Castro-Arellano I, Gordillo-Pérez G, Auclair A, Goolsby J, Rodriguez-Vivas RI, Estrada-Franco JG. Pathogenic Landscape of Transboundary Zoonotic Diseases in the Mexico-US Border Along the Rio Grande. Front Public Health 2014; 2:177. [PMID: 25453027 PMCID: PMC4233934 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2014.00177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2014] [Accepted: 09/19/2014] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Transboundary zoonotic diseases, several of which are vector borne, can maintain a dynamic focus and have pathogens circulating in geographic regions encircling multiple geopolitical boundaries. Global change is intensifying transboundary problems, including the spatial variation of the risk and incidence of zoonotic diseases. The complexity of these challenges can be greater in areas where rivers delineate international boundaries and encompass transitions between ecozones. The Rio Grande serves as a natural border between the US State of Texas and the Mexican States of Chihuahua, Coahuila, Nuevo León, and Tamaulipas. Not only do millions of people live in this transboundary region, but also a substantial amount of goods and people pass through it everyday. Moreover, it occurs over a region that functions as a corridor for animal migrations, and thus links the Neotropic and Nearctic biogeographic zones, with the latter being a known foci of zoonotic diseases. However, the pathogenic landscape of important zoonotic diseases in the south Texas-Mexico transboundary region remains to be fully understood. An international perspective on the interplay between disease systems, ecosystem processes, land use, and human behaviors is applied here to analyze landscape and spatial features of Venezuelan equine encephalitis, Hantavirus disease, Lyme Borreliosis, Leptospirosis, Bartonellosis, Chagas disease, human Babesiosis, and Leishmaniasis. Surveillance systems following the One Health approach with a regional perspective will help identifying opportunities to mitigate the health burden of those diseases on human and animal populations. It is proposed that the Mexico-US border along the Rio Grande region be viewed as a continuum landscape where zoonotic pathogens circulate regardless of national borders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Dolores Esteve-Gassent
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | | | - Dora Romero-Salas
- Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Veracruzana, Veracruz, México
| | | | - Ramiro Patino
- Department of Biology, University of Texas-Pan American, Edinburg, TX, USA
| | - Ivan Castro-Arellano
- Department of Biology, College of Science and Engineering, Texas State University, San Marcos, TX, USA
| | - Guadalupe Gordillo-Pérez
- Unidad de Investigación en Enfermedades Infecciosas, Centro Médico Nacional SXXI, IMSS, Distrito Federal, México
| | - Allan Auclair
- Environmental Risk Analysis Systems, Policy and Program Development, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Riverdale, MD, USA
| | - John Goolsby
- Cattle Fever Tick Research Laboratory, United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Edinburg, TX, USA
| | - Roger Ivan Rodriguez-Vivas
- Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Cuerpo Académico de Salud Animal, Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán, Mérida, México
| | - Jose Guillermo Estrada-Franco
- Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria Zootecnia, Centro de Investigaciones y Estudios Avanzados en Salud Animal, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México, Toluca, México
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Hamond C, Martins G, Bremont S, Medeiros MA, Bourhy P, Lilenbaum W. Predominance of Leptospira interrogans serovar Bratislava DNA in vaginal fluid of mares suggests sexual transmission of leptospirosis. Anim Reprod Sci 2014; 151:275-9. [PMID: 25465903 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2014.10.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2014] [Revised: 10/11/2014] [Accepted: 10/16/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of the present study was to detect the presence of DNA of pathogenic Leptospira sp. in vaginal fluids of mares regarding a possible role of the sexual transmission. A total of 134 breeding mares from four troops were studied and sampling was conducted from vaginal fluids and urine for culture and PCR; and blood for serology. From the 134 serum samples tested, 59 (44%) were seroreactive, and serovar Bratislava was the most frequent (54.2%). None positive culture was obtained, but leptospiral DNA was detected by PCR (lipL32 gene) in 45 (33.5%) urine samples and 43 (32%) vaginal fluid (VF) samples. By phylogenetic analysis of the sequenced amplicons (secY gene) obtained after urine samples, it was found that 14/23 (60.9%) were of Bratislava and nine (39.1%) of Copenhageni. In contrast, the totality of the sequenced amplicons obtained after VF samples were of Bratislava serovar. This study demonstrated by the first time the presence of leptospiral DNA in the vaginal fluid of mares. Furthermore, the identification of that DNA as belonging to serovar Bratislava suggests that the transmission of leptospirosis in horses may occur by sexual via.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camila Hamond
- Laboratory of Veterinary Bacteriology, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, RJ, Brazil
| | - Gabriel Martins
- Laboratory of Veterinary Bacteriology, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, RJ, Brazil
| | - Sylvie Bremont
- Institut Pasteur, Unité de Biologie des Spirochètes, National Reference Center, Paris, France
| | - Marco Alberto Medeiros
- Bio-Manguinhos, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Brazilian Ministry of Health, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Pascale Bourhy
- Institut Pasteur, Unité de Biologie des Spirochètes, National Reference Center, Paris, France
| | - Walter Lilenbaum
- Laboratory of Veterinary Bacteriology, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, RJ, Brazil.
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Pinna A, Martins G, Hamond C, Medeiros MA, de Souza GN, Lilenbaum W. Potential differences between Leptospira
serovars, host-adapted (Bratislava) and incidental (Copenhageni), in determining reproductive disorders in embryo transfer recipient mares in Brazil. Vet Rec 2014; 174:531. [DOI: 10.1136/vr.101444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- A. Pinna
- Laboratory of Veterinary Bacteriology; Universidade Federal Fluminense; Niterói RJ 24210-130 Brazil
| | - G. Martins
- Laboratory of Veterinary Bacteriology; Universidade Federal Fluminense; Niterói RJ 24210-130 Brazil
| | - C. Hamond
- Laboratory of Veterinary Bacteriology; Universidade Federal Fluminense; Niterói RJ 24210-130 Brazil
| | - M. A. Medeiros
- Bio-Manguinhos; Oswaldo Cruz Foundation; Brazilian Ministry of Health; Rio de Janeiro RJ 21040-360 Brazil
| | | | - W. Lilenbaum
- Laboratory of Veterinary Bacteriology; Universidade Federal Fluminense; Niterói RJ 24210-130 Brazil
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Erol E, Jackson CB, Steinman M, Meares K, Donahoe J, Kelly N, Locke S, Smith JL, Carter CN. A diagnostic evaluation of real-time PCR, fluorescent antibody and microscopic agglutination tests in cases of equine leptospiral abortion. Equine Vet J 2014; 47:171-4. [DOI: 10.1111/evj.12281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2013] [Accepted: 04/09/2014] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- E. Erol
- Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory; University of Kentucky; Lexington USA
| | - C. B. Jackson
- Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory; University of Kentucky; Lexington USA
| | - M. Steinman
- Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory; University of Kentucky; Lexington USA
| | - K. Meares
- Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory; University of Kentucky; Lexington USA
| | - J. Donahoe
- Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory; University of Kentucky; Lexington USA
| | - N. Kelly
- Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory; University of Kentucky; Lexington USA
| | - S. Locke
- Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory; University of Kentucky; Lexington USA
| | - J. L. Smith
- Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory; University of Kentucky; Lexington USA
| | - C. N. Carter
- Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory; University of Kentucky; Lexington USA
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40
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de Oliveira Filho RB, Malta KC, Oliveira JM, Assis Santana VL, Harrop MH, Stipp DT, Pinheiro Júnior JW. Epidemiological Analysis of Leptospira spp. Infection in Equids from the Brejo Paraibano Microregion of Brazil. J Equine Vet Sci 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2013.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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41
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Leptospirosis in horses. Vet Microbiol 2013; 167:61-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2013.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2013] [Revised: 04/04/2013] [Accepted: 04/09/2013] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Hamond C, Pinna A, Martins G, Lilenbaum W. The role of leptospirosis in reproductive disorders in horses. Trop Anim Health Prod 2013; 46:1-10. [PMID: 23990441 DOI: 10.1007/s11250-013-0459-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/12/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease of global importance and has a worldwide distribution. This infection displays clear seasonal nature in some regions of the tropics, where the rainy season is marked by high temperatures. Household and wild animals carry leptospires and contribute to their dissemination in nature. Transmission mainly occurs by contact with water contaminated with the urine of infected animals, and consequently, it is quite widespread especially in times of rain, since many areas are subject to flooding and have poor sanitation. Serological tests demonstrate that Leptospira sp. infection in horses occurs worldwide and that the predominant serovar may vary depending on the region or infection sources. Besides systemic and ocular manifestations, leptospirosis in horses has been recognized as an important disease of the reproductive system, since it leads to the birth of weak foals, stillbirths or neonatal mortality, and mainly to abortion, usually after the sixth month of pregnancy. In this context, this review aims to gather and discuss information about the role of leptospirosis in reproductive disorders in horses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camila Hamond
- Veterinary Bacteriology Laboratory,, Universidade Federal Fluminense,, Niterói, 24210-130, Brazil
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43
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44
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Poeppl W, Orola MJ, Herkner H, Müller M, Tobudic S, Faas A, Mooseder G, Allerberger F, Burgmann H. High prevalence of antibodies against Leptospira spp. in male Austrian adults: a cross-sectional survey, April to June 2009. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 18. [PMID: 23806296 DOI: 10.2807/1560-7917.es2013.18.25.20509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
To assess the distribution of specific antibodies against Leptospira spp. in Austrian adults, we conducted an explorative nationwide cross-sectional serological study in 400 healthy individuals. Antibody titres against Leptospira spp. were determined in a microscopic agglutination test using a panel of 14 serovar cultures. Sera of 18 participants were excluded because the samples were unsuitable for testing; the remaining 382 participants comprised 166 professional soldiers and 216 civilians. Overall, 88 (23%) individuals tested positive in serological screening. The subjects' sera reacted most frequently with serovars Canicola (16.5%) and Hardjo (11.8%). Epidemiological information was obtained from a questionnaire: no correlation was found for area of residence, travel abroad, regular outdoor activities, occupational animal contact, or ownership of companion animals. The proportion of seropositive samples was significantly lower among professional soldiers (15.7%) than among civilians (28.7%) (p=0.003). Our data demonstrate serological evidence of a high rate of exposure to Leptospira spp. among the Austrian population. No increased risk of exposure to Leptospira spp. was detected in military personnel.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Poeppl
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Department of Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
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45
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Wangdi C, Picard J, Tan R, Condon F, Dowling B, Gummow B. Equine leptospirosis in tropical Northern Queensland. Aust Vet J 2013; 91:190-7. [DOI: 10.1111/avj.12038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/07/2012] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- C Wangdi
- School of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences; James Cook University; Townsville; Queensland; Australia
| | - J Picard
- School of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences; James Cook University; Townsville; Queensland; Australia
| | - R Tan
- School of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences; James Cook University; Townsville; Queensland; Australia
| | - F Condon
- Tableland Veterinary Services Malanda; QLD; Australia
| | - B Dowling
- Townsville Veterinary Clinic; Aitkenvale; QLD; Australia
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46
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Arent ZJ, Kędzierska-Mieszkowska S. Seroprevalence study of leptospirosis in horses in northern Poland. Vet Rec 2013; 172:269. [PMID: 23362180 DOI: 10.1136/vr.101239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Z J Arent
- OIE Leptospirosis Reference Laboratory, Veterinary Sciences Division, AFBI, Belfast, Northern Ireland BT4 3SD, UK.
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47
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van Loon G, Broux B, Torfs S, Deprez P. Letter to the Editor. J Vet Intern Med 2012. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1939-1676.2012.01021.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- G. van Loon
- Department of Large Animal Internal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; Ghent University; Salisburylaan 133; 9820; Merelbeke; Belgium
| | - B. Broux
- Department of Large Animal Internal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; Ghent University; Salisburylaan 133; 9820; Merelbeke; Belgium
| | - S. Torfs
- Department of Large Animal Internal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; Ghent University; Salisburylaan 133; 9820; Merelbeke; Belgium
| | - P. Deprez
- Department of Large Animal Internal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; Ghent University; Salisburylaan 133; 9820; Merelbeke; Belgium
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Broux B, Torfs S, Wegge B, Deprez P, Loon G. Acute Respiratory Failure Caused by Leptospira spp. in 5 Foals. J Vet Intern Med 2012; 26:684-7. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1939-1676.2012.00902.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2011] [Revised: 11/29/2011] [Accepted: 01/26/2012] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- B. Broux
- Department of Large Animal Internal Medicine
| | - S. Torfs
- Department of Large Animal Internal Medicine
| | - B. Wegge
- Department of Pathology; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; Ghent University; Merelbeke; Belgium
| | - P. Deprez
- Department of Large Animal Internal Medicine
| | - G. Loon
- Department of Large Animal Internal Medicine
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Lindahl E, Boqvist S, Artursson K, Magnusson U. A field-study on Leptospira seroprevalence in dairy cows in four geographical areas in Sweden. Acta Vet Scand 2011; 53:53. [PMID: 21992513 PMCID: PMC3219596 DOI: 10.1186/1751-0147-53-53] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2011] [Accepted: 10/12/2011] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Dairy cattle were used as sentinels for the presence of Leptospira infection in Swedish livestock in four regions contrasting in precipitation and temperature during the summer time. The aim of the study was to estimate the prevalence of five serovars of Leptospira of low pathogenicity in dairy cattle in these four regions. Findings Around 150 blood samples were collected from five dairy farms from each region, making 610 samples in total, during December 2009. The samples were screened for L. kirschneri sv Grippotyphosa, L. interrogans sv Icterohaemorrhagiae, L. interrogans sv Canicola, L. borgpetersenii sv Sejroe and one domestic strain similar to sv Sejroe, called strain Mouse 2A using the Microscopic Agglutination Test. Six animals (1%) were seropositive for the strain Mouse 2A. Four of the positive samples were from the south-west region which also was the region with highest precipitation. There were no positive samples to any of the other serovars studied. Conclusions The present data indicate that there is a low seroprevalence of Leptospira in Swedish dairy cows. These findings can be used as baseline data to investigate the effects of, for instance, climatic change or alterations in wildlife reservoir populations on the seroprevalence of Leptospira in the future.
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Pinna AE, Martins G, Hamond C, Lilenbaum W, Medeiros MA. Molecular diagnostics of leptospirosis in horses is becoming increasingly important. Vet Microbiol 2011; 153:413. [PMID: 21763086 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2011.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2011] [Revised: 06/07/2011] [Accepted: 06/16/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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