1
|
Bogdan AM, Mitrea IL, Ionita M. Equine Granulocytic Anaplasmosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis on Clinico-Pathological Findings, Diagnosis, and Therapeutic Management. Vet Sci 2024; 11:269. [PMID: 38922016 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci11060269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2024] [Revised: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Equine granulocytic anaplasmosis (EGA) is a tick-borne disease affecting horses worldwide, caused by Anaplasma phagocytophilum. The disease ranges from non-specific clinical signs to fatal outcomes. This paper aimed to analyze EGA cases reported in peer-reviewed journals, particularly on clinico-pathological findings, diagnosis, and therapeutic management. Overall, 189 clinical cases from 31 publications were included in the study. Extensive symptomatology for the EGA cases was reported, of which mostly was fever (90.30%), followed by limb edema (48.51%), anorexia (41.79%), depression (32.84%), icterus (22.39%), ataxia (17.91), tachycardia (16.42%), and lethargy (15.67%). Laboratory tests revealed thrombocytopenia (90.32%), anemia (75%), decreased hematocrit (70.59%), leukopenia (55.88%), lymphopenia (58.14%), and neutropenia (41.67%) as the most common hematological abnormalities. For a subset of tested animals, hyperbilirubinemia (20/29), hyperfibrinogenemia (13/15), and hyponatremia (10/10) were also reported. The diagnosis was established by microscopic identification of morulae (in 153 cases), and/or PCR (120 cases), isolation (1 case), or serology (56 cases). For treatment, oxytetracycline was used in the majority (52.24%) of EGA cases, but recovery without antibiotherapy (10.34%) was also noted. In conclusion, the variety of clinical and pathological findings and the challenging therapeutic approaches reported suggest that EGA should be included in the differential diagnosis when fever occurs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andreea Monica Bogdan
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases & Animal Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agronomic Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Bucharest, 011464 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ioan Liviu Mitrea
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases & Animal Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agronomic Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Bucharest, 011464 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mariana Ionita
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases & Animal Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agronomic Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Bucharest, 011464 Bucharest, Romania
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Fröhlich J, Fischer S, Bauer B, Hamel D, Kohn B, Ahlers M, Obiegala A, Overzier E, Pfeffer M, Pfister K, Răileanu C, Rehbein S, Skuballa J, Silaghi C. Host-pathogen associations revealed by genotyping of European strains of Anaplasma phagocytophilum to describe natural endemic cycles. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:289. [PMID: 37587504 PMCID: PMC10433637 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-05900-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The zoonotic intracellular alpha-proteobacterium Anaplasma phagocytophilum is a tick-transmitted pathogen. The associations between vertebrate reservoirs and vectors are described as wide-ranging, and it was previously shown that the pathogenicity of A. phagocytophilum differs depending on the combination of pathogen variant and infected host species. This leads to the question of whether there are variations in particular gene loci associated with different virulence. Therefore, this study aims at clarifying existing host-variant combinations and detecting possible reservoir hosts. To understand these interactions, a complex toolset for molecular epidemiology, phylogeny and network theory was applied. METHODS Sequences of up to four gene loci (msp4, msp2, groEL and 16S rRNA) were evaluated for different isolates from variable host species, including, for example, dogs, cattle and deer. Variant typing was conducted for each gene locus individually, and combinations of different gene loci were analysed to gain more detailed information about the genetic plasticity of A. phagocytophilum. Results were displayed as minimum spanning nets and correlation nets. RESULTS The highest diversity of variants for all gene loci was observed in roe deer. In cattle, a reduced number of variants for 16S rRNA [only 16S-20(W) and 16S-22(Y)] but multiple variants of msp4 and groEL were found. For dogs, two msp4 variants [m4-20 and m4-2(B/C)] were found to be linked to different variants of the other three gene loci, creating two main combinations of gene loci variants. Cattle are placed centrally in the minimum spanning net analyses, indicating a crucial role in the transmission cycles by possibly bridging the vector-wildlife cycle to infections of humans and domestic animals. The minimum spanning nets confirmed previously described epidemiological cycles of the bacterium in Europe, showing separation of variants originating from wildlife animals only and a set of variants shared by wild and domestic animals. CONCLUSIONS In this comprehensive study of 1280 sequences, we found a high number of gene variants only occurring in specific hosts. Additionally, different hosts show unique but also shared variant combinations. The use of our four gene loci expand the knowledge of host-pathogen interactions and may be a starting point to predict future spread and infection risks of A. phagocytophilum in Europe.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julia Fröhlich
- Comparative Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Leopoldstrasse 5, 80802 Munich, Germany
| | - Susanne Fischer
- Institute of Infectology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Südufer 10, 17943 Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Benjamin Bauer
- Clinic for Swine and Small Ruminants, Forensic Medicine and Ambulatory Service, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bischofsholer Damm 15, 30173 Hannover, Germany
| | - Dietmar Hamel
- Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica GmbH, Kathrinenhof Research Center, Walchenseestr. 8-12, 83101 Rohrdorf, Germany
| | - Barbara Kohn
- Clinic for Small Animals, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Oertzenweg 19B, 14163 Berlin, Germany
| | - Marion Ahlers
- agro prax GmbH, Werner-von-Siemens-Str. 2, 49577 Ankum, Germany
| | - Anna Obiegala
- Institute of Animal Hygiene and Veterinary Public Health, University of Leipzig, An den Tierkliniken 1, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Evelyn Overzier
- Comparative Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Leopoldstrasse 5, 80802 Munich, Germany
| | - Martin Pfeffer
- Institute of Animal Hygiene and Veterinary Public Health, University of Leipzig, An den Tierkliniken 1, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Kurt Pfister
- Comparative Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Leopoldstrasse 5, 80802 Munich, Germany
| | - Cristian Răileanu
- Institute of Infectology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Südufer 10, 17943 Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Steffen Rehbein
- Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica GmbH, Kathrinenhof Research Center, Walchenseestr. 8-12, 83101 Rohrdorf, Germany
| | - Jasmin Skuballa
- Chemical and Veterinary Investigations Office Karlsruhe (CVUA Karlsruhe), Weissenburger Str. 3, 76187 Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - Cornelia Silaghi
- Institute of Infectology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Südufer 10, 17943 Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Haring V, Jacob J, Walther B, Trost M, Stubbe M, Mertens-Scholz K, Melzer F, Scuda N, Gentil M, Sixl W, Schäfer T, Stanko M, Wolf R, Pfeffer M, Ulrich RG, Obiegala A. White-Toothed Shrews (Genus Crocidura): Potential Reservoirs for Zoonotic Leptospira spp. and Arthropod-Borne Pathogens? Pathogens 2023; 12:781. [PMID: 37375471 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12060781] [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: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Three species of white-toothed shrews of the order Eulipotyphla are present in central Europe: the bicolored (Crocidura leucodon), greater (Crocidura russula) and lesser (Crocidura suaveolens) white-toothed shrews. Their precise distribution in Germany is ill-defined and little is known about them as reservoirs for zoonotic pathogens (Leptospira spp., Coxiella burnetii, Brucella spp., Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Babesia spp., Neoehrlichia mikurensis and Bartonella spp.). We investigated 372 Crocidura spp. from Germany (n = 341), Austria (n = 18), Luxembourg (n = 2) and Slovakia (n = 11). West European hedgehogs (Erinaceus europaeus) were added to compare the presence of pathogens in co-occurring insectivores. Crocidura russula were distributed mainly in western and C. suaveolens mainly in north-eastern Germany. Crocidura leucodon occurred in overlapping ranges with the other shrews. Leptospira spp. DNA was detected in 28/227 C. russula and 2/78 C. leucodon samples. Further characterization revealed that Leptospira kirschneri had a sequence type (ST) 100. Neoehrlichia mikurensis DNA was detected in spleen tissue from 2/213 C. russula samples. Hedgehogs carried DNA from L. kirschneri (ST 100), L. interrogans (ST 24), A. phagocytophilum and two Bartonella species. This study improves the knowledge of the current distribution of Crocidura shrews and identifies C. russula as carrier of Leptospira kirschneri. However, shrews seem to play little-to-no role in the circulation of the arthropod-borne pathogens investigated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Viola Haring
- Institute of Novel and Emerging Infectious Diseases, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Südufer 10, 17493 Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Jens Jacob
- Institute for Epidemiology and Pathogen Diagnostics, Rodent Research, Julius Kühn-Institute, Federal Research Centre for Cultivated Plants, Toppheideweg 88, 48161 Münster, Germany
| | - Bernd Walther
- Institute for Epidemiology and Pathogen Diagnostics, Rodent Research, Julius Kühn-Institute, Federal Research Centre for Cultivated Plants, Toppheideweg 88, 48161 Münster, Germany
| | - Martin Trost
- Dezernat Artenschutz, Staatliche Vogelschutzwarte und CITES, Landesamt für Umweltschutz Sachsen-Anhalt, Reideburger Straße 47, 06116 Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Michael Stubbe
- Zentralmagazin Naturwissenschaftlicher Sammlungen, Martin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg, Domplatz 4, 06108 Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Katja Mertens-Scholz
- Institute of Bacterial Infections and Zoonoses, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Naumburger Str. 96a, 07743 Jena, Germany
| | - Falk Melzer
- Institute of Bacterial Infections and Zoonoses, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Naumburger Str. 96a, 07743 Jena, Germany
| | - Nelly Scuda
- Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority, Eggenreuther Weg 43, 91058 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Michaela Gentil
- Laboklin GmbH & Co.KG, Steubenstrasse 4, 97688 Bad Kissingen, Germany
| | - Wolfdieter Sixl
- Institute of Hygiene, University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Tanja Schäfer
- Wildtierhilfe Schäfer e.V., Waldstraße 275, 63071 Offenbach, Germany
| | - Michal Stanko
- Institute of Parasitology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Hlinkova 3, 04001 Košice, Slovakia
| | - Ronny Wolf
- Institute of Biology, Molecular Evolution and Systematics of Animals, University of Leipzig, Talstraße 33, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Martin Pfeffer
- Institute of Animal Hygiene and Veterinary Public Health, University of Leipzig, An den Tierkliniken 41-43, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Rainer G Ulrich
- Institute of Novel and Emerging Infectious Diseases, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Südufer 10, 17493 Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Anna Obiegala
- Institute of Animal Hygiene and Veterinary Public Health, University of Leipzig, An den Tierkliniken 41-43, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Detection of Anaplasma phagocytophilum in horses from Germany by molecular and serological testing (2008-2021). Vet Parasitol 2022; 312:109840. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2022.109840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
|
5
|
Karshima SN, Ahmed MI, Kogi CA, Iliya PS. Anaplasma phagocytophilum infection rates in questing and host-attached ticks: a global systematic review and meta-analysis. Acta Trop 2022; 228:106299. [PMID: 34998998 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2021.106299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Revised: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Anaplasma phagocytophilum causes a multi-organ non-specific febrile illness referred to as human granulocytic anaplasmosis. The epidemiologic risk of the pathogen is underestimated despite human encroachment into the natural habitats of ticks. In this study, we performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to determine the global infection rates and distribution of A. phagocytophilum in tick vectors. We pooled data using the random-effects model, assessed individual study quality using the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal instrument for prevalence studies and determined heterogeneity and across study bias using Cochran's Q-test and Egger's regression test respectively. A total of 126 studies from 33 countries across 4 continents reported A. phagocytophilum estimated infection rate of 4.76% (9453/174,967; 95% CI: 3.96, 5.71). Estimated IRs across sub-groups varied significantly (p <0.05) with a range of 1.95 (95% CI: 0.63, 5.86) to 7.15% (95% CI: 5.31, 9.56). Country-based IRs ranged between 0.42 (95% CI: 0.22, 0.80) in Belgium and 37.54% (95% CI: 0.72, 98.03) in Norway. The highest number of studies on A. phagocytophilum were in Europe (82/126) by continent and the USA (33/126) by country. The risk of transmitting this pathogens from ticks to animals and humans exist and therefore, we recommend the use of chemical and biological control measures as well as repellents and protective clothing by occupationally exposed individuals to curtail further transmission of the pathogen to humans and animals.
Collapse
|
6
|
Russell A, Shost N, Burch M, Salazara LL, Fikes K, Bechelli J, Suagee-Bedore J. Serological and Molecular Detection of Anaplasma spp. in Blood From Healthy Horses: A Preliminary Study of Horses in East Texas. J Equine Vet Sci 2021; 106:103757. [PMID: 34670700 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2021.103757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Revised: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Anaplasmosis is a disease caused by the bacterium Anaplasma phagocytophilum, which is spread by infected ticks. In horses, A. phagocytophilum generally causes transient infection characterized by fever, lethargy, inappetence, ventral edema, petechiae, icterus, ataxia, recumbency, muscle stiffness, and, in severe cases, death. Following natural infection, horses retain antibodies for approximately 2 years, which can be detected through an immunofluorescence antibody assay. Current infections are determined through PCR assay of white blood cell DNA. For this study, whole blood was collected from apparently healthy horses located in East Texas (n = 70), west Texas (n = 3), New York (n = 49), and New Jersey (n = 11) for the determination of serum antibodies and PCR testing of bacterial DNA. Of the 133 horses, 24 tested positive for DNA presence of A. phagocytophilum, and 107 tested positive for serum antibodies. Of the 24 horses testing positive for A. phagocytophilum, 16 were positive for serum antibody presence and 8 were negative. Twenty of the msp2 positive horses were located in East Texas and 4 resided in New York. For serum antibodies, 100% of New York and New Jersey horses tested positive, while only 66% of Texas horses tested positive. This study provides evidence that a large number of horses are exposed to A. phagocytophilum and that this bacterium is present in East Texas. No Texas horse owners reported treatment for anaplasmosis, and the currently infected horses were not demonstrating signs of illness at the time of sample collection. Further research to understand the differences in disease severity amongst equine populations is warranted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alyssa Russell
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science and Engineering Technology, Sam Houston State University, Huntsville, TX
| | - Nichola Shost
- School of Agricultural Sciences, College of Science and Engineering Technology, Sam Houston State University, Huntsville, TX
| | - Megan Burch
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science and Engineering Technology, Sam Houston State University, Huntsville, TX
| | - Luis Lopez Salazara
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science and Engineering Technology, Sam Houston State University, Huntsville, TX
| | - Kalley Fikes
- School of Agricultural Sciences, College of Science and Engineering Technology, Sam Houston State University, Huntsville, TX
| | - Jeremy Bechelli
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science and Engineering Technology, Sam Houston State University, Huntsville, TX
| | - Jessica Suagee-Bedore
- School of Agricultural Sciences, College of Science and Engineering Technology, Sam Houston State University, Huntsville, TX.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Bauer BU, Răileanu C, Tauchmann O, Fischer S, Ambros C, Silaghi C, Ganter M. Anaplasma phagocytophilum and Anaplasma ovis-Emerging Pathogens in the German Sheep Population. Pathogens 2021; 10:1298. [PMID: 34684247 PMCID: PMC8537415 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10101298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Knowledge on the occurrence of pathogenic tick-borne bacteria Anaplasma phagocytophilum and Anaplasma ovis is scarce in sheep from Germany. In 2020, owners from five flocks reported ill thrift lambs and ewes with tick infestation. Out of 67 affected sheep, 55 animals were clinically examined and hematological values, blood chemistry and fecal examinations were performed to investigate the underlying disease causes. Serological tests (cELISA, IFAT) and qPCR were applied to all affected sheep to rule out A. phagocytophilum and A. ovis as a differential diagnosis. Ticks were collected from selected pastures and tested by qPCR. Most animals (n = 43) suffered from selenium deficiency and endoparasites were detected in each flock. Anaplasma spp. antibodies were determined in 59% of examined sheep. Seventeen animals tested positive for A. phagocytophilum by qPCR from all flocks and A. phagocytophilum was also detected in eight pools of Ixodes ricinus. Anaplasma phagocytophilum isolates from sheep and ticks were genotyped using three genes (16S rRNA, msp4 and groEL). Anaplasma ovis DNA was identified in six animals from one flock. Clinical, hematological and biochemical changes were not significantly associated with Anaplasma spp. infection. The 16S rRNA analysis revealed known variants of A. phagocytophilum, whereas the msp4 and groEL showed new genotypes. Further investigations are necessary to evaluate the dissemination and health impact of both pathogens in the German sheep population particularly in case of comorbidities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Ulrich Bauer
- Clinic for Swine and Small Ruminants, Forensic Medicine and Ambulatory Service, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bischofsholer Damm 15, 30173 Hannover, Germany;
| | - Cristian Răileanu
- Institute of Infectiology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Suedufer 10, 17493 Greifswald Isle of Riems, Germany; (C.R.); (O.T.); (S.F.); (C.S.)
| | - Oliver Tauchmann
- Institute of Infectiology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Suedufer 10, 17493 Greifswald Isle of Riems, Germany; (C.R.); (O.T.); (S.F.); (C.S.)
| | - Susanne Fischer
- Institute of Infectiology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Suedufer 10, 17493 Greifswald Isle of Riems, Germany; (C.R.); (O.T.); (S.F.); (C.S.)
| | - Christina Ambros
- Sheep Health Service, Bavarian Animal Health Service, Senator-Gerauer-Straße 23, 85586 Poing-Grub, Germany;
| | - Cornelia Silaghi
- Institute of Infectiology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Suedufer 10, 17493 Greifswald Isle of Riems, Germany; (C.R.); (O.T.); (S.F.); (C.S.)
- Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Greifswald, Domstraße 11, 17489 Greifswald, Germany
| | - Martin Ganter
- Clinic for Swine and Small Ruminants, Forensic Medicine and Ambulatory Service, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bischofsholer Damm 15, 30173 Hannover, Germany;
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Rubel W, Schoneberg C, Wolf A, Ganter M, Bauer BU. Seroprevalence and Risk Factors of Anaplasma spp. in German Small Ruminant Flocks. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:2793. [PMID: 34679815 PMCID: PMC8532635 DOI: 10.3390/ani11102793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Knowledge about the distribution of Anaplasma spp. in small ruminants from Germany is limited. Therefore, serum samples were examined from 71 small ruminant flocks (2731 sheep, 447 goats) located in the five German federal states: Schleswig-Holstein (SH), Lower Saxony (LS), North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW), Baden-Wuerttemberg (BW) and Bavaria (BAV). Antibodies to Anaplasma spp. were determined by a cELISA based on the MSP5 antigen. A risk factor analysis at animal and flock level was also performed. Antibodies to Anaplasma spp. were detected in 70/71 flocks without significant difference in the intra-flock prevalence (IFP) between the federal states. The mean antibody levels from sheep were significantly lower in northern Germany (LS, SH) compared to west (NRW) and south Germany (BW, BAV). Sheep had a 2.5-fold higher risk of being seropositive than goats. Females and older animals (>2 years) were more likely to have antibodies to Anaplasma spp. in one third and one quarter of cases, respectively. Flocks used for landscape conservation had a five times higher risk of acquiring an IFP greater than 20%. Cats and dogs on the farms increased the probability for small ruminant flocks to have an IFP of above 20% 10-fold and 166-fold, respectively. Further studies are necessary to assess the impact of Anaplasma species on the health of small ruminants in Germany.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wiebke Rubel
- Clinic for Swine and Small Ruminants, Forensic Medicine and Ambulatory Service, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 30173 Hannover, Germany; (A.W.); (M.G.); (B.U.B.)
| | - Clara Schoneberg
- Department of Biometry, Epidemiology and Information Processing, WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training for Health at the Human-Animal-Environment Interface, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 30559 Hannover, Germany;
| | - Annika Wolf
- Clinic for Swine and Small Ruminants, Forensic Medicine and Ambulatory Service, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 30173 Hannover, Germany; (A.W.); (M.G.); (B.U.B.)
| | - Martin Ganter
- Clinic for Swine and Small Ruminants, Forensic Medicine and Ambulatory Service, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 30173 Hannover, Germany; (A.W.); (M.G.); (B.U.B.)
| | - Benjamin Ulrich Bauer
- Clinic for Swine and Small Ruminants, Forensic Medicine and Ambulatory Service, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 30173 Hannover, Germany; (A.W.); (M.G.); (B.U.B.)
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Tick-borne zoonotic agents infecting horses from an urban area in Midwestern Brazil: epidemiological and hematological features. Trop Anim Health Prod 2021; 53:475. [PMID: 34553290 PMCID: PMC8457776 DOI: 10.1007/s11250-021-02887-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The emergence of tick-borne diseases has been reported as a serious problem in public health worldwide and many aspects of its epidemiology and effects on the health of its hosts are unclear. We aimed to perform an epidemiological study of tick-borne zoonotic Rickettsia, Borrelia, and Anaplasmataceae in horses from Midwestern Brazil. We also evaluated whether Borrelia spp. and Anaplasmataceae may be associated with hematological disorders in the sampled animals. Blood and serum samples as well as ticks were collected from 262 horses. Serum samples were used to perform serological tests, and hematological analyses were made using whole blood. Furthermore, DNA extracted from whole blood and ticks was used for molecular tests. Campo Grande is enzootic for tick-borne studied bacteria, since we found an overall exposure of 59.9% of the sampled horses, 28.7% of them presented co-exposure. Seropositivity rates of 20.6% for Borrelia spp., 25.6% for Rickettsia spp., and 31.6% for Anaplasmataceae were found in the sampled horses. Considering both molecular and serological tests for Borrelia spp., the infection rate was 48.0% (126/262). None of the tested horses showed molecular positivity for Anaplasma phagocytophilum. The horses sampled displayed 7.2% of parasitism by ixodid ticks in single and coinfestations. We did not find DNA of any studied bacteria in the sampled ticks. Positive horses for Borrelia spp. and Anaplasmataceae agents displayed leukopenia, monocytopenia, and lymphopenia. Together, our results suggest that horses may play a role as sentinel host for zoonotic bacteria and Borrelia spp. and Anaplasmataceae agents can impair the health of horses.
Collapse
|
10
|
Remesar S, Díaz P, Prieto A, García-Dios D, Panadero R, Fernández G, Brianti E, Díez-Baños P, Morrondo P, López CM. Molecular detection and identification of piroplasms (Babesia spp. and Theileria spp.) and Anaplasma phagocytophilum in questing ticks from northwest Spain. MEDICAL AND VETERINARY ENTOMOLOGY 2021; 35:51-58. [PMID: 32757238 DOI: 10.1111/mve.12468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2020] [Revised: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Anaplasma phagocytophilum and some piroplasm species are pathogens mainly transmitted by Ixodes ricinus. Considering that this tick species is predominant in north-western Spain, individual specimens (652 nymphs, 202 females and 202 males) and 23 larval pools were processed to determine the prevalence of these pathogens in questing I. ricinus from that region. Additionally, Dermacentor marginatus, Dermacentor reticulatus, Ixodes frontalis and Ixodes acuminatus were individually analysed. The groESL operon as well as the 16S rRNA and msp2 genes of Anaplasma were analysed. Similarly, piroplasms were identified at the 18S rRNA gene and the ITS1 of Babesia spp. and Theileria spp. Babesia venatorum (1.5%), A. phagocytophilum (0.7%), Babesia microti (0.3%) and Theileria sp. OT3 (0.2%) were detected in I. ricinus. A single I. frontalis (8.3%) tested positive to A. phagocytophilum. Although a low percentage of I. ricinus were infected with A. phagocytophilum and piroplasms, a potentially human pathogenic variant of A. phagocytophilum was detected, and both Babesia species found were zoonotic. Since the vector of Theileria sp. OT3 remains unknown, further investigations are needed to unravel the role of I. ricinus in the transmission of this piroplasm.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Remesar
- Investigación en Sanidad Animal: Galicia (Grupo INVESAGA), Facultade de Veterinaria, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Lugo, Spain
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie, Università degli Studi di Messina, Polo Universitario Annunziata, Messina, Italy
| | - P Díaz
- Investigación en Sanidad Animal: Galicia (Grupo INVESAGA), Facultade de Veterinaria, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Lugo, Spain
| | - A Prieto
- Investigación en Sanidad Animal: Galicia (Grupo INVESAGA), Facultade de Veterinaria, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Lugo, Spain
| | - D García-Dios
- Investigación en Sanidad Animal: Galicia (Grupo INVESAGA), Facultade de Veterinaria, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Lugo, Spain
| | - R Panadero
- Investigación en Sanidad Animal: Galicia (Grupo INVESAGA), Facultade de Veterinaria, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Lugo, Spain
| | - G Fernández
- Investigación en Sanidad Animal: Galicia (Grupo INVESAGA), Facultade de Veterinaria, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Lugo, Spain
| | - E Brianti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie, Università degli Studi di Messina, Polo Universitario Annunziata, Messina, Italy
| | - P Díez-Baños
- Investigación en Sanidad Animal: Galicia (Grupo INVESAGA), Facultade de Veterinaria, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Lugo, Spain
| | - P Morrondo
- Investigación en Sanidad Animal: Galicia (Grupo INVESAGA), Facultade de Veterinaria, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Lugo, Spain
| | - C M López
- Investigación en Sanidad Animal: Galicia (Grupo INVESAGA), Facultade de Veterinaria, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Lugo, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Springer A, Glass A, Probst J, Strube C. Tick-borne zoonoses and commonly used diagnostic methods in human and veterinary medicine. Parasitol Res 2021; 120:4075-4090. [PMID: 33459849 PMCID: PMC8599405 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-020-07033-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Around the world, human health and animal health are closely linked in terms of the One Health concept by ticks acting as vectors for zoonotic pathogens. Animals do not only maintain tick cycles but can either be clinically affected by the same tick-borne pathogens as humans and/or play a role as reservoirs or sentinel pathogen hosts. However, the relevance of different tick-borne diseases (TBDs) may vary in human vs. veterinary medicine, which is consequently reflected by the availability of human vs. veterinary diagnostic tests. Yet, as TBDs gain importance in both fields and rare zoonotic pathogens, such as Babesia spp., are increasingly identified as causes of human disease, a One Health approach regarding development of new diagnostic tools may lead to synergistic benefits. This review gives an overview on zoonotic protozoan, bacterial and viral tick-borne pathogens worldwide, discusses commonly used diagnostic techniques for TBDs, and compares commercial availability of diagnostic tests for humans vs. domestic animals, using Germany as an example, with the aim of highlighting existing gaps and opportunities for collaboration in a One Health framework.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Springer
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 17, 30559, Hanover, Germany
| | - Antje Glass
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 17, 30559, Hanover, Germany
| | - Julia Probst
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 17, 30559, Hanover, Germany
| | - Christina Strube
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 17, 30559, Hanover, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Anaplasma phagocytophilum and Babesia Species of Sympatric Roe Deer ( Capreolus capreolus), Fallow Deer ( Dama dama), Sika Deer ( Cervus nippon) and Red Deer ( Cervus elaphus) in Germany. Pathogens 2020; 9:pathogens9110968. [PMID: 33233767 PMCID: PMC7699845 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens9110968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Revised: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Wild cervids play an important role in transmission cycles of tick-borne pathogens; however, investigations of tick-borne pathogens in sika deer in Germany are lacking. (2) Methods: Spleen tissue of 74 sympatric wild cervids (30 roe deer, 7 fallow deer, 22 sika deer, 15 red deer) and of 27 red deer from a farm from southeastern Germany were analyzed by molecular methods for the presence of Anaplasma phagocytophilum and Babesia species. (3) Results: Anaplasma phagocytophilum and Babesia DNA was demonstrated in 90.5% and 47.3% of the 74 combined wild cervids and 14.8% and 18.5% of the farmed deer, respectively. Twelve 16S rRNA variants of A. phagocytophilum were delineated. While the infection rate for A. phagocytophilum among the four cervid species was similar (71.4% to 100%), it varied significantly for Babesia between roe deer (73.3%), fallow deer (14.3%), sika deer (27.3%) and red deer (40.0%). Deer ≤2 years of age tested significantly more often positive than the older deer for both A. phagocytophilum and Babesia species. (4) Conclusions: This study confirms the widespread occurrence of A. phagocytophilum and Babesia species in wild cervids and farmed red deer in Germany and documents the co-occurrence of the two tick-borne pathogens in free-ranging sika deer.
Collapse
|
13
|
The role of different species of wild ungulates and Ixodes ricinus ticks in the circulation of genetic variants of Anaplasma phagocytophilum in a forest biotope in north-western Poland. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2020; 11:101465. [PMID: 32723651 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2020.101465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2019] [Revised: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to reveal genetic variants of Anaplasma phagocytophilum strains occurring in different species of wild ungulates and in Ixodes ricinus ticks to check the role of the examined species in the circulation of the revealed variants in nature. The aim was also to determine if the detected variants of A. phagocytophilum are specific for particular game species as well as to examine their identity with other strains, including pathogenic ones. Sequences of the amplified groEL heat shock operon and msp2 gene fragments of A. phagocytophilum were obtained from samples collected between 2005 and 2007 from 14 roe deer (Capreolus capreolus), 13 red deer (Cervus elaphus), 1 fallow deer (Dama dama) and 4 wild boar (Sus scrofa) as well as 13 engorged and 11 questing I. ricinus ticks occurring in the area of Puszcza Wkrzańska Forest in north-western Poland. Analysis of the sequences showed the presence of five and four gene variants of groEL and msp2, respectively. The variants showed high identity with sequences derived from strains pathogenic to humans and/or domestic and companion animals. Cervids seem to play a more important role in the circulation of the detected variants in nature than wild boar. Some of the detected variants are not shared by roe and red deer. The results obtained on the basis of groEL and msp2 sequences are discrepant. Analysis of the groEL operon sequence provides more information on A. phagocytophilum strains than the msp2 gene sequence.
Collapse
|
14
|
Sánchez Romano J, Grund L, Obiegala A, Nymo IH, Ancin-Murguzur FJ, Li H, Król N, Pfeffer M, Tryland M. A Multi-Pathogen Screening of Captive Reindeer ( Rangifer tarandus) in Germany Based on Serological and Molecular Assays. Front Vet Sci 2019; 6:461. [PMID: 31921918 PMCID: PMC6933772 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2019.00461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2019] [Accepted: 11/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Captive reindeer in German zoos and wildlife parks live outside their natural geographic range and are exposed to a variety of viral, bacterial and protozoan pathogens, some host-specific and some which they are not exposed to in their native habitat. Reindeer blood samples and ticks collected in 2013 from 123 reindeer at 16 different zoological facilities were available from a previous study. The aims of this study were to assess the serological status of these animals with regards to various microorganisms as well as to test ticks (Ixodes ricinus) and blood samples for the presence of Anaplasma spp. DNA in order to evaluate the exposure of captive reindeer in Germany to a variety of pathogens. A total of 119 or 118 serum samples were screened (ELISA) and antibodies were detected (seropositive/tested, prevalence, confidence interval) against alphaherpesvirus (24/119, 20.3%, CI: 13.9–28.3), bluetongue virus (BTV; 4/119, 3.4%, CI: 1.0–8.7), malignant catarrhal fever related gammaherpesvirus (MCFV-related gammaherpesvirus; 7/119, 5.9%, CI: 2.7–11.9), pestivirus (5/118, 4.2%, CI: 1.6–9.8), Schmallenberg virus (SBV; 70/118, 59.3%, CI: 50.3–67.8), smooth Brucella spp. (1/118; 0.9%, CI: 0–5.1), Neospora caninum (5/118, 4.2%, CI: 1.6–9.8), and Toxoplasma gondii (62/119, 52.1%, CI: 43.2–60.9). These results suggested the exposure of reindeer to all tested pathogens. Moreover, real-time PCR for Anaplasma phagocytophilum targeting the partial msp2 gene was performed on DNA extracted from whole blood samples from reindeer (n = 123) and from ticks (n = 49) collected from 22 reindeer in seven different facilities. In addition to the real-time PCR, a semi-nested PCR for the partial groEL gene, and a nested PCR targeting the partial 16S rRNA gene were performed. DNA of A. phagocytophilum was detected in 17 reindeer (13.8%) and 15 ticks (30.6%). Three of the five reindeer with ticks having A. phagocytophilum DNA also had such DNA in blood. These results indicate that captive reindeer can be exposed to several ruminant pathogens that they hitherto had no known exposure to through their natural geographical distribution and habitats as shown for Culicoides-borne BTV and SBV. Further, captive reindeer may serve as reservoir hosts for pathogens circulating in local domestic, captive, and wild ruminant species and populations and arthropod vectors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Javier Sánchez Romano
- Arctic Infection Biology, Department of Arctic and Marine Biology, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | | | - Anna Obiegala
- Institute of Animal Hygiene and Veterinary Public Health, Veterinary Faculty, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | | | - Francisco Javier Ancin-Murguzur
- Northern Populations and Ecosystems, Department of Arctic and Marine Biology, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Hong Li
- Animal Disease Research Unit, USDA-Agricultural Research Service and Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Pullman, WA, United States
| | - Nina Król
- Institute of Animal Hygiene and Veterinary Public Health, Veterinary Faculty, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Martin Pfeffer
- Institute of Animal Hygiene and Veterinary Public Health, Veterinary Faculty, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Morten Tryland
- Arctic Infection Biology, Department of Arctic and Marine Biology, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Remesar S, Díaz P, Prieto A, García-Dios D, Fernández G, López CM, Panadero R, Díez-Baños P, Morrondo P. Prevalence and molecular characterization of Anaplasma phagocytophilum in roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) from Spain. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2019; 11:101351. [PMID: 31822398 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2019.101351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2019] [Revised: 11/06/2019] [Accepted: 12/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Anaplasma phagocytophilum can infect a wide range of vertebrates; nevertheless, some genetic variants are associated with particular species of tick vectors and animal hosts. It has been suggested that roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) mainly acts as a reservoir of several A. phagocytophilum non-pathogenic variants for other animal species. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and identify the genetic variants of A. phagocytophilum in roe deer from Spain in order to assess host-pathogen associations and their pathogenic potential. The spleens of 212 roe deer hunted in Spain were individually collected and analysed by a commercial qPCR kit in order to detect the presence of A. phagocytophilum DNA. Positive samples were further characterized at groESL, 16S rRNA and msp2 partial genes. The possible influence of several intrinsic (age and sex) and extrinsic factors (ecological area) on A. phagocytophilum prevalence was analysed using a logistic regression. Overall, 41.5 % of the samples resulted positive to A. phagocytophilum. The percentage of infected roe deer was significantly higher in the Mediterranean and Oceanic areas than in the Continental and Mountain regions; nevertheless, prevalence was not related to age or sex. Sequence analysis at groESL and 16S rRNA genes allowed the identification of three ecotypes (I to III) and four variants ("Y", "X", "W", "I"), respectively. A high percentage of roe deer from Spain is infected with different variants of A. phagocytophilum; these results have implications for public and animal health since some of these ecotypes and variants have been previously identified in both human and animal clinical cases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susana Remesar
- Investigación en Sanidad Animal: Galicia (Grupo INVESAGA), Facultade de Veterinaria, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Lugo, Spain
| | - Pablo Díaz
- Investigación en Sanidad Animal: Galicia (Grupo INVESAGA), Facultade de Veterinaria, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Lugo, Spain
| | - Alberto Prieto
- Investigación en Sanidad Animal: Galicia (Grupo INVESAGA), Facultade de Veterinaria, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Lugo, Spain.
| | - David García-Dios
- Investigación en Sanidad Animal: Galicia (Grupo INVESAGA), Facultade de Veterinaria, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Lugo, Spain
| | - Gonzalo Fernández
- Investigación en Sanidad Animal: Galicia (Grupo INVESAGA), Facultade de Veterinaria, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Lugo, Spain
| | - Ceferino M López
- Investigación en Sanidad Animal: Galicia (Grupo INVESAGA), Facultade de Veterinaria, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Lugo, Spain
| | - Rosario Panadero
- Investigación en Sanidad Animal: Galicia (Grupo INVESAGA), Facultade de Veterinaria, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Lugo, Spain
| | - Pablo Díez-Baños
- Investigación en Sanidad Animal: Galicia (Grupo INVESAGA), Facultade de Veterinaria, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Lugo, Spain
| | - Patrocinio Morrondo
- Investigación en Sanidad Animal: Galicia (Grupo INVESAGA), Facultade de Veterinaria, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Lugo, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Ben Said M, Belkahia H, Selmi R, Messadi L. Computational selection of minimum length groESL operon required for Anaplasma species attribution and strain diversity analysis. Mol Cell Probes 2019; 48:101467. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mcp.2019.101467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2019] [Revised: 09/06/2019] [Accepted: 09/25/2019] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
|
17
|
Hamšíková Z, Silaghi C, Takumi K, Rudolf I, Gunár K, Sprong H, Kazimírová M. Presence of Roe Deer Affects the Occurrence of Anaplasma phagocytophilum Ecotypes in Questing Ixodes ricinus in Different Habitat Types of Central Europe. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16234725. [PMID: 31783486 PMCID: PMC6926711 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16234725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2019] [Revised: 11/22/2019] [Accepted: 11/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The way in which European genetic variants of Anaplasma phagocytophilum circulate in their natural foci and which variants cause disease in humans or livestock remains thus far unclear. Red deer and roe deer are suggested to be reservoirs for some European A. phagocytophilum strains, and Ixodes ricinus is their principal vector. Based on groEL gene sequences, five A. phagocytophilum ecotypes have been identified. Ecotype I is associated with the broadest host range, including strains that cause disease in domestic animals and humans. Ecotype II is associated with roe deer and does not include zoonotic strains. In the present study, questing I. ricinus were collected in urban, pasture, and natural habitats in the Czech Republic, Germany, and Slovakia. A fragment of the msp2 gene of A. phagocytophilum was amplified by real-time PCR in DNA isolated from ticks. Positive samples were further analyzed by nested PCRs targeting fragments of the 16S rRNA and groEL genes, followed by sequencing. Samples were stratified according to the presence/absence of roe deer at the sampling sites. Geographic origin, habitat, and tick stage were also considered. The probability that A. phagocytophilum is a particular ecotype was estimated by a generalized linear model. Anaplasma phagocytophilum was identified by genetic typing in 274 I. ricinus ticks. The majority belonged to ecotype I (63.9%), 28.5% were ecotype II, and both ecotypes were identified in 7.7% of ticks. Ecotype II was more frequently identified in ticks originating from a site with presence of roe deer, whereas ecotype I was more frequent in adult ticks than in nymphs. Models taking into account the country-specific, site-specific, and habitat-specific aspects did not improve the goodness of the fit. Thus, roe deer presence in a certain site and the tick developmental stage are suggested to be the two factors consistently influencing the occurrence of a particular A. phagocytophilum ecotype in a positive I. ricinus tick.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zuzana Hamšíková
- Institute of Zoology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dúbravská cesta 9, 84506 Bratislava, Slovakia;
| | - Cornelia Silaghi
- Institute of Infectology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institute, Südufer 10, 17493 Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany;
| | - Katsuhisa Takumi
- Laboratory for Zoonoses and Environmental Microbiology, National Institute for Public Health and Environment, Antonie van Leeuwenhoeklaan 9, P.O. Box 1, 3720 BA Bilthoven, The Netherlands; (K.T.); (H.S.)
| | - Ivo Rudolf
- Institute of Vertebrate Biology, The Czech Academy of Sciences, Klášterní 2, 69142 Valtice, Czech Republic;
| | - Kristyna Gunár
- Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, The Czech Academy of Sciences, Heyrovského nám. 1888/2, 16200 Prague 6, Czech Republic;
| | - Hein Sprong
- Laboratory for Zoonoses and Environmental Microbiology, National Institute for Public Health and Environment, Antonie van Leeuwenhoeklaan 9, P.O. Box 1, 3720 BA Bilthoven, The Netherlands; (K.T.); (H.S.)
| | - Mária Kazimírová
- Institute of Zoology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dúbravská cesta 9, 84506 Bratislava, Slovakia;
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Obiegala A, Heuser E, Ryll R, Imholt C, Fürst J, Prautsch LM, Plenge-Bönig A, Ulrich RG, Pfeffer M. Norway and black rats in Europe: potential reservoirs for zoonotic arthropod-borne pathogens? PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2019; 75:1556-1563. [PMID: 30624020 DOI: 10.1002/ps.5323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2018] [Revised: 12/20/2018] [Accepted: 01/09/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Norway rats (Rattus norvegicus) and black rats (R. rattus) are known to be cosmopolitan reservoirs for zoonotic agents. Nevertheless, little is known about prevalence and distribution of arthropod-borne pathogens in rats from Europe. Therefore, this survey focused on the detection of arthropod-borne pathogens. Spleen-derived DNA samples were available from 528 Norway rats and 74 black rats collected in several European countries. Further, these samples were processed by polymerase chain reaction for the detection of zoonotic pathogens such as Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Candidatus Neoehrlichia mikurensis (CNM), Babesia spp. and Bartonella spp. eventually followed by sequencing. RESULTS Babesia spp. was not detected. Four Norway rat samples were positive for A. phagocytophilum DNA and two for CNM. In 50 rat samples, Bartonella spp. DNA was detected (8.1%; 95% Confidence interval (CI) 6.2-10.61). Whereas B. tribocorum (n = 45) and B. grahamii (n = 1) were carried exclusively in Norway rats from Central Europe (Belgium, Germany), B. coopersplainsensis (n = 4) was detected only in black rats from southern European countries (Spain, Italy). CONCLUSIONS Pathogenic Bartonella spp. DNA was found in black and Norway rats from Germany, Italy, Spain and Belgium for the first time. Bartonellae were found focally in zoos suggesting Norway rats as a possible reservoir for B. tribocorum and black rats as a reservoir for B. coopersplainsensis in Europe. These findings should raise awareness of pathogenic Bartonella spp. in Norway rats, especially in terms of pest management control in zoos. Norway and black rats seem not to be predominantly involved in the life cycle of the other examined arthropod-borne pathogens in Europe. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Obiegala
- Institute of Animal Hygiene and Veterinary Public Health, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Elisa Heuser
- Institute of Novel and Emerging Infectious Diseases, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Greifswald-Insel, Riems, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hamburg-Luebeck-Borstel-Insel Riems, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - René Ryll
- Institute of Novel and Emerging Infectious Diseases, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Greifswald-Insel, Riems, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hamburg-Luebeck-Borstel-Insel Riems, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Christian Imholt
- Julius Kühn-Institute, Federal Research Institute for Cultivated Plants, Institute for Plant Protection in Horticulture and Forests, Vertebrate Research, Münster, Germany
| | - Johanna Fürst
- Institute of Animal Hygiene and Veterinary Public Health, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Lisa-Marie Prautsch
- Institute of Animal Hygiene and Veterinary Public Health, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Anita Plenge-Bönig
- Department Hygiene and Infection Medicine, Institute of Hygiene and Environment, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Rainer G Ulrich
- Institute of Novel and Emerging Infectious Diseases, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Greifswald-Insel, Riems, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hamburg-Luebeck-Borstel-Insel Riems, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Martin Pfeffer
- Institute of Animal Hygiene and Veterinary Public Health, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Guimarães A, Raimundo JM, Peixoto MP, da Silva CB, Pires MS, Santos HA, Baldani CD. Molecular detection, characterization of Anaplasma spp. in domestic cats from Rio de Janeiro state. Acta Trop 2019; 191:239-242. [PMID: 30615856 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2019.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2018] [Revised: 01/03/2019] [Accepted: 01/03/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Species of the genus Anaplasma, in the family Anaplasmatacae, are responsible to vector-borne diseases that affecting animals and humans. Feline anaplasmosis is poorly reported in Brazil. This study aimed at investigating the occurrence of Anaplasma spp. in domestic cats from Greater Rio de Janeiro, and evaluating hematological changes associated with this rickettsial infection. Were sampled 216 cats, we performed nested PCR (nPCR) and real-time PCR (qPCR) assays targeting A. platys-16S-rDNA, A. platys-gltA and A. phagocytophilum-msp2 sequences. As evaluated with gltA-qPCR the frequency of cats positive for A. platys was 3.7% (n = 8/216) and by 16S-rDNA nested-PCR it was 0.9% (n = 2/216). No cats were positive to msp2-qPCR to A. phagocytophilum. The sequences of A. platys presented 100% similarity with previously described isolates around the world and Brazil. Two cats that were positive in the gltA-qPCR reactions have platelet inclusions in the microscopic examination. However, no significant (p > 0.05) hematological changes were observed, probably due to low parasite load. This study showed that A. platys occur in domestic cats from Greater Rio de Janeiro. Further studies are needed to more precisely characterize these organisms.
Collapse
|
20
|
Razanske I, Rosef O, Radzijevskaja J, Bratchikov M, Griciuviene L, Paulauskas A. Prevalence and co-infection with tick-borne Anaplasma phagocytophilum and Babesia spp. in red deer ( Cervus elaphus) and roe deer ( Capreolus capreolus) in Southern Norway. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY-PARASITES AND WILDLIFE 2019; 8:127-134. [PMID: 30766793 PMCID: PMC6360459 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2019.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2018] [Revised: 01/11/2019] [Accepted: 01/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Anaplasma phagocytophilum and Babesia spp. are causative agents of tick-borne infections that are increasingly considered as a threat to animal and public health. To assess the role of cervids in the maintenance of zoonotic pathogens in Norway, we investigated the prevalence of A. phagocytophilum and Babesia spp. in free-ranging roe deer and red deer. Initial screening of spleen samples of 104 animals by multiplex real-time PCR targeting the major surface protein (msp2) gene and 18S rRNA revealed the presence of A. phagocytophilum infection in 81.1% red deer (Cervus elaphus) and 88.1% roe deer (Capreolus capreolus), and Babesia spp. parasites in 64.9% red deer and 83.6% roe deer, respectively. Co-infections were found in 62.2% red deer and 79.9% roe deer. Nested PCR and sequence analysis of partial msp4 and 18S rRNA genes were performed for molecular characterization of A. phagocytophilum strains and Babesia species. A total of eleven A. phagocytophilum msp4 gene sequence variants were identified: five different variants were 100% identical to corresponding A. phagocytophilum sequences deposited in the GenBank database, while other six sequence variants had unique nucleotide polymorphisms. Sequence analysis of the 18S rRNA gene demonstrated the presence of multiple Babesia species, including Babesia capreoli, Babesia divergens, Babesia venatorum and Babesia odocoilei/Babesia cf. odocoilei. This study is the first report demonstrating the prevalence and molecular characterization of A. phagocytophilum strains and Babesia species in roe deer and red deer in Norway. The high infection and co-infection rates with A. phagocytophilum and Babesia spp. in red deer and roe deer suggest that these cervids may play an important role in the transmission of single and multiple pathogens.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Irma Razanske
- Department of Biology, Vytautas Magnus University, Vileikos 8, LT -444404, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Olav Rosef
- Department of Biology, Vytautas Magnus University, Vileikos 8, LT -444404, Kaunas, Lithuania.,Rosef Field Research Station, Frolandsveien 2667, 4828, Mjåvatn, Norway
| | - Jana Radzijevskaja
- Department of Biology, Vytautas Magnus University, Vileikos 8, LT -444404, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Maksim Bratchikov
- Department of Biology, Vytautas Magnus University, Vileikos 8, LT -444404, Kaunas, Lithuania.,Department of Physiology, Biochemistry, Microbiology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Vilnius University, M.K. Čiurlionio 21, LT-03101, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Loreta Griciuviene
- Department of Biology, Vytautas Magnus University, Vileikos 8, LT -444404, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Algimantas Paulauskas
- Department of Biology, Vytautas Magnus University, Vileikos 8, LT -444404, Kaunas, Lithuania
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Pilloux L, Baumgartner A, Jaton K, Lienhard R, Ackermann-Gäumann R, Beuret C, Greub G. Prevalence of Anaplasma phagocytophilum and Coxiella burnetii in Ixodes ricinus ticks in Switzerland: an underestimated epidemiologic risk. New Microbes New Infect 2018; 27:22-26. [PMID: 30534383 PMCID: PMC6278774 DOI: 10.1016/j.nmni.2018.08.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2018] [Revised: 08/27/2018] [Accepted: 08/29/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Ticks are vectors of several microorganisms responsible for infectious diseases in human and animals, such as Anaplasma phagocytophilum and Coxiella burnetii. In this study, we investigated the prevalence of these two bacteria in 62 889 Ixodes ricinus ticks in selected regions covering all Switzerland. A high prevalence of 11.9% of A. phagocytophilum DNA was observed by real-time PCR on 8534 pools of ticks. This pool prevalence corresponds to an estimated prevalence of 1.71% in individual tick. A total of 144 of the 171 collection sites (84.2%) were positive for the presence of A. phagocytophilum, and these sites were homogenously distributed throughout Switzerland. Such prevalence and geographical distribution underline the risk of human and animal exposure to A. phagocytophilum and highlight the need to assess the epidemiology and clinical diagnosis of human and animal anaplasmosis in Switzerland. However, DNA of C. burnetii was never found in any tick pool. This absence suggests a very low role of I. ricinus ticks as vector and reservoir of C. burnetii in Switzerland, and it supports previous reports demonstrating the role of sheep and goats in the epidemiology of Q fever. However, considering its pathogenic potential, it is necessary to keep monitoring for the possible reemergence of this bacterium in ticks in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L. Pilloux
- Institute of Microbiology of the Lausanne University Hospital, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - A. Baumgartner
- Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office, Bern, Switzerland
| | - K. Jaton
- Institute of Microbiology of the Lausanne University Hospital, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - R. Lienhard
- ADMED Microbiologie, La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland
- Spiez Laboratory, Federal Office for Civil Protection, Spiez, Switzerland
| | - R. Ackermann-Gäumann
- Swiss Reference Center for Tickborne Disease (NRZK/CNRT), Spiez, Switzerland
- Spiez Laboratory, Federal Office for Civil Protection, Spiez, Switzerland
| | - C. Beuret
- Spiez Laboratory, Federal Office for Civil Protection, Spiez, Switzerland
| | - G. Greub
- Institute of Microbiology of the Lausanne University Hospital, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Swiss Reference Center for Tickborne Disease (NRZK/CNRT), Spiez, Switzerland
- Corresponding author: G. Greub, Center for Research on Intracellular Bacteria, Institute of Microbiology, University Hospital Center and University of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Han DG, Ryu JH, Chae JB, Kim DW, Kwon CH, Choi KS. First report of Anaplasma phagocytophilum infection in Holstein cattle in the Republic of Korea. Acta Trop 2018; 183:110-113. [PMID: 29654732 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2018.04.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2018] [Revised: 04/02/2018] [Accepted: 04/08/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Global warming has increased the incidence and risk of tick-borne diseases in domestic animals and humans in the Republic of Korea (ROK). In this study, we investigated the prevalence of Anaplasma phagocytophilum in Holstein cattle (n = 214) in the ROK using specific PCR assays. A. phagocytophilum infection was detected in only two animals (0.93%, 2/214). Our findings showed that PCR assay using the 16S rRNA gene, but not groEL, was suitable for detection of A. phagocytophilum in cattle. Phylogenetic analysis based on the16S rRNA gene showed that A. phagocytophilum was divided into two clades. Clade 1 included Korean isolates, such as those from dogs, cats, Korean water deer, and ticks, while A. phagocytophilum identified in Holstein cattle formed clade 2. Our results suggest that there is genetic variability among isolates of A. phagocytophilum circulating in the ROK. This is the first study to report A. phagocytophilum infection in Holstein cattle in the ROK. As A. phagocytophilum has zoonotic potential, additional epidemiological studies are needed to investigate the prevalence and genetic characterization of A. phagocytophilum from different regions and hosts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Du-Gyeong Han
- Department of Animal Science and Biotechnology, College of Ecology and Environmental Science, Kyungpook National University, Sangju 37224, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji-Hyoung Ryu
- Department of Animal Science and Biotechnology, College of Ecology and Environmental Science, Kyungpook National University, Sangju 37224, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong-Byoung Chae
- Laboratory of Veterinary Internal Medicine, BK21 PLUS Program for Creative Veterinary Science Research, Research Institute for Veterinary Science and College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong-Woo Kim
- Department of Animal Science and Biotechnology, College of Ecology and Environmental Science, Kyungpook National University, Sangju 37224, Republic of Korea
| | - Chan-Ho Kwon
- Department of Animal Science and Biotechnology, College of Ecology and Environmental Science, Kyungpook National University, Sangju 37224, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyoung-Seong Choi
- Department of Animal Science and Biotechnology, College of Ecology and Environmental Science, Kyungpook National University, Sangju 37224, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Molecular investigation of Anaplasma spp. in domestic and wildlife animals in Peninsular Malaysia. VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY- REGIONAL STUDIES AND REPORTS 2018; 13:141-147. [PMID: 31014863 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2018.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2018] [Revised: 05/27/2018] [Accepted: 05/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Anaplasma spp. are Gram-negative obligate intracellular, tick-borne bacteria which are of medical and veterinary importance. Little information is available on Anaplasma infection affecting domestic and wildlife animals in Malaysia. This study investigated the presence of Anaplasma spp. in the blood samples of domestic and wildlife animals in Peninsular Malaysia, using polymerase chain reaction (EHR-PCR) assays targeting the 16S rRNA gene of Anaplasmataceae. High detection rates (60.7% and 59.0%, respectively) of Anaplasma DNA were noted in 224 cattle (Bos taurus) and 78 deer (77 Rusa timorensis and one Rusa unicolor) investigated in this study. Of the 60 amplified fragments obtained for sequence analysis, Anaplasma marginale was exclusively detected in cattle while Anaplasma platys/Anaplasma phagocytophilum was predominantly detected in the deer. Based on sequence analyses of the longer fragment of the 16S rRNA gene (approximately 1000 bp), the occurrence of A. marginale, Anaplasma capra and Candidatus Anaplasma camelii in cattle, Candidatus A. camelii in deer and Anaplasma bovis in a goat was identified in this study. To assess whether animals were infected with more than one species of Anaplasma, nested amplification of A. phagocytophilum, A. bovis and Ehrlichia chaffeensis DNA was performed for 33 animal samples initially screened positive for Anaplasmataceae. No amplification of E. chaffeensis DNA was obtained from animals investigated. BLAST analyses of the 16S rDNA sequences from three deer (R. timorensis), a buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) and a cow (B. taurus) reveal similarity with that of Candidatus Anaplasma boleense strain (GenBank accession no.: KX987335). Sequence analyses of the partial gene fragments of major surface protein (msp4) gene from two deer (R. timorensis) and a monitor lizard (Varanus salvator) show the detection of a strain highly similar (99%) to that of A. phagocytophilum strain ZJ-China (EU008082). The findings in this study show the occurrence of various Anaplasma species including those newly reported species in Malaysian domestic and wildlife animals. The role of these animals as reservoirs/maintenance hosts for Anaplasma infection are yet to be determined.
Collapse
|
24
|
Equine Granulocytic Anaplasmosis 28 years later. Microb Pathog 2018; 119:1-8. [PMID: 29626656 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2018.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2018] [Revised: 03/30/2018] [Accepted: 04/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Equine granulocytic anaplasmosis (EGA) is an important tick borne disease of equines that is caused by Anaplasma phagocytophilum (A. phagocytophilum). The etiological agent has veterinary as well as public health importance because of its zoonotic nature. A. phagocytophilum causes an acute illness in equines with loss of appetite, lethargy, hemorrhages and lameness. Clinically, EGA is diagnosed upon examination of morulae within neutrophils especially granulocytes in the blood. The best diagnostic tool for the detection of EGA is Polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Previous studies suggested that EGA is a self-limiting disease and tetracycline therapy is considered as a best treatment regimen. There is no comprehensive summary on the occurrence and distribution of the infection at global level. Therefore, we intended to provide a comprehensive summary on the prevalence and epidemiology of EGA in different areas of the world. It includes mapping the global distribution of EGA in different areas of the world to identify the endemic regions which may be a source of potential disease outbreak. For this purpose, the published data from 1990 to 2018 on EGA was reviewed and collected by electronic literature search of five databases including Google, Google Scholar, Science Direct, PubMed and Web of Science.
Collapse
|
25
|
Silaghi C, Nieder M, Sauter-Louis C, Knubben-Schweizer G, Pfister K, Pfeffer M. Epidemiology, genetic variants and clinical course of natural infections with Anaplasma phagocytophilum in a dairy cattle herd. Parasit Vectors 2018; 11:20. [PMID: 29310697 PMCID: PMC5759301 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-017-2570-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2017] [Accepted: 12/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Anaplasma phagocytophilum is an obligate intracellular, tick-transmitted bacterium that causes granulocytic anaplasmosis in humans and several mammalian species including domestic ruminants where it is called tick-borne fever (TBF). Different genetic variants exist but their impact with regard to putative differences in host associations and pathogenicity are not yet completely understood. Methods Natural infections with A. phagocytophilum in a dairy cattle herd in Germany were investigated over one pasture season by using serology, haematology, blood chemistry and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Sequence analysis of partial 16S rRNA, groEL, msp2 and msp4 genes of A. phagocytophilum was carried out in order to trace possible genetic variants and their relations between cattle, roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) and ticks (Ixodes ricinus) in this area. Results In total 533 samples from 58 cattle, 310 ticks, three roe deer and one wild boar were examined. Our results show (i) typical clinical symptoms of TBF in first-time infected heifers, such as high fever, reduced milk yield, lower limb oedema and typical haematological and biochemical findings such as severe leukopenia, erythropenia, neutropenia, lymphocytopenia, monocytopenia, a significant increase in creatinine and bilirubin and a significant decrease in serum albumin, γ-GT, GLDH, magnesium and calcium; (ii) a high overall prevalence of A. phagocytophilum infections in this herd as 78.9% (15/19) of the naïve heifers were real-time PCR-positive and 75.9% (44/58) of the entire herd seroconverted; and (iii) a high level of sequence variation in the analysed genes with five variants of the 16S rRNA gene, two variants of the groEL gene, three variants of the msp2 gene and four variants in the msp4 gene with certain combinations of these variants. Conclusions In cattle particular combinations of the genetic variants of A. phagocytophilum occurred, whereas three roe deer showed different variants altogether. This is indicative for a sympatric circulation of variants in this small geographical region (< 1 km2). Both re- and superinfections with A. phagocytophilum were observed in five cattle showing that infection does not result in sterile immunity. For prevention of clinical cases we suggest pasturing of young, not pregnant heifers to reduce economical losses. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13071-017-2570-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cornelia Silaghi
- Comparative Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany.,Present Address: Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Institute of Infectology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institute, Riems, Germany
| | - Marion Nieder
- Institute for Animal Hygiene and Veterinary Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Carola Sauter-Louis
- Clinic for Ruminants with Ambulatory and Herd Health Services at the Centre for Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany.,Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Institute of Epidemiology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Riems, Germany
| | - Gabriela Knubben-Schweizer
- Clinic for Ruminants with Ambulatory and Herd Health Services at the Centre for Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Kurt Pfister
- Comparative Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Martin Pfeffer
- Institute for Animal Hygiene and Veterinary Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Chisu V, Zobba R, Lecis R, Sotgiu F, Masala G, Foxi C, Pisu D, Alberti A. GroEL typing and phylogeny of Anaplasma species in ticks from domestic and wild vertebrates. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2017; 9:31-36. [PMID: 29089249 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2017.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2017] [Revised: 10/10/2017] [Accepted: 10/19/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Anaplasma species are globally distributed tick-borne bacteria causing a range of clinical conditions in domestic animals, wildlife, and human. Nevertheless, data on presence and distribution of Anaplasma strains in ticks are still lacking, especially in the Mediterranean region. This study reports the molecular identification, genetic characterization and phylogeny of Anaplasma strains of both veterinary and zoonotic importance in ticks collected from domestic and wild hosts sampled in a typical Mediterranean warm temperate region, the island of Sardinia. Results reveal the presence of A. ovis in Rhipicephalus bursa and R. sanguineus sensu lato ticks; A. platys-like was found in R. bursa ticks; while A. platys and A. phagocytophilum were detected in Hyalomma marginatum and H. lusitanicum ticks. Investigating the occurrence of different Anaplasma species in ticks from domestic and wild hosts improves the knowledge of tick-borne diseases in the Mediterranean area, and has implications in defining vector species distribution and risk assessment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Chisu
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sardegna, Sassari, Italy.
| | - Rosanna Zobba
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli studi di Sassari, Italy
| | - Roberta Lecis
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli studi di Sassari, Italy
| | - Francesca Sotgiu
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli studi di Sassari, Italy
| | - Giovanna Masala
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sardegna, Sassari, Italy
| | - Cipriano Foxi
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sardegna, Sassari, Italy
| | - Danilo Pisu
- Osservatorio Faunistico Parco Nazionale Asinara, Asinara, Italy
| | - Alberto Alberti
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli studi di Sassari, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Morganti G, Gavaudan S, Canonico C, Ravagnan S, Olivieri E, Diaferia M, Marenzoni ML, Antognoni MT, Capelli G, Silaghi C, Veronesi F. Molecular Survey on Rickettsia spp., Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Borrelia burgdorferi Sensu Lato, and Babesia spp. in Ixodes ricinus Ticks Infesting Dogs in Central Italy. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2017; 17:743-748. [PMID: 29022768 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2017.2154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Dogs are a common feeding hosts for Ixodes ricinus and may act as reservoir hosts for zoonotic tick-borne pathogens (TBPs) and as carriers of infected ticks into human settings. The aim of this work was to evaluate the presence of several selected TBPs of significant public health concern by molecular methods in I. ricinus recovered from dogs living in urban and suburban settings in central Italy. A total of 212 I. ricinus specimens were collected from the coat of domestic dogs. DNA was extracted from each specimen individually and tested for Rickettsia spp., Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato, Babesia spp., and Anaplasma phagocytophilum, using real-time and conventional PCR protocols, followed by sequencing. Sixty-one ticks (28.8%) tested positive for TBPs; 57 samples were infected by one pathogen, while four showed coinfections. Rickettsia spp. was detected in 39 specimens (18.4%), of which 32 were identified as Rickettsia monacensis and seven as Rickettsia helvetica. Twenty-two samples (10.4%) tested positive for A. phagocytophilum; Borrelia lusitaniae and Borrelia afzelii were detected in two specimens and one specimen, respectively. One tick (0.5%) was found to be positive for Babesia venatorum (EU1). Our findings reveal the significant exposure of dogs to TBPs of public health concern and provide data on the role of dogs in the circulation of I. ricinus-borne pathogens in central Italy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Morganti
- 1 Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia , Perugia, Italy
| | - Stefano Gavaudan
- 2 Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell'Umbria e delle Marche , Ancona, Italy
| | - Cristina Canonico
- 2 Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell'Umbria e delle Marche , Ancona, Italy
| | - Silvia Ravagnan
- 3 Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie , Legnaro, Italy
| | - Emanuela Olivieri
- 1 Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia , Perugia, Italy
| | - Manuela Diaferia
- 1 Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia , Perugia, Italy
| | | | | | - Gioia Capelli
- 3 Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie , Legnaro, Italy
| | - Cornelia Silaghi
- 4 Comparative Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München , München, Germany .,5 National Center for Vector Entomology, University of Zürich , Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Fabrizia Veronesi
- 1 Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia , Perugia, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
SURVEY OF ANAPLASMA PHAGOCYTOPHILUM ANTIBODIES IN CAPTIVE PRZEWALSKI'S HORSES ( EQUUS FERUS PRZEWALSKII). J Zoo Wildl Med 2017; 48:506-509. [DOI: 10.1638/2016-0248r.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
|
29
|
Battilani M, De Arcangeli S, Balboni A, Dondi F. Genetic diversity and molecular epidemiology of Anaplasma. INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2017; 49:195-211. [PMID: 28122249 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2017.01.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2016] [Revised: 01/18/2017] [Accepted: 01/19/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Anaplasma are obligate intracellular bacteria of cells of haematopoietic origin and are aetiological agents of tick-borne diseases of both veterinary and medical interest common in both tropical and temperate regions. The recent disclosure of their zoonotic potential has greatly increased interest in the study of these bacteria, leading to the recent reorganisation of Rickettsia taxonomy and to the possible discovery of new species belonging to the genus Anaplasma. This review is particularly focused on the common and unique characteristics of Anaplasma marginale and Anaplasma phagocytophilum, with an emphasis on genetic diversity and evolution, and the main distinguishing features of the diseases caused by the different Anaplasma spp. are described as well.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mara Battilani
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra, 50, 40064 Ozzano Emilia, Bo, Italy.
| | - Stefano De Arcangeli
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra, 50, 40064 Ozzano Emilia, Bo, Italy
| | - Andrea Balboni
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra, 50, 40064 Ozzano Emilia, Bo, Italy
| | - Francesco Dondi
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra, 50, 40064 Ozzano Emilia, Bo, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Lee SH, VanBik D, Kim NH, Park SJ, Kwon OD, Kim TH, Kwak D. First molecular detection and genetic analysis of Anaplasma phagocytophilum in shelter cats in Seoul, Korea. INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2016; 46:71-73. [DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2016.10.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2016] [Revised: 10/25/2016] [Accepted: 10/28/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
|
31
|
Anaplasma phagocytophilum and Babesia spp. in roe deer (Capreolus capreolus), fallow deer (Dama dama) and mouflon (Ovis musimon) in Germany. Mol Cell Probes 2016; 31:46-54. [PMID: 27546888 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcp.2016.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2016] [Revised: 08/17/2016] [Accepted: 08/17/2016] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Infections with the tick-borne pathogens Anaplasma phagocytophilum and Babesia spp. can cause febrile disease in several mammalian species, including humans. Wild ruminants in Europe are suggested to serve as reservoir hosts for particular strains or species of these pathogens. The aims of this study were to investigate the occurrence of A. phagocytophilum and Babesia spp. in roe deer (Capreolus capreolus), fallow deer (Dama dama) and mouflon (Ovis musimon orientalis) in Germany, and the diversity and host association of genetic variants of A. phagocytophilum and Babesia species. From 2009 to 2010, 364 spleen samples from 153 roe deer, 43 fallow deer and 168 mouflon from 13 locations in Germany were tested for DNA of A. phagocytophilum and Babesia spp. by real-time PCR or conventional PCR, respectively. Variants of A. phagocytophilum were investigated with a nested PCR targeting the partial 16S rRNA gene, and species of piroplasms were identified by sequencing. DNA of A. phagocytophilum was detected in 303 (83.2%) samples: roe deer, 96.1% (147/153); fallow deer, 72.1% (31/43); and mouflon, 74.4% (125/168). Sequence analysis of 16S rRNA-PCR products revealed the presence of nine different genetic variants. DNA of Babesia spp. was found in 113 (31.0%) samples: roe deer, 62.8% (96/153); fallow deer, 16.3% (6/43); and mouflon, 6.5% (11/168). Babesia capreoli, Babesia sp. EU1 (referred to also as B. venatorum), B. odocoilei-like and a Theileria species were identified. Co-infections with A. phagocytophilum and Babesia spp. were detected in 30.0% of the animals which were tested positive for A. phagocytophilum and/or Babesia spp. Roe deer had a significantly higher percentage of co-infections (60.8%), followed by fallow deer (14.0%) and mouflon (6.5%). Thus, the results suggest that roe deer plays a key role in the endemic cycles of the pathogens investigated.
Collapse
|
32
|
Lee S, Lee SH, VanBik D, Kim NH, Kim KT, Goo YK, Rhee MH, Kwon OD, Kwak D. First molecular detection and phylogenetic analysis of Anaplasma phagocytophilum in shelter dogs in Seoul, Korea. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2016; 7:945-950. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2016.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2015] [Revised: 04/15/2016] [Accepted: 04/20/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
|
33
|
Koh FX, Panchadcharam C, Tay ST. Vector-Borne Diseases in Stray Dogs in Peninsular Malaysia and Molecular Detection of Anaplasma and Ehrlichia spp. from Rhipicephalus sanguineus (Acari: Ixodidae) Ticks. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2016; 53:183-187. [PMID: 26494821 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjv153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2015] [Accepted: 09/13/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Little data are available on the prevalence and transmission of vector-borne diseases in stray dogs in Peninsular Malaysia. This study was designed to determine the occurrence of vector-borne pathogens in Malaysian stray dogs using serological and molecular approaches. In total, 48 dog blood samples were subjected to serological analysis using SNAP 4Dx kit (IDEXX Laboratories, Westbrook, ME). The presence of Ehrlichia and Anaplasma DNA in the dog blood samples and Rhipicephalus sanguineus (Latreille) ticks was detected using nested polymerase chain reaction assays. Positive serological findings against Ehrlichia canis and Anaplasma phagocytophilum were obtained in 17 (39.5%) and four (9.3%) of 43 dog samples, respectively. None of the dog blood samples were positive for Borrelia burgdorferi and Dirofilaria immitis. DNA of E. canis and A. phagocytophilum was detected in 12 (25.5%) and two (4.3%) of 47 dog blood samples, and 17 (51.5%) and one (3.0%) of 33 R. sanguineus ticks, respectively. Additionally, DNA of Ehrlichia spp. closely related to Ehrlichia chaffeensis was detected in two (6.1%) R. sanguineus ticks. This study highlights the prevalence of anaplasmosis and ehrlichiosis in dogs in Malaysia. Due to the zoonotic potential of Ehrlichia and Anaplasma spp., appropriate measures should be instituted for prevention and control of vector-borne diseases in dogs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fui Xian Koh
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (; )
| | | | - Sun Tee Tay
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (; ),
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Hamel D, Shukullari E, Rapti D, Silaghi C, Pfister K, Rehbein S. Parasites and vector-borne pathogens in client-owned dogs in Albania. Blood pathogens and seroprevalences of parasitic and other infectious agents. Parasitol Res 2015; 115:489-99. [PMID: 26453093 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-015-4765-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2015] [Accepted: 09/28/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Knowledge on the epidemiology of parasitic and vector-borne infections is still very limited for Albania, a country located in the Balkan Peninsula in southeast Europe. Recent publications indicated prevalence rates of up to 52% for vector-borne infections in less-cared dogs in Albania. To provide data on the epidemiological situation in dogs under veterinary care, a total of 602 client-owned dogs presented to four small animal clinics between March 2010 and April 2011 in Tirana, Albania, were screened by examination of Giemsa-stained blood smears, PCR, and serological methods for the presence of arthropod-borne infections, as well as Neospora caninum and Toxoplasma gondii. Eight different pathogens, namely Babesia vogeli, Hepatozoon canis, Leishmania infantum, Dirofilaria immitis, Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Anaplasma platys, Ehrlichia canis, and Mycoplasma haemocanis, were detected by direct methods with prevalence rates ranging from 1 to 9%. Seroprevalence for Babesia spp., L. infantum, Anaplasma spp., and E. canis were 6.6, 5.1, 24.1, and 20.8%, respectively. Dogs >1 year of age were positive for vector-borne infections significantly more often than younger dogs (p = 0.003). More than half (51.7%) of the dogs were seroreactive to T. gondii and 18.3% to N. caninum. This is the first report on the detection of A. phagocytophilum, A. platys, E. canis, and M. haemocanis by PCR as well as the serological confirmation of exposure of dogs to N. caninum and T. gondii in Albania. The spectrum of pathogens and the seroprevalences for N. caninum and T. gondii in client-owned dogs from Tirana, Albania, are comparable to that reported in other countries in the Mediterranean Basin. The prevalence rates of vector-borne pathogens are at the lower range of that reported in studies from this geographical region. This is probably due to increased awareness of the owners of pet dogs, including better husbandry conditions and ectoparasiticidal treatment, thus limiting exposure of dogs to vectors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dietmar Hamel
- Kathrinenhof Research Center, Merial GmbH, 03101 Rohrdorf-Lauterbach, Rohrdorf, Germany. .,Institute of Comparative Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany.
| | - Enstela Shukullari
- Universiteti Bujqësor, Fakulteti i Mjëksisë Veterinare, Kodër Kamëz, Tirana, Albania
| | - Dhimitër Rapti
- Universiteti Bujqësor, Fakulteti i Mjëksisë Veterinare, Kodër Kamëz, Tirana, Albania
| | - Cornelia Silaghi
- Institute of Comparative Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany.,National Centre for Vector Entomology, Institute of Parasitology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Kurt Pfister
- Institute of Comparative Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Steffen Rehbein
- Kathrinenhof Research Center, Merial GmbH, 03101 Rohrdorf-Lauterbach, Rohrdorf, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Atif FA. Anaplasma marginale and Anaplasma phagocytophilum: Rickettsiales pathogens of veterinary and public health significance. Parasitol Res 2015; 114:3941-57. [PMID: 26346451 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-015-4698-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2015] [Accepted: 08/24/2015] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Anaplasma marginale and Anaplasma phagocytophilum are the most important tick-borne bacteria of veterinary and public health significance in the family Anaplasmataceae. The objective of current review is to provide knowledge on ecology and epidemiology of A. phagocytophilum and compare major similarities and differences of A. marginale and A. phagocytophilum. Bovine anaplasmosis is globally distributed tick-borne disease of livestock with great economic importance in cattle industry. A. phagocytophilum, a cosmopolitan zoonotic tick transmitted pathogen of wide mammalian hosts. The infection in domestic animals is generally referred as tick-borne fever. Concurrent infections exist in ticks, domestic and wild animals in same geographic area. All age groups are susceptible, but the prevalence increases with age. Movement of susceptible domestic animals from tick free non-endemic regions to disease endemic regions is the major risk factor of bovine anaplasmosis and tick-borne fever. Recreational activities or any other high-risk tick exposure habits as well as blood transfusion are important risk factors of human granulocytic anaplasmosis. After infection, individuals remain life-long carriers. Clinical anaplasmosis is usually diagnosed upon examination of stained blood smears. Generally, detection of serum antibodies followed by molecular diagnosis is usually recommended. There are problems of sensitivity and cross-reactivity with both the Anaplasma species during serological tests. Tetracyclines are the drugs of choice for treatment and elimination of anaplasmosis in animals and humans. Universal vaccine is not available for either A. marginale or A. phagocytophilum, effective against geographically diverse strains. Major control measures for bovine anaplasmosis and tick-borne fever include rearing of tick-resistant breeds, endemic stability, breeding Anaplasma-free herds, identification of regional vectors, domestic/wild reservoirs and control, habitat modification, biological control, chemotherapy, and vaccinations (anaplasmosis and/or tick vaccination). Minimizing the tick exposure activities, identification and control of reservoirs are important control measures for human granulocytic anaplasmosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Farhan Ahmad Atif
- Department of Animal Sciences, University College of Agriculture, University of Sargodha, Sargodha, 40100, Pakistan.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Dugat T, Lagrée AC, Maillard R, Boulouis HJ, Haddad N. Opening the black box of Anaplasma phagocytophilum diversity: current situation and future perspectives. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2015; 5:61. [PMID: 26322277 PMCID: PMC4536383 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2015.00061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2015] [Accepted: 07/31/2015] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Anaplasma phagocytophilum is a zoonotic obligate intracellular bacterium known to be transmitted by ticks belonging to the Ixodes persulcatus complex. This bacterium can infect several mammalian species, and is known to cause diseases with variable symptoms in many domestic animals. Specifically, it is the causative agent of tick-borne fever (TBF), a disease of important economic impact in European domestic ruminants, and human granulocytic anaplasmosis (HGA), an emerging zoonotic disease in Asia, USA and Europe. A. phagocytophilum epidemiological cycles are complex and involve different ecotypes, vectors, and mammalian host species. Moreover, the epidemiology of A. phagocytophilum infection differs greatly between Europe and the USA. These different epidemiological contexts are associated with considerable variations in bacterial strains. Until recently, few A. phagocytophilum molecular typing tools were available, generating difficulties in completely elucidating the epidemiological cycles of this bacterium. Over the last few years, many A. phagocytophilum typing techniques have been developed, permitting in-depth epidemiological exploration. Here, we review the current knowledge and future perspectives regarding A. phagocytophilum epidemiology and phylogeny, and then focus on the molecular typing tools available for studying A. phagocytophilum genetic diversity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thibaud Dugat
- Laboratoire de Santé Animale, UMR Biologie Moléculaire et Immunologie Parasitaires, Agence Nationale de Sécurité Sanitaire de L'alimentation, de L'environnement et du Travail, Université Paris-Est Paris, France
| | - Anne-Claire Lagrée
- UMR Biologie Moléculaire et Immunologie Parasitaires, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, Université Paris-Est Paris, France
| | - Renaud Maillard
- UMR Biologie Moléculaire et Immunologie Parasitaires, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, Université Paris-Est Paris, France ; Unité Pathologie des Ruminants, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire de Toulouse Toulouse, France
| | - Henri-Jean Boulouis
- UMR Biologie Moléculaire et Immunologie Parasitaires, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, Université Paris-Est Paris, France
| | - Nadia Haddad
- UMR Biologie Moléculaire et Immunologie Parasitaires, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, Université Paris-Est Paris, France
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Barros E, Braga Í, Santos L, Ziliani T, Melo A, Borges A, Silva L, Aguiar D. Detecção de Theileria equi e Babesia caballi e anticorpos anti-Ehrlichia spp. em equídeos do Pantanal Mato-Grossense, Brasil. ARQ BRAS MED VET ZOO 2015. [DOI: 10.1590/1678-4162-7930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
O presente estudo avaliou equídeos de 19 fazendas da região do Pantanal Mato-Grossense, sendo 121 equídeos testados pela reação em cadeia pela polimerase (PCR), para detectar fragmentos dos genes dos seguintes gêneros: Babesia, Theileria, Anaplasma, Ehrlichia, e Neorickettsia, e pela reação de imunofluorescência indireta (RIFI), para detectar anticorpos anti-Ehrlichia spp. Das amostras testadas na PCR, 17 (14,0%) animais de nove (47,3%) fazendas foram positivos. Das amostras positivas, 16 foram 100% idênticas a sequencias de Theileria equi e uma foi 99% similar à sequência de Babesia caballi, todas disponíveis no GenBank. Pela RIFI, 48 (39,6%) equídeos foram soropositivos para antígenos de E. canis, sendo 40 (83,3%) amostras com títulos de 40 e oito (16,6%) com títulos de 320. Todas as fazendas avaliadas (100%) apresentaram equídeos soropositivos. Os resultados do presente estudo demonstram que T. equi e B. caballi infectam equinos na região, e a presença de anticorpos anti-Ehrlichia spp. indica a circulação de espécies antigenicamente relacionadas aos gêneros Ehrlichia e Anaplasma, apesar de a negatividade nos exames de PCR indicar provável processo crônico desses agentes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Í.A. Braga
- Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso, Brasil
| | | | | | | | | | - L.G. Silva
- Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso, Brasil; Associação Brasileira de Criadores do Cavalo Pantaneiro, Brasil
| | - D.M. Aguiar
- Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso, Brasil; Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso, Brasil
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Chastagner A, Dugat T, Vourc'h G, Verheyden H, Legrand L, Bachy V, Chabanne L, Joncour G, Maillard R, Boulouis HJ, Haddad N, Bailly X, Leblond A. Multilocus sequence analysis of Anaplasma phagocytophilum reveals three distinct lineages with different host ranges in clinically ill French cattle. Vet Res 2014; 45:114. [PMID: 25487348 PMCID: PMC4334609 DOI: 10.1186/s13567-014-0114-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2014] [Accepted: 10/21/2014] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Molecular epidemiology represents a powerful approach to elucidate the complex epidemiological cycles of multi-host pathogens, such as Anaplasma phagocytophilum. A. phagocytophilum is a tick-borne bacterium that affects a wide range of wild and domesticated animals. Here, we characterized its genetic diversity in populations of French cattle; we then compared the observed genotypes with those found in horses, dogs, and roe deer to determine whether genotypes of A. phagocytophilum are shared among different hosts. We sampled 120 domesticated animals (104 cattle, 13 horses, and 3 dogs) and 40 wild animals (roe deer) and used multilocus sequence analysis on nine loci (ankA, msp4, groESL, typA, pled, gyrA, recG, polA, and an intergenic region) to characterize the genotypes of A. phagocytophilum present. Phylogenic analysis revealed three genetic clusters of bacterial variants in domesticated animals. The two principal clusters included 98% of the bacterial genotypes found in cattle, which were only distantly related to those in roe deer. One cluster comprised only cattle genotypes, while the second contained genotypes from cattle, horses, and dogs. The third contained all roe deer genotypes and three cattle genotypes. Geographical factors could not explain this clustering pattern. These results suggest that roe deer do not contribute to the spread of A. phagocytophilum in cattle in France. Further studies should explore if these different clusters are associated with differing disease severity in domesticated hosts. Additionally, it remains to be seen if the three clusters of A. phagocytophilum genotypes in cattle correspond to distinct epidemiological cycles, potentially involving different reservoir hosts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amélie Chastagner
- INRA, UR346 Epidémiologie Animale, F-63122, Saint Genès Champanelle, France.
| | - Thibaud Dugat
- Université Paris-Est, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, UMR BIPAR, 23 avenue du Général de Gaulle, 94706, Maisons-Alfort, France.
| | - Gwenaël Vourc'h
- INRA, UR346 Epidémiologie Animale, F-63122, Saint Genès Champanelle, France.
| | - Hélène Verheyden
- INRA, CEFS, UR035, 24 chemin de Borde Rouge - Auzeville, CS 52627, F-31326, Castanet Tolosan, France.
| | - Loïc Legrand
- LABÉO - Frank Duncombe, Unite Risques Microbiens (U2RM), Normandie Universite, EA 4655, Caen, Normandy, France.
| | - Véronique Bachy
- Laboratoire Vétérinaire Départemental du Rhône, Campus vétérinaire VetAgro Sup, 1 avenue Bourgelat, 69280, Marcy l'Etoile, France.
| | - Luc Chabanne
- Université de Lyon, VetAgro Sup, Jeune Equipe Hémopathogènes Vectorisés, F-69280, Marcy l'Etoile, France.
| | - Guy Joncour
- Groupe Vétérinaire de Callac, 26 rue du Cleumeur, 22160, Callac, France.
| | - Renaud Maillard
- Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire de Toulouse, Unité pathologie des ruminants, 23 Chemin des Capelles, 31076, Toulouse, France.
| | - Henri-Jean Boulouis
- Université Paris-Est, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, UMR BIPAR, 23 avenue du Général de Gaulle, 94706, Maisons-Alfort, France.
| | - Nadia Haddad
- Université Paris-Est, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, UMR BIPAR, 23 avenue du Général de Gaulle, 94706, Maisons-Alfort, France.
| | - Xavier Bailly
- INRA, UR346 Epidémiologie Animale, F-63122, Saint Genès Champanelle, France.
| | - Agnès Leblond
- INRA, UR346 Epidémiologie Animale, F-63122, Saint Genès Champanelle, France. .,Département Hippique, VetAgroSup, F-69280, Marcy L'Etoile, France.
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Obiegala A, Pfeffer M, Pfister K, Tiedemann T, Thiel C, Balling A, Karnath C, Woll D, Silaghi C. Candidatus Neoehrlichia mikurensis and Anaplasma phagocytophilum: prevalences and investigations on a new transmission path in small mammals and ixodid ticks. Parasit Vectors 2014; 7:563. [PMID: 25465390 PMCID: PMC4264555 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-014-0563-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2014] [Accepted: 11/24/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Small mammals are crucial for the life history of ixodid ticks, but their role and importance in the transmission cycle of tick-borne pathogens is mostly unknown. Candidatus Neoehrlichia mikurensis (CNM) and Anaplasma phagocytophilum are both tick-borne pathogens, and rodents are discussed to serve as main reservoir hosts for CNM but not for the latter especially in Germany. Analysing the prevalence of both pathogens in small mammals and their ticks in endemic regions may help to elucidate possible transmission paths in small mammal populations and between small mammals and ticks. Methods In 2012 and 2013, small mammals were trapped at three different sites in Germany. DNA was extracted from different small mammal tissues, from rodent neonates, foetuses and from questing and attached ticks. DNA samples were tested for CNM and A. phagocytophilum by real-time PCR. Samples positive for A. phagocytophilum were further characterized at the 16S rRNA gene locus. Results CNM was detected in 28.6% of small mammals and in 2.2% of questing and 3.8% of attached ticks. Altogether 33 positive ticks were attached to 17 different hosts, while positive ticks per host ranged between one and seven. The prevalences for this pathogen differed significantly within small mammal populations comparing sites (χ2: 13.3987; p: 0.0004) and between sexes. Male rodents had an approximately two times higher chance of infection than females (OR: 1.9652; 95% CI: 1.32-2.92). The prevalence for CNM was 31.8% (95% CI: 22-44) in rodent foetuses and neonates (23 of 67) from positive dams, and 60% (95% CI: 35.7-80.25) of positive gravid or recently parturient rodents (9 out of 15) had at least one positive foetus or neonate. Anaplasma phagocytophilum was detected at a low percentage in rodents (0-5.6%) and host-attached ticks (0.5-2.9%) with no significant differences between rodent species. However, attached nymphs were significantly more often infected than attached larvae (χ2: 25.091; p: <0.0001). Conclusion This study suggests that CNM is mainly a rodent-associated pathogen and provides evidence for a potential transplacental transmission in rodents. In contrast, most of the rodent species captured likely represent only accidental hosts for A. phagocytophilum at the investigated sites.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Obiegala
- Comparative Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany. .,Institute of Animal Hygiene and Veterinary Public Health, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany.
| | - Martin Pfeffer
- Institute of Animal Hygiene and Veterinary Public Health, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany.
| | - Kurt Pfister
- Comparative Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany.
| | - Tim Tiedemann
- Comparative Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany.
| | - Claudia Thiel
- Comparative Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany.
| | - Anneliese Balling
- Institute of Animal Hygiene and Veterinary Public Health, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany.
| | - Carolin Karnath
- Institute of Animal Hygiene and Veterinary Public Health, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany.
| | - Dietlinde Woll
- Institute of Animal Hygiene and Veterinary Public Health, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany.
| | - Cornelia Silaghi
- Comparative Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany. .,National Reference Center of Vector Entomology, Institute of Parasitology, University of Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Rizzoli A, Silaghi C, Obiegala A, Rudolf I, Hubálek Z, Földvári G, Plantard O, Vayssier-Taussat M, Bonnet S, Spitalská E, Kazimírová M. Ixodes ricinus and Its Transmitted Pathogens in Urban and Peri-Urban Areas in Europe: New Hazards and Relevance for Public Health. Front Public Health 2014; 2:251. [PMID: 25520947 PMCID: PMC4248671 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2014.00251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 285] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2014] [Accepted: 11/09/2014] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Tick-borne diseases represent major public and animal health issues worldwide. Ixodes ricinus, primarily associated with deciduous and mixed forests, is the principal vector of causative agents of viral, bacterial, and protozoan zoonotic diseases in Europe. Recently, abundant tick populations have been observed in European urban green areas, which are of public health relevance due to the exposure of humans and domesticated animals to potentially infected ticks. In urban habitats, small and medium-sized mammals, birds, companion animals (dogs and cats), and larger mammals (roe deer and wild boar) play a role in maintenance of tick populations and as reservoirs of tick-borne pathogens. Presence of ticks infected with tick-borne encephalitis virus and high prevalence of ticks infected with Borrelia burgdorferi s.l., causing Lyme borreliosis, have been reported from urbanized areas in Europe. Emerging pathogens, including bacteria of the order Rickettsiales (Anaplasma phagocytophilum, "Candidatus Neoehrlichia mikurensis," Rickettsia helvetica, and R. monacensis), Borrelia miyamotoi, and protozoans (Babesia divergens, B. venatorum, and B. microti) have also been detected in urban tick populations. Understanding the ecology of ticks and their associations with hosts in a European urbanized environment is crucial to quantify parameters necessary for risk pre-assessment and identification of public health strategies for control and prevention of tick-borne diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Annapaola Rizzoli
- Fondazione Edmund Mach, Research and Innovation Centre, San Michele all'Adige , Trento , Italy
| | - Cornelia Silaghi
- Comparative Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität , Munich , Germany ; Vetsuisse-Faculty, Swiss National Centre for Vector Entomology, Institute for Parasitology, University of Zurich , Zürich , Switzerland
| | - Anna Obiegala
- Comparative Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität , Munich , Germany ; Institute of Animal Hygiene and Veterinary Public Health, University of Leipzig , Leipzig , Germany
| | - Ivo Rudolf
- Institute of Vertebrate Biology, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, v.v.i. , Brno , Czech Republic
| | - Zdeněk Hubálek
- Institute of Vertebrate Biology, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, v.v.i. , Brno , Czech Republic
| | - Gábor Földvári
- Department of Parasitology and Zoology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Szent István University , Budapest , Hungary
| | - Olivier Plantard
- INRA, UMR1300 BioEpAR , Nantes , France ; LUNAM Université, Oniris, Ecole nationale vétérinaire, agroalimentaire et de l'alimentation Nantes-Atlantique, UMR BioEpAR , Nantes , France
| | - Muriel Vayssier-Taussat
- USC BIPAR, INRA, ANSES - French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety , Maisons-Alfort , France
| | - Sarah Bonnet
- USC BIPAR, INRA, ANSES - French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety , Maisons-Alfort , France
| | - Eva Spitalská
- Institute of Virology, Slovak Academy of Sciences , Bratislava , Slovakia
| | - Mária Kazimírová
- Institute of Zoology, Slovak Academy of Sciences , Bratislava , Slovakia
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Veronesi F, Passamonti F, Moretti A, Morganti G, Vardi DM, Laus F, Marenzoni ML, Spaterna A, Coletti M, Piergili Fioretti D. Evaluation of the Performance of a Rapid Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay in the Detection ofAnaplasma phagocytophilumAntibodies in Horses. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2014; 14:317-23. [DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2013.1424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Fabrizia Veronesi
- Department of Bio-Pathological Sciences and Hygiene of Animal and Food Production, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Passamonti
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, Diagnostic and Clinics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Annabella Moretti
- Department of Bio-Pathological Sciences and Hygiene of Animal and Food Production, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Giulia Morganti
- Department of Bio-Pathological Sciences and Hygiene of Animal and Food Production, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Doron Moshe Vardi
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, Diagnostic and Clinics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Fulvio Laus
- School of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - Maria Luisa Marenzoni
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, Diagnostic and Clinics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Andrea Spaterna
- School of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - Mauro Coletti
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, Diagnostic and Clinics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Daniela Piergili Fioretti
- Department of Bio-Pathological Sciences and Hygiene of Animal and Food Production, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Härtwig V, von Loewenich FD, Schulze C, Straubinger RK, Daugschies A, Dyachenko V. Detection of Anaplasma phagocytophilum in red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) and raccoon dogs (Nyctereutes procyonoides) from Brandenburg, Germany. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2014; 5:277-80. [PMID: 24512760 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2013.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2013] [Revised: 11/15/2013] [Accepted: 11/18/2013] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Anaplasma phagocytophilum is an obligate intracellular and tick-transmitted bacterium, which causes granulocytic anaplasmosis in animals and humans. Although infection with A. phagocytophilum in domestic animals and vector ticks is documented, there is sparse information on the occurrence of A. phagocytophilum in wild animals. Red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) as well as raccoon dogs (Nyctereutes procyonoides) are wildlife species highly abundant in certain areas of Germany and represent a potential wildlife reservoir for zoonotic diseases. To obtain data about the occurrence of A. phagocytophilum in these animals, red fox and raccoon dog carcasses (hunted or found dead) were collected from January to September 2009 in the Federal State of Brandenburg, Germany. Lung tissue samples were subjected to DNA extraction and were examined for the presence of A. phagocytophilum DNA by means of real-time PCR. Anaplasma phagocytophilum was detected in 10 out of 122 (8.2%) lungs of red foxes and in 3 out of 13 (23%) lungs of raccoon dogs. To the best of our knowledge, A. phagocytophilum was detected for the first time in red foxes and raccoon dogs in Germany.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vera Härtwig
- Institute of Parasitology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Leipzig, Germany
| | | | | | - Reinhard K Straubinger
- Institute for Infectious Disease and Zoonoses, Department for Veterinary Science, Faculty for Veterinary Medicine, LMU Munich, Germany
| | - Arwid Daugschies
- Institute of Parasitology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Leipzig, Germany
| | - Viktor Dyachenko
- Institute for Infectious Disease and Zoonoses, Department for Veterinary Science, Faculty for Veterinary Medicine, LMU Munich, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Rizzoli A, Silaghi C, Obiegala A, Rudolf I, Hubálek Z, Földvári G, Plantard O, Vayssier-Taussat M, Bonnet S, Spitalská E, Kazimírová M. Ixodes ricinus and Its Transmitted Pathogens in Urban and Peri-Urban Areas in Europe: New Hazards and Relevance for Public Health. Front Public Health 2014. [PMID: 25520947 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2014.00251.pmid:25520947;pmcid:pmc4248671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Tick-borne diseases represent major public and animal health issues worldwide. Ixodes ricinus, primarily associated with deciduous and mixed forests, is the principal vector of causative agents of viral, bacterial, and protozoan zoonotic diseases in Europe. Recently, abundant tick populations have been observed in European urban green areas, which are of public health relevance due to the exposure of humans and domesticated animals to potentially infected ticks. In urban habitats, small and medium-sized mammals, birds, companion animals (dogs and cats), and larger mammals (roe deer and wild boar) play a role in maintenance of tick populations and as reservoirs of tick-borne pathogens. Presence of ticks infected with tick-borne encephalitis virus and high prevalence of ticks infected with Borrelia burgdorferi s.l., causing Lyme borreliosis, have been reported from urbanized areas in Europe. Emerging pathogens, including bacteria of the order Rickettsiales (Anaplasma phagocytophilum, "Candidatus Neoehrlichia mikurensis," Rickettsia helvetica, and R. monacensis), Borrelia miyamotoi, and protozoans (Babesia divergens, B. venatorum, and B. microti) have also been detected in urban tick populations. Understanding the ecology of ticks and their associations with hosts in a European urbanized environment is crucial to quantify parameters necessary for risk pre-assessment and identification of public health strategies for control and prevention of tick-borne diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Annapaola Rizzoli
- Fondazione Edmund Mach, Research and Innovation Centre, San Michele all'Adige , Trento , Italy
| | - Cornelia Silaghi
- Comparative Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität , Munich , Germany ; Vetsuisse-Faculty, Swiss National Centre for Vector Entomology, Institute for Parasitology, University of Zurich , Zürich , Switzerland
| | - Anna Obiegala
- Comparative Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität , Munich , Germany ; Institute of Animal Hygiene and Veterinary Public Health, University of Leipzig , Leipzig , Germany
| | - Ivo Rudolf
- Institute of Vertebrate Biology, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, v.v.i. , Brno , Czech Republic
| | - Zdeněk Hubálek
- Institute of Vertebrate Biology, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, v.v.i. , Brno , Czech Republic
| | - Gábor Földvári
- Department of Parasitology and Zoology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Szent István University , Budapest , Hungary
| | - Olivier Plantard
- INRA, UMR1300 BioEpAR , Nantes , France ; LUNAM Université, Oniris, Ecole nationale vétérinaire, agroalimentaire et de l'alimentation Nantes-Atlantique, UMR BioEpAR , Nantes , France
| | - Muriel Vayssier-Taussat
- USC BIPAR, INRA, ANSES - French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety , Maisons-Alfort , France
| | - Sarah Bonnet
- USC BIPAR, INRA, ANSES - French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety , Maisons-Alfort , France
| | - Eva Spitalská
- Institute of Virology, Slovak Academy of Sciences , Bratislava , Slovakia
| | - Mária Kazimírová
- Institute of Zoology, Slovak Academy of Sciences , Bratislava , Slovakia
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Santos HA, Thomé SMG, Baldani CD, Silva CB, Peixoto MP, Pires MS, Vitari GLV, Costa RL, Santos TM, Angelo IC, Santos LA, Faccini JLH, Massard CL. Molecular epidemiology of the emerging zoonosis agent Anaplasma phagocytophilum (Foggie, 1949) in dogs and ixodid ticks in Brazil. Parasit Vectors 2013; 6:348. [PMID: 24330631 PMCID: PMC3874603 DOI: 10.1186/1756-3305-6-348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2013] [Accepted: 12/01/2013] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anaplasma phagocytophilum is an emerging pathogen of humans, dogs and other animals, and it is transmitted by ixodid ticks. The objective of the current study was a) detect A. phagocytophilum in dogs and ixodid ticks using real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction (qPCR); and b) Determine important variables associated to host, environment and potential tick vectors that are related to the presence of A. phagocytophilum in dogs domiciled in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. METHODS We tested blood samples from 398 dogs and samples from 235 ticks, including 194 Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato, 15 Amblyomma cajennense, 8 Amblyomma ovale and 18 pools of Amblyomma sp. nymphs. A semi-structured questionnaire was applied by interviewing each dog owner. Deoxyribonucleic acid obtained from ticks and dog buffy coat samples were amplified by qPCR (msp2 gene). The sequencing of 16S rRNA and groESL heat shock operon genes and a phylogenetic analysis was performed. The multiple logistic regression model was created as a function of testing positive dogs for A. phagocytophilum. RESULTS Among the 398 blood samples from dogs, 6.03% were positive for A. phagocytophilum. Anaplasma phagocytophilum was detected in one A. cajennense female tick and in five R. sanguineus sensu lato ticks (four males and one female). The partial sequences of the 16S rRNA, and groESL genes obtained were highly similar to strains of A. phagocytophilum isolated from wild birds from Brazil and human pathogenic strains. The tick species collected in positive dogs were R. sanguineus sensu lato and A. cajennense, with A.cajennense being predominant. Tick infestation history (OR = 2.86, CI = 1.98-14.87), dog size (OR = 2.41, IC: 1.51-12.67), the access to forest areas (OR = 3:51, CI: 1.52-16.32), hygiene conditions of the environment in which the dogs lived (OR = 4.35, CI: 1.86-18.63) and Amblyomma sp. infestation (OR = 6.12; CI: 2.11-28.15) were associated with A. phagocytophilum infection in dogs. CONCLUSIONS This is the first report of A. phagocytophilum in ixodid ticks from Brazil. The detection of A. phagocitophylum in A. cajennense, an aggressive feeder on a wide variety of hosts, including humans, is considered a public health concern.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huarrisson A Santos
- Epidemiology and Public Health Department, IV-UFRRJ, Seropédica, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Sandra MG Thomé
- Epidemiology and Public Health Department, IV-UFRRJ, Seropédica, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Cristiane D Baldani
- Medicine and Surgery Veterinary Department, IV-UFRRJ, Seropédica, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Claudia B Silva
- Animal Parasitology Department, IV-UFRRJ, Seropédica, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Maristela P Peixoto
- Animal Parasitology Department, IV-UFRRJ, Seropédica, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Marcus S Pires
- Animal Parasitology Department, IV-UFRRJ, Seropédica, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Gabriela LV Vitari
- Animal Parasitology Department, IV-UFRRJ, Seropédica, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Renata L Costa
- Animal Parasitology Department, IV-UFRRJ, Seropédica, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Tiago M Santos
- Zootechny Department, ITCA-UFMT, Mato Grosso, Rondonópolis, Brazil
| | - Isabele C Angelo
- Parasitology Department, ICB-UFMG, Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | | | - João LH Faccini
- Animal Parasitology Department, IV-UFRRJ, Seropédica, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Carlos L Massard
- Animal Parasitology Department, IV-UFRRJ, Seropédica, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Dzięgiel B, Adaszek Ł, Kalinowski M, Winiarczyk S. Equine granulocytic anaplasmosis. Res Vet Sci 2013; 95:316-20. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2013.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2013] [Revised: 05/17/2013] [Accepted: 05/22/2013] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
|
46
|
Stuen S, Granquist EG, Silaghi C. Anaplasma phagocytophilum--a widespread multi-host pathogen with highly adaptive strategies. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2013; 3:31. [PMID: 23885337 PMCID: PMC3717505 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2013.00031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 354] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2013] [Accepted: 06/30/2013] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The bacterium Anaplasma phagocytophilum has for decades been known to cause the disease tick-borne fever (TBF) in domestic ruminants in Ixodes ricinus-infested areas in northern Europe. In recent years, the bacterium has been found associated with Ixodes-tick species more or less worldwide on the northern hemisphere. A. phagocytophilum has a broad host range and may cause severe disease in several mammalian species, including humans. However, the clinical symptoms vary from subclinical to fatal conditions, and considerable underreporting of clinical incidents is suspected in both human and veterinary medicine. Several variants of A. phagocytophilum have been genetically characterized. Identification and stratification into phylogenetic subfamilies has been based on cell culturing, experimental infections, PCR, and sequencing techniques. However, few genome sequences have been completed so far, thus observations on biological, ecological, and pathological differences between genotypes of the bacterium, have yet to be elucidated by molecular and experimental infection studies. The natural transmission cycles of various A. phagocytophilum variants, the involvement of their respective hosts and vectors involved, in particular the zoonotic potential, have to be unraveled. A. phagocytophilum is able to persist between seasons of tick activity in several mammalian species and movement of hosts and infected ticks on migrating animals or birds may spread the bacterium. In the present review, we focus on the ecology and epidemiology of A. phagocytophilum, especially the role of wildlife in contribution to the spread and sustainability of the infection in domestic livestock and humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Snorre Stuen
- Department of Production Animal Clinical Sciences, Norwegian School of Veterinary Science Sandnes, Norway.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
47
|
Mysterud A, Easterday WR, Qviller L, Viljugrein H, Ytrehus B. Spatial and seasonal variation in the prevalence of Anaplasma phagocytophilum and Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato in questing Ixodes ricinus ticks in Norway. Parasit Vectors 2013; 6:187. [PMID: 23786850 PMCID: PMC3691722 DOI: 10.1186/1756-3305-6-187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2013] [Accepted: 06/17/2013] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Understanding the variation in prevalence of Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato (Lyme Borreliosis Spirochaetes, LBS) and Anaplasma phagocytophilum (causing tick-borne fever in ruminants and human granulocytic ehrlichiosis) in ticks is vital from both a human and an animal disease perspective to target the most effective mitigation measures. From the host competence hypothesis, we predicted that prevalence of LBS would decrease with red deer density, while prevalence of A. phagocytophilum would increase. METHODS Based on a sample of 112 adult and 686 nymphal Ixodes ricinus ticks collected with flagging during questing from 31 transects (4-500 m long) corresponding to individual seasonal home ranges of 41 red deer along the west coast of Norway, we tested whether there were spatial and seasonal variations in prevalence with a special emphasis on the population density of the most common large host in this area, the red deer (Cervus elaphus). We used a multiplex real-time PCR assay for detection of A. phagocytophilum and LBS. RESULTS Prevalence of LBS was higher in adult female ticks (21.6%) compared to adult male ticks (11.5%) and nymphs (10.9%), while prevalence was similar among stages for prevalence of A. phagocytophilum (8.8%). Only partly consistent with predictions, we found a lower prevalence of LBS in areas of high red deer density, while there was no relationship between red deer density and prevalence of A. phagocytophilum in ticks. Prevalence of both bacteria was much higher in ticks questing in May compared to August. CONCLUSIONS Our study provides support to the notion that spatial variation in host composition forms a role for prevalence of LBS in ticks also in a northern European ecosystem, while no such association was found for A. phagocytophilum. Further studies are needed to fully understand the similar seasonal pattern of prevalence of the two pathogens.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Atle Mysterud
- Centre for Ecological and Evolutionary Synthesis (CEES), Department of Biosciences, University of Oslo, P.O. Box1066, Oslo, NO-0316, Norway
| | - William Ryan Easterday
- Centre for Ecological and Evolutionary Synthesis (CEES), Department of Biosciences, University of Oslo, P.O. Box1066, Oslo, NO-0316, Norway
| | - Lars Qviller
- Centre for Ecological and Evolutionary Synthesis (CEES), Department of Biosciences, University of Oslo, P.O. Box1066, Oslo, NO-0316, Norway
| | - Hildegunn Viljugrein
- Centre for Ecological and Evolutionary Synthesis (CEES), Department of Biosciences, University of Oslo, P.O. Box1066, Oslo, NO-0316, Norway
- Norwegian Veterinary Institute, P.O. Box 750 Sentrum, Oslo, NO-0106, Norway
| | - Bjørnar Ytrehus
- Norwegian Veterinary Institute, P.O. Box 750 Sentrum, Oslo, NO-0106, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Detection of tick-borne pathogens in roe deer (Capreolus capreolus), in questing ticks (Ixodes ricinus), and in ticks infesting roe deer in southern Germany. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2013; 4:320-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2013.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2012] [Revised: 01/09/2013] [Accepted: 01/13/2013] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
|
49
|
Anaplasma phagocytophilum in questing Ixodes ricinus ticks: comparison of prevalences and partial 16S rRNA gene variants in urban, pasture, and natural habitats. Appl Environ Microbiol 2012; 79:1730-4. [PMID: 23263964 DOI: 10.1128/aem.03300-12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Urban, natural, and pasture areas were investigated for prevalences and 16S rRNA gene variants of Anaplasma phagocytophilum in questing Ixodes ricinus ticks. The prevalences differed significantly between habitat types, and year-to-year variations in prevalence and habitat-dependent occurrence of 16S rRNA gene variants were detected.
Collapse
|
50
|
Vector-borne pathogens in ticks and EDTA-blood samples collected from client-owned dogs, Kiev, Ukraine. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2012; 4:152-5. [PMID: 23069260 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2012.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2012] [Revised: 08/10/2012] [Accepted: 08/16/2012] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Due to the availability of adequate habitats in urban environments, e.g. city parks and recreational green areas, ticks from such settings may also carry pathogens of veterinary and public health concern. Thus, tick-borne infections may readily be identified in companion animals residing in urbanised areas. To investigate the presence of vector-borne pathogens in Kiev, Ukraine, 52 engorged adult ticks, 33 Dermacentor reticulatus and 19 Ixodes ricinus, were collected from 15 dogs in the spring of 2010, and further 23 canine EDTA-blood samples were obtained in the spring of 2011 from client-owned patients presented in a veterinary clinic in Kiev. DNA of 9 pathogens was detected by PCR in ticks and canine EDTA-blood samples: Babesia canis canis, Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Rickettsia helvetica, Ri. monacensis, Ri. raoultii, and Dirofilaria repens (by proxy) were identified in engorged ticks and B. c. canis, Hepatozoon canis, Di. immitis, Di. repens, and Mycoplasma haemocanis in canine EDTA-blood samples. This is the first description of Ri. raoultii in the Ukraine. This study adds information on the occurrence of vector-borne pathogens of veterinary and public health importance in Kiev, Ukraine.
Collapse
|