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Rivory P, Bedoya-Pérez M, Ward MP, Šlapeta J. Older urban rats are infected with the zoonotic nematode Angiostrongylus cantonensis. CURRENT RESEARCH IN PARASITOLOGY & VECTOR-BORNE DISEASES 2024; 5:100179. [PMID: 38845789 PMCID: PMC11154120 DOI: 10.1016/j.crpvbd.2024.100179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
Rats, being synanthropic, are hosts to agents of zoonotic diseases that pose a threat to human and domestic animal health. The nematode parasite Angiostrongylus cantonensis, commonly known as the rat lungworm, is no exception; it can cause potentially fatal neural disease in humans, dogs and other species. The distribution of A. cantonensis (haplotypes SYD.1 and Ac13) and its close relative, Angiostrongylus mackerrasae is not well understood in Australia. We investigated the prevalence of Angiostrongylus in rats in Sydney, Australia, primarily via faecal qPCR, and identified the species and haplotypes using partial cox1 sequencing. We found a moderate prevalence of infection (29%; 95% CI: 16.1-46.6%) in black (Rattus rattus) and brown (Rattus norvegicus) rats around public parks and residential areas. This study demonstrates that Sydney's urban rat population is a reservoir for A. cantonensis. Modelling infection status as a function of rat species, sex, tibia length (as a proxy for age), and health index (a measure of weight by size) revealed that older rats are statistically more likely to be infected (χ 2 1 = 5.331, P = 0.021). We observed a dominant presence of the A. cantonensis SYD.1 haplotype, for which the implications are not yet known. No A. mackerassae was detected, leading us to suspect it may have a more restricted host- and geographical range. Overall, this study illustrates the presence and potential risk of A. cantonensis infection in Sydney. Public education regarding transmission routes and preventative measures is crucial to safeguard human and animal health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phoebe Rivory
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, New South Wales, 2006, Australia
| | - Miguel Bedoya-Pérez
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Michael P. Ward
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, New South Wales, 2006, Australia
| | - Jan Šlapeta
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, New South Wales, 2006, Australia
- Sydney Infectious Diseases Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Šipková A, Anettová L, Izquierdo-Rodriguez E, Velič V, Modrý D. Release of Angiostrongylus cantonensis larvae from live intermediate hosts under stress. Parasitol Res 2024; 123:212. [PMID: 38755287 PMCID: PMC11098861 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-024-08232-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
The metastrongyloid nematode Angiostrongylus cantonensis causes eosinophilic meningitis in a variety of homeothermic hosts including humans. Third-stage infectious larvae develop in gastropods as intermediate hosts. Humans are usually infected by intentional or incidental ingestion of an infected mollusk or paratenic host (poikilothermic vertebrates and invertebrates). The infection may also hypothetically occur through ingestion of food or water contaminated by third-stage larvae spontaneously released from gastropods. Larvae are thought to be released in greater numbers from the intermediate host exposed to stress. This study aimed to compare larval release from stressed with unstressed gastropods. Experimentally infected Limax maximus and Lissachatina fulica were exposed to a stress stimulus (shaking on an orbital shaker). The mucus was collected before and after the stress and examined microscopically and by qPCR for the presence of A. cantonensis larvae and their DNA. In the case of L. maximus, no larvae were detected microscopically in the mucus, but qPCR analysis confirmed the presence of A. cantonensis DNA in all experimental replicates, without clear differences between stressed and non-stressed individuals. In contrast, individual larvae of A. cantonensis were found in mucus from Li. fulica after stress exposure, which also reflects an increased number of DNA-positive mucus samples after stress. Stress stimuli of intensity similar to the transport or handling of mollusks can stimulate the release of larvae from highly infected intermediate hosts. However, these larvae are released in small numbers. The exact number of larvae required to trigger neuroangiostrongyliasis is unknown. Therefore, caution is essential when interacting with potential intermediate hosts in regions where A. cantonensis is endemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Šipková
- Department of Botany and Zoology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Lucia Anettová
- Department of Botany and Zoology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Elena Izquierdo-Rodriguez
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias, Universidad de La Laguna, La Laguna, Canary Islands, Spain
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Pediatrics, Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Toxicology, Legal and Forensic Medicine and Parasitology, Universidad de La Laguna, La Laguna, Canary Islands, Spain
| | - Vivienne Velič
- University of Veterinary Sciences Brno, Palackého tř. 1946/1, 612 42, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - David Modrý
- Department of Botany and Zoology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic.
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Center of Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czech Republic.
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources/CINeZ, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Prague, Czech Republic.
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Rivory P, Pillay K, Lee R, Taylor D, Ward MP, Šlapeta J. Fatal neural angiostrongyliasis in the Bolivian squirrel monkey ( Saimiri boliviensis boliviensis) leading to defining Angiostrongylus cantonensis risk map at a zoo in Australia. One Health 2023; 17:100628. [PMID: 38024275 PMCID: PMC10665155 DOI: 10.1016/j.onehlt.2023.100628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Neural angiostrongyliasis (NA) is a parasitic disease caused by Angiostrongylus cantonensis (rat lungworm). This study presents a case of NA in a captive Bolivian squirrel monkey from a zoo in western Sydney, Australia. The objective was to identify the A. cantonensis cox1 haplotype responsible for the infection and compare its mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) to known Australian mtDNA. An epidemiological investigation was conducted to assess the risk of infection, focusing on the resident rat population in the zoo. Methods involved trapping rats and collecting rat faeces for Angiostrongylus detection, speciation, and cox1 haplotype confirmation. Various techniques were employed, including necropsy, morphological examination, and molecular methods such as ITS-2 qPCR, cox1 sequencing, and ITS-2 metabarcoding. Cluster analysis of rat faeces distribution and Angiostrongylus detection utilised an equal sampling effort (ESE) approach. Gastropods were collected throughout the study for Angiostrongylus surveillance using a hypersensitive qPCR assay. Results revealed significant clustering of rat faeces near exhibits with fresh food provision and absence of predators. Angiostrongylus-positive faeces were uniformly distributed across the zoo property. Mitochondrial DNA analysis confirmed the presence of the Ac13 haplotype of A. cantonensis in the monkey. Morphology, ITS-2 metabarcoding and partial cox1 sequencing detected only A. cantonensis, with the Ac13 cox1 haplotype predominating. A high prevalence of infection (64%, 9/14) was found in brown rats, with quantification of larvae indicating high shedding rates. Co-infections with both Ac13 and local SYD.1 A. cantonensis cox1 haplotypes were observed. Only three gastropods (all of which were Angiostrongylus-negative) were found in the survey. To minimise the risk of exposure for susceptible species, targeted rodent control was implemented in areas with higher exposure risk. A potential strategy (which requires further exploration) to consider for future zoo design was suggested. This study provides insights into the epidemiology and genetic diversity of A. cantonensis in Australia, emphasising the importance of control measures to prevent future outbreaks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phoebe Rivory
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia
| | - Kresen Pillay
- Sydney Zoo, Bungarribee, New South Wales 2767, Australia
| | - Rogan Lee
- NSW Health Pathology, Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Lab Services, Level 3 ICPMR, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, New South Wales 2145, Australia
| | - David Taylor
- Vetnostics, North Ryde, New South Wales 2113, Australia
| | - Michael P. Ward
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia
| | - Jan Šlapeta
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia
- The University of Sydney Institute for Infectious Diseases, New South Wales 2006, Australia
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Salgado CRS, Silva ADNE, Arruda IF, Millar PR, Amendoeira MRR, Leon LAA, Teixeira RBC, de Lima JTB, Chalhoub FLL, Bispo de Filippis AM, Fonseca ABM, de Oliveira JM, Pinto MA, Figueiredo AS. Serological Evidence of Hepatitis E Virus Infection in Brazilian Equines. Microorganisms 2023; 11:2743. [PMID: 38004754 PMCID: PMC10673136 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11112743] [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: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection has been demonstrated in various animal species; those recognized as potential zoonotic reservoirs pose a considerable risk to public health. In Brazil, HEV-3 is the only genotype identified in humans and swine nationwide, in a colony-breeding cynomolgus monkey and, recently, in bovines and capybara. There is no information regarding HEV exposure in the equine population in Brazil. This study aimed to investigate anti-HEV antibodies and viral RNA in serum samples from horses slaughtered for meat export and those bred for sport/reproduction purposes. We used a commercially available ELISA kit modified to detect species-specific anti-HEV, using an anti-horse IgG-peroxidase conjugate and evaluating different cutoff formulas and assay precision. Serum samples (n = 257) were tested for anti-HEV IgG and HEV RNA by nested RT-PCR and RT-qPCR. The overall anti-HEV seroprevalence was 26.5% (68/257) without the detection of HEV RNA. Most municipalities (53.3%) and farms (58.8%) had positive horses. Animals slaughtered for human consumption had higher risk of HEV exposure (45.5%) than those bred for sports or reproduction (6.4%) (p < 0.0001). The statistical analysis revealed sex and breeding system as possible risk-associated factors. The first serological evidence of HEV circulation in Brazilian equines reinforces the need for the surveillance of HEV host expansion in a one-health approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Roberta Soares Salgado
- Laboratório de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico em Virologia, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz—Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil; (C.R.S.S.); (J.M.d.O.)
| | - Aldaleia do Nascimento e Silva
- Laboratório de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico em Virologia, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz—Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil; (C.R.S.S.); (J.M.d.O.)
| | - Igor Falco Arruda
- Laboratório de Toxoplasmose e outras Protozooses, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz—Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil; (I.F.A.)
| | - Patrícia Riddell Millar
- Laboratório de Toxoplasmose e outras Protozooses, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz—Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil; (I.F.A.)
| | - Maria Regina Reis Amendoeira
- Laboratório de Toxoplasmose e outras Protozooses, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz—Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil; (I.F.A.)
| | - Luciane Almeida Amado Leon
- Laboratório de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico em Virologia, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz—Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil; (C.R.S.S.); (J.M.d.O.)
| | | | - Jorge Tiburcio Barbosa de Lima
- Departamento de Clínica e Cirurgia Veterinárias, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais—UFMG, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil
| | - Flávia Löwen Levy Chalhoub
- Laboratório de Arbovírus e Vírus Hemorrágicos, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz—Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil
| | - Ana Maria Bispo de Filippis
- Laboratório de Arbovírus e Vírus Hemorrágicos, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz—Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil
| | - Ana Beatriz Monteiro Fonseca
- Departamento de Estatística, Instituto de Matemática e Estatística, Universidade Federal Fluminense—UFF, Niterói 24210-346, RJ, Brazil
| | - Jaqueline Mendes de Oliveira
- Laboratório de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico em Virologia, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz—Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil; (C.R.S.S.); (J.M.d.O.)
| | - Marcelo Alves Pinto
- Laboratório de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico em Virologia, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz—Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil; (C.R.S.S.); (J.M.d.O.)
| | - Andreza Soriano Figueiredo
- Laboratório de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico em Virologia, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz—Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil; (C.R.S.S.); (J.M.d.O.)
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Cowie RH, Malik R, Morgan ER. Comparative biology of parasitic nematodes in the genus Angiostrongylus and related genera. ADVANCES IN PARASITOLOGY 2023; 121:65-197. [PMID: 37474239 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apar.2023.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
The rise to prominence of some Angiostrongylus species through associated emerging disease in humans and dogs has stimulated calls for a renewed focus on the biology of this genus and three related genera. Although significant research efforts have been made in recent years these have tended to focus on individual species and specific aspects such as diagnosis and treatment of disease or new records of occurrence and hosts. This comprehensive review takes a comparative approach, seeking commonalities and differences among species and asking such questions as: Which species belong to this and to closely related genera and how are they related? Why do only some species appear to be spreading geographically and what factors might underlie range expansion? Which animal species are involved in the life cycles as definitive, intermediate, paratenic and accidental hosts? How do parasite larvae find, infect and develop within these hosts? What are the consequences of infection for host health? How will climate change affect future spread and global health? Appreciating how species resemble and differ from each other shines a spotlight on knowledge gaps and provides provisional guidance on key species characteristics warranting detailed study. Similarities exist among species, including the basic life cycle and transmission processes, but important details such as host range, climatic requirements, migration patterns within hosts and disease mechanisms differ, with much more information available for A. cantonensis and A. vasorum than for other species. Nonetheless, comparison across Angiostrongylus reveals some common patterns. Historically narrow definitive host ranges are expanding with new knowledge, combining with very broad ranges of intermediate gastropod hosts and vertebrate and invertebrate paratenic and accidental hosts to provide the backdrop to complex interactions among climate, ecology and transmission that remain only partly understood, even for the species of dominant concern. Key outstanding questions concern larval dynamics and the potential for transmission outside trophic relations, relations between infection and disease severity in different hosts, and how global change is altering transmission beyond immediate impacts on development rate in gastropods. The concept of encounter and compatibility filters could help to explain differences in the relative importance of different gastropod species as intermediate hosts and determine the importance of host community composition and related environmental factors to transmission and range. Across the group, it remains unclear what, physiologically, immunologically or taxonomically, delimits definitive, accidental and paratenic hosts. Impacts of infection on definitive host fitness and consequences for population dynamics and transmission remain mostly unexplored across the genus. Continual updating and cross-referencing across species of Angiostrongylus and related genera is important to synthesise rapid advances in understanding of key traits and behaviours, especially in important Angiostrongylus species that are emerging causative agents of disease in humans and other animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert H Cowie
- Pacific Biosciences Research Center, University of Hawaii, Maile Way, Gilmore, Honolulu, HI, United States.
| | - Richard Malik
- Centre for Veterinary Education, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Eric R Morgan
- Institute for Global Food Security, Queen's University Belfast, Chlorine Gardens, Belfast, United Kingdom; School of Veterinary Science, University of Bristol, Langford House, Langford, North Somerset, United Kingdom
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Pandian D, Najer T, Modrý D. An Overview of Angiostrongylus cantonensis (Nematoda: Angiostrongylidae), an Emerging Cause of Human Angiostrongylosis on the Indian Subcontinent. Pathogens 2023; 12:851. [PMID: 37375541 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12060851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Human angiostrongylosis is an emerging zoonosis caused by the larvae of three species of metastrongyloid nematodes of the genus Angiostrongylus, with Angiostrongylus cantonensis (Chen, 1935) being dominant across the world. Its obligatory heteroxenous life cycle includes rats as definitive hosts, mollusks as intermediate hosts, and amphibians and reptiles as paratenic hosts. In humans, the infection manifests as Angiostrongylus eosinophilic meningitis (AEM) or ocular form. Since there is no comprehensive study on the disease in the Indian subcontinent, our study aims at the growing incidence of angiostrongylosis in humans, alongside its clinical course and possible causes. A systematic literature search revealed 28 reports of 45 human cases from 1966 to 2022; eosinophilic meningitis accounted for 33 cases (75.5%), 12 cases were reported as ocular, 1 case was combined, and 1 case was unspecified. The presumed source of infection was reported in 5 cases only. Importantly, 22 AEM patients reported a history of eating raw monitor lizard (Varanus spp.) tissues in the past. As apex predators, monitor lizards accumulate high numbers of L3 responsible for acute illness in humans. For ocular cases, the source was not identified. Most cases were diagnosed based on nematode findings and clinical pathology (primarily eosinophilia in the cerebrospinal fluid). Only two cases were confirmed to be A. cantonensis, one by immunoblot and the other by q-PCR. Cases of angiostrongylosis have been reported in Delhi, Karnataka, Kerala, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Puducherry, Telangana, and West Bengal. With a population of more than 1.4 billion, India is one of the least studied areas for A. cantonensis. It is likely that many cases remain undetected/unreported. Since most cases have been reported from the state of Kerala, further research may focus on this region. Gastropods, amphibians, and reptiles are commonly consumed in India; however, typical preparation methods involve cooking, which kills the nematode larvae. In addition to studying rodent and mollusk hosts, monitor lizards can be used as effective sentinels. Sequence data are urgently needed to answer the question of the identity of Angiostrongylus-like metastrongylid nematodes isolated from all types of hosts. DNA-based diagnostic methods such as q-PCR and LAMP should be included in clinical diagnosis of suspected cases and in studies of genetic diversity and species identity of nematodes tentatively identified as A. cantonensis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Divakaran Pandian
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources/CINeZ, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, 16500 Prague-Suchdol, Czech Republic
| | - Tomáš Najer
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources/CINeZ, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, 16500 Prague-Suchdol, Czech Republic
| | - David Modrý
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources/CINeZ, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, 16500 Prague-Suchdol, Czech Republic
- Department of Botany and Zoology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, 61137 Brno, Czech Republic
- Biology Center, Institute of Parasitology, Czech Academy of Sciences, 37005 Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic
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Baláž V, Rivory P, Hayward D, Jaensch S, Malik R, Lee R, Modrý D, Šlapeta J. Angie-LAMP for diagnosis of human eosinophilic meningitis using dog as proxy: A LAMP assay for Angiostrongylus cantonensis DNA in cerebrospinal fluid. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2023; 17:e0011038. [PMID: 37126515 PMCID: PMC10174499 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0011038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Angiostrongylus cantonensis (rat lungworm) is recognised as the leading cause of human eosinophilic meningitis, a serious condition observed when nematode larvae migrate through the CNS. Canine Neural Angiostrongyliasis (CNA) is the analogous disease in dogs. Both humans and dogs are accidental hosts, and a rapid diagnosis is warranted. A highly sensitive PCR based assay is available but often not readily accessible in many jurisdictions. An alternative DNA amplification assay that would further improve accessibility is needed. This study aimed to assess the diagnostic utility of a newly designed LAMP assay to detect DNA of globally distributed and invasive A. cantonensis and Angiostrongylus mackerrasae, the other neurotropic Angiostrongylus species, which is native to Australia. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from dogs with a presumptive diagnosis of A. cantonensis infection (2020-2022) were received for confirmatory laboratory testing and processed for DNA isolation and ultrasensitive Angiostrongylus qPCR targeting AcanR3390. A newly designed LAMP assay targeting the same gene target was directly compared to the reference ultrasensitive qPCR in a diagnostic laboratory setting to determine the presence of A. cantonensis DNA to diagnose CNA. The LAMP assay (Angie-LAMP) allowed the sensitive detection of A. cantonensis DNA from archived DNA specimens (Kappa = 0.81, 95%CI 0.69-0.92; n = 93) and rapid single-step lysis of archived CSF samples (Kappa = 0.77, 95%CI 0.59-0.94; n = 52). Only A. cantonensis DNA was detected in canine CSF samples, and co-infection with A. mackerrasae using amplicon deep sequencing (ITS-2 rDNA) was not demonstrated. Both SYD.1 and AC13 haplotypes were detected using sequencing of partial cox1. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE The Angie-LAMP assay is a useful molecular tool for detecting Angiostrongylus DNA in canine CSF and performs comparably to a laboratory Angiostrongylus qPCR. Adaptation of single-step sample lysis improved potential applicability for diagnosis of angiostrongyliasis in a clinical setting for dogs and by extension, to humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vojtech Baláž
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Center of Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
- Department of Ecology and Diseases of Zoo Animals, Game, Fish and Bees, Faculty of Veterinary Hygiene and Ecology, University of Veterinary Sciences Brno, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Phoebe Rivory
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Douglas Hayward
- Vetnostics, Laverty Pathology - North Ryde Laboratory, Macquarie Park, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Susan Jaensch
- Vetnostics, Laverty Pathology - North Ryde Laboratory, Macquarie Park, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Richard Malik
- Centre for Veterinary Education, Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Rogan Lee
- Parasitology Laboratory, Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Lab Services, Level 3 ICPMR, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
- Westmead Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, The University of Sydney, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
| | - David Modrý
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Center of Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
- Department of Botany and Zoology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
- Department of Veterinary Sciences and CINeZ, FAPPZ, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Šlapeta
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- The University of Sydney Institute for Infectious Diseases, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Yadegari H, Mohammadi M, Maghsood F, Ghorbani A, Bahadori T, Golsaz-Shirazi F, Zarnani AH, Salimi V, Jeddi-Tehrani M, Amiri MM, Shokri F. Diagnostic performance of a novel antigen-capture ELISA for the detection of SARS-CoV-2. Anal Biochem 2023; 666:115079. [PMID: 36754135 PMCID: PMC9902293 DOI: 10.1016/j.ab.2023.115079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is a serious health problem worldwide. Early virus detection is essential for disease control and management. Viral antigen detection by ELISA is a cost-effective, rapid, and accurate antigen diagnostic assay which could facilitate early viral detection. METHOD An antigen-capture sandwich ELISA was developed using novel nucleocapsid (NP)-specific mouse monoclonal antibodies (MAbs). The clinical performance of the assay was assessed using 403 positive and 150 negative respiratory samples collected during different SARS-CoV-2 variants outbreaks in Iran. RESULTS The limit of detection of our ELISA assay was found to be 43.3 pg/ml for recombinant NP. The overall sensitivity and specificity of this assay were 70.72% (95% CI: 66.01-75.12) and 100% (95% CI: 97.57-100), respectively, regardless of Ct values and SARS-CoV-2 variants. There was no significant difference in our assay sensitivity for the detection of Omicron subvariants compared to Delta variant. Assay sensitivity for the BA.5 Omicron subvariant was calculated as 91.89% (95% CI: 85.17-96.23) for samples with Ct values < 25 and 82.70% (95% CI: 75.19-88.71) for samples with Ct values < 30. CONCLUSION Our newly developed ELISA method is reasonably sensitive and highly specific for detection of SARS-CoV-2 regardless of the variants and subvariants of the virus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamidreza Yadegari
- Department of Immunology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi Mohammadi
- Department of Immunology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Faezeh Maghsood
- Department of Immunology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ahmad Ghorbani
- Department of Immunology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Tannaz Bahadori
- Department of Immunology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Forough Golsaz-Shirazi
- Department of Immunology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir-Hassan Zarnani
- Department of Immunology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Vahid Salimi
- Department of Virology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahmood Jeddi-Tehrani
- Monoclonal Antibody Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute, Academic Center for Education, Culture and Research (ACECR), Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Mehdi Amiri
- Department of Immunology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Fazel Shokri
- Department of Immunology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Arango M, Delgado-Serra S, Haines LR, Paredes-Esquivel C. Improving the detection of Angiostrongylus cantonensis in the brain tissues of mammalian hosts. Acta Trop 2023; 242:106917. [PMID: 37011831 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2023.106917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
Abstract
Angiostrongylus cantonensis is an invasive nematode parasite that causes eosinophilic meningitis in many vertebrate hosts, including humans. This parasite is spreading rapidly through the six continents, with Europe being the final frontier. Sentinel surveillance may be a cost-effective strategy to monitor the pathogen's arrival to new geographical regions. Necropsy, followed by tissue digestion, is often used to recover helminth parasites from vertebrate host tissues, however, to detect brain parasites, this protocol is poorly utilized. Our brain digestion protocol is easily performed and 1) reduces false positivity and negativity, 2) provides accurate estimates of parasite burden and 3) helps establish a more precise prevalence. Early detection of A. cantonensis increases the efficacy of prevention, treatment, and disease control strategies for susceptible animal populations and humans.
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Successful Removal of Angiostrongylus cantonensis Larvae from the Central Nervous System of Rats 7- and 14-Days Post-Infection Using a Product Containing Moxidectin, Sarolaner and Pyrantel Embonate (Simparica Trio™) in Experimental Infections. Pathogens 2023; 12:pathogens12020305. [PMID: 36839577 PMCID: PMC9959906 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12020305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Angiostrongylus cantonensis is a nematode with an indirect lifecycle, using molluscs as intermediate hosts. Rats are the definitive host. By administering a suitable anthelmintic, at an appropriate interval, the risk of clinical neuroangiostrongyliasis occurring in paratenic hosts (e.g., dogs, man) can be eliminated. We wanted to determine if infective larvae (L3) of A. cantonensis can be safely killed during their migration through the central nervous system (CNS) by oral administration of an anthelmintic combination containing moxidectin (480 µg/kg, Simparica Trio™; M-S-P), thereby preventing patent infections in rats. Eighteen rats were used: ten received oral M-S-P every four weeks; eight rats were used as controls. Rats were initially given M-S-P as a chew to eat, but an acquired food aversion meant that subsequent doses were given by orogastric lavage. All 18 rats were challenged once or twice with approximately 30 L3 A. cantonensis larvae via orogastric lavage. Infection status was determined by faecal analysis using the Baermann technique and necropsy examination of the heart, pulmonary arteries and lungs. Eight out of ten rats dosed with M-S-P had zero lungworms at necropsy; a single female worm was detected in each of the remaining two rats. No treated rats had L1 larvae in faeces. In contrast, all eight controls were infected with patent infections, with a median of 14.5 worms per rat detected at necropsy. The difference in infection rates was significant (two tailed Fishers Exact; p = 0.0011). Moxidectin given orally once every month killed migrating larvae before they reached the pulmonary arteries in 80% of treated rats, while in 20%, only a single female worm was present. Considering the short half-life of moxidectin in the rat, it is likely that the effectiveness of moxidectin is due to larvicidal action on migrating L3, L4 and L5 larvae in the brain parenchyma or subarachnoid space, either 7 days (L3/L4 in cerebrum and spinal cord) or 14 days (L4/L5 in cerebrum and subarachnoid space) after inoculation. This study is a prelude for future research to determine if monthly moxidectin administration orally as M-S-P could prevent symptomatic neuroangiostrongyliasis in dogs.
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Corsini G, Sanchez‐Masian D, Verin R, Cooper C, Piviani M. Persistent marked cerebrospinal fluid eosinophilia in a dog with primary central nervous system histiocytic sarcoma. Vet Clin Pathol 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/vcp.13183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Revised: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Corsini
- Department of Neurology, Anderson Moores Veterinary Specialist Winchester UK
| | | | - Ranieri Verin
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, School of Veterinary Science, Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences University of Liverpool Neston UK
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science University of Padova Legnaro Italy
| | - Camilla Cooper
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Science, School of Veterinary Science, Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences University of Liverpool Neston UK
| | - Martina Piviani
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Science, School of Veterinary Science, Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences University of Liverpool Neston UK
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine University of Pennsylvania Philadelphia Pennsylvania USA
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12
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Cowie RH, Ansdell V, Panosian Dunavan C, Rollins RL. Neuroangiostrongyliasis: Global Spread of an Emerging Tropical Disease. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2022; 107:1166-1172. [PMID: 36343594 PMCID: PMC9768254 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.22-0360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuroangiostrongyliasis (NAS) is an emerging parasitic disease caused by the neurotropic nematode Angiostrongylus cantonensis. Since it was first discovered, in rats in southern China in the 1930s, this tropical to subtropical parasite has spread to much of Southeast Asia, the Pacific Islands (including Hawaii), Australia, Japan, South America, the southeastern United States, the Caribbean, Africa, the Canary Islands, and the Balearic Islands. The parasite completes its natural life cycle in snails and slugs (intermediate hosts), and rats (definitive hosts). Humans become accidental hosts after ingesting infective third-stage larvae contained within uncooked or undercooked intermediate or paratenic hosts, an event that sometimes results in NAS, also known as rat lungworm disease. Although A. cantonensis larvae cannot complete their life cycle in humans, their migration into the brain and spinal cord combined with a powerful inflammatory reaction often leads to eosinophilic meningitis and can, in rare instances, lead to coma, paralysis, and death or, in other cases, chronic, disabling neurologic sequelae. Symptoms of NAS are diverse, which often makes it difficult to diagnose. Treatment may include administration of analgesics, corticosteroids, anthelminthics, and repeat lumbar punctures to reduce intracranial pressure. Unfortunately, few medical providers, even in endemic areas, are familiar with A. cantonensis or its epidemiology, diagnosis, and treatment. As the parasite continues to spread and NAS affects more people, medical practitioners, as well as the general public, must become more aware of this emerging zoonosis and the potentially devastating harm it can cause.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert H. Cowie
- Pacific Biosciences Research Center, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, Hawaii;,Address correspondence to Robert H. Cowie, Pacific Biosciences Research Center, University of Hawaii, 3050 Maile Way, Gilmore 408, Honolulu, HI 96822. E-mail:
| | - Vernon Ansdell
- John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, Hawaii
| | | | - Randi L. Rollins
- Pacific Biosciences Research Center, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, Hawaii;,School of Life Sciences, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, Hawaii
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Acevedo-Villanueva K, Akerele G, Al-Hakeem W, Adams D, Gourapura R, Selvaraj R. Immunization of Broiler Chickens With a Killed Chitosan Nanoparticle Salmonella Vaccine Decreases Salmonella Enterica Serovar Enteritidis Load. Front Physiol 2022; 13:920777. [PMID: 35923229 PMCID: PMC9340066 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.920777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
There is a critical need for an oral-killed Salmonella vaccine for broilers. Chitosan nanoparticle (CNP) vaccines can be used to deliver Salmonella antigens orally. We investigated the efficacy of a killed Salmonella CNP vaccine on broilers. CNP vaccine was synthesized using Salmonella enterica serovar Enteritidis (S. Enteritidis) outer membrane and flagella proteins. CNP was stable at acidic conditions by releasing 14% of proteins at pH 5.5. At 17 h post-incubation, the cumulative protein release for CNP was 75% at pH 7.4. Two hundred microliters of PBS with chicken red blood cells incubated with 20 μg/ml CNP released 0% hemoglobin. Three hundred chicks were allocated into 1) Control, 2) Challenge, 3) Vaccine + Challenge. At d1 of age, chicks were spray-vaccinated with PBS or 40 mg CNP. At d7 of age, chicks were orally-vaccinated with PBS or 20 μg CNP/bird. At d14 of age, birds were orally-challenged with PBS or 1 × 107 CFU/bird of S. Enteritidis. The CNP-vaccinated birds had higher antigen-specific IgY/IgA and lymphocyte-proliferation against flagellin (p < 0.05). At 14 days post-infection, CNP-vaccinated birds reversed the loss in gut permeability by 13% (p < 0.05). At 21 days post-infection, the CNP-vaccinated birds decreased S. Enteritidis in the ceca and spleen by 2 Log10 CFU/g, and in the small intestine by 0.6 Log10 CFU/g (p < 0.05). We conclude that the CNP vaccine is a viable alternative to conventional Salmonella poultry vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keila Acevedo-Villanueva
- Department of Poultry Science, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, United States
| | - Gabriel Akerele
- Department of Poultry Science, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, United States
| | - Walid Al-Hakeem
- Department of Poultry Science, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, United States
| | - Daniel Adams
- Department of Poultry Science, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, United States
| | - Renukaradhy Gourapura
- Ohio Agricultural Research and Development Center, College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Ramesh Selvaraj
- Department of Poultry Science, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, United States
- *Correspondence: Ramesh Selvaraj,
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14
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Delgado-Serra S, Sola J, Negre N, Paredes-Esquivel C. Angiostrongylus cantonensis Nematode Invasion Pathway, Mallorca, Spain. Emerg Infect Dis 2022; 28:1163-1169. [PMID: 35608603 PMCID: PMC9155863 DOI: 10.3201/eid2806.212344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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15
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Rollins RL, Qader M, Gosnell WL, Wang C, Cao S, Cowie RH. A validated high-throughput method for assaying rat lungworm ( Angiostrongylus cantonensis) motility when challenged with potentially anthelmintic natural products from Hawaiian fungi. Parasitology 2022; 149:1-28. [PMID: 35236524 PMCID: PMC9440163 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182022000191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Parasitic nematodes devastate human and animal health. The limited number of anthelmintics available is concerning, especially because of increasing drug resistance. Anthelmintics are commonly derived from natural products, e.g. fungi and plants. This investigation aimed to develop a high-throughput whole organism screening method based on a motility assay using the wMicroTracker system. Anthelmintic activity of extracts from Hawaiian fungi was screened against third-stage larvae of the parasitic nematode Angiostrongylus cantonensis , categorized according to the degree of motility reduction. Of the 108 crude samples and fractionated products, 48 showed some level of activity, with 13 reducing motility to 0–25% of the maximum exhibited, including two pure compounds, emethacin B and epicoccin E, neither previously known to exhibit anthelmintic properties. The process of bioassay-guided fractionation is illustrated in detail based on analysis of one of the crude extracts, which led to isolation of lamellicolic anhydride, a compound with moderate activity. This study validates the wMicroTracker system as an economical and high-throughput option for testing large suites of natural products against A. cantonensis , adds to the short list of diverse parasites for which it has been validated and highlights the value of A. cantonensis and Hawaiian fungi for discovery of new anthelmintics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Randi L. Rollins
- Pacific Biosciences Research Center, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI96822, USA
- School of Life Sciences, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI96822, USA
| | - Mallique Qader
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Daniel K. Inouye College of Pharmacy, University of Hawaii at Hilo, Hilo, HI96720, USA
| | - William L. Gosnell
- Department of Tropical Medicine, Medical Microbiology and Pharmacology, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI96813, USA
| | - Cong Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Daniel K. Inouye College of Pharmacy, University of Hawaii at Hilo, Hilo, HI96720, USA
| | - Shugeng Cao
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Daniel K. Inouye College of Pharmacy, University of Hawaii at Hilo, Hilo, HI96720, USA
| | - Robert H. Cowie
- Pacific Biosciences Research Center, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI96822, USA
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16
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Vielmo A, Schwertz CI, Piva MM, Echenique JVZ, De Lorenzo C, Surita LE, de Andrade CP, Sonne L. Eosinophilic meningoencephalitis caused by rat lungworm (Angiostrongylus cantonensis) migration in a white-eared opossum (Didelphis albiventris) with concurrent distemper virus in southern Brazil. Parasitol Res 2022; 121:1545-1549. [PMID: 35192069 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-022-07471-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Angiostrongylus cantonensis is a worldwide zoonotic parasite that causes eosinophilic meningoencephalitis in many species of animals including humans. This report describes neuro-angiostrongylosis in a white-eared opossum that showed nervous clinical signs such as circling and depression. At necropsy, no relevant macroscopic lesions were observed. Histologically, eosinophilic meningoencephalitis was associated with multiple sections of nematodes and many intracytoplasmic eosinophilic inclusion bodies within gastric parietal cells. Immunohistochemistry was strongly positive for canine distemper virus in the stomach but there was no immunolabeling in the brain. This study describes a fatal case of eosinophilic meningoencephalitis by A. cantonensis with canine distemper virus concurrent infection in a white-eared opossum in southern Brazil, with histological characterization and molecular confirmation of the parasitism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andréia Vielmo
- Departamento de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Setor de Patologia Veterinária, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul (UFRGS), Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Prédio 42505, Porto Alegre, RS, 91540-000, Brazil.
| | - Claiton Ismael Schwertz
- Departamento de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Setor de Patologia Veterinária, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul (UFRGS), Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Prédio 42505, Porto Alegre, RS, 91540-000, Brazil
| | - Manoela Marchezan Piva
- Departamento de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Setor de Patologia Veterinária, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul (UFRGS), Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Prédio 42505, Porto Alegre, RS, 91540-000, Brazil
| | - Joanna Vargas Zillig Echenique
- Departamento de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Setor de Patologia Veterinária, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul (UFRGS), Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Prédio 42505, Porto Alegre, RS, 91540-000, Brazil
| | - Cíntia De Lorenzo
- Departamento de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Setor de Patologia Veterinária, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul (UFRGS), Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Prédio 42505, Porto Alegre, RS, 91540-000, Brazil
| | - Lívia Eichenberg Surita
- PRESERVAS-Núcleo de Conservação e Reabilitação de Animais Silvestres, Hospital de Clínicas Veterinárias, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul (UFRGS), Avenida Bento Gonçalves 9090, Agronomia, Porto Alegre, RS, 91540-000, Brazil
| | - Caroline Pinto de Andrade
- Departamento de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Setor de Patologia Veterinária, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul (UFRGS), Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Prédio 42505, Porto Alegre, RS, 91540-000, Brazil
| | - Luciana Sonne
- Departamento de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Setor de Patologia Veterinária, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul (UFRGS), Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Prédio 42505, Porto Alegre, RS, 91540-000, Brazil
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17
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Odani J, Sox E, Coleman W, Jha R, Malik R. First Documented Cases of Canine Neuroangiostrongyliasis Due to Angiostrongylus cantonensis in Hawaii. J Am Anim Hosp Assoc 2021; 57:42-46. [PMID: 33260206 DOI: 10.5326/jaaha-ms-6989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Two young dogs domiciled in Honolulu, Hawaii, were presented in November and December 2018 (respectively) for spinal hyperesthesia, hindlimb weakness, and proprioceptive ataxia. Both dogs had neurologic findings referable to spinal cord disease. Both dogs had a combination of lower motor neuron signs (reduced muscle mass, decreased withdrawal reflexes, low tail carriage) and long tract signs (conscious proprioceptive deficits, crossed extensor response, increased myotatic reflexes). Peripheral eosinophilia was present in the second case, but hematology and serum biochemistries were otherwise unremarkable. Plain radiographs and computed tomography scans ± contrast were unremarkable. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from both patients demonstrated eosinophilic pleocytosis, and real-time polymerase chain reaction testing demonstrated Angiostrongylus cantonensis deoxyribonucleic acid in CSF, confirming a diagnosis of neuroangiostrongyliasis. Treatment included glucocorticoid therapy, ± anthelmintic (fenbendazole). Both dogs made a complete recovery. These are the first confirmed cases of autochthonous neuroangiostrongyliasis in canine patients in the United States and the first dogs anywhere to be diagnosed definitively with A cantonensis infection based on real-time polymerase chain reaction testing of CSF. A clinician examining a patient with severe spinal hyperesthesia and a combination of upper and lower motor signs should consider A cantonensis as a differential, especially in endemic areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenee Odani
- From the University of Hawai'iat Mānoa College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources, Honolulu, Hawaii (J.O., R.J.); Veterinary Emergency + Referral Center of Hawaii, Honolulu, Hawaii (E.S., W.C.); and Centre for Veterinary Education, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia (R.M.)
| | - Erika Sox
- From the University of Hawai'iat Mānoa College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources, Honolulu, Hawaii (J.O., R.J.); Veterinary Emergency + Referral Center of Hawaii, Honolulu, Hawaii (E.S., W.C.); and Centre for Veterinary Education, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia (R.M.)
| | - Will Coleman
- From the University of Hawai'iat Mānoa College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources, Honolulu, Hawaii (J.O., R.J.); Veterinary Emergency + Referral Center of Hawaii, Honolulu, Hawaii (E.S., W.C.); and Centre for Veterinary Education, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia (R.M.)
| | - Rajesh Jha
- From the University of Hawai'iat Mānoa College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources, Honolulu, Hawaii (J.O., R.J.); Veterinary Emergency + Referral Center of Hawaii, Honolulu, Hawaii (E.S., W.C.); and Centre for Veterinary Education, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia (R.M.)
| | - Richard Malik
- From the University of Hawai'iat Mānoa College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources, Honolulu, Hawaii (J.O., R.J.); Veterinary Emergency + Referral Center of Hawaii, Honolulu, Hawaii (E.S., W.C.); and Centre for Veterinary Education, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia (R.M.)
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18
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Patial S, Delcambre BA, DiGeronimo PM, Conboy G, Vatta AF, Bauer R. Verminous meningoencephalomyelitis in a red kangaroo associated with Angiostrongylus cantonensis infection. J Vet Diagn Invest 2021; 34:107-111. [PMID: 34382472 DOI: 10.1177/10406387211037664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Angiostrongylus cantonensis is a zoonotic parasitic helminth that normally resides in the pulmonary arteries and the right ventricle of rats (Rattus sp.), the definitive host, where it causes little disease. Humans, dogs, opossums, and various zoo animals are "accidental" hosts. Here we report verminous meningoencephalomyelitis caused by A. cantonensis in a 9-mo-old male red kangaroo (Macropus rufus). The kangaroo was first presented lethargic, recumbent, and hypothermic, with severe muscle wasting. Within 3 wk, he progressed to non-ambulatory paraparesis and died. Gross examination revealed multifocal areas of dark-brown discoloration, malacia, and cavitation in the brain and the spinal cord. Histologically, there were several sections of nematodes surrounded by extensive areas of rarefaction, hemorrhage, spongiosis, neuronal necrosis, and gliosis. Based on size, morphology, and organ location, the nematodes were identified as subadult males and females. Interestingly, an eosinophilic response was largely absent, and the inflammatory response was minimal. A. cantonensis infection had not been reported previously in a red kangaroo in Louisiana or Mississippi, to our knowledge. Our case reaffirms the widespread presence of the helminth in the southeastern United States and indicates that A. cantonensis should be considered as a differential in macropods with neurologic clinical signs in regions where A. cantonensis is now endemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonika Patial
- Departments of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, USA
| | - Brooke A Delcambre
- Pathobiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, USA
| | - Peter M DiGeronimo
- Veterinary Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, USA.,Current address: Adventure Aquarium, Camden, NJ, USA
| | - Gary Conboy
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, Atlantic Veterinary College, Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Canada
| | - Adriano F Vatta
- Pathobiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, USA
| | - Rudy Bauer
- Pathobiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, USA
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19
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A Peculiar Distribution of the Emerging Nematode Angiostrongylus cantonensis in the Canary Islands (Spain): Recent Introduction or Isolation Effect? Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11051267. [PMID: 33924825 PMCID: PMC8147057 DOI: 10.3390/ani11051267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Angiostrongylus cantonensis, commonly known as the rat lungworm, is considered the leading cause of eosinophilic meningitis in humans. It is an emerging zoonotic parasite, endemic to the temperate and tropical zones of the Far East, Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands, that has expanded to all continents with the exception of Antarctica. Considering the recent finding of this parasite in rats from the Canary Islands, the aim of this study was to determine its current distribution in these islands in order to highlight the risk sources for angiostrongyliasis in the archipelago. We also analyzed the environmental conditions that could determine distribution. A. cantonensis was detected in only one of the eight islands that constitute this archipelago, i.e., in the north part of the island, which presents better environmental conditions than the south for the parasite to establish itself. This limited distribution could indicate a recent introduction of the parasite in the Canaries or an isolation effect that has not allowed the expansion to the other islands. The presence of A. cantonensis implies risks for humans and other animals that justify the need of control measures to prevent the expansion to other similar areas of the archipelago. Abstract Angiostrongylus cantonensis is an emerging zoonotic nematode recognized as the leading cause of eosinophilic meningitis in the word. After its discovery in China, it was recorded in 30 countries worldwide. Recently, it has expanded to new areas such as South America and it has been recently found in the Atlantic island of Tenerife (Canary Islands). In order to characterize the distribution of A. cantonensis in the Canary Islands, the lungs of 1462 rodents were sampled in eight islands of the archipelago over 13 years and were then analyzed for A. cantonensis. Remarkably, the parasite was detected only in Tenerife, in Rattus rattus (19.7%) and Rattus norvegicus (7.14%). They were concretely in the northern part of the island, which had a warmer and more humid climate than the south and main cities. The absence of this nematode in other islands with similar environmental conditions could be explained by an isolation effect or by a recent introduction of the parasite in the islands. Besides, the presence in Tenerife of the most invasive lineage of A. cantonensis reinforced the hypothesis of a recent introduction on this island. This study highlights the need to implement control measures to prevent the expansion to other areas in order to avoid the transmission to humans and other animals.
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Fecková B, Djoehana P, Putnová B, Valašťanová M, Petríková M, Knotek Z, Modrý D. Pathology of Angiostrongylus cantonensis infection in two model avian hosts. Parasitology 2021; 148:174-177. [PMID: 32981549 PMCID: PMC11010151 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182020001869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Angiostrongylus cantonensis causes severe neurological disorders in a wide range of warm-blooded animals, including several avian species. A laboratory isolate of A. cantonensis originating from French Polynesia, genotyped as clade 2, was used to assess the effect of experimental infection in chicken and Japanese quail. Low dose groups of birds were infected orally by 100 L3 larvae, high dose groups by 1500 L3 larvae and the birds in the third group were fed three infected snails, mimicking a natural infection. Clinical signs during the first week after infection, haematology, biochemistry, gross lesions and histology findings were used to assess the pathology of the infection. Some of the infected birds showed peripheral eosinophilia, while mild neurological signs were seen in others. No larvae were observed in serial sections of the central nervous system of infected birds 1 week after infection and no major gross lesions were observed during necropsy; histopathology did not reveal lesions directly attributable to A. cantonensis infection. Our results suggest that galliform birds are not highly susceptible to A. cantonensis infection and open a question of the importance of Galliformes in endemic areas as natural pest control, lowering the number of hosts carrying the infective larvae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbora Fecková
- Department of Pathology and Parasitology, University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Palackého tř. 1946/1, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Priyanka Djoehana
- Department of Pathology and Parasitology, University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Palackého tř. 1946/1, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Barbora Putnová
- Department of Pathology and Parasitology, University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Palackého tř. 1946/1, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Michaela Valašťanová
- Department of Pathology and Parasitology, University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Palackého tř. 1946/1, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Michaela Petríková
- Department of Pathology and Parasitology, University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Palackého tř. 1946/1, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Zdeněk Knotek
- Department of Pathology and Parasitology, University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Palackého tř. 1946/1, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - David Modrý
- Department of Pathology and Parasitology, University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Palackého tř. 1946/1, Brno, Czech Republic
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
- Department of Botany and Zoology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
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21
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Wun MK, Malik R, Yu J, Chow KE, Lau M, Podadera JM, Webster N, Lee R, Šlapeta J, Davies S. Magnetic resonance imaging in dogs with neuroangiostrongyliasis (rat lungworm disease). Parasitology 2021; 148:198-205. [PMID: 32951620 PMCID: PMC11010213 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182020001742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2020] [Revised: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) appearance of the brain and spinal cord in humans with neuroangiostrongyliasis (NA) due to Angiostrongylus cantonensis infection has been well reported. Equivalent studies in animals are lacking. This case series describes clinical and MRI findings in 11 dogs with presumptively or definitively diagnosed NA. MRI of the brain and/or spinal cord was performed using high-field (1.5 T) or low-field (0.25 T) scanners using various combinations of transverse, sagittal, dorsal and three-dimensional (3D) T1-weighted (T1W), transverse, sagittal and dorsal T2-weighted (T2W), T2W fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) and T2*-weighted (T2*W) gradient echo (GRE), dorsal T2W short tau inversion recovery (STIR) and post-gadolinium transverse, sagittal, dorsal and 3D T1W and transverse T2W FLAIR sequences. In 4/6 cases where the brain was imaged, changes consistent with diffuse meningoencephalitis were observed. Evidence of meningeal involvement was evident even when not clinically apparent. The spinal cord was imaged in 9 dogs, with evidence of meningitis and myelitis detected in regions consistent with the observed neuroanatomical localization. Pathognomonic changes of neural larva migrans, as described in some human patients with NA, were not detected. NA should be considered in the differential diagnosis of dogs with MRI evidence of focal or diffuse meningitis, myelitis and/or encephalitis, especially in areas where A. cantonensis is endemic. If not precluded by imaging findings suggestive of brain herniation, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) collection for cytology, fluid analysis, real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) testing should be considered mandatory in such cases after the MRI studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew K. Wun
- Veterinary Specialist Services, 1-15 Lexington Rd, Underwood, QLD4119, Australia
| | - Richard Malik
- Centre for Veterinary Education, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW2006, Australia
- School of Veterinary and Animal Science, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW 2650, Australia
| | - Jane Yu
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW2006, Australia
| | - Kathleen E. Chow
- Sydney Veterinary Emergency & Specialists, 675 Botany Rd, Rosebery, NSW2018, Australia
| | - Michelle Lau
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW2006, Australia
| | - Juan M. Podadera
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW2006, Australia
| | - Natalie Webster
- IDEXX Telemedicine Consultants, 124/45 Gilby Rd, Mount Waverley, VIC 3149, Australia
| | - Rogan Lee
- Centre for Infectious Diseases & Microbiology Laboratory Services, Institute of Clinical Pathology and Medical Research, Westmead Hospital, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Jan Šlapeta
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW2006, Australia
| | - Sarah Davies
- Veterinary Imaging Associates, 52-56 Atchison St, St Leonards, NSW 2065, Australia
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22
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Lee R, Pai TY, Churcher R, Davies S, Braddock J, Linton M, Yu J, Bell E, Wimpole J, Dengate A, Collins D, Brown N, Reppas G, Jaensch S, Wun MK, Martin P, Sears W, Šlapeta J, Malik R. Further studies of neuroangiostrongyliasis (rat lungworm disease) in Australian dogs: 92 new cases (2010-2020) and results for a novel, highly sensitive qPCR assay. Parasitology 2021; 148:178-186. [PMID: 32829721 PMCID: PMC11010165 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182020001572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Revised: 08/17/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The principal aim of this study was to optimize the diagnosis of canine neuroangiostrongyliasis (NA). In total, 92 cases were seen between 2010 and 2020. Dogs were aged from 7 weeks to 14 years (median 5 months), with 73/90 (81%) less than 6 months and 1.7 times as many males as females. The disease became more common over the study period. Most cases (86%) were seen between March and July. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) was obtained from the cisterna magna in 77 dogs, the lumbar cistern in f5, and both sites in 3. Nucleated cell counts for 84 specimens ranged from 1 to 146 150 cells μL-1 (median 4500). Percentage eosinophils varied from 0 to 98% (median 83%). When both cisternal and lumbar CSF were collected, inflammation was more severe caudally. Seventy-three CSF specimens were subjected to enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) testing for antibodies against A. cantonensis; 61 (84%) tested positive, titres ranging from <100 to ⩾12 800 (median 1600). Sixty-one CSF specimens were subjected to real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) testing using a new protocol targeting a bioinformatically-informed repetitive genetic target; 53/61 samples (87%) tested positive, CT values ranging from 23.4 to 39.5 (median 30.0). For 57 dogs, it was possible to compare CSF ELISA serology and qPCR. ELISA and qPCR were both positive in 40 dogs, in 5 dogs the ELISA was positive while the qPCR was negative, in 9 dogs the qPCR was positive but the ELISA was negative, while in 3 dogs both the ELISA and qPCR were negative. NA is an emerging infectious disease of dogs in Sydney, Australia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rogan Lee
- Parasitology Laboratory, Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Lab Services, Level 3 ICPMR, Westmead Hospital, NSW, Australia
| | - Tsung-Yu Pai
- Parasitology Laboratory, Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Lab Services, Level 3 ICPMR, Westmead Hospital, NSW, Australia
| | - Richard Churcher
- North Shore Veterinary Specialist Centre, 63 Herbert St, Artarmon, NSW2064, Australia
| | - Sarah Davies
- Veterinary Imaging Associates, PO Box 300, St. LeonardsNSW1590, Australia
| | - Jody Braddock
- Sydney Veterinary Emergency and Specialists, 675 Botany Road, RoseberryNSW2018, Australia
| | - Michael Linton
- Sydney Veterinary Emergency and Specialists, 675 Botany Road, RoseberryNSW2018, Australia
| | - Jane Yu
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, University of SydneyNSW2006, Australia
| | - Erin Bell
- Sydney Veterinary Emergency and Specialists, 675 Botany Road, RoseberryNSW2018, Australia
| | - Justin Wimpole
- Small Animal Specialist Hospital, Level 1, 1 Richardson Place, North Ryde, NSW2113, Australia
| | - Anna Dengate
- Northside Veterinary Specialists, 335 Mona Vale Rd, Terrey Hills, NSW2084, Australia
| | - David Collins
- Northside Veterinary Specialists, 335 Mona Vale Rd, Terrey Hills, NSW2084, Australia
| | - Narelle Brown
- Animal Referral Hospital, 250 Parramatta Rd, HomebushNSW2140, Australia
| | - George Reppas
- Vetnostics, 60 Waterloo Road, 60 Waterloo Rd, Macquarie ParkNSW2113, Australia
| | - Susan Jaensch
- Vetnostics, 60 Waterloo Road, 60 Waterloo Rd, Macquarie ParkNSW2113, Australia
| | - Matthew K. Wun
- Veterinary Specialist Services, 1-15 Lexington Rd, Underwood, QLD4119, Australia
| | - Patricia Martin
- Veterinary Pathology Diagnostic Services (VPDS), Building B14, the University of Sydney NSW2006, Australia
| | - William Sears
- Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Jan Šlapeta
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, University of SydneyNSW2006, Australia
- Veterinary Pathology Diagnostic Services (VPDS), Building B14, the University of Sydney NSW2006, Australia
| | - Richard Malik
- Centre for Veterinary Education, B22, University of Sydney, NSW2006, Australia
- School of Veterinary and Animal Science, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW2678, Australia
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23
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Wun MK, Davies S, Spielman D, Lee R, Hayward D, Malik R. Gross, microscopic, radiologic, echocardiographic and haematological findings in rats experimentally infected with Angiostrongylus cantonensis. Parasitology 2021; 148:159-166. [PMID: 32741388 PMCID: PMC11010191 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182020001420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Revised: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Although the gross and microscopic pathology in rats infected with Angiostrongylus cantonensis has been well described, corresponding changes detected using diagnostic imaging modalities have not been reported. This work describes the cardiopulmonary changes in mature Wistar rats chronically infected with moderate burdens of A. cantonensis using radiology, computed tomography (CT), CT angiography, echocardiography, necropsy and histological examinations. Haematology and coagulation studies were also performed. Thoracic radiography, CT and CT angiography showed moderately severe alveolar pulmonary patterns mainly affecting caudal portions of the caudal lung lobes and associated dilatation of the caudal lobar pulmonary arteries. Presumptive worm profiles could be detected using echocardiography, with worms seen in the right ventricular outflow tract or straddling either the pulmonary and/or the tricuspid valves. Extensive, multifocal, coalescing dark areas and multiple pale foci affecting the caudal lung lobes were observed at necropsy. Histologically, these were composed of numerous large, confluent granulomas and fibrotic nodules. Adult worms were found predominantly in the mid- to distal pulmonary arteries. An inflammatory leukogram, hyperproteinaemia and hyperfibrinogenaemia were found in most rats. These findings provide a comparative model for A. cantonensis in its accidental hosts, such as humans and dogs. In addition, the pathological and imaging changes are comparable to those seen in dogs infected with Angiostrongylus vasorum, suggesting rats infected with A. cantonensis could be a model for dogs with A. vasorum infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew K. Wun
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW2006, Australia
| | - Sarah Davies
- Veterinary Imaging Associates, 52–56 Atchison St, St Leonards, NSW2065, Australia
| | - Derek Spielman
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW2006, Australia
| | - Rogan Lee
- Centre for Infectious Diseases & Microbiology Laboratory Services, ICPMR, Westmead Hospital, NSW2145, Australia
| | - Doug Hayward
- Vetnostics, 60 Waterloo Road, Macquarie Park, NSW2113, Australia
| | - Richard Malik
- Centre for Veterinary Education, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW2006, Australia
- School of Veterinary and Animal Science, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW2678, Australia
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24
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Mallaiyaraj Mahalingam JT, Calvani NED, Lee R, Malik R, Šlapeta J. Using cerebrospinal fluid to confirm Angiostrongylus cantonensis as the cause of canine neuroangiostrongyliasis in Australia where A. cantonensis and Angiostrongylus mackerrasae co-exist. CURRENT RESEARCH IN PARASITOLOGY & VECTOR-BORNE DISEASES 2021; 1:100033. [PMID: 35284889 PMCID: PMC8906064 DOI: 10.1016/j.crpvbd.2021.100033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Both Angiostrongylus cantonensis and Angiostrongylus mackerrasae have been identified along the east coast of Australia. A lack of A. mackerrasae genomic data until 2019, however, has precluded the unequivocal identification of the Angiostrongylus species responsible for neuroangiostrongyliasis in accidental hosts such as dog and man. The availability of a whole-genome data for A. mackerrasae, including mtDNA and ITS2 rDNA, enables discrimination of A. cantonensis from A. mackerrasae. The aim of this study was to develop diagnostic PCR assays to determine the species of Angiostrongylus based on the detection of Angiostrongylus DNA sequences in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of canine patients with eosinophilic meningitis. An in silico workflow utilising available cytochrome c oxidase 1 (cox1) primers streamlined the laboratory work into empirical steps, allowing optimisation and selection of a PCR assay that met the required criteria for discrimination of A. cantonensis and A. mackerrasae DNA in low-template CSF samples. The adopted cox1 qPCR assay specifically amplified and enabled the differentiation of A. cantonensis from A. mackerrasae DNA and confirmed the presence of A. cantonensis DNA in 11/50 archived CSF samples. The DNA sequences demonstrated the presence of two distinct A. cantonensis cox1 haplotypes in dogs from eastern Australia. Species identification was further confirmed via the adoption of an ITS2 rDNA assay, providing confirmation of only A. cantonensis ITS2 rDNA in the CSF samples. To our knowledge, this is the first study to unequivocally demonstrate the antemortem presence of A. cantonensis DNA in CSF from clinically affected dogs. The study confirmed the long-held assumption that A. cantonensis is the causal agent of neuroangiostrongyliasis but refutes the dogma that there was a single introduction of A. cantonensis into Australia by the demonstration of two distinct A. cantonensis cox1 haplotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nichola Eliza Davies Calvani
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, 2006, New South Wales, Australia
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, Centre for One Health Ryan Institute, National University of Ireland, Galway, H91 DK59, Galway, Ireland
| | - Rogan Lee
- Parasitology Laboratory, Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Lab Services, NSW Health Pathology, Level 3 ICPMR, Westmead Hospital, 2145, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Richard Malik
- Centre for Veterinary Education, University of Sydney, 2006, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jan Šlapeta
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, 2006, New South Wales, Australia
- Corresponding author.
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25
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Buhmann G, Wielaender F, Rosati M, Matiasek K, Hartmann K, Fischer A. [Canine meningoencephalitis and meningitis: retrospective analysis of a veterinary hospital population]. TIERAERZTLICHE PRAXIS AUSGABE KLEINTIERE HEIMTIERE 2020; 48:233-244. [PMID: 32823346 DOI: 10.1055/a-1186-8051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Characterization of the etiology of meningoencephalitis and meningitis in dogs through an analysis of a veterinary hospital population. MATERIAL AND METHODS Retrospective study (2011-2016) with evaluation of clinical and diagnostic data of dogs with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pleocytosis (> 5/µl). Only dogs with cytological evaluation of CSF or pathological examination of CNS were included. Results of CSF cytology and examination for infectious diseases were reviewed. RESULTS A total of 62 dogs met the inclusion criteria. 14.5 % (n = 9) were classified as reactive CSF pleocytosis due to other structural CNS disease, such as neoplasia or infarct. Meningoencephalitis or meningitis of unknown origin was diagnosed in 56.5 % (n = 35). In 29.0 % (n = 18), investigations for infectious diseases or presence of bacteria in CSF cytology (n = 5) indicated an infectious etiology. This infectious etiology appeared reliable in 6 dogs (9.7 %) based on the examination findings, in 9 dogs (14.5 %), there was only a suspicion of infectious meningoencephalitis or meningitis and in 3 dogs (4.8 %), the findings were of uncertain significance. CONCLUSION The most common cause of CSF pleocytosis was meningoencephalitis or meningitis of unknown origin. Nevertheless, there was evidence of a possible infectious etiology in 29 % of the dogs. For a reliable diagnosis, it is important to assess the CSF cytology and to conduct investigations for infectious diseases. CLINICAL RELEVANCE Meningoencephalitis or meningitis of unknown origin requires immunosuppressive therapy. Therefore, CSF cytology and investigations for infectious diseases are important for an exclusion of infectious meningoencephalitis or meningitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gesine Buhmann
- Medizinische Kleintierklinik, Zentrum für Klinische Tiermedizin der Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München
| | - Franziska Wielaender
- Medizinische Kleintierklinik, Zentrum für Klinische Tiermedizin der Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München
| | - Marco Rosati
- Sektion für Klinische und Vergleichende Neuropathologie, Zentrum für Klinische Tiermedizin der Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München
| | - Kaspar Matiasek
- Sektion für Klinische und Vergleichende Neuropathologie, Zentrum für Klinische Tiermedizin der Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München
| | - Katrin Hartmann
- Medizinische Kleintierklinik, Zentrum für Klinische Tiermedizin der Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München
| | - Andrea Fischer
- Medizinische Kleintierklinik, Zentrum für Klinische Tiermedizin der Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München
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26
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Underwood EB, Walker MJ, Darden TL, Kingsley-Smith PR. Frequency of Occurrence of the Rat Lungworm Parasite in the Invasive Island Apple Snail in South Carolina, USA. JOURNAL OF AQUATIC ANIMAL HEALTH 2019; 31:168-172. [PMID: 30719754 DOI: 10.1002/aah.10063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2018] [Accepted: 01/20/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The rat lungworm Angiostrongylus cantonensis is a nematode parasite that can cause potentially fatal eosinophilic meningitis in humans. The life cycle of A. cantonensis involves multiple hosts, with the most common terminal hosts being rodents and intermediate hosts comprising gastropods. One such gastropod is the invasive island apple snail Pomacea maculata, which is native to South America but is currently established in several states in the USA, including South Carolina. It has been identified as an intermediate host for A. cantonensis in several locations in Louisiana. The ability of the island apple snail to serve as an intermediate host for A. cantonensis poses significant potential threats to human health, yet no studies to date have determined the prevalence of this parasite in island apple snails in South Carolina. The objective of this study was to investigate the frequency of occurrence of A. cantonensis in South Carolina island apple snails by using a real-time PCR assay. One-hundred individuals from each of three distinct stormwater retention ponds were tested, and no positive detections were found. Determining the prevalence of A. cantonensis in island apple snails is critical in accurately informing the public as to the risks involved in handling and/or consuming island apple snails.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth B Underwood
- South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, Marine Resources Research Institute, 217 Fort Johnson Road, Charleston, South Carolina, 29412, USA
| | - Matt J Walker
- South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, Marine Resources Research Institute, 217 Fort Johnson Road, Charleston, South Carolina, 29412, USA
| | - Tanya L Darden
- South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, Marine Resources Research Institute, 217 Fort Johnson Road, Charleston, South Carolina, 29412, USA
| | - Peter R Kingsley-Smith
- South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, Marine Resources Research Institute, 217 Fort Johnson Road, Charleston, South Carolina, 29412, USA
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27
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Červená B, Modrý D, Fecková B, Hrazdilová K, Foronda P, Alonso AM, Lee R, Walker J, Niebuhr CN, Malik R, Šlapeta J. Low diversity of Angiostrongylus cantonensis complete mitochondrial DNA sequences from Australia, Hawaii, French Polynesia and the Canary Islands revealed using whole genome next-generation sequencing. Parasit Vectors 2019; 12:241. [PMID: 31097040 PMCID: PMC6524341 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-019-3491-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2019] [Accepted: 05/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Rats (Rattus spp.) invaded most of the world as stowaways including some that carried the rat lungworm, Angiostrongylus cantonensis, the cause of eosinophilic meningoencephalitis in humans and other warm-blooded animals. A high genetic diversity of A. cantonensis based on short mitochondrial DNA regions is reported from Southeast Asia. However, the identity of invasive A. cantonensis is known for only a minority of countries. The affordability of next-generation sequencing for characterisation of A. cantonensis genomes should enable new insights into rat lung worm invasion and parasite identification in experimental studies. Methods Genomic DNA from morphologically verified A. cantonensis (two laboratory-maintained strains and two field isolates) was sequenced using low coverage whole genome sequencing. The complete mitochondrial genome was assembled and compared to published A. cantonensis and Angiostrongylus malaysiensis sequences. To determine if the commonly sequenced partial cox1 can unequivocally identify A. cantonensis genetic lineages, the diversity of cox1 was re-evaluated in the context of the publicly available cox1 sequences and the entire mitochondrial genomes. Published experimental studies available in Web of Science were systematically reviewed to reveal published identities of A. cantonensis used in experimental studies. Results New A. cantonensis mitochondrial genomes from Sydney (Australia), Hawaii (USA), Canary Islands (Spain) and Fatu Hiva (French Polynesia), were assembled from next-generation sequencing data. Comparison of A. cantonensis mitochondrial genomes from outside of Southeast Asia showed low genetic diversity (0.02–1.03%) within a single lineage of A. cantonensis. Both cox1 and cox2 were considered the preferred markers for A. cantonensis haplotype identification. Systematic review revealed that unequivocal A. cantonensis identification of strains used in experimental studies is hindered by absence of their genetic and geographical identity. Conclusions Low coverage whole genome sequencing provides data enabling standardised identification of A. cantonensis laboratory strains and field isolates. The phenotype of invasive A. cantonensis, such as the capacity to establish in new territories, has a strong genetic component, as the A. cantonensis found outside of the original endemic area are genetically uniform. It is imperative that the genotype of A. cantonensis strains maintained in laboratories and used in experimental studies is unequivocally characterised. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13071-019-3491-y) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbora Červená
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia.,Department of Pathology and Parasitology, University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences Brno, Palackého třída 1946/1, 612 42, Brno, Czech Republic.,Institute of Vertebrate Biology, Czech Academy of Sciences, Květná 8, 603 65, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - David Modrý
- Department of Pathology and Parasitology, University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences Brno, Palackého třída 1946/1, 612 42, Brno, Czech Republic.,Institute of Parasitology, Biology Center of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Branišovská 1160/31, 370 05, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Barbora Fecková
- Department of Pathology and Parasitology, University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences Brno, Palackého třída 1946/1, 612 42, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Kristýna Hrazdilová
- CEITEC VFU, University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences Brno, Palackého třída 1946/1, 612 42, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Pilar Foronda
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias, Universidad de La Laguna, C/Astrofisico F Sanchez, s/n, Tenerife, 38203, La Laguna, Canary Islands, Spain.,Department Obstetricia y Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Legal y Forense y Parasitología, Universidad de La Laguna, 38203, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Canary Islands, Spain
| | - Aron Martin Alonso
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias, Universidad de La Laguna, C/Astrofisico F Sanchez, s/n, Tenerife, 38203, La Laguna, Canary Islands, Spain
| | - Rogan Lee
- Westmead Clinical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2145, Australia
| | - John Walker
- Marie Bashir Institute for infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Chris N Niebuhr
- USDA-APHIS-WS, National Wildlife Research Center, Hawaii Field Station, PO Box 10880, Hilo, HI, 96721, USA.,Manaaki Whenua-Landcare Research, PO Box 69040, Lincoln, 7608, New Zealand
| | - Richard Malik
- Centre for Veterinary Education, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Jan Šlapeta
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia.
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28
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Alcoverro E, Bersan E, Sanchez‐Masian D, Piviani M. Eosinophilic cerebrospinal fluid pleocytosis associated with neural
Angiostrongylus vasorum
infection in a dog. Vet Clin Pathol 2018; 48:78-82. [DOI: 10.1111/vcp.12684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2018] [Revised: 05/02/2018] [Accepted: 05/23/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Emili Alcoverro
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Science, Institute of Veterinary Science University of Liverpool Neston UK
| | - Erika Bersan
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Science, Institute of Veterinary Science University of Liverpool Neston UK
| | - Daniel Sanchez‐Masian
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Science, Institute of Veterinary Science University of Liverpool Neston UK
| | - Martina Piviani
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Science, Institute of Veterinary Science University of Liverpool Neston UK
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29
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Angiostrongylosis in Cerdocyon thous (crab-eating fox) and Lycalopex gymnocercus (Pampas fox) in Southern Brazil. Parasitology 2018; 146:617-624. [PMID: 30394242 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182018001865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to identify species of Angiostrongylus spp. infecting wild carnivores in Southern Brazil, as well as to describe gross and histopathological findings associated with the infection. Necropsy was conducted in 16 wild carnivores parasitized by Angiostrongylus spp. Analysed lungs revealed multifocal dark-red areas of consolidation; in one case, multifocal firm white nodules spread in all pulmonary lobes were observed. In one animal, a focally extensive area of malacia associated with haemorrhage was noted in the encephalon. Histologically, multifocal granulomatous pneumonia or bronchopneumonia, associated with eggs and larvae in blood vessels, lung interstitium, alveoli, and sometimes in bronchi and bronchioles was observed. Adult nematodes were seen within blood vessels. The lesion observed in the brain was characterized as a focally extensive area of malacia associated with gitter cells, haemorrhage, thrombosis and a free intralesional larva. Through molecular techniques, seven positive samples of Angiostrongylus cantonensis were obtained, including the brain sample, and a positive sample of Angiostrongylus vasorum-like, all in Cerdocyon thous. The positive sample for A. vasorum showed 97% similarity with sequences deposited in GenBank, suggesting a new species or subspecies of Angiostrongylus sp. Infection of Lycalopex gymnocercus by Angiostrongylus spp. was confirmed by histological evaluation.
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Warshaw M, Crossland NA, DiGeronimo PM, Jarvi SI, Pirie GJ, Evans DE. Pathology in Practice. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2018; 252:545-548. [DOI: 10.2460/javma.252.5.545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Newton PL, Fry DR, Best MP. Comparison of direct in-house cerebrospinal fluid cytology with commercial pathology results in dogs. J Small Anim Pract 2017; 58:694-702. [PMID: 29205375 DOI: 10.1111/jsap.12733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2017] [Revised: 07/11/2017] [Accepted: 07/12/2017] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate the correspondence between in-house direct cytological assessment of cerebrospinal fluid and results from a commercial veterinary pathology laboratory. METHODS Prospective inclusion of samples from dogs that were presented for investigation of suspected neurological disease and had cerebrospinal fluid samples submitted to a commercial pathology laboratory for analysis. A board-certified veterinary pathologist assessed all cerebrospinal fluid samples, and a line smear was assessed in-house by two observers. Nucleated cell count, red blood cell count and differential cell counts were recorded and compared. RESULTS In-clinic and commercial pathology nucleated cell counts and red blood cell counts were strongly correlated. In-house line smear results were compared with the gold standard of a defined dichotomous rating of 'increased nucleated cell count' provided by the external pathology service. Sensitivity was 93% and specificity 80% for samples with at least two cells per linear field. CLINICAL APPLICATION Although not a replacement for the assessment of cerebrospinal fluid samples by specialist veterinary pathologists, this method can provide rapid and clinically meaningful information before externally processed sample results are available.
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Affiliation(s)
- P L Newton
- Brisbane Veterinary Specialist Centre, Albany Creek, QLD, 4035, Australia
| | - D R Fry
- Brisbane Veterinary Specialist Centre, Albany Creek, QLD, 4035, Australia
| | - M P Best
- Brisbane Veterinary Specialist Centre, Albany Creek, QLD, 4035, Australia
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Larval development of Angiostrongylus chabaudi, the causative agent of feline angiostrongylosis, in the snail Cornu aspersum. Parasitology 2017; 144:1922-1930. [PMID: 28805181 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182017001433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Nematodes of the Angiostrongylidae family, such as Angiostrongylus vasorum and Angiostrongylus cantonensis, may cause potentially life-threatening diseases in several mammal species. Alongside these well-known species, Angiostrongylus chabaudi has been recently found affecting the cardiopulmonary system of domestic and wild cats from Italy, Germany, Greece, Romania and Bulgaria. Nonetheless, significant gaps in the understanding of A. chabaudi epidemiology include the lack of information of species acting as intermediate host and of the morphological description of larval stages. Cornu aspersum (n = 30) land snails were infected with 100 first-stage larvae of A. chabaudi collected from a naturally infected wildcat in Romania. Larvae at different developmental stages were found in 29 out of 30 (96·7%) infected snails and a total of 282 (mean 9·8 ± 3·02 larvae per each specimen) were collected from the gastropods. Here we demonstrate that A. chabaudi develops in snails and report C. aspersum as potential intermediate host for this parasitic nematode. Findings of this study are central to understand the ecological features of feline angiostrongylosis and its epidemiology within paratenic and intermediate hosts.
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Stockdale Walden HD, Slapcinsky JD, Roff S, Mendieta Calle J, Diaz Goodwin Z, Stern J, Corlett R, Conway J, McIntosh A. Geographic distribution of Angiostrongylus cantonensis in wild rats (Rattus rattus) and terrestrial snails in Florida, USA. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0177910. [PMID: 28542310 PMCID: PMC5436845 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0177910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2017] [Accepted: 05/05/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The parasitic nematode Angiostrongylus cantonensis is a major cause of eosinophilic meningitis in humans, and has been documented in other incidental hosts such as birds, horses, dogs and non-human primates. It is endemic in Hawaii, and there have been sporadic reports in the southern continental United States. This parasite uses rats as definitive hosts and snails as intermediate hosts. In this study, we collected potential definitive and intermediate hosts throughout Florida to ascertain the geographic distribution in the state: Rats, environmental rat fecal samples, and snails were collected from 18 counties throughout the state. Classical diagnostics and morphological identification, along with molecular techniques were used to identify nematode species and confirm the presence of A. cantonensis. Of the 171 Rattus rattus collected, 39 (22.8%) were positive for A. cantonensis, and 6 of the 37 (16.2%) environmental rat fecal samples collected in three of the surveyed counties were also positive for this parasite by real time PCR. We examined 1,437 gastropods, which represented 32 species; 27 (1.9%) were positive for A. cantonensis from multiple sites across Florida. Three non-native gastropod species, Bradybaena similaris, Zachrysia provisoria, and Paropeas achatinaceum, and three native gastropod species, Succinea floridana, Ventridens demissus, and Zonitoides arboreus, which are newly recorded intermediate hosts for the parasite, were positive for A. cantonensis. This study indicates that A. cantonensis is established in Florida through the finding of adult and larval stages in definitive and intermediate hosts, respectively, throughout the state. The ability for this historically subtropical nematode to thrive in a more temperate climate is alarming, however as the climate changes and average temperatures rise, gastropod distributions will probably expand, leading to the spread of this parasite in more temperate areas. Through greater awareness of host species and prevalence of A. cantonensis in the United States, potential accidental infections may be avoided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather D. Stockdale Walden
- Department of Infectious Disease and Pathology, University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - John D. Slapcinsky
- Florida Museum of Natural History, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Shannon Roff
- Department of Infectious Disease and Pathology, University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Jorge Mendieta Calle
- Department of Infectious Disease and Pathology, University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Zakia Diaz Goodwin
- Department of Infectious Disease and Pathology, University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Jere Stern
- Department of Infectious Disease and Pathology, University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Rachel Corlett
- Department of Infectious Disease and Pathology, University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Julia Conway
- Department of Infectious Disease and Pathology, University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Antoinette McIntosh
- Department of Infectious Disease and Pathology, University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
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Domljanovic I, Carstens A, Okholm A, Kjems J, Nielsen CT, Heegaard NHH, Astakhova K. Complexes of DNA with fluorescent dyes are effective reagents for detection of autoimmune antibodies. Sci Rep 2017; 7:1925. [PMID: 28507286 PMCID: PMC5432514 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-02214-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2017] [Accepted: 04/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
To date, there are multiple assays developed that detect and quantify antibodies in biofluids. Nevertheless, there is still a lack of simple approaches that specifically detect autoimmune antibodies to double-stranded DNA. Herein we investigate the potential of novel nucleic acid complexes as targets for these antibodies. This is done in a simple, rapid and specific immunofluorescence assay. Specifically, employing 3D nanostructures (DNA origami), we present a new approach in the detection and study of human antibodies to DNA. We demonstrate the detection of anti-DNA antibodies that are characteristic of systemic lupus erythematosus, a chronic autoimmune disease with multiple manifestations. We tested the most potent non-covalent pairs of DNA and fluorescent dyes. Several complexes showed specific recognition of autoimmune antibodies in human samples of lupus patients using a simple one-step immunofluorescence method. This makes the novel assay developed herein a promising tool for research and point-of-care monitoring of anti-DNA antibodies. Using this method, we for the first time experimentally confirm that the disease-specific autoimmune antibodies are sensitive to the 3D structure of nucleic acids and not only to the nucleotide sequence, as was previously thought.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivana Domljanovic
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Southern Denmark, Odense M, 5230, Denmark
| | - Annika Carstens
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Southern Denmark, Odense M, 5230, Denmark
| | - Anders Okholm
- Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center (iNANO), Aarhus University, Gustav Wieds Vej 14, Aarhus C, 8000, Denmark
| | - Jørgen Kjems
- Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center (iNANO), Aarhus University, Gustav Wieds Vej 14, Aarhus C, 8000, Denmark
| | - Christoffer Tandrup Nielsen
- Copenhagen Lupus and Vasculitis Clinic, Centre for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, 2100, Denmark
| | - Niels H H Heegaard
- Department of Autoimmunology and Biomarkers, Statens Serum Institute, DK-2300, Copenhagen S, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Odense University Hospital, University of Southern Denmark, DK-5000, Odense C, Denmark
| | - Kira Astakhova
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Southern Denmark, Odense M, 5230, Denmark.
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Aberrant Ancylostoma sp. in the brain of a dog. Vet Parasitol 2016; 223:210-3. [PMID: 27198802 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2016.04.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2015] [Revised: 04/01/2016] [Accepted: 04/18/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
A 14-month-old, male American Bulldog presented to Texas A&M University Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital in August of 2012 for anorexia, hydrophobia and gradually worsening neurologic signs. Grossly hemorrhage on the left side of the caudal cerebrum and cerebellum was observed and histologically corresponded with necrohemorrhagic and lymphoplasmacytic encephalitis associated with adult nematodes. Based on morphology and molecular analysis, these were identified as Ancylostoma sp.
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Angiostrongylus cantonensis: a review of its distribution, molecular biology and clinical significance as a human pathogen. Parasitology 2016; 143:1087-118. [PMID: 27225800 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182016000652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 141] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Angiostrongylus cantonensis is a metastrongyloid nematode found widely in the Asia-Pacific region, and the aetiological agent of angiostrongyliasis; a disease characterized by eosinophilic meningitis. Rattus rats are definitive hosts of A. cantonensis, while intermediate hosts include terrestrial and aquatic molluscs. Humans are dead-end hosts that usually become infected upon ingestion of infected molluscs. A presumptive diagnosis is often made based on clinical features, a history of mollusc consumption, eosinophilic pleocytosis in cerebral spinal fluid, and advanced imaging such as computed tomography. Serological tests are available for angiostrongyliasis, though many tests are still under development. While there is no treatment consensus, therapy often includes a combination of anthelmintics and corticosteroids. Angiostrongyliasis is relatively rare, but is often associated with morbidity and sometimes mortality. Recent reports suggest the parasites' range is increasing, leading to fatalities in regions previously considered Angiostrongylus-free, and sometimes, delayed diagnosis in newly invaded regions. Increased awareness of angiostrongyliasis would facilitate rapid diagnosis and improved clinical outcomes. This paper summarizes knowledge on the parasites' life cycle, clinical aspects and epidemiology. The molecular biology of Angiostrongylus spp. is also discussed. Attention is paid to the significance of angiostrongyliasis in Australia, given the recent severe cases reported from the Sydney region.
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Robles MDR, Kinsella JM, Galliari C, Navone GT. New host, geographic records, and histopathologic studies of Angiostrongylus spp (Nematoda: Angiostrongylidae) in rodents from Argentina with updated summary of records from rodent hosts and host specificity assessment. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 2016; 111:181-91. [PMID: 26982178 PMCID: PMC4804501 DOI: 10.1590/0074-02760150371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2015] [Accepted: 02/01/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
To date, 21 species of the genus Angiostrongylus (Nematoda: Angiostrongylidae) have been reported around the world, 15 of which are parasites of rodents. In this study, new host, geographic records, and histopathologic studies of Angiostrongylus spp in sigmodontine rodents from Argentina, with an updated summary of records from rodent hosts and host specificity assessment, are provided. Records of Angiostrongylus costaricensis from Akodon montensis and Angiostrongylus morerai from six new hosts and geographical localities in Argentina are reported. The gross and histopathologic changes in the lungs of the host species due to angiostrongylosis are described. Published records of the genus Angiostrongylus from rodents and patterns of host specificity are presented. Individual Angiostrongylus species parasitise between one-19 different host species. The most frequent values of the specificity index (STD) were between 1-5.97. The elevated number of host species (n = 7) of A. morerai with a STD = 1.86 is a reflection of multiple systematic studies of parasites from sigmodontine rodents in the area of Cuenca del Plata, Argentina, showing that an increase in sampling effort can result in new findings. The combination of low host specificity and a wide geographic distribution of Angiostrongylus spp indicates a troubling epidemiological scenario although, as yet, no human cases have been reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- María del Rosario Robles
- Centro Científico Tecnológico-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones
Científicas y Técnicas, Centro de Estudios Parasitológicos y de Vectores, Buenos Aires,
Argentina
| | | | - Carlos Galliari
- Centro Científico Tecnológico-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones
Científicas y Técnicas, Centro de Estudios Parasitológicos y de Vectores, Buenos Aires,
Argentina
| | - Graciela T Navone
- Centro Científico Tecnológico-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones
Científicas y Técnicas, Centro de Estudios Parasitológicos y de Vectores, Buenos Aires,
Argentina
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Aghazadeh M, Reid SA, Aland KV, Restrepo AC, Traub RJ, McCarthy JS, Jones MK. A survey of Angiostrongylus species in definitive hosts in Queensland. Int J Parasitol Parasites Wildl 2015; 4:323-8. [PMID: 26236633 PMCID: PMC4511779 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2015.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2015] [Revised: 06/24/2015] [Accepted: 06/26/2015] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Despite the recent sporadic reports of angiostrongyliasis in humans, dogs and wildlife in eastern Australia there has been no systematic study to explore the epidemiology of Angiostrongylus spp. in definitive and intermediate hosts in the region. Little is known about the epidemiology of Angiostrongylus species in the definitive host in southeast Queensland, since the only survey conducted in this region was performed in the late 1960s. In this study, free-living populations of Rattus spp. were sampled and examined for the presence of adult and larval Angiostrongylus in the lungs, and of larvae in faeces. The prevalence of infection with Angiostrongylus spp. was 16.5% in Rattus spp. trapped in urban Brisbane and surrounds. This prevalence is much higher than estimates of earlier studies. This highlights the possible risk of zoonotic infection in children, dogs and wildlife in this region and indicates the necessity for public awareness as well as more detailed epidemiological studies on this parasite in eastern Australia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahdis Aghazadeh
- School of Veterinary Science, University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD 4343, Australia ; QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia
| | - Simon A Reid
- School of Public Health, University of Queensland, Herston, QLD 4006, Australia
| | | | | | - Rebecca J Traub
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - James S McCarthy
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia ; School of Public Health, University of Queensland, Herston, QLD 4006, Australia
| | - Malcolm K Jones
- School of Veterinary Science, University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD 4343, Australia ; QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia
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39
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Aghazadeh M, Jones MK, Aland KV, Reid SA, Traub RJ, McCarthy JS, Lee R. Emergence of neural angiostrongyliasis in eastern Australia. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2015; 15:184-90. [PMID: 25793473 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2014.1622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite an apparent increase in cases of angiostrongyliasis in humans and animals in Australia, the epidemiology of infection with the two species of Angiostrongylus that co-exist in this country, namely A. cantonensis and A. mackerrasae, is poorly understood. This knowledge gap is particularly important with respect to A. mackerrasae, a species evidently native to Australia, as its ability to cause disease in humans is unknown. Likewise, there is little information on the roles of native and introduced species of rodents and molluscs as hosts of Angiostrongylus species in Australia. This review focuses on the gaps in the knowledge about the two species, highlighting the need for epidemiological and pathogenesis studies on the native lungworm A. mackerrasae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahdis Aghazadeh
- 1 School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland , Gatton, Queensland, Australia
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40
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Yu L, Wu X, Wei J, Liao Q, Xu L, Luo S, Zeng X, Zhao Y, Lv Z, Wu Z. Preliminary expression profile of cytokines in brain tissue of BALB/c mice with Angiostrongylus cantonensis infection. Parasit Vectors 2015; 8:328. [PMID: 26070790 PMCID: PMC4476182 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-015-0939-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2015] [Accepted: 06/05/2015] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Angiostrongylus cantonensis (A. cantonensis) infection can result in increased risk of eosinophilic meningitis. Accumulation of eosinophils and inflammation can result in the A. cantonensis infection playing an important role in brain tissue injury during this pathological process. However, underlying mechanisms regarding the transcriptomic responses during brain tissue injury caused by A. cantonensis infection are yet to be elucidated. This study is aimed at identifying some genomic and transcriptomic factors influencing the accumulation of eosinophils and inflammation in the mouse brain infected with A. cantonensis. Methods An infected mouse model was prepared based on our laboratory experimental process, and then the mouse brain RNA Libraries were constructed for deep Sequencing with Illumina Genome Analyzer. The raw data was processed with a bioinformatics’ pipeline including Refseq genes expression analysis using cufflinks, annotation and classification of RNAs, lncRNA prediction as well as analysis of co-expression network. The analysis of Refseq data provides the measure of the presence and prevalence of transcripts from known and previously unknown genes. Results This study showed that Cys-Cys (CC) type chemokines such as CCL2, CCL8, CCL1, CCL24, CCL11, CCL7, CCL12 and CCL5 were elevated significantly at the late phase of infection. The up-regulation of CCL2 indicated that the worm of A. cantonensis had migrated into the mouse brain at an early infection phase. CCL2 could be induced in the brain injury during migration and CCL2 might play a major role in the neuropathic pain caused by A. cantonensis infection. The up-regulated expression of IL-4, IL-5, IL-10, and IL-13 showed Th2 cell predominance in immunopathological reactions at late infection phase in response to infection by A. cantonensis. These different cytokines can modulate and inhibit each other and function as a network with the specific potential to drive brain eosinophilic inflammation. The increase of ATF-3 expression at 21 dpi suggested the injury of neuronal cells at late phase of infection. 1217 new potential lncRNA were candidates of interest for further research. Conclusions These cytokine networks play an important role in the development of central nervous system inflammation caused by A. cantonensis infection. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13071-015-0939-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liping Yu
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Medicine, Three Gorges University, Yichang, China. .,Department of Parasitology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Xiaoying Wu
- Key Laboratory for Tropical Diseases Control, The Ministry of Education, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Jie Wei
- Department of Parasitology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China. .,Key Laboratory for Tropical Diseases Control, The Ministry of Education, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Qi Liao
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Medicine, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China.
| | - Lian Xu
- Department of Parasitology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China. .,Key Laboratory for Tropical Diseases Control, The Ministry of Education, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Siqi Luo
- Department of Parasitology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China. .,Key Laboratory for Tropical Diseases Control, The Ministry of Education, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Xin Zeng
- Department of Parasitology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China. .,Key Laboratory for Tropical Diseases Control, The Ministry of Education, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Yi Zhao
- Advanced Computing Research Laboratory, Institute of Computing Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
| | - Zhiyue Lv
- Department of Parasitology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China. .,Key Laboratory for Tropical Diseases Control, The Ministry of Education, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Zhongdao Wu
- Department of Parasitology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China. .,Key Laboratory for Tropical Diseases Control, The Ministry of Education, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
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41
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Walker AG, Spielman D, Malik R, Graham K, Ralph E, Linton M, Ward MP. Canine neural angiostrongylosis: a case-control study in Sydney dogs. Aust Vet J 2015; 93:195-9. [DOI: 10.1111/avj.12332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2014] [Revised: 08/19/2014] [Accepted: 08/31/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- AG Walker
- Faculty of Veterinary Science; The University of Sydney; Sydney New South Wales Australia
| | - D Spielman
- Faculty of Veterinary Science; The University of Sydney; Sydney New South Wales Australia
| | - R Malik
- Centre for Veterinary Education; The University of Sydney; Sydney New South Wales Australia
| | - K Graham
- North Shore Veterinary Specialist Centre; Sydney New South Wales Australia
| | - E Ralph
- Small Animal Specialist Hospital; Sydney New South Wales Australia
| | - M Linton
- Rose Bay Veterinary Hospital; Sydney New South Wales Australia
| | - MP Ward
- Faculty of Veterinary Science; The University of Sydney; Sydney New South Wales Australia
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42
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Martin-Alonso A, Abreu-Yanes E, Feliu C, Mas-Coma S, Bargues MD, Valladares B, Foronda P. Intermediate hosts of Angiostrongylus cantonensis in Tenerife, Spain. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0120686. [PMID: 25803658 PMCID: PMC4372438 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0120686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2014] [Accepted: 01/25/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The nematode Angiostrongylus cantonensis is the causative agent of human angiostrongyliasis, the main clinical manifestation of which is eosinophilic meningitis. Although this parasite has been found recently in its definitive rat host in Tenerife (Canary Islands, Spain), showing a widespread distribution over the north-east part of the island, there are no available data regarding which snail and/or slug species are acting as intermediate hosts on this island. Consequently, the objective of this work was to determine the possible role of three mollusc species, Plutonia lamarckii, Cornu aspersum and Theba pisana, as intermediate hosts of A. cantonensis in Tenerife. Between 2011 and 2014, 233 molluscs were collected from five biotopes where rats had been found previously to harbor either adult worms or antibodies against A. cantonensis, and the identification was carried out on the basis of morphological features and a LAMP technique. The prevalence of A. cantonensis larvae in the mollusc samples, based on morphological identification, was 19.3%, whereas 59 out of the 98 individuals (60.2%) analyzed by LAMP were positive. Positive results were obtained for the three mollusc species analyzed and two of the positive samples, both obtained from P. lamarckii, were confirmed as positive by 18S rRNA and ITS1 PCR. Sequence analysis of 18S rRNA PCR products showed 100% similarity with previously published A. cantonensis sequences. These results may be relevant from a public health point of view, since all the biotopes from which the samples were obtained were in inhabited areas or areas with human activity, but it is also important from the perspective of a possible transmission to other accidental hosts, such as dogs and horses, animals that are present in some of the areas analyzed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aarón Martin-Alonso
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias, Universidad de la Laguna, La Laguna, Islas Canarias, España
- * E-mail:
| | - Estefanía Abreu-Yanes
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias, Universidad de la Laguna, La Laguna, Islas Canarias, España
| | - Carlos Feliu
- Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Universidad de Barcelona, Barcelona, Cataluña, España
| | - Santiago Mas-Coma
- Departamento de Parasitología, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad de Valencia, Burjassot, Spain
| | - María Dolores Bargues
- Departamento de Parasitología, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad de Valencia, Burjassot, Spain
| | - Basilio Valladares
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias, Universidad de la Laguna, La Laguna, Islas Canarias, España
| | - Pilar Foronda
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias, Universidad de la Laguna, La Laguna, Islas Canarias, España
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43
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Spratt DM. Species of Angiostrongylus (Nematoda: Metastrongyloidea) in wildlife: A review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY-PARASITES AND WILDLIFE 2015; 4:178-89. [PMID: 25853051 PMCID: PMC4381133 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2015.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2015] [Revised: 02/16/2015] [Accepted: 02/20/2015] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Twenty-one species of Angiostrongylus plus Angiostrongylus sp. (Nematoda: Metastrongyloidea) are known currently in wildlife. These occur naturally in rodents, tupaiids, mephitids, mustelids, procyonids, felids, and canids, and aberrantly in a range of avian, marsupial and eutherian hosts including humans. Adults inhabit the pulmonary arteries and right atrium, ventricle and vena cava, bronchioles of the lung or arteries of the caecum and mesentery. All species pass first-stage larvae in the faeces of the host and all utilise slugs and/or aquatic or terrestrial snails as intermediate hosts. Gastropods are infected by ingestion or penetration of first-stage larvae; definitive hosts by ingestion of gastropods or gastropod slime. Transmission of at least one species may involve ingestion of paratenic hosts. Five developmental pathways are identified in these life cycles. Thirteen species, including Angiostrongylus sp., are known primarily from the original descriptions suggesting limited geographic distributions. The remaining species are widespread either globally or regionally, and are continuing to spread. Small experimental doses of infective larvae (ca. 20) given to normal or aberrant hosts are tolerated, although generally eliciting a granulomatous histopathological response; large doses (100-500 larvae) often result in clinical signs and/or death. Two species, A. cantonensis and A. costaricensis, are established zoonoses causing neurological and abdominal angiostrongliasis respectively. The zoonotic potential of A. mackerrasae, A. malaysiensis and A. siamensis particularly warrant investigation. Angiostrongylus cantonensis occurs in domestic animals, mammalian and avian wildlife and humans in the metropolitan areas of Brisbane and Sydney, Australia, where it has been suggested that tawny frogmouths and brushtail possums may serve as biosentinels. A major conservation issue is the devastating role A. cantonensis may play around zoos and fauna parks where captive rearing of endangered species programmes may exist and where Rattus spp. are invariably a problem.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M Spratt
- Australian National Wildlife Collection, CSIRO National Research Collections, GPO Box 1700, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
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Stockdale-Walden HD, Slapcinsky J, Qvarnstrom Y, McIntosh A, Bishop HS, Rosseland B. Angiostrongylus cantonensis in Introduced Gastropods in Southern Florida. J Parasitol 2015; 101:156-9. [PMID: 25564891 DOI: 10.1645/14-553.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Angiostrongylus cantonensis , the rat lungworm, is a zoonotic, parasitic nematode that uses the rat as a definitive host and gastropods as intermediate hosts. It is prevalent in parts of Asia, the Pacific islands, and the Caribbean. In the United States, A. cantonensis is established in Hawaii and in recent years has been reported in Alabama, California, Louisiana, and Florida, where it has been found in the reintroduced Lissachatina fulica (also known as Achatina fulica), the giant African snail that was once eradicated from the state. Since 2004, A. cantonensis has been identified as the causative agent for 2 non-human primate deaths in Florida, one attributed to ingestion of the snail Zachrysia provisoria. Our study further supports the presence of A. cantonensis in Z. provisoria in Florida and identifies 2 additional introduced terrestrial snails, Bradybaena similaris and Alcadia striata, that serve as intermediate hosts for A. cantonensis , as well as evidence of rat infection, in southern Florida. The finding of both definitive and intermediate hosts suggests that A. cantonensis may be established in south Florida.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather D Stockdale-Walden
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32608
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Kottwitz JJ, Perry KK, Rose HH, Hendrix CM. Angiostrongylus cantonensisinfection in captive Geoffroy's tamarins (Saguinus geoffroyi). J Am Vet Med Assoc 2014; 245:821-7. [DOI: 10.2460/javma.245.7.821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Kim JR, Hayes KA, Yeung NW, Cowie RH. Diverse gastropod hosts of Angiostrongylus cantonensis, the rat lungworm, globally and with a focus on the Hawaiian Islands. PLoS One 2014; 9:e94969. [PMID: 24788772 PMCID: PMC4008484 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0094969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2013] [Accepted: 03/21/2014] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Eosinophilic meningitis caused by the parasitic nematode Angiostrongylus cantonensis is an emerging infectious disease with recent outbreaks primarily in tropical and subtropical locations around the world, including Hawaii. Humans contract the disease primarily through ingestion of infected gastropods, the intermediate hosts of Angiostrongylus cantonensis. Effective prevention of the disease and control of the spread of the parasite require a thorough understanding of the parasite's hosts, including their distributions, as well as the human and environmental factors that contribute to transmission. The aim of this study was to screen a large cross section of gastropod species throughout the main Hawaiian Islands to determine which act as hosts of Angiostrongylus cantonensis and to assess the parasite loads in these species. Molecular screening of 7 native and 30 non-native gastropod species revealed the presence of the parasite in 16 species (2 native, 14 non-native). Four of the species tested are newly recorded hosts, two species introduced to Hawaii (Oxychilus alliarius, Cyclotropis sp.) and two native species (Philonesia sp., Tornatellides sp.). Those species testing positive were from a wide diversity of heterobranch taxa as well as two distantly related caenogastropod taxa. Review of the global literature showed that many gastropod species from 34 additional families can also act as hosts. There was a wide range of parasite loads among and within species, with an estimated maximum of 2.8 million larvae in one individual of Laevicaulis alte. This knowledge of the intermediate host range of Angiostrongylus cantonensis and the range of parasite loads will permit more focused efforts to detect, monitor and control the most important hosts, thereby improving disease prevention in Hawaii as well as globally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaynee R. Kim
- Department of Biology, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, Hawaii, United States of America
- Pacific Biosciences Research Center, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, Hawaii, United States of America
| | - Kenneth A. Hayes
- Pacific Biosciences Research Center, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, Hawaii, United States of America
- Department of Biology, Howard University, Washington, District of Columbia, United States of America
| | - Norine W. Yeung
- Pacific Biosciences Research Center, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, Hawaii, United States of America
| | - Robert H. Cowie
- Pacific Biosciences Research Center, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, Hawaii, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Emerson JA, Walden HS, Peters RK, Farina LL, Fredholm DV, Qvarnstrom Y, Xayavong M, Bishop H, Slapcinsky J, McIntosh A, Wellehan JF. Eosinophilic meningoencephalomyelitis in an orangutan (Pongo pygmaeus) caused byAngiostrongylus cantonensis. Vet Q 2013; 33:191-4. [DOI: 10.1080/01652176.2013.880005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
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Reece RL, Perry RA, Spratt DM. Neuroangiostrongyliasis due toAngiostrongylus cantonensisin gang-gang cockatoos (Callocephalon fimbriatum). Aust Vet J 2013; 91:477-81. [DOI: 10.1111/avj.12116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/08/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- RL Reece
- New South Wales Department of Primary Industries; State Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory; Elizabeth Macarthur Agricultural Institute; Menangle New South Wales 2568 Australia
| | | | - DM Spratt
- CSIRO Australian National Wildlife Collection; Ecosystem Science; Canberra, Australian Capital Territory Australia
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Malik R, Spielman D, Šlapeta J. 'Gone in the back legs'. MICROBIOLOGY AUSTRALIA 2013. [DOI: 10.1071/ma13004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
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Monte TCC, Simões RO, Oliveira APM, Novaes CF, Thiengo SC, Silva AJ, Estrela PC, Maldonado A. Phylogenetic relationship of the Brazilian isolates of the rat lungworm Angiostrongylus cantonensis (Nematoda: Metastrongylidae) employing mitochondrial COI gene sequence data. Parasit Vectors 2012; 5:248. [PMID: 23130987 PMCID: PMC3514143 DOI: 10.1186/1756-3305-5-248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2012] [Accepted: 10/27/2012] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The rat lungworm Angiostrongylus cantonensis can cause eosinophilic meningoencephalitis in humans. This nematode's main definitive hosts are rodents and its intermediate hosts are snails. This parasite was first described in China and currently is dispersed across several Pacific islands, Asia, Australia, Africa, some Caribbean islands and most recently in the Americas. Here, we report the genetic variability among A. cantonensis isolates from different geographical locations in Brazil using mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene sequences. METHODS The isolates of A. cantonensis were obtained from distinct geographical locations of Brazil. Genomic DNAs were extracted, amplified by polymerase reaction, purified and sequenced. A partial sequence of COI gene was determined to assess their phylogenetic relationship. RESULTS The sequences of A. cantonensis were monophyletic. We identified a distinct clade that included all isolates of A. cantonensis from Brazil and Asia based on eight distinct haplotypes (ac1, ac2, ac3, ac4, ac5, ac6, ac7 and ac8) from a previous study. Interestingly, the Brazilian haplotype ac5 is clustered with isolates from Japan, and the Brazilian haplotype ac8 from Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Pará and Pernambuco states formed a distinct clade. There is a divergent Brazilian haplotype, which we named ac9, closely related to Chinese haplotype ac6 and Japanese haplotype ac7. CONCLUSION The genetic variation observed among Brazilian isolates supports the hypothesis that the appearance of A. cantonensis in Brazil is likely a result of multiple introductions of parasite-carrying rats, transported on ships due to active commerce with Africa and Asia during the European colonization period. The rapid spread of the intermediate host, Achatina fulica, also seems to have contributed to the dispersion of this parasite and the infection of the definitive host in different Brazilian regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tainá C C Monte
- Laboratório de Biologia e Parasitologia de Mamíferos Silvestres Reservatórios, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Avenida Brasil 4365, Manguinhos, 21040-360 Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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