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Debash H, Shibabaw A, Ebrahim H, Tilahun M, Seid A, Shimeles G, Kassanew B, Alemayehu E, Kasa Y, Desale S, Mengesha A, Gedefie A. Parasitological prevalence of scabies and secondary bacterial infections among scabies suspected patients at Borumeda General Hospital, Northeast Ethiopia. BMC Infect Dis 2024; 24:1106. [PMID: 39367344 PMCID: PMC11451200 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-024-09977-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 09/23/2024] [Indexed: 10/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Scabies disproportionately affects people in resource-poor areas. Clinical diagnosis risks misdiagnosis due to resemblance to other skin diseases, but laboratory confirmation improves accuracy. Scabies allow for secondary bacterial infections. Associated bacteria exacerbate scabies and antibiotic resistance. Ethiopian scabies diagnosis relies solely on clinical exams without confirming parasites or investigating secondary bacterial infections. This study aims to identify parasites via scraping, isolate secondary bacteria, and evaluate their antibiotic susceptibility profiles. METHODS A hospital based cross-sectional study was conducted from September 2022 to July 2023 among scabies suspected patients who visited the dermatology clinic at Borumeda General Hospital in Northeast Ethiopia. A systematic random sampling technique was used to select 422 study participants. Socio-demographic, hygiene, and clinical characteristics data were collected via face-to-face interviews and observation. Skin scrapings for parasitological investigations and swab samples for microbiological investigations were collected and transported for analysis and drug susceptibility testing. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression analysis were employed to assess risk factors. RESULT Among 422 skin scraping samples, 156 (37.0%) cases of scabies were microscopically confirmed. Bed-sharing and having contact history were independent predictors of microscopically confirmed scabies. The prevalence of secondary bacterial infections among scabies-confirmed patients was 35.9% (56/156). The most prevalent bacterial species were Staphylococcus aureus, coagulase-negative staphylococci, and Streptococcus pyogenes. Tetracycline for Gram-positive bacteria and ampicillin for Gram-negative bacteria showed the highest rate of resistance. In both Gram-positive and Gram-negative strains, multidrug resistance was also observed. CONCLUSION This study found that over one-third of skin scrapings tested positive for scabies. Additionally, more than one-third of scabies cases were complicated by secondary bacterial infections. Improved scabies diagnosis and consideration of secondary bacterial infections are important for better controlling this neglected tropical disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Habtu Debash
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia.
| | - Agumas Shibabaw
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | - Hussen Ebrahim
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | - Mihret Tilahun
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | - Abdurahaman Seid
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | | | - Birhanu Kassanew
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Woldia University, Woldia, Ethiopia
| | - Ermiyas Alemayehu
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | - Yeshimebet Kasa
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | - Sisay Desale
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | - Amanuel Mengesha
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | - Alemu Gedefie
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia.
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Fernando DD, Mounsey KE, Bernigaud C, Surve N, Estrada Chávez GE, Hay RJ, Currie BJ, Chosidow O, Fischer K. Scabies. Nat Rev Dis Primers 2024; 10:74. [PMID: 39362885 DOI: 10.1038/s41572-024-00552-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/22/2024] [Indexed: 10/05/2024]
Abstract
Scabies is one of the most common and highest-burden skin diseases globally. Estimates suggest that >200 million people worldwide have scabies at any one time, with an annual prevalence of 455 million people, with children in impoverished and overcrowded settings being the most affected. Scabies infection is highly contagious and leads to considerable morbidity. Secondary bacterial infections are common and can cause severe health complications, including sepsis or necrotizing soft-tissue infection, renal damage and rheumatic heart disease. There is no vaccine or preventive treatment against scabies and, for the past 30 years, only few broad-spectrum antiparasitic drugs (mainly topical permethrin and oral ivermectin) have been widely available. Treatment failure is common because drugs have short half-lives and do not kill all developmental stages of the scabies parasite. At least two consecutive treatments are needed, which is difficult to achieve in resource-poor and itinerant populations. Another key issue is the lack of a practical, rapid, cheap and accurate diagnostic tool for the timely detection of scabies, which could prevent the cycle of exacerbation and disease persistence in communities. Scabies control will require a multifaceted approach, aided by improved diagnostics and surveillance, new treatments, and increased public awareness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepani D Fernando
- Scabies Laboratory, Infection and Inflammation Program, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Kate E Mounsey
- School of Health, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Queensland, Australia
| | - Charlotte Bernigaud
- Research Group Dynamic, EA7380, Faculté de Santé de Créteil, USC ANSES, Université Paris-Est Créteil, Créteil, France
| | - Nuzhat Surve
- Department of Microbiology, Seth G S Medical College and KEM Hospital, Parel, Mumbai, India
| | - Guadalupe E Estrada Chávez
- State Institute of Cancer "Dr. Arturo Beltrán Ortega", Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Guerrero, Community Dermatology Mexico, Acapulco, Guerrero, Mexico
| | - Roderick J Hay
- St Johns Institute of Dermatology, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Bart J Currie
- Global and Tropical Health, Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University and Royal Darwin Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Olivier Chosidow
- Hôpital Universitaire La Pitié-Salpêtrière, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Katja Fischer
- Scabies Laboratory, Infection and Inflammation Program, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.
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Hirose Y, Zielinski DC, Poudel S, Rychel K, Baker JL, Toya Y, Yamaguchi M, Heinken A, Thiele I, Kawabata S, Palsson BO, Nizet V. A genome-scale metabolic model of a globally disseminated hyperinvasive M1 strain of Streptococcus pyogenes. mSystems 2024; 9:e0073624. [PMID: 39158303 PMCID: PMC11406949 DOI: 10.1128/msystems.00736-24] [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: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 08/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Streptococcus pyogenes is responsible for a range of diseases in humans contributing significantly to morbidity and mortality. Among more than 200 serotypes of S. pyogenes, serotype M1 strains hold the greatest clinical relevance due to their high prevalence in severe human infections. To enhance our understanding of pathogenesis and discovery of potential therapeutic approaches, we have developed the first genome-scale metabolic model (GEM) for a serotype M1 S. pyogenes strain, which we name iYH543. The curation of iYH543 involved cross-referencing a draft GEM of S. pyogenes serotype M1 from the AGORA2 database with gene essentiality and autotrophy data obtained from transposon mutagenesis-based and growth screens. We achieved a 92.6% (503/543 genes) accuracy in predicting gene essentiality and a 95% (19/20 amino acids) accuracy in predicting amino acid auxotrophy. Additionally, Biolog Phenotype microarrays were employed to examine the growth phenotypes of S. pyogenes, which further contributed to the refinement of iYH543. Notably, iYH543 demonstrated 88% accuracy (168/190 carbon sources) in predicting growth on various sole carbon sources. Discrepancies observed between iYH543 and the actual behavior of living S. pyogenes highlighted areas of uncertainty in the current understanding of S. pyogenes metabolism. iYH543 offers novel insights and hypotheses that can guide future research efforts and ultimately inform novel therapeutic strategies.IMPORTANCEGenome-scale models (GEMs) play a crucial role in investigating bacterial metabolism, predicting the effects of inhibiting specific metabolic genes and pathways, and aiding in the identification of potential drug targets. Here, we have developed the first GEM for the S. pyogenes highly virulent serotype, M1, which we name iYH543. The iYH543 achieved high accuracy in predicting gene essentiality. We also show that the knowledge obtained by substituting actual measurement values for iYH543 helps us gain insights that connect metabolism and virulence. iYH543 will serve as a useful tool for rational drug design targeting S. pyogenes metabolism and computational screening to investigate the interplay between inhibiting virulence factor synthesis and growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujiro Hirose
- Department of Microbiology, Osaka University Graduate School of Dentistry, Suita, Osaka, Japan
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California at San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Daniel C. Zielinski
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Saugat Poudel
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Kevin Rychel
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Jonathon L. Baker
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California at San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, California, USA
- Genomic Medicine Group, J. Craig Venter Institute, La Jolla, California, USA
- Department of Oral Rehabilitation & Biosciences, OHSU School of Dentistry, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Yoshihiro Toya
- Department of Bioinformatic Engineering, Graduate School of Information Science and Technology, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Masaya Yamaguchi
- Department of Microbiology, Osaka University Graduate School of Dentistry, Suita, Osaka, Japan
- Bioinformatics Research Unit, Graduate School of Dentistry, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
- Bioinformatics Center, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
- Center for Infectious Diseases Education and Research, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Almut Heinken
- School of Medicine, National University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
- Ryan Institute, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
- Inserm UMRS 1256 NGERE, University of Lorraine, Nancy, France
| | - Ines Thiele
- School of Medicine, National University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
- Division of Microbiology, National University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
- APC Microbiome Ireland, Cork, Ireland
| | - Shigetada Kawabata
- Department of Microbiology, Osaka University Graduate School of Dentistry, Suita, Osaka, Japan
- Center for Infectious Diseases Education and Research, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Bernhard O. Palsson
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Victor Nizet
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California at San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, California, USA
- Skaggs School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California at San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
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Amoako YA, Laryea DO, Agbanyo A, Agbavor B, Oppong MN, Kyem G, Abass KM, van Bentum R, Phillips RO, Stienstra Y. Prevalence and determinants of impetigo in Ghana: a cross-sectional study. BMC Infect Dis 2024; 24:349. [PMID: 38528449 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-024-09242-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Skin diseases such as impetigo pose a significant public health challenge in low resource settings. Despite this, there is a dearth of epidemiological data on the prevalence of this condition in Ghana. METHODS We conducted a cross sectional study in three settings in Ghana: community members in East Mamprusi district in the North East region, a secondary school in Sekyere East district, and inmates of the Kumasi central prisons both in the Ashanti region. Following a period of training, we performed a standardised skin examination on each participant to assess for scabies and impetigo. We calculated the prevalence of each skin condition and investigated determinants of impetigo. RESULTS/ FINDINGS Of the 1327 participants [males 64.1% and median age 22 (16-29) years], 746 (56.2%) had scabies and 186 (14%) had impetigo which was usually very mild or mild in severity. Most participants with impetigo also had scabies (161/186, 86.6%). Having an itch [RR 6.05 (95% CI 2.53-14.47)], presence of scabies burrows [RR 1.99 (95% CI 1.54-2.59)], clinical scabies [RR 3.15 (2.11-4.72)] or being in preschool [RR 4.56 (1.78-11.67)] increased the risk for impetigo. A combination of the presence of clinical scabies, age, sex and itch most accurately predicted the odds of having impetigo. CONCLUSIONS There is substantial burden of impetigo and scabies in Ghana. There is a need to institute measures to improve detection and control of these common dermatoses as part of Universal Health Coverage package to reduce the scourge of the diseases in this setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaw Ampem Amoako
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research into Tropical Medicine, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana.
- School of Medicine and Dentistry, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana.
- Department of Internal Medicine/Infectious Diseases, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.
- Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana.
| | | | - Abigail Agbanyo
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research into Tropical Medicine, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Bernadette Agbavor
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research into Tropical Medicine, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Michael Ntiamoah Oppong
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research into Tropical Medicine, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Gloria Kyem
- Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana
| | | | - Renee van Bentum
- Department of Internal Medicine/Infectious Diseases, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Richard Odame Phillips
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research into Tropical Medicine, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
- School of Medicine and Dentistry, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
- Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Ymkje Stienstra
- Department of Internal Medicine/Infectious Diseases, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
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Shoaib M, Tabassum R, Nisar KS, Raja MAZ. A framework for the analysis of skin sores disease using evolutionary intelligent computing approach. Comput Methods Biomech Biomed Engin 2024:1-15. [PMID: 38469828 DOI: 10.1080/10255842.2024.2326888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
The most common and contagious bacterial skin disease i.e. skin sores (impetigo) mostly affects newborns and young children. On the face, particularly around the mouth and nose area, as well as on the hands and feet, it typically manifests as reddish sores. In this study, a neuro-evolutionary global algorithm is introduced to solve the dynamics of nonlinear skin sores disease model (SSDM) with the help of an artificial neural network. The global genetic algorithm is integrated with local sequential quadratic programming (GA-LSQP) to obtain the optimal solution for the proposed model. The designed differential model of skin sores disease is comprised of susceptible (S), infected (I), and recovered (R) categories. An activation function based neural network modeling is exploited for skin sores system through mean square error to achieve best trained weights. The integrated approach is validated and verified through the comparison of results of reference Adam strategy with absolute error analysis. The absolute error results give accuracy of around 10 - 11 to 10 - 5 , demonstrating the worthiness and efficacy of proposed algorithm. Additionally, statistical investigations in form of mean absolute deviation, root mean square error, and Theil's inequality coefficient are exhibited to prove the consistency, stability, and convergence criteria of the integrated technique. The accuracy of the proposed solver has been examined from the smaller values of minimum, median, maximum, mean, semi-interquartile range, and standard deviation, which lie around 10 - 12 to 10 - 2 .
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rafia Tabassum
- Department of Mathematics, COMSATS University Islamabad, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Kottakkaran Sooppy Nisar
- Department of Mathematics, College of Science and Humanities in Alkharj, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Alkharj, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhammad Asif Zahoor Raja
- Future Technology Research Center, National Yunlin University of Science and Technology, Yunlin, Taiwan, R.O.C
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Ricciardo BM, Kessaris HL, Nannup N, Tilbrook D, Farrant B, Michie C, Hansen L, Douglas R, Walton J, Poore A, Whelan A, Barnett TC, Kumarasinghe PS, Carapetis JR, Bowen AC. Describing skin health and disease in urban-living Aboriginal children: co-design, development and feasibility testing of the Koolungar Moorditj Healthy Skin pilot project. Pilot Feasibility Stud 2024; 10:6. [PMID: 38200545 PMCID: PMC10782716 DOI: 10.1186/s40814-023-01428-6] [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: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Indigenous children in colonised nations experience high rates of health disparities linked to historical trauma resulting from displacement and dispossession, as well as ongoing systemic racism. Skin infections and their complications are one such health inequity, with the highest global burden described in remote-living Australian Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander (hereafter respectfully referred to as Aboriginal) children. Yet despite increasing urbanisation, little is known about the skin infection burden for urban-living Aboriginal children. More knowledge is needed to inform service provision, treatment guidelines and community-wide healthy skin strategies. In this pilot study, we aimed to test the feasibility and design of larger multi-site observational studies, provide initial descriptions of skin disease frequency and generate preliminary hypotheses of association. METHODS This project has been co-designed with local (Noongar) Elders to provide an Australian-first description of skin health and disease in urban-living Aboriginal children. In collaboration with an urban Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (Derbarl Yerrigan Health Service), we conducted a week-long cross-sectional observational cohort study of Aboriginal children (0-18 years) recruited from the waiting room. Participants completed a questionnaire, skin examination, clinical photos, and swabs and received appropriate treatment. We assessed the feasibility and impact of the pilot study. RESULTS From 4 to 8 October 2021, we recruited 84 Aboriginal children of whom 80 (95%) were urban-living. With a trusted Aboriginal Health Practitioner leading recruitment, most parents (or caregivers) who were approached consented to participate. Among urban-living children, over half (45/80, 56%) of parents described a current concern with their child's skin, hair and/or nails; and one-third (26/80, 33%) reported current itchy skin. Using a research-service model, 27% (21/79) of examined urban-living participants received opportunistic same-day treatment and 18% (14/79) were referred for later review. CONCLUSIONS This co-designed pilot study to understand skin health in urban-living Aboriginal children was feasible and acceptable, with high study participation and subsequent engagement in clinical care observed. Co-design and the strong involvement of Aboriginal people to lead and deliver the project was crucial. The successful pilot has informed larger, multi-site observational studies to more accurately answer questions of disease burden and inform the development of healthy skin messages for urban-living Aboriginal children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernadette M Ricciardo
- University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia.
- Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, WA, Australia.
- Fiona Stanley Hospital, Murdoch, WA, Australia.
- Perth Children's Hospital, Nedlands, WA, Australia.
| | - Heather-Lynn Kessaris
- Fiona Stanley Hospital, Murdoch, WA, Australia
- Perth Children's Hospital, Nedlands, WA, Australia
- Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Noel Nannup
- Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Dale Tilbrook
- Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, WA, Australia
- Maalingup Aboriginal Gallery, Caversham, WA, Australia
| | - Brad Farrant
- University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia
- Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Carol Michie
- Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Lorraine Hansen
- Derbarl Yerrigan Health Services Aboriginal Corporation, East Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Richelle Douglas
- Derbarl Yerrigan Health Services Aboriginal Corporation, East Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Jacinta Walton
- Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, WA, Australia
- Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Ainslie Poore
- Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, WA, Australia
- Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Alexandra Whelan
- Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, WA, Australia
- Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Timothy C Barnett
- Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, WA, Australia
- Marshall Centre for Infectious Diseases Research and Training, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | | | - Jonathan R Carapetis
- University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia
- Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, WA, Australia
- Perth Children's Hospital, Nedlands, WA, Australia
- Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Asha C Bowen
- University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia
- Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, WA, Australia
- Perth Children's Hospital, Nedlands, WA, Australia
- Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, WA, Australia
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Glatthardt T, Lima RD, de Mattos RM, Ferreira RBR. Microbe Interactions within the Skin Microbiome. Antibiotics (Basel) 2024; 13:49. [PMID: 38247608 PMCID: PMC10812674 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics13010049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
The skin is the largest human organ and is responsible for many important functions, such as temperature regulation, water transport, and protection from external insults. It is colonized by several microorganisms that interact with each other and with the host, shaping the microbial structure and community dynamics. Through these interactions, the skin microbiota can inhibit pathogens through several mechanisms such as the production of bacteriocins, proteases, phenol soluble modulins (PSMs), and fermentation. Furthermore, these commensals can produce molecules with antivirulence activity, reducing the potential of these pathogens to adhere to and invade human tissues. Microorganisms of the skin microbiota are also able to sense molecules from the environment and shape their behavior in response to these signals through the modulation of gene expression. Additionally, microbiota-derived compounds can affect pathogen gene expression, including the expression of virulence determinants. Although most studies related to microbial interactions in the skin have been directed towards elucidating competition mechanisms, microorganisms can also use the products of other species to their benefit. In this review, we will discuss several mechanisms through which microorganisms interact in the skin and the biotechnological applications of products originating from the skin microbiota that have already been reported in the literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thaís Glatthardt
- Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil; (T.G.); (R.D.L.); (R.M.d.M.)
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Health Research Innovation Centre, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, Alberta Children Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Rayssa Durães Lima
- Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil; (T.G.); (R.D.L.); (R.M.d.M.)
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA
| | - Raquel Monteiro de Mattos
- Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil; (T.G.); (R.D.L.); (R.M.d.M.)
| | - Rosana Barreto Rocha Ferreira
- Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil; (T.G.); (R.D.L.); (R.M.d.M.)
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA
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Wiegele S, McKinnon E, van Schaijik B, Enkel S, Noonan K, Bowen AC, Wyber R. The epidemiology of superficial Streptococcal A (impetigo and pharyngitis) infections in Australia: A systematic review. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0288016. [PMID: 38033025 PMCID: PMC10688633 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0288016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Streptoccocal A (Strep A, GAS) infections in Australia are responsible for significant morbidity and mortality through both invasive (iGAS) and post-streptococcal (postGAS) diseases as well as preceding superficial (sGAS) skin and throat infection. The burden of iGAS and postGAS are addressed in some jurisdictions by mandatory notification systems; in contrast, the burden of preceding sGAS has no reporting structure, and is less well defined. This review provides valuable, contemporaneous evidence on the epidemiology of sGAS presentations in Australia, informing preventative health projects such as a Streptococcal A vaccine and standardisation of primary care notification. METHODS AND FINDINGS MEDLINE, Scopus, EMBASE, Web of Science, Global Health, Cochrane, CINAHL databases and the grey literature were searched for studies from an Australian setting relating to the epidemiology of sGAS infections between 1970 and 2020 inclusive. Extracted data were pooled for relevant population and subgroup analysis. From 5157 titles in the databases combined with 186 grey literature reports and following removal of duplicates, 4889 articles underwent preliminary title screening. The abstract of 519 articles were reviewed with 162 articles identified for full text review, and 38 articles identified for inclusion. The majority of data was collected for impetigo in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander populations, remote communities, and in the Northern Territory, Australia. A paucity of data was noted for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people living in urban centres or with pharyngitis. Prevalence estimates have not significantly changed over time. Community estimates of impetigo point prevalence ranged from 5.5-66.1%, with a pooled prevalence of 27.9% [95% CI: 20.0-36.5%]. All studies excepting one included >80% Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and all excepting two were in remote or very remote settings. Observed prevalence of impetigo as diagnosed in healthcare encounters was lower, with a pooled estimate of 10.6% [95% CI: 3.1-21.8%], and a range of 0.1-50.0%. Community prevalence estimates for pharyngitis ranged from 0.2-39.4%, with a pooled estimate of 12.5% [95% CI: 3.5-25.9%], higher than the prevalence of pharyngitis in healthcare encounters; ranging from 1.0-5.0%, and a pooled estimate of 2.0% [95% CI: 1.3-2.8%]. The review was limited by heterogeneity in study design and lack of comparator studies for some populations. CONCLUSIONS Superficial Streptococcal A infections contribute to an inequitable burden of disease in Australia and persists despite public health interventions. The burden in community studies is generally higher than in health-services settings, suggesting under-recognition, possible normalisation and missed opportunities for treatment to prevent postGAS. The available, reported epidemiology is heterogeneous. Standardised nation-wide notification for sGAS disease surveillance must be considered in combination with the development of a Communicable Diseases Network of Australia (CDNA) Series of National Guideline (SoNG), to accurately define and address disease burden across populations in Australia. TRIAL REGISTRATION This review is registered with PROSPERO. Registration number: CRD42019140440.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Wiegele
- Perth Children’s Hospital, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | | | - Bede van Schaijik
- University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Stephanie Enkel
- Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | | | - Asha C. Bowen
- Perth Children’s Hospital, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Rosemary Wyber
- Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
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9
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Wilkening RV, Langouët-Astrié C, Severn MM, Federle MJ, Horswill AR. Identifying genetic determinants of Streptococcus pyogenes-host interactions in a murine intact skin infection model. Cell Rep 2023; 42:113332. [PMID: 37889753 PMCID: PMC10841832 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.113332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Streptococcus pyogenes is an obligate human pathobiont associated with many disease states. Here, we present a model of S. pyogenes infection using intact murine epithelium. We were able to perform RNA sequencing to evaluate genetic changes undertaken by both the bacterium and host at 5 and 24 h post-infection. Analysis of these genomic data demonstrate that S. pyogenes undergoes genetic adaptation to successfully infect the murine epithelium, including changes to metabolism and activation of the Rgg2/Rgg3 quorum-sensing (QS) system. Subsequent experiments demonstrate that an intact Rgg2/Rgg3 QS cascade is necessary to establish a stable superficial skin infection. QS cascade activation results in increased murine morbidity and bacterial burden on the skin. This phenotype is associated with gross changes to the murine skin and with evidence of inflammation. These experiments offer a method to investigate S. pyogenes-epithelial interactions and demonstrate that a well-studied QS pathway is critical to a persistent infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reid V Wilkening
- Section of Pediatric Critical Care Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA.
| | - Christophe Langouët-Astrié
- Section of Pulmonary Sciences and Critical Care, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Morgan M Severn
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Michael J Federle
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL 60607, USA
| | - Alexander R Horswill
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; Department of Veterans Affairs, Eastern Colorado Healthcare System, Aurora, CO 80045, USA.
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10
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Pickering J, Sampson C, Mullane M, Sheel M, Barth DD, Lane M, Walker R, Atkinson D, Carapetis JR, Bowen AC. A pilot study to develop assessment tools for Group A Streptococcus surveillance studies. PeerJ 2023; 11:e14945. [PMID: 36935916 PMCID: PMC10022509 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.14945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Group A Streptococcus (GAS) causes pharyngitis (sore throat) and impetigo (skin sores) GAS pharyngitis triggers rheumatic fever (RF) with epidemiological evidence supporting that GAS impetigo may also trigger RF in Australian Aboriginal children. Understanding the concurrent burden of these superficial GAS infections is critical to RF prevention. This pilot study aimed to trial tools for concurrent surveillance of sore throats and skins sore for contemporary studies of RF pathogenesis including development of a sore throat checklist for Aboriginal families and pharynx photography. Methods Yarning circle conversations and semi-structured interviews were performed with Aboriginal caregivers and used to develop the language and composition of a sore throat checklist. The sore throat story checklist was combined with established methods of GAS pharyngitis and impetigo surveillance (examination, bacteriological culture, rapid antigen detection and serological tests) and new technologies (photography) and used for a pilot cross-sectional surveillance study of Aboriginal children attending their health clinic for a routine appointment. Feasibility, acceptability, and study costs were compiled. Results Ten Aboriginal caregivers participated in the sore-throat yarning circles; a checklist was derived from predominant symptoms and their common descriptors. Over two days, 21 Aboriginal children were approached for the pilot surveillance study, of whom 17 were recruited; median age was 9 years [IQR 5.5-13.5], 65% were female. One child declined throat swabbing and three declined finger pricks; all other surveillance elements were completed by each child indicating high acceptability of surveillance assessments. Mean time for screening assessment was 19 minutes per child. Transport of clinical specimens enabled gold standard microbiological and serological testing for GAS. Retrospective examination of sore throat photography concorded with assessments performed on the day. Conclusion Yarning circle conversations were effective in deriving culturally appropriate sore throat questionnaires for GAS pharyngitis surveillance. New and established tools were feasible, practical and acceptable to participants and enable surveillance to determine the burden of superficial GAS infections in communities at high risk of RF. Surveillance of GAS pharyngitis and impetgio in remote Australia informs primary RF prevention with potential global translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janessa Pickering
- Wesfarmers Centre for Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Australia., Perth, Australia
| | - Claudia Sampson
- School of Medicine, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Perth, Australia
| | - Marianne Mullane
- Wesfarmers Centre for Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Australia., Perth, Australia
| | - Meru Sheel
- Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, ANU College of Health and Medicine, The Australian National University, Acton, ACT, Canberra, Australia
| | - Dylan D. Barth
- Wesfarmers Centre for Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Australia., Perth, Australia
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Perth, Western Australia
| | - Mary Lane
- Broome Regional Aboriginal Medical Service, Broome, Australia
| | - Roz Walker
- School of Population and Global Health, University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
- Ngank Yira Institute for Change, Murdoch University, Perth, Australia
| | - David Atkinson
- School of Medicine, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Perth, Australia
| | - Jonathan R. Carapetis
- Wesfarmers Centre for Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Australia., Perth, Australia
- School of Medicine, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Perth, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Perth Children’s Hospital, Nedlands, Perth, Australia
| | - Asha C. Bowen
- Wesfarmers Centre for Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Australia., Perth, Australia
- School of Medicine, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Perth, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Perth Children’s Hospital, Nedlands, Perth, Australia
- Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Australia
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11
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McGuffog R, Bryant J, Booth K, Collis F, Brown A, Hughes JT, Chamberlain C, McGhie A, Hobden B, Kennedy M. Exploring the Reported Strengths and Limitations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Research: A Narrative Review of Intervention Studies. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:3993. [PMID: 36901001 PMCID: PMC10001772 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20053993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
High quality intervention research is needed to inform evidence-based practice and policy for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. We searched for studies published from 2008-2020 in the PubMed database. A narrative review of intervention literature was conducted, where we identified researcher reported strengths and limitations of their research practice. A total of 240 studies met inclusion criteria which were categorised as evaluations, trials, pilot interventions or implementation studies. Reported strengths included community engagement and partnerships; sample qualities; Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander involvement in research; culturally appropriate and safe research practice; capacity building efforts; providing resources or reducing costs for services and communities; understanding local culture and context; and appropriate timelines for completion. Reported limitations included difficulties achieving the target sample size; inadequate time; insufficient funding and resources; limited capacity of health workers and services; and inadequate community involvement and communication issues. This review highlights that community consultation and leadership coupled with appropriate time and funding, enables Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health intervention research to be conducted. These factors can enable effective intervention research, and consequently can help improve health and wellbeing outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romany McGuffog
- School of Medicine and Public Health, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Jamie Bryant
- School of Medicine and Public Health, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Kade Booth
- School of Medicine and Public Health, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Felicity Collis
- School of Medicine and Public Health, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Alex Brown
- Indigenous Genomics, Australia National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
- Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Jaquelyne T. Hughes
- Rural and Remote Health, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Darwin, NT 0810, Australia
| | - Catherine Chamberlain
- Centre for Health Equity, School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
- Judith Lumley Centre, School of Nursing and Midwifery, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC 3086, Australia
| | - Alexandra McGhie
- School of Medicine and Public Health, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Breanne Hobden
- School of Medicine and Public Health, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
- Health Behaviour Research Collaborative, School of Medicine and Public Health, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Michelle Kennedy
- School of Medicine and Public Health, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
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12
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Mathematical model and stability analysis on the transmission dynamics of skin sores. Epidemiol Infect 2022; 150:e207. [PMID: 36397272 PMCID: PMC9987028 DOI: 10.1017/s0950268822001807] [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: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study, a non-linear deterministic model for the transmission dynamics of skin sores (impetigo) disease is developed and analysed by the help of stability of differential equations. Some basic properties of the model including existence and positivity as well as boundedness of the solutions of the model are investigated. The disease-free and endemic equilibrium were investigated, as well as the basic reproduction number, R0, also calculated using the next-generation matrix approach. When R0 < 1, the model's stability analysis reveals that the system is asymptotically stable at disease-free critical point globally as well as locally. If R0 > 1, the system is asymptotically stable at disease-endemic equilibrium both locally and globally. The long-term behaviour of the skin sores model's steady-state solution in a population is investigated using numerical simulations of the model.
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13
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Yerramilli A, Bowen AC, Marcato AJ, McVernon J, Carapetis JR, Campbell PT, Tong SYC. Body distribution of impetigo and association with host and pathogen factors. PeerJ 2022. [DOI: 10.7717/peerj.14154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background
Impetigo or skin sores are estimated to affect >162 million people worldwide. Detailed descriptions of the anatomical location of skin sores are lacking.
Methods
We used prospectively collected data from a randomised control trial of treatments for impetigo in Aboriginal children in Australia. We generated heat-map distributions of skin sores on the human body from 56 predefined anatomical locations and stratified skin sore distribution by sex, age, causative pathogen and co-infection with scabies, tinea and head lice. We compared the distribution of sores between males and females, between sores with only Streptococcus pyogenes and sores with only Staphylococcus aureus; and across age groups with a Fisher’s exact test.
Results
There were 663 episodes of impetigo infections among 508 children enrolled in the trial. For all 663 episodes, the lower limbs were the most affected body sites followed by the distal upper limbs, face and scalp. On the anterior surface of the body, the pre-tibial region was the most affected while on the posterior surface, the dorsum of the hands and calves predominated. There was no observable difference between males and females in distribution of sores. Children up to 3 years of age were more likely to have sores on the upper posterior lower limbs and scalp than older age groups, with the distribution of sores differing across age groups (p = 3 × 10−5). Sores from which only Staphylococcus aureus was cultured differed in distribution to those with only Streptococcus pyogenes cultured (p = 3 × 10−4) and were more commonly found on the upper posterior lower limbs.
Conclusions
Skin sores were predominantly found on exposed regions of the lower leg and distal upper limbs. The distribution of sores varied by age group and pathogen. These results highlight key areas of the body for clinicians to pay attention to when examining children for skin sores.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arvind Yerramilli
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Service, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Barwon Health, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Asha C. Bowen
- Wesfarmers Centre for Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Perth Children’s Hospital, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Adrian J. Marcato
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The University of Melbourne, at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jodie McVernon
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The University of Melbourne, at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Infection and Immunity, Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory Epidemiology Unit, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jonathan R. Carapetis
- Wesfarmers Centre for Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Perth Children’s Hospital, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Patricia T. Campbell
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The University of Melbourne, at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Steven YC Tong
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Service, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The University of Melbourne, at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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14
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Selective single-bacteria extraction based on capture and release of microemulsion droplets. Sci Rep 2022; 12:15461. [PMID: 36104374 PMCID: PMC9474873 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-19844-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Human host-associated microbial communities in body sites can reflect health status based on the population distribution and specific microbial properties in the heterogeneous community. Bacteria identification at the single-cell level provides a reliable biomarker and pathological information for clinical diagnosis. Nevertheless, biosamples obtained from some body sites cannot offer sufficient sample volume and number of target cells as required by most of the existing single-cell isolation methods such as flow cytometry. Herein we report a novel integrated microfluidic system, which consists of a microemulsion module for single-bacteria encapsulation and a sequential microdroplet capture and release module for selectively extracting only the single-bacteria encapsulated in microdroplets. We optimize the system for a success rate of the single-cell extraction to be > 38%. We further verify applicability of the system with prepared cell mixtures (Methylorubrum extorquens AM1 and Methylomicrobium album BG8) and biosamples collected from human skin, to quantify the population distribution of multiple key species in a heterogeneous microbial community. Results indicate perfect viability of the single-cell extracts and compatibility with downstream analyses such as PCR. Together, this research demonstrates that the reported single-bacteria extraction system can be applied in microbiome and pathology research and clinical diagnosis as a clinical or point-of-care device.
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15
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Malik A, Mahajan N, Dar TA, Kim CB. C10Pred: A First Machine Learning Based Tool to Predict C10 Family Cysteine Peptidases Using Sequence-Derived Features. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23179518. [PMID: 36076915 PMCID: PMC9455582 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23179518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Streptococcus pyogenes, or group A Streptococcus (GAS), a gram-positive bacterium, is implicated in a wide range of clinical manifestations and life-threatening diseases. One of the key virulence factors of GAS is streptopain, a C10 family cysteine peptidase. Since its discovery, various homologs of streptopain have been reported from other bacterial species. With the increased affordability of sequencing, a significant increase in the number of potential C10 family-like sequences in the public databases is anticipated, posing a challenge in classifying such sequences. Sequence-similarity-based tools are the methods of choice to identify such streptopain-like sequences. However, these methods depend on some level of sequence similarity between the existing C10 family and the target sequences. Therefore, in this work, we propose a novel predictor, C10Pred, for the prediction of C10 peptidases using sequence-derived optimal features. C10Pred is a support vector machine (SVM) based model which is efficient in predicting C10 enzymes with an overall accuracy of 92.7% and Matthews’ correlation coefficient (MCC) value of 0.855 when tested on an independent dataset. We anticipate that C10Pred will serve as a handy tool to classify novel streptopain-like proteins belonging to the C10 family and offer essential information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adeel Malik
- Institute of Intelligence Informatics Technology, Sangmyung University, Seoul 03016, Korea
- Correspondence: (A.M.); (C.-B.K.)
| | - Nitin Mahajan
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Tanveer Ali Dar
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, University of Kashmir, Srinagar 190006, India
| | - Chang-Bae Kim
- Department of Biotechnology, Sangmyung University, Seoul 03016, Korea
- Correspondence: (A.M.); (C.-B.K.)
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16
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Chhawchharia A, Haines RR, Green KJ, Barnett TC, Bowen AC, Hammer KA. In vitro antibacterial activity of Western Australian honeys, and manuka honey, against bacteria implicated in impetigo. Complement Ther Clin Pract 2022; 49:101640. [PMID: 35868137 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctcp.2022.101640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2022] [Revised: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Impetigo is a contagious skin disease caused by Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes. Without treatment, impetigo may be recurrent, develop into severe disease, or have serious, life-threatening sequelae. Standard treatment consists of topical or systemic antibiotic therapy (depending on severity), however, due to antibiotic resistance some therapies are increasingly ineffective. In this study we evaluated the potential for honey as an alternative treatment for impetigo. A broth microdilution assay in 96-well microtitre trays was used to determine the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of six monofloral honeys (jarrah, marri, red bell, banksia, wandoo, and manuka), a multifloral honey and artificial honey against S. aureus (n = 10), S. pyogenes (n = 10), and coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS) (n = 10). The optical density (OD) of all microtitre tray wells was also determined before and after assay incubation to analyse whether sub-MIC growth inhibition occurred. Jarrah, marri, red bell, banksia, and manuka honeys were highly effective at inhibiting S. aureus and CoNS, with MIC50 values ranging from 4 to 8% w/v honey. S. pyogenes was also inhibited by these same honeys, albeit at higher concentrations (8-29% w/v). Wandoo and multifloral honeys had the least antibacterial activity with MICs of >30% (w/v) for all isolates. However, OD data indicated that sub-MIC concentrations of honey were still partially restricting bacterial growth. Our pre-clinical data indicate that honey may be a potential therapeutic agent for the routine treatment of mild impetigo, and we suggest that clinical trials would be appropriate to further investigate this.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayushi Chhawchharia
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, 6009, Australia
| | - Robbie R Haines
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, 6009, Australia; Cooperative Research Centre for Honey Bee Products Limited (CRC HBP), 128 Yanchep Beach Road, Yanchep, 6035, Australia
| | - Kathryn J Green
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, 6009, Australia; Cooperative Research Centre for Honey Bee Products Limited (CRC HBP), 128 Yanchep Beach Road, Yanchep, 6035, Australia
| | - Timothy C Barnett
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, 6009, Australia; Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, 6009, Australia
| | - Asha C Bowen
- Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, 6009, Australia; School of Medicine, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, 6009, Australia; Department of Infectious Diseases, Perth Children's Hospital, Nedlands, 6009, Australia
| | - Katherine A Hammer
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, 6009, Australia; Cooperative Research Centre for Honey Bee Products Limited (CRC HBP), 128 Yanchep Beach Road, Yanchep, 6035, Australia.
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17
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Wyber R, Lizama C, Wade V, Pearson G, Carapetis J, Ralph AP, Bowen AC, Peiris D. Improving primary prevention of acute rheumatic fever in Australia: consensus primary care priorities identified through an eDelphi process. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e056239. [PMID: 35273057 PMCID: PMC8915338 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-056239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To establish the priorities of primary care providers to improve assessment and treatment of skin sores and sore throats among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people at risk of acute rheumatic fever (ARF) and rheumatic heart disease (RHD). DESIGN Modified eDelphi survey, informed by an expert focus group and literature review. SETTING Primary care services in any one of the five Australian states or territories with a high burden of ARF. PARTICIPANTS People working in any primary care role within the last 5 years in jurisdiction with a high burden of ARF. RESULTS Nine people participated in the scoping expert focus group which informed identification of an access framework for subsequent literature review. Fifteen broad concepts, comprising 29 strategies and 63 different actions, were identified on this review. These concepts were presented to participants in a two-round eDelphi survey. Twenty-six participants from five jurisdictions participated, 16/26 (62%) completed both survey rounds. Seven strategies were endorsed as high priorities. Most were demand-side strategies with a focus on engaging communities and individuals in accessible, comprehensive, culturally appropriate primary healthcare. Eight strategies were not endorsed as high priority, all of which were supply-side approaches. Qualitative responses highlighted the importance of a comprehensive primary healthcare approach as standard of care rather than disease-specific strategies related to management of skin sores and sore throat. CONCLUSION Primary care staff priorities should inform Australia's commitments to reduce the burden of RHD. In particular, strategies to support comprehensive Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander primary care services rather than an exclusive focus on discrete, disease-specific initiatives are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosemary Wyber
- Health Systems Science, The George Institute for Global Health, Newtown, New South Wales, Australia
- Wesfarmers Centre for Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Catalina Lizama
- Wesfarmers Centre for Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Vicki Wade
- Global and Tropical Health Division, Menzies School of Health Research, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Glenn Pearson
- Aboriginal Health Institute Leadership Team, Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Jonathan Carapetis
- Wesfarmers Centre for Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Perth Children's Hospital, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- School of Medicine, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Anna P Ralph
- Global and Tropical Health Division, Menzies School of Health Research, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
- General Medicine and Inectious Diseases, Royal Darwin Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Asha C Bowen
- Wesfarmers Centre for Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Perth Children's Hospital, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- School of Medicine, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - David Peiris
- Health Systems Science, The George Institute for Global Health, Newtown, New South Wales, Australia
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18
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Lynch T, Nandi T, Jayaprakash T, Gregson D, Church DL. Genomic analysis of group A Streptococcus isolated during a correctional facility outbreak of MRSA in 2004. JOURNAL OF THE ASSOCIATION OF MEDICAL MICROBIOLOGY AND INFECTIOUS DISEASE CANADA = JOURNAL OFFICIEL DE L'ASSOCIATION POUR LA MICROBIOLOGIE MEDICALE ET L'INFECTIOLOGIE CANADA 2022; 7:23-35. [PMID: 36340844 PMCID: PMC9603014 DOI: 10.3138/jammi-2021-0018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/22/2021] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In 2004-2005, an outbreak of impetigo occurred at a correctional facility during a sentinel outbreak of methicillin- resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in Alberta, Canada. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) was used to characterize the group A Streptococcus (GAS) isolates and evaluate whether genomic biomarkers could distinguish between those recovered alone and those co-isolated with S. aureus. METHODS Superficial wound swabs collected from all adults with impetigo during this outbreak were cultured using standard methods. NGS was used to characterize and compare all of the GAS and S. aureus genomes. RESULTS Fifty-three adults were culture positive for GAS, with a subset of specimens also positive for MRSA (n = 5) or methicillin-sensitive S. aureus (n = 3). Seventeen additional MRSA isolates from this facility from the same time frame (no GAS co-isolates) were also included. All 78 bacterial genomes were analyzed for the presence of known virulence factors, plasmids, and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) genes. Among the GAS isolates were 12 emm types, the most common being 41.2 (n = 27; 51%). GAS genomes were phylogenetically compared with local and public datasets of invasive and non-invasive isolates. GAS genomes had diverse profiles for virulence factors, plasmids, and AMR genes. Pangenome analysis did not identify horizontally transferred genes in the co-infection versus single infections. CONCLUSIONS GAS recovered from invasive and non-invasive sources were not genetically distinguishable. Virulence factors, plasmids, and AMR profiles grouped by emm type, and no genetic changes were identified that predict co-infection or horizontal gene transfer between GAS and S. aureus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tarah Lynch
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Tannistha Nandi
- Research Computing Services, Information Technologies, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Teenus Jayaprakash
- Microbiology, Immunology and Infectious Diseases, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Dan Gregson
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Deirdre L Church
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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19
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Gorges H, Hall L, Heal C. Feasibility Study for a Randomised Controlled Trial for the Topical Treatment of Impetigo in Australian General Practice. Trop Med Infect Dis 2021; 6:tropicalmed6040197. [PMID: 34842831 PMCID: PMC8628881 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed6040197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Revised: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Impetigo affects millions of children worldwide. Most guidelines recommend antibiotics as first-line treatment; however, topical antiseptics present a potentially valuable, understudied, antibiotic-sparing treatment for mild impetigo. We aimed to determine the feasibility of a randomised controlled trial (RCT) comparing efficacy of soft white paraffin (SWP), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and mupirocin for mild impetigo. Participants were recruited from general practices and randomly assigned one of three treatments. Size and number of lesions were measured at the initial consultation and day six. Post-recruitment, interviews with general practitioners were transcribed and themes identified to determine protocol acceptability, recruitment barriers and avenues to improve delivery. Two participants received SWP (n = 1) and mupirocin (n = 1). Both commenced oral antibiotics following failure of assigned topical treatment in which lesions increased in size or number. Recruitment barriers included reduced presentation of impetigo due to COVID-19, pre-treatment with existing at-home medications and moderate/severe infection. Childcare centers and pharmacies were identified as alternative venues to improve the recruitment rate. Valuable insight was gained into the practicality of conducting a RCT of impetigo treatments in general practice. Future trials should consider recruiting outside of general practice clinics to capture patients at earlier, more mild stages of infection. Further investigation into the prevalence and impact of use of at-home expired antibiotics may be beneficial.
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20
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Bennett J, Moreland NJ, Williamson DA, Carapetis J, Crane J, Whitcombe AL, Jack S, Harwood M, Baker MG. Comparison of group A streptococcal titres in healthy children and those with pharyngitis and skin infections. J Infect 2021; 84:24-30. [PMID: 34710392 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinf.2021.10.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Rates of acute rheumatic fever, a sequelae of group A Streptococcal (GAS) infection, remain unacceptably high in Indigenous Māori and Pacific children in New Zealand. This prospective study aimed to describe GAS antibody titres in healthy children (5-14 years) by ethnicity, and to determine how paired titres vary with GAS culture positive and negative pharyngitis, and GAS skin infections. METHODS Analysis included 887 children (32% Māori, 36% Pacific, 33% European/Other) from Auckland, New Zealand. Cases comprise 772 children who had a sore throat or skin infection, which resulted in a swab taken for culture. Healthy controls were asymptomatic (N = 154) and matched by age, ethnicity and region. All participants had a serum sample, with a second sample collected from cases only. Sera were analysed for anti-streptolysin O (ASO) and anti-DNase-B (ADB) antibodies. RESULTS Healthy Māori and Pacific children had higher GAS antibody titres than healthy European/Other children. Children with GAS-positive sore throat had the highest mean ASO titres and children with GAS-positive skin infection had the highest mean ADB titres. When a two-fold increase or an upper limit of normal cut-off (ASO 450 IU/ml, ADB 400 U/ml) was applied to titres from children with GAS-positive sore throat, 62.1% were classified as having serologically confirmed GAS pharyngitis and 37.9% had GAS detected without serological response. CONCLUSIONS Elevated ASO titres were associated with GAS pharyngitis and elevated ADB titres were associated with GAS skin infections in New Zealand children. Higher ASO/ADB titres in healthy Māori and Pacific children could indicate a greater prior exposure to GAS infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Bennett
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago, 23A Mein Street, Newtown, Wellington 6021, New Zealand.
| | - Nicole J Moreland
- Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand; Maurice Wilkins Centre, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Deborah A Williamson
- Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jonathan Carapetis
- Telethon Kids Institute and Perth Children's Hospital, University of Western Australia, Perth 6009, Australia
| | - Julian Crane
- Department of Medicine, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Alana L Whitcombe
- Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand; Maurice Wilkins Centre, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Susan Jack
- Public Health South, Southern District Health Board, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Matire Harwood
- Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Michael G Baker
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago, 23A Mein Street, Newtown, Wellington 6021, New Zealand; Maurice Wilkins Centre, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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21
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Tyrrell GJ, Bell C, Bill L, Fathima S. Increasing Incidence of Invasive Group A Streptococcus Disease in First Nations Population, Alberta, Canada, 2003-2017. Emerg Infect Dis 2021; 27:443-451. [PMID: 33496247 PMCID: PMC7853581 DOI: 10.3201/eid2702.201945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The incidence of invasive group A Streptococcus (iGAS) disease in the general population in Alberta, Canada, has been steadily increasing. To determine whether rates for specific populations such as First Nations are also increasing, we investigated iGAS cases among First Nations persons in Alberta during 2003-2017. We identified cases by isolating GAS from a sterile site and performing emm typing. We collected demographic, social, behavioral, and clinical data for patients. During the study period, 669 cases of iGAS in First Nations persons were reported. Incidence increased from 10.0 cases/100,000 persons in 2003 to 52.2 cases/100,000 persons in 2017. The 2017 rate was 6 times higher for the First Nations population than for non-First Nations populations (8.7 cases/100,000 persons). The 5 most common emm types from First Nations patients were 59, 101, 82, 41, and 11. These data indicate that iGAS is severely affecting the First Nations population in Alberta, Canada.
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22
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The role of lactobacilli in inhibiting skin pathogens. Biochem Soc Trans 2021; 49:617-627. [PMID: 33704415 DOI: 10.1042/bst20200329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Revised: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The human skin microbiota forms a key barrier against skin pathogens and is important in modulating immune responses. Recent studies identify lactobacilli as endogenous inhabitants of healthy skin, while inflammatory skin conditions are often associated with a disturbed skin microbiome. Consequently, lactobacilli-based probiotics are explored as a novel treatment of inflammatory skin conditions through their topical skin application. This review focuses on the potential beneficial role of lactobacilli (family Lactobacillaceae) in the skin habitat, where they can exert multifactorial local mechanisms of action against pathogens and inflammation. On one hand, lactobacilli have been shown to directly compete with skin pathogens through adhesion inhibition, production of antimicrobial metabolites, and by influencing pathogen metabolism. The competitive anti-pathogenic action of lactobacilli has already been described mechanistically for common different skin pathogens, such as Staphylococcus aureus, Cutibacterium acnes, and Candida albicans. On the other hand, lactobacilli also have an immunomodulatory capacity associated with a reduction in excessive skin inflammation. Their influence on the immune system is mediated by bacterial metabolites and cell wall-associated or excreted microbe-associated molecular patterns (MAMPs). In addition, lactobacilli can also enhance the skin barrier function, which is often disrupted as a result of infection or in inflammatory skin diseases. Some clinical trials have already translated these mechanistic insights into beneficial clinical outcomes, showing that topically applied lactobacilli can temporarily colonize the skin and promote skin health, but more and larger clinical trials are required to generate in vivo mechanistic insights and in-depth skin microbiome analysis.
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23
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Watkins RR, David MZ. Approach to the Patient with a Skin and Soft Tissue Infection. Infect Dis Clin North Am 2021; 35:1-48. [PMID: 33494872 DOI: 10.1016/j.idc.2020.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
The diagnosis of a skin and soft tissue infection (SSTI) requires careful attention to a patient's history, physical examination, and diagnostic test results. We review for many bacterial, viral, fungal, and parasitic pathogens that cause SSTIs the clues for reaching a diagnosis, including reported past medical history, hobbies and behaviors, travel, insect bites, exposure to other people and to animals, environmental exposures to water, soil, or sand, as well as the anatomic site of skin lesions, their morphology on examination, and their evolution over time. Laboratory and radiographic tests are discussed that may be used to confirm a specific diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard R Watkins
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Cleveland Clinic Akron General, 224 West Exchange Street, Akron, OH 44302, USA; Department of Medicine, Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, OH, USA
| | - Michael Z David
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Blockley Hall 707, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Informatics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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24
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Thomas S, Bennett J, Jack S, Oliver J, Purdie G, Upton A, Baker MG. Descriptive analysis of group A Streptococcus in skin swabs and acute rheumatic fever, Auckland, New Zealand, 2010-2016. LANCET REGIONAL HEALTH-WESTERN PACIFIC 2021; 8:100101. [PMID: 34327427 PMCID: PMC8315459 DOI: 10.1016/j.lanwpc.2021.100101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Revised: 12/13/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Background Group A Streptococcus (GAS) can trigger an immune-mediated response resulting in acute rheumatic fever (ARF). Historically, ARF has been considered a consequence of preceding GAS pharyngitis, but increasing evidence suggests that GAS skin infections may be a driver. Data on the primary care burden of GAS skin infection are limited. This paper aims to describe and compare the prevalence and distribution of GAS detection in skin swabs and ARF rates in the Auckland population. Methods This cross-sectional study used all laboratory skin swab data from people who had a skin swab taken as a result of a consultation with a health professional in the Auckland region (2010–2016). Initial primary hospitalisations for ARF were identified and all data were linked using unique patient identifiers to patient's age, prioritised ethnicity, sex, and socio-economic status. Findings 377,410 skin swabs from 239,494 individuals were included. 12·8% of swabs were GAS positive, an annual incidence of 4·8 per 1,000 person-years. Māori and Pacific Peoples under 20 years of age had markedly higher GAS detection in skin swabs (RR 4·0; 95% CI 3·9–4·2: RR 6·8; 95% CI 6·6–7·0) and significantly higher ARF rates (RR 30·3; 95% CI 19·5–46·9: RR 69·7 95% CI 45·8–106·1) compared with European/Other ethnicities. Interpretation The observation that GAS detection was markedly higher in Māori and Pacific Peoples provides a potential explanation for the marked ethnic differences in ARF. These findings support a greater focus on addressing the burden of skin infection in NZ, including as ARF prevention. Funding The first author received a training stipend from the New Zealand College of Public Health Medicine (NZCPHM) during her Masters of Public Health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sally Thomas
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago, 23a Mein Street, Newtown 6021, Wellington, 6021, New Zealand
| | - Julie Bennett
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago, 23a Mein Street, Newtown 6021, Wellington, 6021, New Zealand
| | - Susan Jack
- Southern District Health Board, 201 Great Kind Street, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand.,Department of Preventive and Social Medicine, University of Otago, 18 Frederick Street, North Dunedin, Dunedin 9016 New Zealand
| | - Jane Oliver
- Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne 3000, Victoria, Australia.,Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Flemington Road, Parkville, Melbourne, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Gordon Purdie
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago, 23a Mein Street, Newtown 6021, Wellington, 6021, New Zealand
| | - Arlo Upton
- Southern Community Laboratories, Plunket House, 472 George Street Dunedin 9016, New Zealand
| | - Michael G Baker
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago, 23a Mein Street, Newtown 6021, Wellington, 6021, New Zealand
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25
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Ulpiano Trillig A, Miendje Deyi VY, Youatou P, Konopnicki D. Echtyma gangrenosum caused by coinfection with group A Streptococcus and Staphylococcus aureus: an emerging etiology? Case reports and literature review. Acta Clin Belg 2021; 76:53-57. [PMID: 31210583 DOI: 10.1080/17843286.2019.1630570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Ecthyma gangrenosum (EG) is a potentially lethal skin infection, most commonly due to Pseudomonas aeruginosa with bacteremic dissemination and affecting mostly immunocompromised patients. We present two cases of EG in two men in Belgium recently admitted to our hospital, caused by a suspected coinfection by group A Streptococcus and Staphylococcus aureus, with a cutaneous dissemination, in which multiple impetigo lesions were the portal of entry. The first patient had no risk factors nor immunodeficiency, but the second was a homeless man with drug and alcohol abuse and advanced HIV infection. Early management of the condition is crucial, with initial broad spectrum antibiotherapy, rapidly narrowed down to the germs identified and skin lesion debridement if necessary. Any immunocompromising condition must be ruled out in any patient suffering from EG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Ulpiano Trillig
- Emergency Department, Saint-Pierre-University Hospital, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | - Pierre Youatou
- Emergency Department, Saint-Pierre-University Hospital, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Deborah Konopnicki
- Infectious Diseases Department, Saint-Pierre-University Hospital, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Belgium
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26
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Middleton K, Bowen AC. Addressing normalization using culturally relevant approaches: An important adjunct to reducing the burden of impetigo and scabies. THE LANCET REGIONAL HEALTH. WESTERN PACIFIC 2021; 7:100102. [PMID: 34327421 PMCID: PMC8315659 DOI: 10.1016/j.lanwpc.2021.100102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Middleton
- Division of Paediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Asha C Bowen
- Division of Paediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Perth Children's Hospital, Child and Adolescent Health Service, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Wesfarmers Centre for Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
- Institute for Health Research, The University of Notre Dame Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
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27
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Rambabu K, Bharath G, Banat F, Show PL. Green synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles using Phoenix dactylifera waste as bioreductant for effective dye degradation and antibacterial performance in wastewater treatment. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2021; 402:123560. [PMID: 32759001 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2020.123560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 136] [Impact Index Per Article: 45.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Revised: 07/17/2020] [Accepted: 07/21/2020] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Production of multi-functional zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) for wastewater treatment through green-approaches is a desirable alternative for conventional synthesis routes. Biomass waste valorization for nanoparticles synthesis has received increased research attention. The present study reports date pulp waste (DPW) utilization as an effective bio-reductant for green-synthesis of ZnO-NPs. A simple and eco-friendly process with low reaction time and calcination temperature was adopted for DPW mediated ZnO-NPs (DP-ZnO-NPs) synthesis. Microscopic investigations of DP-ZnO-NPs confirmed the non-agglomeration and spherical nature of particles with mean diameter of 30 nm. EDX and XPS analysis defined the chemical composition and product purity of DP-ZnO-NPs. UV and photoluminescence studies exhibited surface plasmonic resonance at 381 nm and fluorescent nature of DP-ZnO-NPs. FTIR studies established a formation mechanism outline for DP-ZnO-NPs. XRD and Raman investigations confirmed the crystalline and hexagonal wurtzite phase of DP-ZnO-NPs. DSC/TG analysis displayed the thermal stability of DP-ZnO-NPs with <10 wt% loss upto 700 °C. Photocatalytic degradation of hazardous methylene blue and eosin yellow dyes using DP-ZnO-NPs, showed rapid decomposition rate with 90 % degradation efficiency. Additionally, DP-ZnO-NPs demonstrated significant antibacterial effects on various pathogenic bacteria in terms of zone-of-inhibition measured by disc-diffusion method. Thus, the as-prepared DP-ZnO-NPs is suitable for industrial wastewater treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Rambabu
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Khalifa University, P.O. Box 127788, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - G Bharath
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Khalifa University, P.O. Box 127788, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Fawzi Banat
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Khalifa University, P.O. Box 127788, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Pau Loke Show
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Nottingham Malaysia, 43500 Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia.
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28
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van den Boogaard J, Hahné SJ, Te Wierik MJ, Knol MJ, Balasegaram S, de Gier B. Out-of-season increase of puerperal fever with group A Streptococcus infection: a case-control study, Netherlands, July to August 2018. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 25. [PMID: 33034283 PMCID: PMC7545820 DOI: 10.2807/1560-7917.es.2020.25.40.1900589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
We observed an increase in notifications of puerperal group A Streptococcus (GAS) infections in July and August 2018 throughout the Netherlands without evidence for common sources. General practitioners reported a simultaneous increase in impetigo. We hypothesised that the outbreak of puerperal GAS infections resulted from increased exposure via impetigo in the community.We conducted a case-control study to assess peripartum exposure to possible, non-invasive GAS infections using an online questionnaire. Confirmed cases were recruited through public health services while probable cases and controls were recruited through social media. We calculated odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) with logistic regression analysis.We enrolled 22 confirmed and 23 probable cases, and 2,400 controls. Contact with persons with impetigo were reported by 8% of cases and 2% of controls (OR: 3.26, 95% CI: 0.98-10.88) and contact with possible GAS infections (impetigo, pharyngitis or scarlet fever) by 28% and 9%, respectively (OR: 4.12, 95% CI: 1.95-8.68). In multivariable analysis, contact with possible GAS infections remained an independent risk factor (aOR: 4.28, 95% CI: 2.02-9.09).We found an increased risk of puerperal fever after community contact with possible non-invasive GAS infections. Further study of this association is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jossy van den Boogaard
- European Programme for Intervention Epidemiology Training (EPIET), European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), Stockholm, Sweden.,National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, Netherlands
| | - Susan Jm Hahné
- National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, Netherlands
| | - Margreet Jm Te Wierik
- National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, Netherlands
| | - Mirjam J Knol
- National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, Netherlands
| | - Sooria Balasegaram
- Public Health England, London, United Kingdom.,European Programme for Intervention Epidemiology Training (EPIET), European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Brechje de Gier
- National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, Netherlands
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29
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Taiaroa G, Matalavea B, Tafuna'i M, Lacey JA, Price DJ, Isaia L, Leaupepe H, Viali S, Lee D, Gorrie CL, Williamson DA, Jack S. Scabies and impetigo in Samoa: A school-based clinical and molecular epidemiological study. LANCET REGIONAL HEALTH-WESTERN PACIFIC 2020; 6:100081. [PMID: 34327410 PMCID: PMC8315614 DOI: 10.1016/j.lanwpc.2020.100081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Revised: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 10/29/2022]
Abstract
Background Common infections of the skin such as impetigo and scabies represent a large burden of disease globally, being particularly prevalent in tropical and resource-limited settings. Efforts to address these infections through mass drug administrations have recently been shown as efficacious and safe. In Samoa, a Pacific Island nation, there is a marked lack of epidemiological data for these neglected tropical diseases, or appreciation of their drivers in this setting. Methods An observational, cross-sectional survey of children aged between 4 and 15 years attending primary schools in rural areas of Upolu Island, Samoa was carried out to assess the prevalence of impetigo and scabies in schoolchildren residing in rural Samoa, integrated with descriptive epidemiological and microbial genomic data. A phylogenetic assessment of local Staphylococcus aureus isolated from Samoan schoolchildren was performed to estimate putative community transmission. Findings In this survey, the prevalence of impetigo observed in Samoan schoolchildren was one of the highest described globally (57•1%, 95% CI [53•8-60•5%], 476/833). Associations between active impetigo and age and gender were noted, with younger children and males more commonly affected (aOR2•8 [1•8-4•7]and aOR1•8 [1•3-2•5], respectively). The prevalence of scabies was similar to that seen in other South Pacific island countries (14•4%, 95% CI [12•2-17•0%], 120/833). Transmission of S. aureus was predicted, primarily between those children attending the same school. Carriage of S. pyogenes was notably low, with pharyngeal carriage observed in less than 2% of schoolchildren, consistent with earlier studies from Samoa. Interpretation This study describes a considerable burden of disease attributed to impetigo and scabies in Samoa. These findings will be valuable in addressing the public health challenge posed by these conditions, providing baseline prevalence data and highlighting practical strategies to reduce transmission of relevant microbes and parasites in this setting. Tala Tomua O a'afiaga o le pa'u i fa'ama'i o le po'u (impetigo) ma le utu o le pa'u (scabies), ua tele naua le fanau ua maua ai i le pasefika, ma le lalolagi atoa. O fuafuaga vaai mamao ma polokalame e fofoina ai nei faafitauli, e aofia ai le inumaga o fualaau e tapeina ai nei fa'ama'i, ua aliali mai ai e mafai ona faatamaia nei fa'ama'i. E le o tele ni tusitusiga ma faamaumauga i totonu o Samoa, pe ta'atele nei fa'amai o le pa'u pe leai. Ona o le le faatauaina o nei fa'ama'i, e le o iloa fo'i ni mafuaga ma nisi tulaga e faateleina ai nei fa'ama'i o le pa'u i Samoa. Faatinoina o le suesuega O le suesuega faasaenisi i le fanau aoga i le va o le 4 ma le 15 tausaga o loo ao'oga i le tulaga lua i nisi o nu'u i tua i Upolu, na faatinoina ai suesuega lea, ia suesueina ai le aotelega ma fainumera o le fanau ua maua i fa'ama'I o le po'u (impetigo) ma le utu o le pa'u (scabies). O lenei foi suesuega, na fia iloa ai fo'i po'o a ituaiga siama eseese o loo maua i luga o pa'u ma tino o le fanau aoga, ina ia iloa ai foi auala ua pipisi ai nei siama mai le isi tamaitiiti i le isi, ona mafua ai lea o nei fa'ama'i o le pa'u. Tanuuga o le suesuega Ua faailoa mai i le suesuega, le ta'atele o le fa'ama'i o le po'u (impetigo) ua maua ai le fanau aoga (57%), i aoga na faia ai le suesuega. O se fainumera ua maualuga tele i le lalolagi atoa. E toatele atu nisi o le fanau laiti (younger) ma tama (male) e maua i le po'u nai lo isi tamaiti. O le fainumera o le utu o le pa'u (scabies) (14·4%) e tai tutusa lava ma isi motu o le Pasefika. O le feaveaina o le siama faapitoa (staph aureus) ua tupu lea i le fanau ua ao'oga i le aoga e tasi. E le toatele foi nisi o le fanau (2%) na maua i le siama faapitoa o le fa'ai (strep pyogenes) e ona mafua ai le fiva rumatika. O lenei fainumera ua tai tutusa ma suesuega faasaenisi na fai muamua i Samoa. Aotelega O le aotelega la o lenei suesuega faasaenisi, ua faailoaina mai ai le tele naua o le fa'ama'i o le pa'u, o po'u (impetigo) ma le utu o le pa'u (scabies) i Samoa nei. O nei foi suesuega o le a aoga tele ini polokalame ma ni fuafuaga mamao e fa'afoisia ai nei faafitauli i le soifua maloloina o le fanau i Samoa. O le a avea foi nei fainumera e faamaumauina mo le silafia e le atunuu ma le soifua maloloina, le ta'atele o nei fa'amai o le pa'u, mo le tapenaina o ni fofo talafeagai ise taimi o i luma, ina ia faaitiitina ai le pipisi o nei siami i fanau ao'oga i Samoa.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Taiaroa
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Ben Matalavea
- Faculty of Medicine, National University of Samoa, Apia, Samoa.,National Kidney Foundation of Samoa, Apia, Samoa
| | - Malama Tafuna'i
- Centre for Pacific Health, Division of Health Sciences, The University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Jake A Lacey
- Doherty Department at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - David J Price
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory Epidemiology Unit, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lupeoletalalelei Isaia
- Tupua Tamasese Mea'ole National Hospital Laboratory, Samoa Ministry of Health, Apia, Samoa
| | - Hinauri Leaupepe
- Tupua Tamasese Mea'ole National Hospital Laboratory, Samoa Ministry of Health, Apia, Samoa
| | | | - Darren Lee
- Microbiological Diagnostic Unit Public Health Laboratory, The University of Melbourne at The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Claire L Gorrie
- Microbiological Diagnostic Unit Public Health Laboratory, The University of Melbourne at The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Deborah A Williamson
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.,Microbiological Diagnostic Unit Public Health Laboratory, The University of Melbourne at The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Australia.,Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Susan Jack
- Department of Preventive and Social Medicine, University of Otago, New Zealand.,Public Health Unit, Southern District Health Board, Dunedin, New Zealand
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30
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Wyber R, Noonan K, Halkon C, Enkel S, Cannon J, Haynes E, Mitchell AG, Bessarab DC, Katzenellenbogen JM, Bond-Smith D, Seth R, D'Antoine H, Ralph AP, Bowen AC, Brown A, Carapetis JR. Ending rheumatic heart disease in Australia: the evidence for a new approach. Med J Aust 2020; 213 Suppl 10:S3-S31. [PMID: 33190287 DOI: 10.5694/mja2.50853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
■The RHD Endgame Strategy: the blueprint to eliminate rheumatic heart disease in Australia by 2031 (the Endgame Strategy) is the blueprint to eliminate rheumatic heart disease (RHD) in Australia by 2031. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people live with one of the highest per capita burdens of RHD in the world. ■The Endgame Strategy synthesises information compiled across the 5-year lifespan of the End Rheumatic Heart Disease Centre of Research Excellence (END RHD CRE). Data and results from priority research projects across several disciplines of research complemented literature reviews, systematic reviews and narrative reviews. Further, the experiences of those working in acute rheumatic fever (ARF) and RHD control and those living with RHD to provide the technical evidence for eliminating RHD in Australia were included. ■The lived experience of RHD is a critical factor in health outcomes. All future strategies to address ARF and RHD must prioritise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people's knowledge, perspectives and experiences and develop co-designed approaches to RHD elimination. The environmental, economic, social and political context of RHD in Australia is inexorably linked to ending the disease. ■Statistical modelling undertaken in 2019 looked at the economic and health impacts of implementing an indicative strategy to eliminate RHD by 2031. Beginning in 2019, the strategy would include: reducing household crowding, improving hygiene infrastructure, strengthening primary health care and improving secondary prophylaxis. It was estimated that the strategy would prevent 663 deaths and save the health care system $188 million. ■The Endgame Strategy provides the evidence for a new approach to RHD elimination. It proposes an implementation framework of five priority action areas. These focus on strategies to prevent new cases of ARF and RHD early in the causal pathway from Streptococcus pyogenes exposure to ARF, and strategies that address the critical systems and structural changes needed to support a comprehensive RHD elimination strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosemary Wyber
- George Institute for Global Health, Sydney, NSW.,Telethon Kids Institute, Perth, WA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Rebecca Seth
- Telethon Kids Institute, Perth, WA.,University of Western Australia, Perth, WA
| | | | | | - Asha C Bowen
- Telethon Kids Institute, Perth, WA.,Perth Children's Hospital, Perth, WA
| | - Alex Brown
- South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, SA.,University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA
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Abrha S, Tesfaye W, Thomas J. Intolerable Burden of Impetigo in Endemic Settings: A Review of the Current State of Play and Future Directions for Alternative Treatments. Antibiotics (Basel) 2020; 9:E909. [PMID: 33333955 PMCID: PMC7765423 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics9120909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2020] [Revised: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Impetigo (school sores) is a common superficial bacterial skin infection affecting around 162 million children worldwide, with the highest burden in Australian Aboriginal children. While impetigo itself is treatable, if left untreated, it can lead to life-threatening conditions, such as chronic heart and kidney diseases. Topical antibiotics are often considered the treatment of choice for impetigo, but the clinical efficacy of these treatments is declining at an alarming rate due to the rapid emergence and spread of resistant bacteria. In remote settings in Australia, topical antibiotics are no longer used for impetigo due to the troubling rise of antimicrobial resistance, demanding the use of oral and injectable antibiotic therapies. However, widespread use of these agents not only contributes to existing resistance, but also associated with adverse consequences for individuals and communities. These underscore the urgent need to reinvigorate the antibiotic discovery and alternative impetigo therapies in these settings. This review discusses the current impetigo treatment challenges in endemic settings in Australia and explores potential alternative antimicrobial therapies. The goals are to promote intensified research programs to facilitate effective use of currently available treatments, as well as developing new alternatives for impetigo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Solomon Abrha
- Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Canberra, ACT 2617, Australia; (S.A.); (W.T.)
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Mekelle University, Mekelle 7000, Ethiopia
| | - Wubshet Tesfaye
- Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Canberra, ACT 2617, Australia; (S.A.); (W.T.)
| | - Jackson Thomas
- Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Canberra, ACT 2617, Australia; (S.A.); (W.T.)
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32
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Cannon JW, Zhung J, Bennett J, Moreland NJ, Baker MG, Geelhoed E, Fraser J, Carapetis JR, Jack S. The economic and health burdens of diseases caused by group A Streptococcus in New Zealand. Int J Infect Dis 2020; 103:176-181. [PMID: 33278622 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2020.11.193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Revised: 11/15/2020] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In preparation for the future arrival of a group A Streptococcus (GAS) vaccine, this study estimated the economic and health burdens of GAS diseases in New Zealand (NZ). METHODS The annual incidence of GAS diseases was based on extrapolation of the average number of primary healthcare episodes managed each year in general practices (2014-2016) and on the average number of hospitalizations occurring each year (2005-2014). Disease incidence was multiplied by the average cost of diagnosing and managing an episode of disease at each level of care to estimate the annual economic burden. RESULTS GAS affected 1.5% of the population each year, resulting in an economic burden of 29.2 million NZ dollars (2015 prices) and inflicting a health burden of 2373 disability-adjusted life years (DALYs). Children <5 years of age were the most likely age group to present for GAS-related healthcare. Presentations for superficial throat and skin infections (predominantly pharyngitis and impetigo) were more common than other GAS diseases. Cellulitis contributed the most to the total economic and health burdens. Invasive and immune-mediated diseases disproportionately contributed to the total economic and health burdens relative to their frequency of occurrence. CONCLUSION Preventing GAS diseases would have substantial economic and health benefits in NZ and globally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey W Cannon
- Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia
| | - Jane Zhung
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Julie Bennett
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand.
| | - Nicole J Moreland
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Pathology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Michael G Baker
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Elizabeth Geelhoed
- Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia
| | - John Fraser
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Pathology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Jonathan R Carapetis
- Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia; Department of Infectious Diseases, Perth Children's Hospital, Perth, Western Australia
| | - Susan Jack
- Department of Preventive and Social Medicine, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand; Southern District Health Board, Dunedin, New Zealand
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33
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Impetigo Animal Models: A Review of Their Feasibility and Clinical Utility for Therapeutic Appraisal of Investigational Drug Candidates. Antibiotics (Basel) 2020; 9:antibiotics9100694. [PMID: 33066386 PMCID: PMC7602235 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics9100694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Revised: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Impetigo (school sores), a superficial skin infection commonly seen in children, is caused by the gram-positive bacteria Staphylococcus aureus and/or Streptococcus pyogenes. Antibiotic treatments, often topical, are used as the first-line therapy for impetigo. The efficacy of potential new antimicrobial compounds is first tested in in vitro studies and, if effective, followed by in vivo studies using animal models and/or humans. Animal models are critical means for investigating potential therapeutics and characterizing their safety profile prior to human trials. Although several reviews of animal models for skin infections have been published, there is a lack of a comprehensive review of animal models simulating impetigo for the selection of therapeutic drug candidates. This review critically examines the existing animal models for impetigo and their feasibility for testing the in vivo efficacy of topical treatments for impetigo and other superficial bacterial skin infections.
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34
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Lydeamore MJ, Campbell PT, Price DJ, Wu Y, Marcato AJ, Cuningham W, Carapetis JR, Andrews RM, McDonald MI, McVernon J, Tong SYC, McCaw JM. Estimation of the force of infection and infectious period of skin sores in remote Australian communities using interval-censored data. PLoS Comput Biol 2020; 16:e1007838. [PMID: 33017395 PMCID: PMC7561265 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1007838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2019] [Revised: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 04/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Prevalence of impetigo (skin sores) remains high in remote Australian Aboriginal communities, Fiji, and other areas of socio-economic disadvantage. Skin sore infections, driven primarily in these settings by Group A Streptococcus (GAS) contribute substantially to the disease burden in these areas. Despite this, estimates for the force of infection, infectious period and basic reproductive ratio-all necessary for the construction of dynamic transmission models-have not been obtained. By utilising three datasets each containing longitudinal infection information on individuals, we estimate each of these epidemiologically important parameters. With an eye to future study design, we also quantify the optimal sampling intervals for obtaining information about these parameters. We verify the estimation method through a simulation estimation study, and test each dataset to ensure suitability to the estimation method. We find that the force of infection differs by population prevalence, and the infectious period is estimated to be between 12 and 20 days. We also find that optimal sampling interval depends on setting, with an optimal sampling interval between 9 and 11 days in a high prevalence setting, and 21 and 27 days for a lower prevalence setting. These estimates unlock future model-based investigations on the transmission dynamics of skin sores.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Lydeamore
- School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Alfred and Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Patricia T Campbell
- Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, The Royal Melbourne Hospital and The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, The Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - David J Price
- Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, The Royal Melbourne Hospital and The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Yue Wu
- Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Adrian J Marcato
- Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, The Royal Melbourne Hospital and The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Will Cuningham
- Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Australia
| | - Jonathan R Carapetis
- Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
- Perth Children's Hospital, Perth, Australia
| | - Ross M Andrews
- Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Australia
- National Centre for Epidemiology & Population Health, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Malcolm I McDonald
- Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Australia
| | - Jodie McVernon
- Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, The Royal Melbourne Hospital and The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, The Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Steven Y C Tong
- Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, The Royal Melbourne Hospital and The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
- Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Australia
| | - James M McCaw
- School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
- Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, The Royal Melbourne Hospital and The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
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35
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Epidemiological analysis of Group A Streptococcus infections in a hospital in Beijing, China. Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis 2020; 39:2361-2371. [PMID: 32676802 DOI: 10.1007/s10096-020-03987-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Our study aimed to investigate the epidemiological and molecular characteristics of isolates collected from Group A Streptococcus (GAS) infections in children in Beijing China during the year 2019. Emm typing, superantigens, and erythromycin resistance genotypes were determined by PCR. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed as recommended by Clinical Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI). A total of 271 GAS isolates were collected. Thirteen different emm types, including 31 subtypes, were identified. The most prevalent emm types were emm12 (52.77%), emm1 (36.9%), emm3.1 (2.95%), and emm75.0 (2.95%). Two variant subtypes, STC36.0 and STG840.2, were identified. There was no difference in the portion of emm12 and emm1 isolates in scarlet fever, impetigo, and psoriasis. The majority of superantigens detected were smeZ (94.46%), speC (91.14%), and ssa (74.91%), followed by speH (56.46%), speI (45.76%), speJ (36.9%), and speA (34.32%). More scarlet fever isolates harbored speA (35.6%) and speJ (38.4%), more psoriasis isolates harbored speI (57.9%), and more impetigo isolates harbored ssa (89.7%). Isolates were universally susceptible to penicillin and resistant to erythromycin (94.83%). Moreover, 89.67% erythromycin resistance isolates harbored the ermB gene. The erythromycin resistance rate of the isolates from the three diseases was different. Scarlet fever is the common streptococcal infectious disease in dermatology. Emm12 and emm1 were the most prevalent emm types. The most prevalent superantigens detected were smeZ, spec, and ssa. There is association between diversity of superantigens and disease manifestation. Hence, continuous surveillance of GAS molecular epidemiological characterizations in different diseases is needed.
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36
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Carothers KE, Liang Z, Mayfield J, Donahue DL, Lee M, Boggess B, Ploplis VA, Castellino FJ, Lee SW. The Streptococcal Protease SpeB Antagonizes the Biofilms of the Human Pathogen Staphylococcus aureus USA300 through Cleavage of the Staphylococcal SdrC Protein. J Bacteriol 2020; 202:e00008-20. [PMID: 32205460 PMCID: PMC7221255 DOI: 10.1128/jb.00008-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Streptococcus pyogenes, or group A Streptococcus (GAS), is both a pathogen and an asymptomatic colonizer of human hosts and produces a large number of surface-expressed and secreted factors that contribute to a variety of infection outcomes. The GAS-secreted cysteine protease SpeB has been well studied for its effects on the human host; however, despite its broad proteolytic activity, studies on how this factor is utilized in polymicrobial environments are lacking. Here, we utilized various forms of SpeB protease to evaluate its antimicrobial and antibiofilm properties against the clinically important human colonizer Staphylococcus aureus, which occupies niches similar to those of GAS. For our investigation, we used a skin-tropic GAS strain, AP53CovS+, and its isogenic ΔspeB mutant to compare the production and activity of native SpeB protease. We also generated active and inactive forms of recombinant purified SpeB for functional studies. We demonstrate that SpeB exhibits potent biofilm disruption activity at multiple stages of S. aureus biofilm formation. We hypothesized that the surface-expressed adhesin SdrC in S. aureus was cleaved by SpeB, which contributed to the observed biofilm disruption. Indeed, we found that SpeB cleaved recombinant SdrC in vitro and in the context of the full S. aureus biofilm. Our results suggest an understudied role for the broadly proteolytic SpeB as an important factor for GAS colonization and competition with other microorganisms in its niche.IMPORTANCEStreptococcus pyogenes (GAS) causes a range of diseases in humans, ranging from mild to severe, and produces many virulence factors in order to be a successful pathogen. One factor produced by many GAS strains is the protease SpeB, which has been studied for its ability to cleave and degrade human proteins, an important factor in GAS pathogenesis. An understudied aspect of SpeB is the manner in which its broad proteolytic activity affects other microorganisms that co-occupy niches similar to that of GAS. The significance of the research reported herein is the demonstration that SpeB can degrade the biofilms of the human pathogen Staphylococcus aureus, which has important implications for how SpeB may be utilized by GAS to successfully compete in a polymicrobial environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katelyn E Carothers
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, USA
- Eck Institute for Global Health, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, USA
| | - Zhong Liang
- W. M. Keck Center for Transgene Research, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, USA
| | - Jeffrey Mayfield
- W. M. Keck Center for Transgene Research, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, USA
| | - Deborah L Donahue
- W. M. Keck Center for Transgene Research, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, USA
| | - Mijoon Lee
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, USA
| | - Bill Boggess
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, USA
| | - Victoria A Ploplis
- W. M. Keck Center for Transgene Research, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, USA
| | - Francis J Castellino
- W. M. Keck Center for Transgene Research, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, USA
| | - Shaun W Lee
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, USA
- Eck Institute for Global Health, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, USA
- W. M. Keck Center for Transgene Research, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, USA
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37
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Abstract
Staphylococcus aureus is the most common pathogen involved in skin infections worldwide, regardless of the patient's age, the climate or geographical area. The main skin clinical manifestations can be linked to a few toxins produced by the bacteria, which give rise to a rich and varied clinical spectrum. Panton Valentine leucocidin, exfoliatins, enterotoxins and toxin shock syndrome toxin 1 are the main toxins involved in most dermatological manifestations associated with S. aureus. Other less frequent cutaneous manifestations can occur in endocarditis, bacteraemia. Currently, the most important event is worldwide emergence of community-acquired S. aureus resistant to methicillin (CA-MRSA), mainly causing skin infections.
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38
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Thornley S, King R, Marshall R, Oakley A, Sundborn G, Harrower J, Reynolds E, Arbuckle M, Johnson RJ. How strong is the relationship between scabies and acute rheumatic fever? An analysis of neighbourhood factors. J Paediatr Child Health 2020; 56:600-606. [PMID: 31774599 DOI: 10.1111/jpc.14697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2019] [Revised: 10/24/2019] [Accepted: 11/03/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
AIM Recent studies have linked scabies with acute rheumatic fever (ARF). We explored the relationship, by neighbourhood, between permethrin dispensing as an indicator of scabies prevalence and ARF cases over the same period. METHODS Incident cases of ARF notified to public health between September 2015 and June 2018 and the annual incidence of prescribing by neighbourhood over the same period were analysed. Evidence of an association between permethrin and ARF was obtained by carrying out Poisson regression of the rate of ARF in terms of permethrin rate at the census area unit level, with adjustment for ethnicity and socio-economic deprivation. RESULTS A total of 413 neighbourhoods were included. The incidence of ARF varied between 0 and 102 per 100 000 people per year (mean 4.3). In contrast, the annual incidence of dispensing of permethrin varied between 0 and 3201 per 100 000 people per year (mean 771). A strong association was observed between the two variables. In an adjusted quasi-Poisson model, permethrin-dispensing rates were strongly associated with ARF incidence, with a change from the 16th to the 84th centile associated with a 16.5-fold increase in incidence (95% confidence interval: 3.82-71.6). CONCLUSIONS Permethrin prescribing as an indicator of scabies is strongly associated with the incidence of ARF. Considered together with other studies, this evidence suggests that improving scabies control may reduce the burden of ARF in New Zealand.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Thornley
- Greenlane Clinical Centre, Auckland Regional Public Health Service, Auckland, New Zealand.,Section of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Ron King
- Greenlane Clinical Centre, Auckland Regional Public Health Service, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Roger Marshall
- Section of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Amanda Oakley
- Waikato Clinical Campus, Waikato Hospital, The University of Auckland, Hamilton, New Zealand
| | - Gerhard Sundborn
- Section of Pacific Health, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Jay Harrower
- Greenlane Clinical Centre, Auckland Regional Public Health Service, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Edwin Reynolds
- Greenlane Clinical Centre, Auckland Regional Public Health Service, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Mark Arbuckle
- Ōtara Christian and Family Health Centre, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Richard J Johnson
- Division of Renal Diseases and Hypertension, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, United States
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39
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Davidson L, Knight J, Bowen AC. Skin infections in Australian Aboriginal children: a narrative review. Med J Aust 2019; 212:231-237. [PMID: 31630410 PMCID: PMC9543154 DOI: 10.5694/mja2.50361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Impetigo, scabies, cellulitis and abscesses are common in Australian Aboriginal children. These conditions adversely affect wellbeing and are associated with serious long term sequelae, including invasive infection and post‐infectious complications, such as acute post‐streptococcal glomerulonephritis and acute rheumatic fever, which occurs at the highest documented rates in the world in remote Aboriginal communities. Observational research in remote communities in northern Australia has demonstrated a high concurrent burden of scabies and impetigo and their post‐infectious complications. Few data are available for other Australian states, especially for urban Aboriginal children; however, nationwide hospital data indicate that the disparity between Aboriginal and non‐Aboriginal children in skin infection prevalence also exists in urban settings. The Australian National Healthy Skin Guideline summarises evidence‐based treatment of impetigo, scabies and fungal infections in high burden settings such as remote Aboriginal communities. It recommends systemic antibiotics for children with impetigo, and either topical permethrin or oral ivermectin (second line) for the individual and their contacts as equally efficacious treatments for scabies. β‐Lactams are the treatment of choice and trimethoprim–sulfamethoxazole and clindamycin are effective alternatives for treatment of paediatric cellulitis. Abscesses require incision and drainage and a 5‐day course of trimethoprim–sulfamethoxazole or clindamycin. Addressing normalisation of skin infections and the social determinants of skin health are key challenges for the clinician. Research is underway on community‐wide skin health programs and the role for mass drug administration which will guide future management of these common, treatable diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jessica Knight
- University of Western Australia, Perth, WA.,Wesfarmers Centre for Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, Perth, WA
| | - Asha C Bowen
- University of Western Australia, Perth, WA.,Wesfarmers Centre for Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, Perth, WA.,Perth Children's Hospital, Perth, WA
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40
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Armitage EP, Senghore E, Darboe S, Barry M, Camara J, Bah S, Marks M, Cerami C, Roca A, Antonio M, Turner CE, de Silva TI. High burden and seasonal variation of paediatric scabies and pyoderma prevalence in The Gambia: A cross-sectional study. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2019; 13:e0007801. [PMID: 31609963 PMCID: PMC6812840 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0007801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2019] [Revised: 10/24/2019] [Accepted: 09/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Scabies is a WHO neglected tropical disease common in children in low- and middle-income countries. Excoriation of scabies lesions can lead to secondary pyoderma infection, most commonly by Staphyloccocus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes (group A streptococcus, GAS), with the latter linked to acute post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis (APSGN) and potentially rheumatic heart disease (RHD). There is a paucity of data on the prevalence of these skin infections and their bacterial aetiology from Africa. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS A cross-sectional study, conducted over a four-month period that included the dry and rainy season, was conducted to determine the prevalence of common skin infections in Sukuta, a peri-urban settlement in western Gambia, in children <5 years. Swabs from pyoderma lesions were cultured for S. aureus and GAS. Of 1441 children examined, 15.9% had scabies (95% CI 12.2-20.4), 17.4% had pyoderma (95% CI 10.4-27.7) and 9.7% had fungal infections (95% CI 6.6-14.0). Scabies was significantly associated with pyoderma (aOR 2.74, 95% CI 1.61-4.67). Of 250 pyoderma swabs, 80.8% were culture-positive for S. aureus, and 50.8% for GAS. Participants examined after the first rains were significantly more likely to have pyoderma than those examined before (aRR 2.42, 95% CI 1.38-4.23), whereas no difference in scabies prevalence was seen (aRR 1.08, 95% CI 0.70-1.67). Swab positivity was not affected by the season. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE High prevalence of scabies and pyoderma were observed. Pyoderma increased significantly during the rainy season. Given the high prevalence of GAS pyoderma among children, further research on the association with RHD in West Africa is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edwin P. Armitage
- Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia at The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Banjul, The Gambia
| | - Elina Senghore
- Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia at The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Banjul, The Gambia
| | - Saffiatou Darboe
- Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia at The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Banjul, The Gambia
| | - Momodou Barry
- Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia at The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Banjul, The Gambia
| | - Janko Camara
- Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia at The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Banjul, The Gambia
| | - Sulayman Bah
- Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia at The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Banjul, The Gambia
| | - Michael Marks
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Carla Cerami
- Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia at The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Banjul, The Gambia
| | - Anna Roca
- Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia at The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Banjul, The Gambia
| | - Martin Antonio
- Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia at The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Banjul, The Gambia
| | - Claire E. Turner
- Department of Molecular Biology & Biotechnology, The Florey Institute, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Thushan I. de Silva
- Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia at The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Banjul, The Gambia
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Infection, Immunity and Cardiovascular Diseases, The Florey Institute, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
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Mullane MJ, Barnett TC, Cannon JW, Carapetis JR, Christophers R, Coffin J, Jones MA, Marsh JA, Mc Loughlin F, O'Donnell V, Pavlos R, Smith B, Steer AC, Tong SYC, Walker R, Bowen AC. SToP (See, Treat, Prevent) skin sores and scabies trial: study protocol for a cluster randomised, stepped-wedge trial for skin disease control in remote Western Australia. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e030635. [PMID: 31551385 PMCID: PMC6773324 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-030635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Skin is important in Australian Aboriginal culture informing kinship and identity. In many remote Aboriginal communities, scabies and impetigo are very common. Untreated skin infections are painful, itchy and frequently go untreated due to under-recognition and lack of awareness of their potential serious complications. We hypothesise that the skin infection burden in remote Aboriginal communities can be reduced by implementing streamlined training and treatment pathways integrated with environmental health and health promotion activities, tested in the See, Treat, Prevent (SToP skin sores and scabies) trial. METHODS AND ANALYSIS SToP will evaluate a skin control programme using a stepped-wedge, cluster randomised trial design with three intervention components (the 'SToP activities'): (1) seeing skin infections (development of training resources implemented within a community dermatology model); (2) treating skin infections (employing the latest evidence for impetigo, and scabies treatment); and (3) preventing skin infections (embedded, culturally informed health promotion and environmental health activities). Four community clusters in the remote Kimberley region of Western Australia will participate. Following baseline data collection, two clusters will be randomly allocated to the SToP activities. At 12 months, the remaining two clusters will transition to the SToP activities. The primary outcome is the diagnosis of impetigo in children (5-9 years) at school-based surveillance. Secondary outcome measures include scabies diagnosis, other child health indicators, resistance to cotrimoxazole in circulating pathogenic bacteria, determining the economic burden of skin disease and evaluating the cost effectiveness of SToP activities. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This study protocol was approved by the health ethics review committees at the Child and Adolescent Health Service (Approval number RGS0000000584), the Western Australian Aboriginal Health Ethics Committee (Reference number: 819) and the University of Western Australia (Reference RA/4/20/4123). Study findings will be shared with community members, academic and medical communities via publications and presentations, and in reports to funders. Authorship for all publications based on this study will be determined in line with the Uniform Requirements for Manuscripts Submitted to Biomedical Journals published by the International Committee of Medical Journal Editors. Sharing results with organisations and communities who contributed to the study is paramount. The results of the SToP trial will be shared with participants in a suitable format, such as a single summary page provided to participants or presentations to communities, the Kimberly Aboriginal Health Planning Forum Research Subcommittee and other stakeholders as appropriate and as requested. Communication and dissemination will require ongoing consultation with Aboriginal communities to determine appropriate formats. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ACTRN12618000520235.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianne J Mullane
- Wesfarmers Centre for Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Timothy C Barnett
- Wesfarmers Centre for Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Jeffrey W Cannon
- Wesfarmers Centre for Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Jonathan R Carapetis
- Wesfarmers Centre for Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia
- Department of Paediatric Infectious Diseases, Perth Children's Hospital, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Ray Christophers
- Nirrumbuk Environmental Health & Services, Nirrumbuk Aboriginal Corporation, Broome, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Juli Coffin
- Aboriginal Health, Telethon Kids Kimberley, Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Broome, Western Australia, Australia
- Nulungu Research Institute, University of Notre Dame, Broome, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Mark A Jones
- Wesfarmers Centre for Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Julie A Marsh
- Wesfarmers Centre for Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Frieda Mc Loughlin
- Wesfarmers Centre for Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Vicki O'Donnell
- Kimberley Aboriginal Medical Services, Broome, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Rebecca Pavlos
- Wesfarmers Centre for Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Bec Smith
- Western Australian Country Health Services-Kimberley, Broome, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Andrew C Steer
- Tropical Diseases Research Group, Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of General Paediatrics, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Steven Y C Tong
- Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Royal Melbourne Hospital and The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Menzies School of Health Research, Casuarina, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Roz Walker
- Wesfarmers Centre for Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Asha C Bowen
- Wesfarmers Centre for Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia
- Department of Paediatric Infectious Diseases, Perth Children's Hospital, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- Menzies School of Health Research, Casuarina, Northern Territory, Australia
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Swe PM, Zakrzewski M, Waddell R, Sriprakash KS, Fischer K. High-throughput metagenome analysis of the Sarcoptes scabiei internal microbiota and in-situ identification of intestinal Streptomyces sp. Sci Rep 2019; 9:11744. [PMID: 31409870 PMCID: PMC6692375 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-47892-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2019] [Accepted: 06/24/2019] [Indexed: 10/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple parasitic arthropods of medical importance depend on symbiotic bacteria. While the link between scabies and secondary bacterial infections causing post infective complications of Group A streptococcal and staphylococcal pyoderma is increasingly recognized, very little is known about the microbiota of Sarcoptes scabiei. Here we analyze adult female mite and egg metagenome datasets. The majority of adult mite bacterial reads matched with Enterobacteriaceae (phylum Proteobacteria), followed by Corynebacteriaceae (phylum Actinobacteria). Klebsiella was the most dominant genus (78%) and Corynebacterium constituted 9% of the assigned sequences. Scabies mite eggs had a more diverse microbial composition with sequences from Proteobacteria being the most dominant (75%), while Actinobacteria, Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes accounted for 23% of the egg microbiome sequences. DNA sequences of a potential endosymbiont, namely Streptomyces, were identified in the metagenome sequence data of both life stages. The presence of Streptomyces was confirmed by conventional PCR. Digital droplet PCR indicated higher Streptomyces numbers in adult mites compared to eggs. Streptomyces were localized histologically in the scabies mite gut and faecal pellets by Fluorescent In Situ Hybridization (FISH). Streptomyces may have essential symbiotic roles in the scabies parasite intestinal system requiring further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pearl M Swe
- Infectious Diseases Program, Cell and Molecular Biology Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Martha Zakrzewski
- Medical Genomics Program, Genetics & Computational Biology Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Rebecca Waddell
- Infectious Diseases Program, Cell and Molecular Biology Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Kadaba S Sriprakash
- Infectious Diseases Program, Cell and Molecular Biology Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Katja Fischer
- Infectious Diseases Program, Cell and Molecular Biology Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia.
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Giffard PM, Tong SYC, Holt DC, Ralph AP, Currie BJ. Concerns for efficacy of a 30-valent M-protein-based Streptococcus pyogenes vaccine in regions with high rates of rheumatic heart disease. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2019; 13:e0007511. [PMID: 31269021 PMCID: PMC6634427 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0007511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2019] [Revised: 07/16/2019] [Accepted: 06/03/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of rheumatic heart disease (RHD) in the Aboriginal population of the Australian Northern Territory is high, and Streptococcus pyogenes skin infections likely contribute to this. A promising candidate S. pyogenes “30mer” vaccine is composed of 30 pharyngitis associated type-specific antigens from the S. pyogenes M protein. Cross opsonisation experiments suggest that 30mer vaccine protection may extend to non-cognate emm types. A new “emm cluster” scheme for classifying M protein is based on the full-length coding sequence, and correlates with functional and immunological properties, and anatomical tropism. Twenty-seven years of research in the Northern Territory has yielded 1810 S. pyogenes isolates with clinical and emm type data. The primary aim was to analyse these data with reference to the emm cluster scheme and cross opsonisation information, to inform estimation of 30mer vaccine efficacy in the Northern Territory. The isolates encompass 101 emm types. Variants of cluster A-C were enriched in throat isolates, and variants of emm cluster D enriched in skin isolates. Throat isolates were enriched for 30mer vaccine cognate emm types in comparison with skin isolates of which only 25% were vaccine emm types. While cross opsonisation data indicates potential for enhancing 30mer vaccine coverage, more than one third of skin isolates were within 38 emm types untested for cross opsonisation. Emm cluster D variants, in particular emm cluster D4, were not only all non-cognate with the vaccine, but were abundant and diverse, and less likely to be cross-opsonisation positive than other emm clusters. Long term persistence of many emm types in the study area was revealed. It was concluded that the 30mer vaccine efficacy in the Northern Territory will likely require both cross protection, and additional measures to elicit immunity against variants of emm cluster D. The bacterium Streptococcus pyogenes causes throat and skin infections. A danger from such infections is an immune response that attacks human heart tissue, leading to rheumatic heart disease, which is difficult to treat and potentially deadly. Disadvantaged populations such as the Indigenous people in remote tropical northern Australia have high burdens of S. pyogenes skin infection, and rheumatic heart disease. An effective vaccine would be a benefit, but none is approved for clinical use. We analysed data from 1810 S. pyogenes isolates from north Australia obtained over 28 years, to determine the potential of a previously described S. pyogenes vaccine candidate to be effective in this region. Only one quarter of the isolates from skin infections had a surface antigen corresponding to any one of the 30 antigen variants in the candidate vaccine. Previous work in animals indicates potential cross-protection from the vaccine against strains with mismatched antigens. However, even if this occurs in humans, protection against skin infection strains would likely remain compromised, unless there were additional components in the vaccine. Further studies on cross-protection are critical to defining the potential of this type of vaccine in populations burdened with S. pyogenes skin infections and rheumatic heart disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip M. Giffard
- Menzies School of Health Research, Division of Global and Tropical Health, Darwin, Australia
- College of Health and Human Sciences, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Australia
- * E-mail:
| | - Steven Y. C. Tong
- Menzies School of Health Research, Division of Global and Tropical Health, Darwin, Australia
- Victorian Infectious Disease Service, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, and Doherty Department University of Melbourne, at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Deborah C. Holt
- Menzies School of Health Research, Division of Global and Tropical Health, Darwin, Australia
- College of Health and Human Sciences, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Australia
| | - Anna P. Ralph
- Menzies School of Health Research, Division of Global and Tropical Health, Darwin, Australia
- Division of Medicine, Royal Darwin Hospital, Darwin, Australia
| | - Bart J. Currie
- Menzies School of Health Research, Division of Global and Tropical Health, Darwin, Australia
- Division of Medicine, Royal Darwin Hospital, Darwin, Australia
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Davey RX, Tong SYC. The epidemiology of Staphylococcus aureus skin and soft tissue infection in the southern Barkly region of Australia's Northern Territory in 2017. Pathology 2019; 51:308-312. [PMID: 30819539 DOI: 10.1016/j.pathol.2018.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2018] [Revised: 11/13/2018] [Accepted: 11/14/2018] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to describe the burden and organism antibiotic resistance patterns of skin and soft tissue infections (SSTI) due to Staphylococcus aureus presenting in a remote Australian Northern Territory community in the Barkly region. We collated reported antibiograms of all skin and superficial soft tissue swab specimens obtained from the town's Indigenous medical clinic from 12 of the 13 months between November 2016 and December 2017. Clinician's notes for the consultation associated with each test request were examined to determine the nature of the clinical problem and to access other relevant data. Amongst 309 tissue swab specimens, S. aureus was cultured in 215 (70%), of which 202 isolations were from Indigenous Australians. Of the 215 S. aureus, 98 [46%, 95% confidence interval (CI) 31-52] were methicillin resistant S. aureus (MRSA) and 117 (54%, 95% CI 48-61) sensitive (MSSA). Significant numbers were also resistant to other frequently used oral antibiotics, with resistance to erythromycin in 52 (24%), clindamycin in 51 (24%), trimethoprim in 22 (10%) and fusidic acid in eight (4%). In the Barkly region of Australia's NT in 2017, community-acquired staphylococcal SSTI needing professional care is equally likely to be caused by MRSA as by MSSA.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Steven Y C Tong
- Victorian Infectious Disease Service, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, and The University of Melbourne, at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Victoria, Australia; Menzies School of Health Research, Darwin, NT, Australia
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45
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Cannon JW, Jack S, Wu Y, Zhang J, Baker MG, Geelhoed E, Fraser J, Carapetis JR. An economic case for a vaccine to prevent group A streptococcus skin infections. Vaccine 2018; 36:6968-6978. [PMID: 30340879 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2018.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2018] [Revised: 07/22/2018] [Accepted: 10/01/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Group A streptococcus (GAS) causes an exceptionally diverse range of diseases, raising questions about the optimal product characteristics of a commercially viable vaccine. The objectives of this study were to (1) estimate the current health and economic burdens caused by 24 diseases attributable to GAS each year in Australia and (2) use these estimates to explore the value of a GAS vaccine for different clinical indications, age schedules, and population groups. METHODS For objective 1, we estimated the population heath and economic burdens by synthesising data from administrative databases, nationally representative surveys, literature reviews, public reimbursement schedules, and expert opinion. For objective 2, we modelled the prospective lifetime burden of GAS for all infants from birth, for children from 5 years of age, and for adults from 65 years of age. A vaccine was assumed to reduce each GAS disease by 70% for a period of 10 years, and the difference in outcomes between vaccinated and non-vaccinated cohorts were used to calculate the cost-effective value of vaccination. RESULTS The annual health and economic burdens of GAS diseases totalled 23,528 disability-adjusted life years and AU$185.1 million in healthcare costs respectively; approximately half of each measure was due to cellulitis, followed by other skin infections and throat infections. Reducing the incidence of throat infections, skin infections, and cellulitis in non-Indigenous cohorts resulted in 30%, 33%, and 28% of the total vaccine value for an infant schedule (cost-effective vaccine price AU$260 per course); 47%, 26%, and 22% of the value for a child schedule (AU$289); and 2%, 15% and 74% for an adult schedule (AU$489). CONCLUSIONS A vaccine that prevents GAS cellulitis and other skin infections, in addition to throat infections, would maximise its value and commercial viability, with a cost-effective price in line with other recently-licensed and funded vaccines in Australia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey W Cannon
- Wesfarmers Centre for Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Susan Jack
- Department of Preventive and Social Medicine, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Yue Wu
- Wesfarmers Centre for Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Jane Zhang
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Michael G Baker
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Elizabeth Geelhoed
- School of Population and Global Health, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - John Fraser
- Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Jonathan R Carapetis
- Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, and Perth Children's Hospital, 15 Hospital Avenue, Nedlands, Western Australia 6009, Australia.
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46
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Bessen DE, Smeesters PR, Beall BW. Molecular Epidemiology, Ecology, and Evolution of Group A Streptococci. Microbiol Spectr 2018; 6. [PMID: 30191802 DOI: 10.1128/microbiolspec.cpp3-0009-2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The clinico-epidemiological features of diseases caused by group A streptococci (GAS) is presented through the lens of the ecology, population genetics, and evolution of the organism. The serological targets of three typing schemes (M, T, SOF) are themselves GAS cell surface proteins that have a myriad of virulence functions and a diverse array of structural forms. Horizontal gene transfer expands the GAS antigenic cell surface repertoire by generating numerous combinations of M, T, and SOF antigens. However, horizontal gene transfer of the serotype determinant genes is not unconstrained, and therein lies a genetic organization that may signify adaptations to a narrow ecological niche, such as the primary tissue reservoirs of the human host. Adaptations may be further shaped by selection pressures such as herd immunity. Understanding the molecular evolution of GAS on multiple levels-short, intermediate, and long term-sheds insight on mechanisms of host-pathogen interactions, the emergence and spread of new clones, rational vaccine design, and public health interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debra E Bessen
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY 10595
| | - Pierre R Smeesters
- Department of Pediatrics, Queen Fabiola Children's University Hospital, and Molecular Bacteriology Laboratory, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, 1020, Belgium
| | - Bernard W Beall
- National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30333
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47
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Aung PTZ, Cuningham W, Hwang K, Andrews RM, Carapetis JR, Kearns T, Clucas D, McVernon J, Simpson JA, Tong SY, Campbell PT. Scabies and risk of skin sores in remote Australian Aboriginal communities: A self-controlled case series study. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2018; 12:e0006668. [PMID: 30044780 PMCID: PMC6078322 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0006668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2018] [Revised: 08/06/2018] [Accepted: 07/09/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Skin sores caused by Group A streptococcus (GAS) infection are a major public health problem in remote Aboriginal communities. Skin sores are often associated with scabies, which is evident in scabies intervention programs where a significant reduction of skin sores is seen after focusing solely on scabies control. Our study quantifies the strength of association between skin sores and scabies among Aboriginal children from the East Arnhem region in the Northern Territory. Methods and results Pre-existing datasets from three published studies, which were conducted as part of the East Arnhem Healthy Skin Project (EAHSP), were analysed. Aboriginal children were followed from birth up to 4.5 years of age. Self-controlled case series design was used to determine the risks, within individuals, of developing skin sores when infected with scabies versus when there was no scabies infection. Participants were 11.9 times more likely to develop skin sores when infected with scabies compared with times when no scabies infection was evident (Incidence Rate Ratio (IRR) 11.9; 95% CI 10.3–13.7; p<0.001), and this was similar across the five Aboriginal communities. Children had lower risk of developing skin sores at age ≤1 year compared to at age >1 year (IRR 0.8; 95% CI 0.7–0.9). Conclusion The association between scabies and skin sores is highly significant and indicates a causal relationship. The public health importance of scabies in northern Australia is underappreciated and a concerted approach is required to recognise and eliminate scabies as an important precursor of skin sores. Skin sores, also known as impetigo, are highly contagious bacterial skin infections, which are found commonly in school children and occasionally in adults. Skin sores are prevalent in disadvantaged or resource-poor settings. In Australia, about two thirds of Aboriginal children suffer from skin sores by their first birthday. If untreated or treated poorly, skin sores can eventually cause heart and kidney problems. It is also believed that scabies, another common skin infection in Aboriginal children, can increase the risk of developing skin sores by allowing the bacteria to enter the skin more easily through breaks in the skin. Our research explored the following: if scabies is a risk factor for skin sores then what is the strength of the association between the two conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phyo Thu Zar Aung
- Victorian Infectious Disease Reference Laboratory, The Royal Melbourne Hospital and The University of Melbourne, at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Will Cuningham
- Victorian Infectious Disease Reference Laboratory, The Royal Melbourne Hospital and The University of Melbourne, at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Kerry Hwang
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ross M. Andrews
- Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
- National Centre for Epidemiology & Population Health, Australian National University, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Jonathan R. Carapetis
- Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia and Perth Children’s Hospital, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Therese Kearns
- Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Danielle Clucas
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jodie McVernon
- Victorian Infectious Disease Reference Laboratory, The Royal Melbourne Hospital and The University of Melbourne, at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, The Royal Children’s Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Julie Ann Simpson
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Steven Y.C. Tong
- Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Service, The Royal Melbourne Hospital and The University of Melbourne, at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- * E-mail:
| | - Patricia Therese Campbell
- Victorian Infectious Disease Reference Laboratory, The Royal Melbourne Hospital and The University of Melbourne, at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, The Royal Children’s Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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48
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Esposito L, Veraldi S. Skin bacterial colonizations and superinfections in immunocompetent patients with scabies. Int J Dermatol 2018; 57:1218-1220. [PMID: 29974940 DOI: 10.1111/ijd.14123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2018] [Revised: 05/31/2018] [Accepted: 06/07/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Skin bacterial colonizations and superinfections are well-known complications of scabies, in particular, in tropical and subtropical countries. However, only very rare studies on skin bacterial colonizations and superinfections have been carried out in immunocompetent patients with scabies living in Western countries. METHODS Eighty-nine Caucasian adult immunocompetent patients with scabies living in Milan, Italy, were subjected to bacteriologic examinations of the skin. Clinical diagnosis of scabies was confirmed in all patients by means of microscopic examinations: they were considered positive when adults or eggs or feces of Sarcoptes scabiei var. hominis were visible. In all patients, six skin swabs (three for aerobic and three for anaerobic bacteria) were taken in three different areas before the beginning of the treatment. RESULTS No clinical manifestations of pyoderma were observed. Bacteriologic examinations were positive in 5/89 patients (5.6%). Bacteriologic cultures were positive for Staphylococcus aureus in all five patients; in one patient, they were also positive for Escherichia coli. No growth of anaerobic bacteria was recorded. CONCLUSIONS According to the results of this study, skin bacterial colonizations and superinfections in immunocompetent adult patients with scabies living in Milan are uncommon. Bacteriologic examinations may therefore be considered as an unnecessary routine procedure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Esposito
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, I.R.C.C.S. Foundation, Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Stefano Veraldi
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, I.R.C.C.S. Foundation, Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
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49
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Bowen AC, Carapetis JR, Currie BJ, Fowler V, Chambers HF, Tong SYC. Sulfamethoxazole-Trimethoprim (Cotrimoxazole) for Skin and Soft Tissue Infections Including Impetigo, Cellulitis, and Abscess. Open Forum Infect Dis 2017; 4:ofx232. [PMID: 29255730 PMCID: PMC5730933 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofx232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2017] [Accepted: 10/23/2017] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Skin and soft tissue infections (SSTI) affect millions of people globally, which represents a significant burden on ambulatory care and hospital settings. The role of sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim (SXT) in SSTI treatment, particularly when group A Streptococcus (GAS) is involved, is controversial. We conducted a systematic review of clinical trials and observational studies that address the utility of SXT for SSTI treatment, caused by either GAS or Staphylococcus aureus, including methicillin-resistant (MRSA). We identified 196 studies, and 15 underwent full text review by 2 reviewers. Observational studies, which mainly focused on SSTI due to S aureus, supported the use of SXT when compared with clindamycin or β-lactams. Of 10 randomized controlled trials, 8 demonstrated the efficacy of SXT for SSTI treatment including conditions involving GAS. These findings support SXT use for treatment of impetigo and purulent cellulitis (without an additional β-lactam agent) and abscess and wound infection. For nonpurulent cellulitis, β-lactams remain the treatment of choice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asha C Bowen
- Wesfarmers Centre for Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth.,Princess Margaret Hospital for Children, Perth, Western Australia.,Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, North Territory, Australia
| | - Jonathan R Carapetis
- Wesfarmers Centre for Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth.,Princess Margaret Hospital for Children, Perth, Western Australia
| | - Bart J Currie
- Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, North Territory, Australia.,Royal Darwin Hospital, North Territory, Australia
| | - Vance Fowler
- Duke University Division of Infectious Diseases, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Henry F Chambers
- Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Medicine, San Francisco General Hospital, California
| | - Steven Y C Tong
- Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, North Territory, Australia.,Victorian Infectious Disease Service, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, and The University of Melbourne, at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Victoria, Australia
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D'Cunha NM, Peterson GM, Baby KE, Thomas J. Impetigo: A need for new therapies in a world of increasing antimicrobial resistance. J Clin Pharm Ther 2017; 43:150-153. [PMID: 29063621 DOI: 10.1111/jcpt.12639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2017] [Accepted: 09/17/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
WHAT IS KNOWN AND OBJECTIVE Impetigo is a highly contagious bacterial skin infection and is one of the most common skin infections in children. Antibiotics are the first-line treatment when multiple lesions exist, but with an increasing prevalence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria the successful management of impetigo in the future is an area of concern. COMMENT Current treatment options that favour the use of oral antibiotic therapy are increasingly problematic. Widespread use of these agents contributes to antimicrobial resistance and has adverse consequences for individuals and communities. There is a need for new topical antimicrobials and antiseptics as an alternative treatment strategy. WHAT IS NEW AND CONCLUSION To successfully treat impetigo into the future and ensure that therapy does not contribute to bacterial resistance, additional research is required to ascertain the usefulness of alternative agents, including new topical antimicrobials and antiseptics.
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Affiliation(s)
- N M D'Cunha
- Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Bruce, ACT, Australia
| | - G M Peterson
- Faculty of Health, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - K E Baby
- The Canberra Hospital, Yamba Drive, Garran, ACT, Australia
| | - J Thomas
- Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Bruce, ACT, Australia
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