A systematic review and meta-analysis on the global prevalence of microsporidia infection among dogs: a zoonotic concern

The global epidemiology of Microsporidia infection in birds: A systematic review and meta-analysis

This study aimed to assess the global status and genetic diversity of Microsporidia infection in different birds. An online search was conducted in international databases from 1 January 1990 to 30 June 2022. A total of 34 articles (including 37 datasets) were included for the final meta-analysis. The pooled global prevalence of Microsporidia infection in birds was 14.6% (95% CI: 11.6-18.1). The highest prevalence of Microsporidia was found in wild waterfowl which was 54.5% (28.1-78.6). In terms of detection methods, the pooled prevalence was estimated to be 21.2% (95% CI: 12.1-34.4) and 13.4% (95% CI: 10.3-17.3) for using microscopic and molecular detection methods, respectively. Enterocytozoon bieneusi was the most common pathogen (24/31; 77.42% of the studies) according to PCR-based methods, and genotype D was the highest reported genotype (nine studies). In conclusion, designing strategies for the control and prevention of Microsporidia infection in birds should be recommended.

Microscopic and Molecular Investigation of Intestinal Microsporidia in HIV + /AIDS and Cancer Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy in Mazandaran Province, North of Iran

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to identify Enterocytozoon bieneusi and Encephalitozoon spp. in fecal samples of HIV + /AIDS and cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, and comparing the results to healthy individuals in Mazandaran province, north of Iran.

METHODS

Stool samples were collected from 50 HIV + /AIDS patients, 50 cancer patients, and 50 healthy samples referred to medical centers in north of Iran. Stool samples were kept in 2.5% potassium dichromate at 4 °C, and stained by modified trichrome for light microscopy examination. The multiplex/nested-PCR targeted the small subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU rRNA) gene. To characterize genotypes, the nested PCR products sequenced by Bioneer Company and was subjected to phylogenetic analyses.

RESULTS

Ten of 50 samples (20%) of HIV + /AIDS patients, 5 of 50 samples (10%) of cancer patients, and 1 of healthy individuals (2%) were microscopically positive. From 50 HIV + / AIDS patients, E. bieneusi and Encephalitozoon spp. were detected in 10 (20%) and 6 (12%) cases, respectively. Furthermore, among cancer patients, 7 (14%) and 2 (4%) cases were E. bieneusi and Encephalitozoon spp., respectively. Out of 50 samples of healthy individuals, only 3 (6%) cases of E. bieneusi were observed. The genotypes D and M were detected among positive samples of E. bieneusi.

CONCLUSIONS

E. bieneusi and then Encephalitozoon spp. are common intestinal microsporidia in HIV + /AIDS patients and cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy in Mazandaran province. E. bieneusi genotype D seems to be the predominant genotype in Mazandaran province. Due to the considerable prevalence of intestinal microsporidia, physicians are advised to pay more attention to this opportunistic infection in high-risk groups.

Global prevalence and genotype distribution of Microsporidia spp. in various consumables: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Water and food sources play a major role in the distribution and transfer of microsporidia infection to animals and humans. So, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the status and genetic diversity of microsporidia infection in water, vegetables, fruits, milk, cheese, and meat. The standard protocol of Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines was followed. Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar were searched from 1 January 2000 and 1 February 2023. The point estimates and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using a random-effects model. Of the 1,308 retrieved studies, 35 articles were included in the final meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of microsporidia infection in mixed water, mixed fruits, mixed vegetables, and milk was 43.3% (95% CI, 33-54.2%; I², 94.86%), 35.8% (95% CI, 5.3-84.8%; I², 0), 12% (95% CI, 4.9-26.6%; I², 96.43%), and 5.8% (95% CI, 2.7-12%; I², 83.72%), respectively. Considering the genotypes, microsporidia with genotype D in water sources and genotype CD6 in vegetables/fruits were the highest reported genotypes. Given the relatively high prevalence of microsporidiosis (especially in water sources), designing strategies for control, and prevention of microsporidia infection in these sources should be recommended.

Occurrence of microsporidia spp. infection in children with diarrhea in southern Iran

Microsporidia spp. are recognized emerging zoonotic microorganisms in immunocompromised and immunocompetent populations. Therefore, we conducted a study to investigate the occurrence, sociodemographic and risk factors of microsporidia spp. infection using microscopic and molecular techniques in children with diarrhea in Jahrom city (Fars province, southern Iran). Stool samples were gathered from 395 children aged ≤ 14 years between January 2017 and January 2018. Next, a questionnaire includes the age, sex, living area, immune system status, breast milk consumption, contact with animals, and type of water source was completed for all children. For microscopic assessment, modified acid-fast trichrome staining was applied for detection of microsporidia spores. Furthermore, DNA extraction and PCR were accomplished for all samples. A total of 15 (3.79%; 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.14-6.19) and 8 (2.02%; 95% CI 0.88-3.95) samples were positive for microsporidia infection by microscopic and molecular techniques, respectively. Although none of the sociodemographic and risk factors were significant (p value > 0.05), the prevalence of this infection was higher in some variables (e.g., rurality, contact with animals and well water consumption). Three random samples were sequenced that all isolates belonged to Enterocytozoon bieneusi. Cognizance of microsporidia occurrence, risk factors, and disease disorders for the health specialists, physicians, children's families are important for appropriately control the infection.

Global prevalence and subtype distribution of Blastocystis sp. in rodents, birds, and water supplies: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Animals such as rodents and birds may play a key role in the distribution of Blastocystis sp., either as introducers of the parasite into the water or as receptors of an infection already established in the water. Hence, we aimed to evaluate the prevalence and subtype distributions of Blastocystis sp. in rodents, birds, and water supplies at a global scale through a systematic review and meta-analysis approach. The standard protocol of preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) statements were applied. Eligible prevalence studies on Blastocystis sp. in rodents, birds, and water supplies, published between 1 January 2000 and 20 January 2022 were collected using a systematic literature search in online databases (Scopus and Web of Science) and search engines (PubMed and Google Scholar). Inclusion and exclusion criteria were followed. The point estimates and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using a random-effects model. The variances between studies (heterogeneity) were computed by I2 index. In total, 20 articles (24 datasets) for birds, 18 articles (18 datasets) for rodents, and 10 articles (12 datasets) for water supply were included for the final meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of Blastocystis sp. in birds, rodents, and water was estimated to be 29% (95% CI 12-47%), 18% (95% CI 12-23%), and 10% (95% CI 6%-15%), respectively. Considering the subtypes, Blastocystis sp. with subtypes ST7 in birds, ST4 in rodents, and ST1 in water supplies were the highest reported subtypes. The present results highlight the role of birds, rodents, and water as a reservoir for human-infected Blastocystis sp. Therefore, this global estimate could be beneficial for preventive and control measures.

Global molecular epidemiology of microsporidia in pigs and wild boars with emphasis on Enterocytozoon bieneusi: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Microsporidia are spore-forming intracellular pathogens with worldwide prevalence, causing emerging infections in humans and animals. Enterocytozoon bieneusi is a zoonotic species of microsporidia and is responsible for more than 90% of cases of microsporidiosis in humans and animals. Pigs and wild boars are important animal reservoirs of microsporidia. Hence, we aimed to estimate the global prevalence of microsporidia and genetic diversity of E. bieneusi in pigs and wild boars through a set of systematic review and meta-analysis (PRISMA) guidelines.

METHODS

Four databases (Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus and Google Scholar) were searched between January 1, 2000 and April 30, 2021. Regarding meta-analysis, the random-effect model was employed by forest plot with 95% confidence interval (CI).

RESULTS

After exclusion of irrelevant articles and duplication removal, 33 papers, including 34 datasets (30 datasets for domestic pigs and 4 for wild boars) finally meet the inclusion criteria to undergo meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence rates of microsporidia infection in domestic pigs and wild boars were 37.6% (95% CI: 30.8-44.9%) and 8.1% (95% CI: 2.1-26.8%), respectively. While, the pooled prevalence rates of E. bieneusi were 35% (95% CI: 28.4-42.2%) in domestic pigs and 10.1% (95% CI: 1.7-42.4%) in wild boars. The genotypes EbpA was the most reported genotype in domestic pigs and wild boars. Male animals had higher prevalence rates of microsporidia infection than females (27 vs. 17.4%, OR = 1.91; 95% CI, 0.77-4.71%).

CONCLUSION

This study indicates the important role of domestic pigs and wild boars as animal reservoir hosts of microsporidia. Thereby, strategies for control and prevention of these zoonotic pathogens should be designed in pigs and wild boars.

A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis on the Global Molecular Epidemiology of Microsporidia Infection Among Rodents: A Serious Threat to Public Health

BACKGROUND

Microsporidiosis as a zoonotic disease has caused serious health problems in high-risk groups, including immunosuppressed individuals. Among the potential animal reservoirs of microsporidia, rodents play a key role due to close-contact with humans and their dispersion in different environments. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the global status and genetic diversity of microsporidia infection in different rodents.

METHODS

The standard protocol of preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were followed. Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar were searched from 1 January 2000 to 15 April 2021. All peer-reviewed original research articles describing the molecular prevalence of microsporidia infection in rodents were included. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied. The point estimates and 95% confidence intervals were calculated using a random-effects model. The variance between studies (heterogeneity) were quantified by I² index.

RESULTS

Of 1695 retrieved studies, 22 articles (including 34 datasets) were included for final meta-analysis. The pooled global molecular prevalence (95% CI) of microsporidia infection in rodents was 14.2% (95% CI 10.9-18.3%). The highest prevalence of microsporidia was found in Apodemus spp. 27.3% (95% CI 15-44.5%). Enterocytozoon bieneusi was the most common pathogen (26/34; 76.47% studies) according to PCR-based methods, and the genotype D as the highest reported genotype (15 studies).

CONCLUSIONS

The findings of the study showed a relatively high prevalence of microsporidia infection in rodents as a potential animal reservoir for infecting human. Given the relatively high incidence of microsporidiosis, designing strategies for control, and prevention of microsporidia infection in rodents should be recommended.

The global molecular epidemiology of microsporidia infection in sheep and goats with focus on Enterocytozoon bieneusi: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Microsporidia is a zoonotic pathogen with health consequences in immunocompromised patients. Small ruminants are a potential reservoir of microsporidia for humans in their vicinity. Hence, we aimed to evaluate the molecular prevalence of microsporidian infections with emphasis on Enterocytozoon bieneusi genotypes among sheep and goats at a global scale through systematic review and meta-analysis approach.

METHODS

The standard protocol of preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were followed. Eligible prevalence studies on small ruminant microsporidiosis, published from 1 January 2000 until 15 April 2021 were gathered using systematic literature search in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar databases. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied. The point estimates and 95% confidence intervals were calculated using a random-effects model. The variance between studies (heterogeneity) was quantified by I2 index.

RESULTS

In total, 25 articles (including 34 datasets) were included for final meta-analysis. The pooled molecular prevalence of microsporidia in sheep and goats was estimated to be 17.4% (95% CI: 11.8-25%) and 16% (95% CI: 11.2-22.4%), respectively. Likewise, the overall prevalence of E. bieneusi was estimated to be 17.4% (95% CI: 11.8-25%) for sheep and 16.3% (95% CI: 11.3-22.8%) for goats. According to internal transcribed spacer (ITS) gene analysis, E. bieneusi with genotypes BEB6 (15 studies) and COS-1 (nine studies) in sheep, and CHG3 (six studies) and BEB6 (five studies) in goats were the highest reported genotypes.

CONCLUSION

The present results highlight the role of sheep and goats as reservoir hosts for human-infecting microsporidia. Therefore, this global estimate could be beneficial on preventive and control measures.

Molecular and microscopic prevalence of intestinal microsporidia among HIV+/AIDS patients in the Alborz province, Iran

BACKGROUND

Microsporidia are a large family of obligate intracellular protozoa; these medically important species are recognized as opportunistic agents in intestinal complications in HIV+/AIDS patients.

METHODS

The current cross-sectional study was designed and conducted from October 2018 to June 2019 to determine intestinal microsporidia in HIV+/AIDS patients by trichrome/Zeihl-Neelsen staining and SYBR Green-based real-time PCR.

RESULTS

Out of 80 HIV+/AIDS patients, 23.75% (n=19) and 12.5% (n=10) were identified by molecular and microscopic methods, respectively. The predominant species in patients was Encephalitozoon (94%), which was found by quantitative real-time PCR and its high resolution melting tool.

CONCLUSION

As far as we know, this is the first report from the Alborz region. The prevalence of intestinal microsporidiosis in this area in HIV+/AIDS patients was higher than both the global and national average. In addition to the need for further studies to prove protozoan pathogenicity in the aforementioned group, preventive measures should be considered.

Global prevalence of Cryptosporidium spp. in cats: A systematic review and meta-analysis

The One-Health approach highlights that the health of human populations is closely connected to the health of animals and their shared environment. Cryptosporidiosis is an opportunistic zoonotic disease considering as global public health concern. Cats are considered as one of potential host for transmitting the Cryptosporidium spp. infection to humans. A random-effects meta-analysis model was used to estimate the overall and the subgroup-pooled prevalence of Cryptosporidium spp. across studies, and the variance between studies (heterogeneity) were quantified by I² index. Eighty articles (including 92 datasets), from 29 countries met eligibility criteria for analysis. The pooled global prevalence (95% CI) of Cryptosporidium spp. in cats was 6% (4-8%), being highest in Africa 14% (0-91%) and lowest in South and Central America 4% (3-7%) countries. Considering the detection methods, the pooled prevalence was estimated to be 26% (1-67%) using serological detection methods, 6% (3-10%) using coproantigen detection methods, 5% (3-7%) using molecular detection methods, and 4% (3-7%) using microscopic detection methods. The highest prevalence of Cryptosporidium spp. was found in stray cats 10% (5-17%), while pet (domestic) cats 4% (3-7%) had the lowest prevalence. These results emphasize the role of cats as reservoir hosts for human-infecting Cryptosporidium spp. Prevention and control of this zoonosis in cats should receive greater attention by health officials and health policymakers, especially in countries where prevalence are highest.