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Hoseinpoor E, Goudarztalejerdi A, Sazmand A. Molecular prevalence and phylogenetic analysis of hemotropic Mycoplasma species in cats in different regions of Iran. BMC Microbiol 2024; 24:198. [PMID: 38849724 PMCID: PMC11162091 DOI: 10.1186/s12866-024-03356-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hemotropic Mycoplasma species (hemoplasmas) cause hemolytic anemia in cats worldwide and are recognized as emerging zoonotic pathogens. There is no comprehensive study on the prevalence and species diversity of hemoplasmas in domestic cat populations in different regions in Iran. Thus, the aims of the present study were to provide data on the prevalence and molecular characterization of hemotropic Mycoplasma species in apparently healthy cats from six Iranian provinces with different climates. In addition, potential risk factors associated with hemoplasmosis in cats were assessed. RESULTS Mycoplasma spp. DNA was detected in the blood of 56 / 361 cats (15.5%) using genus-specific PCR. Further examinations with species-specific PCR and Sanger sequencing showed that 38 cats (10.5%) tested positive for Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum (CMhm), 8 cats (2.2%) tested positive for Mycoplasma haemofelis (Mhf), and 2 cats (0.6%) tested positive for Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis (CMt). Co-infection with CMhm, and Mhf was observed in 7 cats (1.9%). One cat (0.3%) showed mixed infection with CMhm, Mhf, and CMt. There were statistically significant relationships between Mycoplasma positivity and being female, living in shelter (cattery), and being over 3 years old (P < 0.05). No significant association was observed for the cat breed and sampling localities. CONCLUSIONS Current study findings revealed that hemoplasma infections are common among Iran cat populations. Considering the impact of such emerging zoonotic pathogens on the One Health, routine screenings, increasing public awareness, effective control, and prophylactic strategies for minimizing infection in cats and subsequently in human are strongly recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elham Hoseinpoor
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan, 6517658978, Iran
| | - Ali Goudarztalejerdi
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan, 6517658978, Iran.
| | - Alireza Sazmand
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan, 6517658978, Iran
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Moore CO, Lashnits E, Lappin M, Hawley J, Breitschwerdt EB. A case of mistaken identity: a systematic review, meta-analysis, and reinvestigation of hemotropic Mycoplasma spp. infection in Ctenocephalides felis (cat flea). Parasit Vectors 2024; 17:209. [PMID: 38720359 PMCID: PMC11078739 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-024-06292-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Feline-associated hemotropic Mycoplasma (hemoplasmas) are believed to be transmitted by two primary mechanisms: (1) direct transmission via fighting and (2) vector-borne transmission by the cat flea (Ctenocephalides felis). While the efficiency of transmission by C. felis appears low, most manuscripts focus on the prevalence of hemoplasmas in wild-caught fleas and report either a very low (< 3%) or a high (> 26%) prevalence. Therefore, we aimed to assess the influence of sample processing and PCR methods on C. felis hemoplasma infection prevalence. METHODS A systemic review of PubMed articles identified 13 manuscripts (1,531 fleas/flea pools) that met the inclusion criteria (performed PCR for >1 hemoplasma on C. felis collected from cats). Risk of bias was assessed utilizing the ROBINS-E tool. Meta-analysis performed in R of these manuscripts found that not washing samples and a common set of 16S rRNA primers first published in Jensen et al. 2001 were associated with increased hemoplasma prevalence. To evaluate the influence of washing on newly collected fleas, we assessed the hemoplasma status of 20 pools of 5 C. felis each, half of which were washed and half not washed. RESULTS Flea washing did not influence the detection of hemoplasma but instead amplified Spiroplasma. To assess non-specific amplification with the Jensen et al. 2001 primers, 67 C. felis samples (34% previously reported hemoplasma infected) were subject to PCR and sequencing. By this method, hemoplasma was detected in only 3% of samples. In the remaining "hemoplasma infected" fleas, PCR amplified Spiroplasma or other bacteria. CONCLUSIONS Therefore, we concluded that hemoplasma infection in C. felis is rare, and future flea prevalence studies should sequence all positive amplicons to validate PCR specificity. Further investigation of alternative methods of feline-associated hemoplasma transmission and the ability of C. felis to maintain hemoplasma infection is necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte O Moore
- Department of Clinical Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Erin Lashnits
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Michael Lappin
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Jennifer Hawley
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
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Yamakawa AC, Haisi A, Kmetiuk LB, Pellizzaro M, Mendes JCR, Canavessi AMO, Ullmann LS, de Castro WAC, Pessoa Araújo Júnior J, dos Santos AP, Biondo AW. Molecular detection of feline hemoplasmas and retroviruses in free-roaming and shelter cats within a university campus. JFMS Open Rep 2023; 9:20551169221148672. [PMID: 37223406 PMCID: PMC10201909 DOI: 10.1177/20551169221148672] [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: 05/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives The aim of the present study was to assess the frequency of hemoplasma, feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and feline leukemia virus (FeLV) infections in cats living in an on-campus shelter and free-roaming cats within a university campus in Brazil. Methods Blood samples were tested using quantitative PCR for hemoplasma, FIV and FeLV. Positive hemoplasma samples were sequenced. Associations between hemoplasma detection and living situation, sex, flea and/or tick parasitism, and coinfection with FIV and FeLV, were assessed using Fisher's exact test and the respective odds ratios were calculated. Results Overall, 6/45 (13.3%) cats tested positive: four (8.9%) were infected with 'Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum' and two (4.4%) with Mycoplasma haemofelis. All positive samples were from free-roaming cats (6/15; 40.0%) and had statistically significantly lower packed cell volumes (P = 0.037). Although 5/23 (21.7%) males and 1/22 (4.6%) females were positive, no statistically significant association between sex and hemoplasma infection was found (P = 0.19). Viral quantitative PCR (qPCR) was performed on 43/45 samples, among which 2/43 (4.7%) were positive for FIV and none for FeLV. Only one cat (2.3%) was coinfected with hemoplasma and FIV (P = 0.26). In addition, 4/6 (66.7%) cats that tested positive for hemoplasmas were infested by fleas (P = 0.0014) and/or ticks (P = 0.25). Conclusions and relevance These results show that even if the free-roaming cat population is clinically healthy and has adequate access to food, it may present flea infestation and hemoplasma infection with lower packed cell volume values.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Amanda Haisi
- Biotechnology Institute, São Paulo
State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Louise Bach Kmetiuk
- Graduate College of Cell and Molecular
Biology, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), R dos Funcionários, Curitiba, PR,
Brazil
| | - Maysa Pellizzaro
- Institute of Collective Health, Federal
University of Bahia, Salvador, BA, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Wagner Antônio Chiba de Castro
- Latin-American Institute of Life and
Nature Sciences, Federal University for Latin American Integration, Foz do Iguaçu,
PR, Brazil
| | | | | | - Alexander Welker Biondo
- Graduate College of Cell and Molecular
Biology, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), R dos Funcionários, Curitiba, PR,
Brazil
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology,
Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
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Hemotropic Mycoplasma. Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract 2022; 52:1319-1340. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cvsm.2022.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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Prevalence and Risk Factors for Bartonella spp. and Haemoplasma Infections in Cats from Greece. Vet Sci 2022; 9:vetsci9070337. [PMID: 35878354 PMCID: PMC9315813 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci9070337] [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: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 06/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Bartonellosis and haemoplasmosis are diseases with global impact on the health of domestic cats and of zoonotic importance. This is the first study investigating the risk factors for Bartonella spp. and haemoplasma species infections in cats from Greece. In addition, this study determined the serologic and molecular prevalence of Bartonella spp. and haemoplasma species infections in different populations of cats living in different regions of Greece. A total of 452 cats were enrolled into the study. Blood was collected from each cat for the serological detection of Bartonella henselae antibodies and the molecular detection of Bartonella spp. and haemoplasma species infections. Overall, the seroprevalence of B. henselae was 35.4%, while the molecular prevalence of Bartonella spp. and haemoplasma species was 2.9% and 19%, respectively. The results of this study indicate that cats with partial or exclusive outdoor access and cats with flea infestation are at the greatest risk for B. henselae seropositivity. Furthermore, cats living in warmer regions such as Attica and Crete are at the greatest risk. Lack of ectoparasiticide use was identified as a risk factor for haemoplasma species infection. This suggests that the use of ectoparasiticides in cats may be an effective means of preventing haemoplasma species infection in cats. Abstract Bartonellosis and haemoplasmosis are vector-borne diseases with global impact on the health of domestic cats and of zoonotic importance. The aim of this study was to describe the epidemiological aspects of various populations of cats infected with Bartonella spp. or haemoplasma species. The populations evaluated included client-owned cats, stray cats and cats that live in breeding catteries in Greece. A total of 452 cats were prospectively enrolled into the study. A commercially available indirect immunofluorescence antibody testkit was used for the detection of Bartonella henselae IgG antibodies in serum. PCRs for the detection of Bartonella spp. and haemoplasma species DNA in the blood were also performed in a subgroup of 242 of the 452 cats. Risk factors for B. henselae seropositivity and infection with the haemoplasma species were determined using multivariable analysis. Overall, 160 (35.4%) of the 452 cats were seropositive for B. henselae. Seven (2.9%) and 46 (19%) of the 242 cats were PCR-positive for Bartonella spp. and haemoplasma species, respectively. The factors associated with B. henselae seropositivity, based on multivariate analysis, included older age, outdoor access, living region and flea infestation. Non-administration of ectoparasiticides was associated with haemoplasma species infection. This study shows a high prevalence of seropositivity for B. henselae and a relatively high prevalence of infection with haemoplasma species. Therefore, it is necessary to establish optimal strategies for the prevention of Bartonella spp. and haemoplasma species infections, considering the high-risk groups of cats identified in this study.
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Hemotropic Mycoplasma and Bartonella Species Diversity in Free-Roaming Canine and Feline from Luanda, Angola. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10060735. [PMID: 34200906 PMCID: PMC8230469 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10060735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2021] [Revised: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Free-roaming dogs and cats represent potential reservoirs for zoonotic vector-borne pathogens shedding to the human population. Given the health impact of these pathogens, we searched free-roaming dogs and cats included in an animal population control program from Luanda, Angola, for Bartonella and hemotropic mycoplasma infection. We report the detection of Bartonella henselae (2/66; 3%), Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum (5/66; 7.5%) and Mycoplasma haemofelis (1/66; 1.5%) in cats. One dog was found positive for Mycoplasma haemocanis (1/20; 5%). This is the first report of Bartonella henselae infections in stray cats and of hemotropic mycoplasmas in cats and dogs from Angola. Despite the relatively small sample size, our results sustain the hypothesis of uncontrolled circulation of these agents in highly mobile synanthropic animal populations of Luanda. Population and vector control could contribute to reducing the likelihood for animal-to-animal and animal-to-human transmission.
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ZHANG Y, ZHANG Z, LOU Y, YU Y. Prevalence of hemoplasmas and Bartonella species in client-owned cats in Beijing and Shanghai, China. J Vet Med Sci 2021; 83:793-797. [PMID: 33731498 PMCID: PMC8182318 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.20-0681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 02/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
A year-round molecular epidemiological survey (2017 to 2018) was conducted on three hemoplasmas and two Bartonella species with zoonotic potential in client-owned cats in Beijing and Shanghai. Among 668 specimens, the overall hemoplasma-positive rate was 4.9% (3.4% for Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum, 0.9% for Mycoplasma haemofelis and 1.2% for Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis). The overall Bartonella-positive rate was 8.5% (4.8% for B. henselae and 4.3% for B. clarridgeiae). Age, breed, ectoparasiticide use and stray history, but not city, season and gender, were significantly associated with the positive rates of one or more pathogens. This is also the first report on the prevalence of Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis in cats in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingxin ZHANG
- College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Zhixuan ZHANG
- College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Yinying LOU
- College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Yonglan YU
- College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
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Do T, Kamyingkird K, Chimnoi W, Inpankaew T. Evaluation of hematological alteration of vector-borne pathogens in cats from Bangkok, Thailand. BMC Vet Res 2021; 17:28. [PMID: 33455579 PMCID: PMC7812637 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-020-02737-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 12/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Cats can be carriers of infected arthropods and be infected with several vector-borne pathogens (VBPs) but there is limited knowledge about their pathogenic role in cats. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of some feline vector-borne agents by molecular technique and to characterize the hematological findings associated with these infections in a cat population from Bangkok Thailand. Results PCR was positive with at least one pathogen in 237 out of 372 subjects (63.7%), with prevalence of 39.5% (147/372) for Babesia spp., 36.9% (137/372) for hemoplasmas and 3.2% (12/372) for Hepatozoon spp. The cats older than 1 year were at significantly greater risk for VBPs infection (P = 0.001; OR = 1.43; 95% CI: 1.12 – 1.81) and hemoplasmas infection (χ2 = 10.8, df = 1; P < 0.0001; OR = 2.45; 95% CI: 1.49 – 4.01). A significant association between hematological findings and hemoplasma infection were identified in the present study. Besides, VBPs infection revealed more frequent in male cats (χ2= 6.38, df = 1, P = 0.01). Macrocytic hypochromic type of anemia was observed in cats infested with blood-sucking arthropods compared to the non-infested cats presented. Conclusions The current study confirmed that Babesia, Hepatozoon and hemoplasmas had infected semi-domesticated cats in Bangkok, Thailand, with Babesia and hemoplasmas being dominant in prevalence. Some hematological findings were significantly associated with cats infected with vector-borne pathogens in this study including leukocyte count and platelets count that may help support veterinary technicians in diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Campaigns of VBPs monitoring in Bangkok emphasizing on the investigation of vectors and possible routes of the infection in animals should be conducted to prevent the transmission of the pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thom Do
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, 10900, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Ketsarin Kamyingkird
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, 10900, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Wissanuwat Chimnoi
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, 10900, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Tawin Inpankaew
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, 10900, Bangkok, Thailand.
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Imre M, Văduva C, Dărăbuș G, Morariu S, Herman V, Plutzer J, Suici T, Lait PJP, Imre K. Molecular detection of hemotropic mycoplasmas (hemoplasmas) in domestic cats (Felis catus) in Romania. BMC Vet Res 2020; 16:399. [PMID: 33092590 PMCID: PMC7584099 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-020-02626-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The hemotropic mycoplasmas (hemoplasmas) of the genus Mycoplasma are recognized as important bacteria that parasitize red blood cells, causing hemolytic anemia in many mammalian species, including cats. No information is available concerning the presence of feline hemoplasma infections in cats in Romania. Thus, the objective of the present study was to provide data on the occurrence and molecular characterization of hemotropic mycoplasmas in client-owned cats in Romania. METHODS Blood samples from 51 unhealthy cats, originating from Timişoara Municipality, Romania, were screened for the presence of hemoplasmas using conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) targeting the 16S rRNA gene and sequencing assays. PCR-positive samples were subsequently analyzed by phylogenetic and population genetic analysis. RESULTS Molecular analysis revealed 11 (21.6%) positive samples, consisting of 8 (72.7%) Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum and 3 (27.3%) Mycoplasma haemofelis confirmed positives. Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis was not detected, and no co-infections were registered. No significant associations (p > 0.05) were found between the hemoplasma infection status and age, gender, breed, presence of ectoparasites, feline leukemia virus/feline immunodeficiency virus positivity of cats, or the sampling season. However, outdoor access was positively associated (p = 0.049) with infection and could be considered a risk factor (OR = 4.1) in acquiring feline hemotropic mycoplasmas. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that our sequences clustered with those selected from the GenBank database in two distinct clades. The registered population genetic indices were strongly supportive of the great variance in sequences between the recorded Mycoplasma species. CONCLUSIONS The findings support the occurrence of feline hemoplasma infections in previously uninvestigated territories of Europe, providing useful information for small animal practitioners. To our knowledge, the present survey is the first reported molecular evidence of feline hemoplasma infections in Romania.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirela Imre
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Banat's University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine "King Michael I of Romania", Timişoara, 300645, Romania
| | - Cristina Văduva
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Banat's University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Timişoara, Calea Aradului no. 119, 300645, Timişoara, Romania
| | - Gheorghe Dărăbuș
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Banat's University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine "King Michael I of Romania", Timişoara, 300645, Romania
| | - Sorin Morariu
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Banat's University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine "King Michael I of Romania", Timişoara, 300645, Romania
| | - Viorel Herman
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Banat's University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine "King Michael I of Romania", Timişoara, Romania
| | - Judit Plutzer
- Department of Environmental Health, National Public Health Center, 1097, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Tijana Suici
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Banat's University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine "King Michael I of Romania", Timişoara, 300645, Romania
| | | | - Kálmán Imre
- Department of Animal Production and Veterinary Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Banat's University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine "King Michael I of Romania", Timişoara, 300645, Romania.
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Do T, Kamyingkird K, Bui LK, Inpankaew T. Genetic characterization and risk factors for feline hemoplasma infection in semi-domesticated cats in Bangkok, Thailand. Vet World 2020; 13:975-980. [PMID: 32636596 PMCID: PMC7311864 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2020.975-980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2020] [Accepted: 04/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim: Stray cats are a reservoir for various zoonotic diseases relevant to public health in Thailand. The vector-borne infection, hemoplasmosis, also known as infectious anemia, is one such disease carried by domestic and wild felids. This study focuses on molecular characterization and phylogenetic analysis of hemoplasma in semi-domesticated cats in Bangkok, Thailand. Materials and Methods: In total, 473 blood samples were collected from 53 temple communities in 34 metropolitan districts and assayed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to amplify partial 16S rRNA genes for hemoplasma detection. Risk factors for hemoplasma infection (gender, age, free-roaming, and ectoparasite exposure) were analyzed using Chi-square tests, logistic regression, and odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) using R software (version 3.6.1). A phylogenetic tree was established from genetic characterization of hemoplasmas. Results: In total, 180 samples (38.05%) were positive for hemoplasma. Of half of the positive sequenced samples, 83.33% were infected with Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum (CMhm), 13.33% with Mycoplasma haemofelis (Mhf), and 3.33% with Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis (CMt). Cats over 5 years old were more likely to be infected than younger cats (p<0.005, OR=3.8, 95% CI=1.64-4.78). Cats were diagnosed as positive based on PCR assays in 97% (33/34) of districts surveyed. The phylogenetic tree showed two majority clusters with three clades of feline hemotropic mycoplasma. Conclusions: Overall, the survey shows the prevalence (38.05%) and distribution of feline hemoplasma in semi-domesticated cats. This information will contribute to effective prevention and control strategies to minimize infections by feline vector-borne pathogens in Thailand.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thom Do
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Ketsarin Kamyingkird
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Linh Khanh Bui
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Vietnam National University of Agriculture, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Tawin Inpankaew
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
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Assessing cross-species transmission of hemoplasmas at the wild-domestic felid interface in Chile using genetic and landscape variables analysis. Sci Rep 2019; 9:16816. [PMID: 31727935 PMCID: PMC6856521 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-53184-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The co-occurrence of domestic cats (Felis silvestris catus) and wild felids in rural landscapes can facilitate pathogen transmission. However, in the relatively-isolated regions of southern South America there have been no comprehensive studies to assess disease transmission risks between domestic cats and forest-dwelling wild felids such as guigna (Leopardus guigna). We evaluated hemoplasma infection and the possibility of transmission between domestic cats and guignas by comparing spatial and phylogenetic patterns of pathogen prevalence. Blood/spleen samples were collected from 102 wild guignas and 262 co-occurring rural domestic cats across the entire distribution range of guigna in Chile. Hemoplasma infection was assessed by direct sequencing of the 16S RNA gene. Infection with hemoplasmas was common and geographically widespread across different bioclimatic areas for both species. The most common feline Mycoplasma species in guigna and domestic cats were Candidatus M. haemominutum (CMhm) (15.7% guigna; 10.3% domestic cat) and Mycoplasma haemofelis (Mhf) (9.8% guigna, 6.1% domestic cat). A previously undescribed Mycoplasma sp. sequence was found in two guignas and one cat. Continuous forest-landscapes were associated with higher hemoplasma-prevalence in guignas. Shared hemoplasma nucleotide sequence types between guigna and domestic cats were rare, suggesting that cross-species transmission between guignas and domestic cats may occur, but is probably uncommon. Ectoparasites, which have been linked with hemoplasma transmission, were not found on guignas and were infrequent on domestic cats. Our results suggest that transmission pathways vary among hemoplasma species and, contrary to our predictions, domestic cats did not appear to be the main driver of hemoplasma infection in guignas in these human-dominated landscapes.
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Munhoz AD, Simões IGPC, Calazans APF, Macedo LS, Cruz RDS, Lacerda LC, Abou Said R, André MR. Hemotropic mycoplasmas in naturally infected cats in Northeastern Brazil. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA 2018; 27:446-454. [PMID: 30462823 DOI: 10.1590/s1984-296120180074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2018] [Accepted: 09/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to determine the prevalence, factors associated, laboratory findings (with and without coinfection by retroviruses) among naturally infected cats by hemoplasmas in northeastern Brazil. For convenience, 200 domesticated and healthy cats were selected. Blood samples were taken to perform complete blood counts, serum biochemical, immunochromatography tests and nPCR for FIV and FeLV, and PCR for hemoplasma recognition. An interview was conducted to determine the factors associated with hemoplasmas. A total of 71/200 (35.5%) cats were positive for at least one hemoplasma species. Isolated infections were observed in 12,5% for 'Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum', 12% for Mycoplasma haemofelis and 3% for 'Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis'. Regarding copositivity, 2% of the animals were positive for M. haemofelis and 'Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum', 1.5% for M. haemofelis and 'Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis', and 4.5% for ' Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum' and 'Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis'. No clinical and laboratory changes were observed in the animals that were concomitantly positive for retroviruses and hemoplasmas. Periurban region cats were more likely to be infected by M. haemofelis, while contact with other cats and infection by ' Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis' were associated with 'Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum'. This study indicates that infection by hemoplasmas is a common find in cats from northeastern Brazil.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre Dias Munhoz
- Departamento de Ciências Agrárias e Ambientais, Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz - UESC, Campus Soane Nazaré de Andrade, Ilhéus, BA, Brasil
| | - Izabela Garcia Pinto Coelho Simões
- Departamento de Ciências Agrárias e Ambientais, Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz - UESC, Campus Soane Nazaré de Andrade, Ilhéus, BA, Brasil
| | - Ana Paula Fernandes Calazans
- Departamento de Ciências Agrárias e Ambientais, Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz - UESC, Campus Soane Nazaré de Andrade, Ilhéus, BA, Brasil
| | - Ludimila Santos Macedo
- Departamento de Ciências Agrárias e Ambientais, Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz - UESC, Campus Soane Nazaré de Andrade, Ilhéus, BA, Brasil
| | - Rebeca Dálety Santos Cruz
- Departamento de Ciências Agrárias e Ambientais, Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz - UESC, Campus Soane Nazaré de Andrade, Ilhéus, BA, Brasil
| | - Luciana Carvalho Lacerda
- Departamento de Ciências Agrárias e Ambientais, Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz - UESC, Campus Soane Nazaré de Andrade, Ilhéus, BA, Brasil
| | - Roueda Abou Said
- Departamento de Ciências Agrárias e Ambientais, Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz - UESC, Campus Soane Nazaré de Andrade, Ilhéus, BA, Brasil
| | - Marcos Rogério André
- Departamento de Patologia Animal, Universidade Estadual Júlio de Mesquita Filho - UNESP, Jaboticabal, SP, Brasil
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Molecular and Serologic Survey of Pathogens in an Endangered Andean Cat ( Leopardus jacobita) of the High Andes of Bolivia. J Wildl Dis 2018; 55:242-245. [PMID: 30124392 DOI: 10.7589/2018-05-136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The Andean cat ( Leopardus jacobita) is one of the most threatened and least known wild felids in the world. Using molecular and serologic tests, we screened a free-ranging Andean cat for 17 pathogens of conservation concern. Results suggested no evidence of infection or exposure. Whether pathogens are a threat for Andean cat populations remains currently unknown.
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Díaz-Regañón D, Villaescusa A, Ayllón T, Rodríguez-Franco F, García-Sancho M, Agulla B, Sainz Á. Epidemiological study of hemotropic mycoplasmas (hemoplasmas) in cats from central Spain. Parasit Vectors 2018; 11:140. [PMID: 29554981 PMCID: PMC5859754 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-018-2740-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2018] [Accepted: 02/22/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Hemotropic mycoplasmas (hemoplasmas) have been found infecting cats worldwide. However, studies about feline hemoplasma infections in Spain are scarce. Therefore, the purpose of the research was to evaluate the prevalence of feline hemotropic mycoplasmas and to characterize risk factors and clinical findings associated with these infections in a cat population from the Madrid area, Spain. Methods Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was employed to detect Mycoplasma haemofelis (Mhf), “Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum” (CMhm) and “Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis” (CMt) in blood samples from 456 client-owned and 138 stray cats from Madrid. In order to assess associations between these hemoplasma infections and epidemiological parameters, data regarding signalment, environment, prophylaxis measures, retrovirus status, clinical signs and laboratory findings were compiled, whenever possible. Results DNA of feline hemoplasmas was detected from the blood of 63 out of 594 cats (10.6%), with a prevalence of 3.7% (22/594) for Mhf, 8.1% (48/594) for CMhm and 0.5% (3/594) for CMt. Stray cats had statistically higher prevalences of feline hemoplasmas (15.9%) and, specifically, of Mhf (8.7%) than client-owned cats (9 and 2.2%, respectively). A total of seven cats (1.17%) were co-infected with “Candidatus M. haemominutum” and M. haemofelis, two (0.33%) with “Candidatus M. haemominutum” and “Candidatus M. turicensis” and another one (0.17%) with M. haemofelis and Candidatus “M. turicensis”. Male gender, collection of blood during warm months and FeLV/FIV positivity status were associated with hemotropic mycoplasma infection in cats from Madrid. Additionally, within the group of client-owned cats, hemoplasma infection was associated with adult age, outdoor access, and the existence of low haematocrit, erythrocyte count and haemoglobin concentration values. Conclusions To our knowledge, this is the first epidemiological survey of feline hemoplasmas performed in central Spain (Madrid). Our study confirms that “Ca. Mycoplasma haemominutum”, Mycoplasma haemofelis and “Ca. Mycoplasma turicensis” are infecting client-owned and stray cats in this region of Spain, “Ca. Mycoplasma haemominutum” being the most prevalent species. More studies are necessary to help understand the role of the natural infection by these species of hemoplasma in cats.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Díaz-Regañón
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, Avda. Puerta de Hierro s/n, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Alejandra Villaescusa
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, Avda. Puerta de Hierro s/n, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Tania Ayllón
- Instituto Nacional de Infectología Evandro Chagas, Fiocruz, Avenida Brazil 4365, CEP 21040- 900, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Fernando Rodríguez-Franco
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, Avda. Puerta de Hierro s/n, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Mercedes García-Sancho
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, Avda. Puerta de Hierro s/n, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Beatriz Agulla
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, Avda. Puerta de Hierro s/n, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ángel Sainz
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, Avda. Puerta de Hierro s/n, 28040, Madrid, Spain.
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Tateno M, Takahashi M, Miyake E, Nishigaki K, Tsujimoto H, Endo Y. Molecular epidemiological study of gammaherpesvirus in domestic cats in Japan. J Vet Med Sci 2017; 79:1735-1740. [PMID: 28855428 PMCID: PMC5658569 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.17-0039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Gammaherpesviruses (GHVs) are members of an emerging subfamily of the family
Herpesviridae. A recent study identified a novel GHV in domestic cats
(Felis catus GHV1, FcaGHV1), and epidemiological surveys have found
that FcaGHV1 is distributed worldwide. In this study, we investigated the prevalence of
GHVs in domestic cats in Japan with a molecular epidemiological survey. Blood samples were
collected from 1,738 domestic cats and GHV-derived DNA was detected with PCR in 1.3%
(23/1,738) of the Japanese domestic cats. The FcaGHV1 detected in this study was very
similar to FcaGHV1 detected in a domestic cat in North America. Older age (>5 years
old) and Feline immunodeficiency virus infection were identified as risk
factors for GHV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morihiro Tateno
- Laboratory of Small Animal Internal Medicine, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, 1-21-24 Korimoto, Kagoshima, Kagoshima 890-0065, Japan
| | - Masashi Takahashi
- Laboratory of Small Animal Internal Medicine, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, 1-21-24 Korimoto, Kagoshima, Kagoshima 890-0065, Japan
| | - Eri Miyake
- Laboratory of Small Animal Internal Medicine, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, 1-21-24 Korimoto, Kagoshima, Kagoshima 890-0065, Japan
| | - Kazuo Nishigaki
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology and Infectious Disease, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Yamaguchi University, 1677-1 Yoshida, Yamaguchi, Yamaguchi 753-8515, Japan
| | - Hajime Tsujimoto
- Department of Veterinary Internal Medicine, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
| | - Yasuyuki Endo
- Laboratory of Small Animal Internal Medicine, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, 1-21-24 Korimoto, Kagoshima, Kagoshima 890-0065, Japan
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Ghazisaeedi F, Atyabi N, Zahraei Salehi T, Tabatabaei S, Ashrafi Tamai I, Memarian I, Tasker S. Detection and molecular characterization of feline hemoplasmas in wild felid species in Iran in the Middle East. Comp Immunol Microbiol Infect Dis 2017; 54:1-6. [PMID: 28915995 PMCID: PMC7112662 DOI: 10.1016/j.cimid.2017.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2016] [Revised: 07/06/2017] [Accepted: 07/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
First description of feline hemoplasma and immunodeficiency virus in endangered Persian Leopard species in Iran, Middle East. No zoo-kept wild felids were infected. Close sequence identity with hemoplasma isolates from domestic and wild felids in Iran and other geographical origins. Both ‘Ca. M. haemominutum’ infected leopards were old and male and were not born nor residing in zoos.
Three feline hemoplasma species exist in felids: Mycoplasma haemofelis, ‘Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum’, and ‘Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis’. The aims of the study were to determine the presence of, and molecularly characterize, any hemoplasmas in wild felids, including the endangered Persian leopard in Iran, the Middle East. Blood samples were collected from 19 wild felids, including three Persian leopards. Using species-specific hemoplasma PCRs and ELISA serological testing for feline leukaemia virus and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), two Persian leopards were found to be infected with ‘Ca. M. haemominutum’ and were seropositive for FIV. Partial 16S rRNA gene sequences were generated for these ‘Ca. M. haemominutum’ species and subsequent phylogenetic analysis revealed 97.70% to 99.45% sequence identity with those found in domestic cats from Iran and other countries. This study confirms the presence of ‘Ca. M. haemominutum’ and concurrent FIV antibody in wild felids in Iran. This represents the first report of hemoplasma in wild felids in the Middle East as well as the first report of infection in Persian leopards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fereshteh Ghazisaeedi
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Qareeb Street, Azadi Av. P.O. Box: 14155-6453, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Nahid Atyabi
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Qareeb Street, Azadi Av. P.O. Box: 14155-6453, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Taghi Zahraei Salehi
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Qareeb Street, Azadi Av. P.O. Box: 14155-6453, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Saeid Tabatabaei
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Qareeb Street, Azadi Av. P.O. Box: 14155-6453, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Iraj Ashrafi Tamai
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Qareeb Street, Azadi Av. P.O. Box: 14155-6453, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Iman Memarian
- Chief Veterinarian at Tehran Zoo and Pardisan Rehabilitation Center Tehran Zoo, 4th Kilometer of Tehran Karaj Freeway, 1484613111, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Séverine Tasker
- The Feline Centre, Langford Veterinary Services and School of Veterinary Sciences, University of Bristol, Langford, BS40 5DU, Bristol, UK.
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Jikuya M, Tateno M, Takahashi M, Endo Y. The presence of tick-borne diseases in domestic dogs and cats living on Iriomote-jima and Tsushima islands. J Vet Med Sci 2017; 79:1086-1090. [PMID: 28484147 PMCID: PMC5487788 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.16-0546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The Iriomote cat and Tsushima leopard cat are endangered wildcats in Japan and inhabit
only Iriomote-jima and Tsushima islands, respectively. Domestic dogs and cats living on
Iriomote-jima and Tsushima islands were surveyed to clarify the interrelationship between
wildcats and domestic animals regarding tick-borne disease transmission. Pathogen-derived
DNA in blood samples was detected by polymerase chain reaction. Babesia
gibsoni was detected in dogs of Iriomote-jima, and Hepatozoon
felis and hemoplasmas were detected in domestic cats of Tsushima. Because the
H. felis detected in this study was closely related to that isolated
from wildcats, we suspect that common H. felis is harbored and
transmitted among wildcats and domestic cats via ticks in Tsushima.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mao Jikuya
- Laboratory of Small Animal Internal Medicine, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, 1-21-24 Korimoto, Kagoshima 890-0065, Japan
| | - Morihiro Tateno
- Laboratory of Small Animal Internal Medicine, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, 1-21-24 Korimoto, Kagoshima 890-0065, Japan
| | - Masashi Takahashi
- Laboratory of Small Animal Internal Medicine, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, 1-21-24 Korimoto, Kagoshima 890-0065, Japan
| | - Yasuyuki Endo
- Laboratory of Small Animal Internal Medicine, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, 1-21-24 Korimoto, Kagoshima 890-0065, Japan
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Prevalence, risk factor analysis, and hematological findings of hemoplasma infection in domestic cats from Valdivia, Southern Chile. Comp Immunol Microbiol Infect Dis 2016; 46:20-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cimid.2016.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2015] [Revised: 02/28/2016] [Accepted: 03/15/2016] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Cetinkaya H, Haktanir D, Arun S, Vurusaner C. Molecular detection and prevalence of feline hemotropic mycoplasmas in Istanbul, Turkey. Acta Parasitol 2016; 61:165-71. [PMID: 26751888 DOI: 10.1515/ap-2016-0022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2015] [Accepted: 10/13/2015] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate Mycoplasma spp. species in blood samples of the domestic cats from the province of Istanbul, Turkey. Three hundred eighty four blood samples of client-owned cats were used for the identification of Mycoplasma haemofelis (Mhf), Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum (CMhm) and Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis (CMt) by Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (RFLP) assays. Out of 384 blood samples, 74 (19.3%) were positive for one of Mycoplasma species. The total prevalence of Mhf, CMhm and CMt infections was 9.9%, 17.7% and 0.8% respectively. The most common species was CMhm. Co-infections were mostly with Mhf/CMhm and the frequency was 8.1%. Two cats were infected with three species. The current study was the first molecular prevalence study of hemotropic mycoplasmas in Istanbul, reporting the presence of CMt for the first time in Turkey. Prevalence of feline mycoplasma was notably high in Istanbul and PCR assay could be preferred rather than the microscopic examination for the diagnosis.
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Duarte A, Marques V, Correia JHD, Neto I, Bráz BS, Rodrigues C, Martins T, Rosado R, Ferreira JP, Santos-Reis M, Tavares L. Molecular detection of haemotropic Mycoplasma species in urban and rural cats from Portugal. J Feline Med Surg 2015; 17:516-22. [PMID: 25228167 PMCID: PMC10816787 DOI: 10.1177/1098612x14550172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of the present study was to evaluate the prevalence of haemoplasma infection in cats in Portugal and to assess risk factors for infection. METHODS Real-time polymerase chain reaction techniques were used to assess 236 urban and rural cats from central and southern Portugal. RESULTS The overall prevalence of haemoplasma in the target population was 27.1% (64/236), with individual species' prevalences as follows: 17.8% (42/236) 'Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum' (CMhm), 14.4% (34/236) Mycoplasma haemofelis (Mhf) and only 5.9% (14/236) 'Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis' (CMt). Multiple infections were detected in 8.1% (19/236) of the samples, with triple and double infections with Mhf and CMhm being most commonly detected (5.9% [14/236] of cats). Haemoplasma infection was significantly higher in shelter cats (P = 0.015) than in cats with other lifestyles (eg, free-roaming/house pet/blood donors). Haemoplasma prevalence was also higher in cats with feline immunodeficiency virus infection (FIV; P = 0.011). Although sex was not significantly associated with haemoplasma infection (P = 0.050), CMt was predominantly found in males (P = 0.032). Also, the presence of haemoplasma multiple infections was statistically associated with being in a shelter (P = 0.021), male (P = 0.057) and with FIV co-infection (P = 0.004). No evidence of an association between haemoplasma infection and geographical location, age or feline leukaemia virus co-infection was found. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE The results obtained in our study are consistent with the documented worldwide prevalence of feline haemoplasma infections, suggesting that the three main feline haemoplasma species are common in Portugal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Duarte
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health (CIISA), Foundation for Science and Technology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Vânia Marques
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health (CIISA), Foundation for Science and Technology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - José Henrique Duarte Correia
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health (CIISA), Foundation for Science and Technology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Isabel Neto
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health (CIISA), Foundation for Science and Technology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Berta São Bráz
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health (CIISA), Foundation for Science and Technology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Cláudia Rodrigues
- Vetoeiras Central Veterinary Hospital of Cascais Line, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Telma Martins
- Vetoeiras Central Veterinary Hospital of Cascais Line, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Ricardo Rosado
- Department of Food Safety and Infection Biology Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Norwegian School of Veterinary Science, Oslo, Norway
| | - Joaquim Pedro Ferreira
- Centre for the Study of the Environment and the Sea, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Margarida Santos-Reis
- Centre for Environmental Biology, Department of Animal Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Luis Tavares
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health (CIISA), Foundation for Science and Technology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
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Santos APD, Conrado FDO, Messick JB, Biondo AW, Oliveira STD, Guimaraes AMS, Nascimento NCD, Pedralli V, Lasta CS, González FHD. Hemoplasma prevalence and hematological abnormalities associated with infection in three different cat populations from Southern Brazil. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA 2014; 23:428-34. [DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612014079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2014] [Accepted: 07/25/2014] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Three hemoplasma species are recognized in domestic cats: Mycoplasma haemofelis, ‘Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum’ and ‘Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis’. We report the prevalence and hematological abnormalities of hemoplasma infection in 369 domestic cats from three different populations (blood donors, hospitalized cats and shelter cats) from Southern Brazil. Complete blood counts were performed at the time of blood collection, and DNA was extracted and tested by conventional PCR for each hemoplasma species. A total of 79 samples (21.40%) were positive for at least one species. The most prevalent hemoplasma was ‘Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum’, with 50/369 (13.55%) positive cats, followed by ‘Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis’, 10/369 (2.71%), and Mycoplasma haemofelis, 8/369 (2.16%). Mycoplasma haemofelis and ‘Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum’ coinfection was observed in 4/369 (1.08%), whereas ‘Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum’ and ‘Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis’ in 5/369 (1.35%). Three cats (0.81%) were infected with all three hemoplasmas. There was no association between infection and the different populations. Anemia was associated with Mycoplasma haemofelis and ‘Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum’, but not with ‘Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis’. Male cats and cats with outdoor access were more likely to be infected. Although ‘Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum’ is believed to cause minimal or no hematological alterations, the infected cats studied herein were more likely to be anemic.
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22
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Prevalence of haemoplasma infections in stray cats in northern Italy. ISRN MICROBIOLOGY 2014; 2014:298352. [PMID: 24707436 PMCID: PMC3953429 DOI: 10.1155/2014/298352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2013] [Accepted: 01/16/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated the prevalence of feline haemoplasma infections in a number of stray cat colonies in Milan, Northern Italy. Blood samples from 260 stray cats were evaluated, with conventional PCR, for the presence of DNA associated with Mycoplasma haemofelis (Mhf) and "Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum" (CMhm). Odd ratios (OR) were calculated to identify risk factors for haemoplasma infections. PCR was positive in 86 out of 260 subjects (33.1%), with a prevalence of 10.8% (28/260 cats) for Mhf and 22.3% (58/260 cats) for CMhm. No coinfections were registered. There were significant associations between infections and season of sampling, that is, a negative association between winter sampling and a haemoplasma positive status (OR = 0.29, P = 0.001), or CMhm positive status (OR = 0.29, P = 0.01). Haemoplasma infections are common in stray cats in Milan. Thus, domestic cats with outdoor access should be routinely monitored and treated for ectoparasites to minimize risks of disease acquisition. Moreover, as these infections are transmitted via blood, feline blood donors from this area should be screened by PCR and preferably be drawn from a population of indoor cats regularly treated for fleas.
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Jenkins KS, Dittmer KE, Marshall JC, Tasker S. Prevalence and risk factor analysis of feline haemoplasma infection in New Zealand domestic cats using a real-time PCR assay. J Feline Med Surg 2013; 15:1063-9. [PMID: 23666110 PMCID: PMC10816462 DOI: 10.1177/1098612x13488384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Haemotropic mycoplasmas (haemoplasmas) are small epierythrocytic bacteria that have the potential to cause severe, life-threatening haemolytic anaemia. The aim of the current study was to evaluate feline haemoplasma prevalence using real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) from a convenience sample of New Zealand domestic cats, including blood film examination and a risk factor analysis. DNA was extracted from 200 blood samples submitted to a diagnostic laboratory for routine haematology over a 12-month period. Species-specific real-time PCR assays identified 62 cats that were positive for haemoplasma DNA, giving an overall prevalence of 31%. Twelve of the positive cats had dual infections. The prevalence of the three feline haemoplasmas was 25% for 'Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum', 7.5% for Mycoplasma haemofelis and 4.5% for 'Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis' (CMt). All samples were positive for an internal control (feline 28S rDNA) by real-time PCR. Sensitivity and specificity of blood smear examination for haemoplasma infection in this study was 9.7% and 97.8%, respectively. Retroviral infection was tested using the Idexx Snap Feline Triple test on all samples. Twenty cats (10%) were feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) positive and 11 cats (5.5%) were feline leukaemia virus (FeLV) positive. Statistical comparisons, using multivariate logistic regression, indicated that positive FIV status, male gender and non-pedigree breed were significantly (P <0.05) associated with haemoplasma infection, with odds ratios of 10.16, 5.04 and 3.03, respectively. The results of this study demonstrate the prevalence of the three main feline haemoplasma species in New Zealand for the first time, with prevalences correlating with previous overseas studies. This is the first report of CMt in New Zealand.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn S Jenkins
- 1Institute of Veterinary, Animal and Biomedical Sciences, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
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Infection with hemotropic Mycoplasma species in patients with or without extensive arthropod or animal contact. J Clin Microbiol 2013; 51:3237-41. [PMID: 23863574 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.01125-13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
PCR amplification targeting the 16S rRNA gene was used to test individuals with and without extensive arthropod and animal contact for the possibility of hemotropic mycoplasma infection. The prevalence of hemotropic mycoplasma infection (4.7%) was significantly greater in previously reported cohorts of veterinarians, veterinary technicians, spouses of veterinary professionals, and others with extensive arthropod exposure and/or frequent animal contact than in a previously reported cohort of patients examined by a rheumatologist because of chronic joint pain or evidence of small-vessel disease (0.7%). Based upon DNA sequence analysis, a Mycoplasma ovis-like species was the most prevalent organism detected; however, infection with "Candidatus Mycoplasma haematoparvum" and a potentially novel, but incompletely characterized, hemotropic Mycoplasma species was also documented. Historical exposure to animals and arthropod vectors that can harbor hemotropic Mycoplasma spp. should be considered during epidemiological investigations and in the evaluation of individual patients.
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Tateno M, Nishio T, Matsuo T, Sakuma M, Nakanishi N, Izawa M, Asari Y, Okamura M, Shimokawa Miyama T, Setoguchi A, Endo Y. Epidemiological survey of tick-borne protozoal infection in iriomote cats and tsushima leopard cats in Japan. J Vet Med Sci 2013; 75:985-9. [PMID: 23449464 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.13-0015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
This epidemiological survey was conducted to determine the prevalence of Hepatozoon, Babesia and Theileria infection in the Iriomote cat (IC) and the Tsushima leopard cat (TLC). Blood samples from 43 ICs and 14 TLCs were collected between November 2002 and January 2012. Polymerase chain reaction and DNA sequencing analyses detected a Hepatozoon felis infection prevalence of 72.0% (31/43 cats) and 100% (14/14 cats) in ICs and TLCs, respectively. The degree of Hepatozoon parasitemia observed on blood smears ranged from 0.1 to 4.7%. However, no cases had obvious clinical signs of hepatozoonosis. Neither Babesia- nor Theileria-infected wildcats were detected in this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morihiro Tateno
- Laboratory of Small Animal Internal Medicine, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, 1-21-24 Korimoto, Kagoshima, Kagoshima 890-0065, Japan
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"Candidatus Mycoplasma haemomacaque" and Bartonella quintana bacteremia in cynomolgus monkeys. J Clin Microbiol 2013; 51:1408-11. [PMID: 23408694 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.03019-12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Here, we report latent infections with Bartonella quintana and a hemotropic Mycoplasma sp. in a research colony of cynomolgus monkeys (Macaca fascicularis). Sequence alignments, evolutionary analysis, and signature nucleotide sequence motifs of the hemotropic Mycoplasma 16S rRNA and RNase P genes indicate the presence of a novel organism.
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27
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Hirata M, Tateno M, Sakuma M, Nakanishi N, Izawa M, Asari Y, Okamura M, Shimokawa Miyama T, Setoguchi A, Endo Y. An epidemiological survey of hemoplasma infection in Iriomote cats (Prionailurus bengalensis iriomotensis). J Vet Med Sci 2012; 74:1531-7. [PMID: 22785566 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.12-0094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
An epidemiological survey of Iriomote cats (Prionailurus bengalensis iriomotensis) was conducted to understand the prevalence and molecular characteristics of hemotropic mycoplasma (hemoplasma). A series of ecological surveys of Iriomote cats were performed between November 2003 and September 2010. During this period, 31 Iriomote cats were captured or found, and 39 blood samples were collected. Polymerase chain reaction screening for hemoplasmas and BLAST searches revealed that 4 of the 31 cats were positive for hemoplasma infection (n=3, Mycoplasma haemofelis [Mhf]; n=1, 'Candidatus M. turicensis' [CMt]). The 4 infected cats were captured or found in the northern area of the island of Iriomote. Phylogenetic analyses revealed close relationships between Mhf and CMt isolated from Iriomote cats compared with those from domestic cats and other wild felids. In our study, we identified two species of hemoplasma in Iriomote cats. The number and location of the hemoplasma-positive cats appeared to be limited; however, continuous surveillance of hemoplasma infection in Iriomote cats is necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Momoko Hirata
- Laboratory of Small Animal Internal Medicine, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, 1-21-24 Korimoto, Kagoshima, Kagoshima 890-0065, Japan
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Tagawa M, Ybanez AP, Matsumoto K, Yokoyama N, Inokuma H. Prevalence and risk factor analysis of bovine hemoplasma infection by direct PCR in Eastern Hokkaido, Japan. J Vet Med Sci 2012; 74:1171-6. [PMID: 22673725 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.12-0118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The prevalence and risk factors of 2 bovine hemoplasma species-Mycoplasma wenyonii (Mw) and "Candidatus Mycoplasma haemobos" (CMh)-were examined by direct PCR using whole blood samples collected from 343 cattle in Eastern Hokkaido, Japan. The sensitivity of the direct PCR assay was 10-fold higher than the standard PCR assay, detecting 5 copies of bovine hemoplasma DNA per reaction. An epidemiological survey of sampling location, living conditions, age and bovine leukemia virus antibody was performed to assess infection risk factors. The prevalence rates were 38.5% for Mw and 39.1% for CMh, respectively, with an overall prevalence rate of 64.7% for all bovine hemoplasma infections. Significant differences were found in sampling location, living conditions and age. Compared with pastured cattle, farmed cattle were significantly more susceptible to infection with total hemoplasma species (P<0.001), and were particularly susceptible to CMh (P<0.001). Cattle that were 1-3 years of age were more susceptible to infection with hemoplasma compared with other age groups. Bovine leukemia virus infection status was not significantly associated with hemoplasma infections. Blood examination revealed significantly lower RBC, Hb, and PCV levels, and a higher MCV in infected cattle than in noninfected cattle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michihito Tagawa
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada, Obihiro, Hokkaido, 080-8555, Japan
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Cytauxzoon sp. infection in the first endemic focus described in domestic cats in Europe. Vet Parasitol 2012; 183:343-52. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2011.07.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2011] [Revised: 06/22/2011] [Accepted: 07/11/2011] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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30
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IWANAGA T, MIURA N, MIYOSHI N, ENDO Y, MOMOI Y. Abnormal Erythroid Cell Proliferation and Myelofibrosis in a Cat. J Vet Med Sci 2012; 74:909-12. [DOI: 10.1292/jvms.11-0268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Tomoko IWANAGA
- Laboratory of Veterinary Diagnostic Imaging, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, 1–21–24 Korimoto, Kagoshima 890–0065, Japan
| | - Naoki MIURA
- Laboratory of Veterinary Diagnostic Imaging, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, 1–21–24 Korimoto, Kagoshima 890–0065, Japan
| | - Noriaki MIYOSHI
- Laboratory of Veterinary Histopathology, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, 1–21–24 Korimoto, Kagoshima 890–0065, Japan
| | - Yasuyuki ENDO
- Laboratory of Small Animal Internal Medicine, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, 1–21–24 Korimoto, Kagoshima 890–0065, Japan
| | - Yasuyuki MOMOI
- Laboratory of Veterinary Diagnostic Imaging, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, 1–21–24 Korimoto, Kagoshima 890–0065, Japan
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