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Chan AHE, Kaenkaew C, Pakdee W, Thaenkham U. Insights into the genetic diversity of Angiostrongylus spp. causing human angiostrongyliasis and implications for molecular identification and diagnosis. Food Waterborne Parasitol 2024; 35:e00230. [PMID: 38827346 PMCID: PMC11143902 DOI: 10.1016/j.fawpar.2024.e00230] [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: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Angiostrongylus cantonensis and Angiostrongylus costaricensis are known human pathogens responsible for eosinophilic angiostrongyliasis and abdominal angiostrongyliasis, respectively. Humans are accidental hosts, where infection occurs through the consumption of the infective larva stage 3 in intermediate or paratenic hosts. The proven method for abdominal angiostrongyliasis diagnosis is the histological examination through tissue biopsy, while the diagnosis of eosinophilic angiostrongyliasis is the detection of larva in the cerebrospinal fluid. As there is molecular evidence of cryptic species within A. cantonensis and A. costaricensis lineages, along with morphological similarities within both lineages, accurate species identification and disease diagnosis may be challenging. Moreover, species within the lineages share similar intermediate and definitive hosts and geographic distribution. For example, both A. cantonensis and Angiostrongylus malaysiensis (a closely related species in A. cantonensis lineage) overlap in their geographic distribution in Southeast Asia. Additionally, variations in the molecular makeup of A. costaricensis and A. cantonensis lineages may impact the pathogenicity, infectivity, and disease severity of angiostrongyliasis. Understanding of the genetic diversity of both lineages is a cornerstone for improved diagnosis and disease intervention, especially in a changing global environment. To shed light and provide insights into the genetic diversity of the Angiostrongylus lineages causing human angiostrongyliasis, we aim to present an up-to-date review of the studies conducted and genetic markers used for A. costaricensis and A. cantonensis lineages. The implications for accurate molecular identification and diagnosis of human angiostrongyliasis are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigail Hui En Chan
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Chanisara Kaenkaew
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Wallop Pakdee
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Urusa Thaenkham
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
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Rodriguez R, Mora J, Solano-Barquero A, Graeff-Teixeira C, Rojas A. A practical guide for the diagnosis of abdominal angiostrongyliasis caused by the nematode Angiostrongylus costaricensis. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:155. [PMID: 37120597 PMCID: PMC10148430 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-05757-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Abdominal angiostrongyliasis (AA) is a severe parasitic infection caused by the nematode Angiostrongylus costaricensis. This disease is characterized by abdominal pain, a strong inflammatory eosinophilic response in the blood and tissues, and eventually intestinal perforation. Diagnosis of AA is challenging since there are no commercially available serological kits for A. costaricensis, and thus, histopathological analysis remains the gold standard. Herein we provide a decision flowchart for clinicians to improve the diagnosis of AA based on a patient's clinical manifestations, laboratory findings, macroscopic observations of the gut lesions, as well as characteristic microscopic alterations in biopsies. A brief discussion of the available polymerase chain reaction and in-house serological methods is also presented. The aim of this mini-review is to improve the diagnosis of AA, which should lead to prompt detection of cases and better estimates of the epidemiology and geographical distribution of A. costaricensis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rubens Rodriguez
- Laboratório de Anatomia Patológica e Citopatologia São Camilo-DASA, Maringá, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Javier Mora
- Laboratory of Helminthology, Faculty of Microbiology, University of Costa Rica, San José, Costa Rica
- Centro de Investigación en Enfermedades Tropicales, University of Costa Rica, San José, Costa Rica
| | - Alberto Solano-Barquero
- Laboratory of Helminthology, Faculty of Microbiology, University of Costa Rica, San José, Costa Rica
- Centro de Investigación en Enfermedades Tropicales, University of Costa Rica, San José, Costa Rica
| | - Carlos Graeff-Teixeira
- Nucleo de Doenças Infecciosas, Centro de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Vitória, Brazil
| | - Alicia Rojas
- Laboratory of Helminthology, Faculty of Microbiology, University of Costa Rica, San José, Costa Rica.
- Centro de Investigación en Enfermedades Tropicales, University of Costa Rica, San José, Costa Rica.
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Amaral FUI, Zorzi NR, Soveral LF, Frandoloso R, Rodriguez R, Graeff-Teixeira C, Morassutti AL, Vieira MIB. Molecular diagnosis of abdominal angiostrongyliasis by PCR using serum samples. Parasitol Res 2023; 122:381-385. [PMID: 36538068 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-022-07763-6] [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: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Abdominal angiostrongyliasis (AA) is a zoonotic disease caused by the nematode Angiostrongylus costaricensis, which is endemic in southern Brazil. Humans become infected by ingesting third-stage (L3) larvae and are considered accidental hosts since neither eggs nor first-stage (L1) larvae are found in feces. The definitive diagnosis can be made by histopathologic examination of surgical specimens or intestinal biopsies. The present study assessed the use of PCR to carry out the molecular detection of AA from serum samples. A total of 62 human serum samples were divided into three groups: (i) 28 serum samples from human patients with presumptive histopathological diagnosis of AA; (ii) 23 serum samples from individuals with unknown serology for AA; (iii) 11 serum samples from patients that suffered from different parasitosis were included. The serum samples were initially tested by in-house indirect ELISA and then by PCR. A total of 14 samples were positive by ELISA, and 6 were positive by PCR. Six samples that were negative by ELISA were positive by PCR. Amplicons were sequenced, and Angiostrongylus DNA was confirmed. We conclude that PCR amplification can be used to confirm Angiostrongylus DNA in serum, which is especially important in cases where antibody levels are too low to be detected. It may also serve as a useful target for survey studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francieli Ubirajara India Amaral
- Faculty of Agronomy and Veterinary Medicine, Graduate Program in Bioexperimentation, University of Passo Fundo, BR 285, Passo Fundo, RS, 99052-900, Brazil
| | - Natalie Renata Zorzi
- Faculty of Agronomy and Veterinary Medicine, Graduate Program in Bioexperimentation, University of Passo Fundo, BR 285, Passo Fundo, RS, 99052-900, Brazil
| | - Lucas Figueiredo Soveral
- Faculty of Agronomy and Veterinary Medicine, Graduate Program in Bioexperimentation, University of Passo Fundo, BR 285, Passo Fundo, RS, 99052-900, Brazil
| | - Rafael Frandoloso
- Faculty of Agronomy and Veterinary Medicine, Graduate Program in Bioexperimentation, University of Passo Fundo, BR 285, Passo Fundo, RS, 99052-900, Brazil
| | - Rubens Rodriguez
- Passo Fundo Institute of Pathology and Molecular Biology, 885 Teixeira Soares St., Downtown, Passo Fundo, RS, 99010-081, Brazil
| | - Carlos Graeff-Teixeira
- Department of Pathology and Infectious Diseases Center, Health Sciences Center, University of Espírito Santo, Vitória, ES, Brazil
| | - Alessandra Loureiro Morassutti
- Passo Fundo Institute of Pathology and Molecular Biology, 885 Teixeira Soares St., Downtown, Passo Fundo, RS, 99010-081, Brazil
| | - Maria Isabel Botelho Vieira
- Faculty of Agronomy and Veterinary Medicine, Graduate Program in Bioexperimentation, University of Passo Fundo, BR 285, Passo Fundo, RS, 99052-900, Brazil.
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Angiostrongylus spp. (Nematoda; Metastrongyloidea) of global public health importance. Res Vet Sci 2020; 135:397-403. [PMID: 33160683 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2020.10.023] [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: 06/15/2020] [Revised: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Human angiostrongyliasis is an important foodborne zoonosis, caused by the infection with Angiostrongylus costaricensis and Angiostrongylus cantonensis. These two species have a significant public health impact in different areas of the world. Angiostrongyliasis is re-emerging and expanding to urban settings rising significant concerns regarding the control of these infections. This review focuses on aspects such as life cycle, epidemiology, clinical manifestations, diagnostics, food safety and control of illness caused especially by A. cantonensis.
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Graeff-Teixeira C, Pascoal VF, Rodriguez R, Morassutti AL, Intapan PM, Maleewong W. Abdominal angiostrongyliasis can be diagnosed with a immunochromatographic rapid test with recombinant galactin from Angiostrongylus cantonensis. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 2020; 115:e200201. [PMID: 32965330 PMCID: PMC7508286 DOI: 10.1590/0074-02760200201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Accepted: 08/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Angiostrongylus costaricensis is the causative agent of abdominal angiostrongyliasis, a zoonotic infection that may produce severe eosinophilic enterocolitis or hepatitis in humans. Parasites are usually not released in stools and serology has an important role in diagnosis. Since cross-reactivity is demonstrated between A. costaricensis and another metastrongylid worm, A. cantonensis, we tested heterologous recombinant galectin as a probe in an immunochromatographic rapid diagnostic test (ICT-RDT) for detection of anti-A. costaricensis antibodies. Almost all (11/12) positive control sera from A. costaricensis infected patients were positive at ICT RDT. These are preliminary indications that r-galectin ICT-RDT is useful for diagnosing A. costaricensis infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Graeff-Teixeira
- Universidade do Espírito Santo, Centro de Ciências da Saúde, Departamento de Patologia e Núcleo de Doenças Infecciosas, Vitória, ES, Brasil
| | - Vanessa Fey Pascoal
- Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Escola de Ciências da Saúde, Porto Alegre, RS, Brasil
| | | | | | - Pewpan M Intapan
- Khon Kaen University, Faculty of Medicine and Mekong Health Science Research Institute, Department of Parasitology and Excellence in Medical Innovation, and Technology Research Group, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | - Wanchai Maleewong
- Khon Kaen University, Faculty of Medicine and Mekong Health Science Research Institute, Department of Parasitology and Excellence in Medical Innovation, and Technology Research Group, Khon Kaen, Thailand
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Cognato BB, Handali S, de Mattos Pereira L, Barradas JR, Januário da Silva A, Graeff-Teixeira C, Morassutti AL. Identification of cross-reactive markers to strengthen the development of immunodiagnostic methods for angiostrongyliasis and other parasitic infections. Exp Parasitol 2020; 218:107999. [PMID: 32956649 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2020.107999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2019] [Revised: 08/30/2020] [Accepted: 09/13/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Angiostrongylus cantonensis is the main causative agent of eosinophilic meningoencephalitis (EoM) in humans. Molecular diagnostic methods are essential since the identification of larvae in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is extremely rare. To date, the detection of a 31 kDa antigen by Western blotting has been the primary immunodiagnostic method for EoM caused by A. cantonensis. However, cross-reactivity with other parasites has been observed. Therefore, we conducted a comparative analysis using sera from individuals with angiostrongyliasis. We also characterized proteins isolated from different cellular sources of A. cantonensis, Toxocara canis, Schistosoma mansoni, and Strongyloides stercoralis with mass spectrometry. A total of 115 cross-reactive proteins were identified. Three of these proteins, heat shock protein, an intermediate filament protein, and galectin 1, represent potential markers for cross-reactivity. In addition, synthetic peptides were generated from previously identified diagnostic targets and tested against sera from individuals infected with several other parasites. As a result, two other markers of cross-reactivity were identified: peptide #4 derived from the 14-3-3 protein and peptide #12 derived from the Lec-5 protein. In contrast, 34 proteins were exclusively present in the Angiostrongylus extracts and represent promising diagnostic molecules for specific identification of A. cantonensis infection. In particular, cytochrome oxidase subunit I is of great interest as a possible immunodiagnostic target for angiostrongyliasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bianca B Cognato
- Laboratório de Parasitologia Molecular, Instituto de Pesquisas Biomédicas and Laboratório de Biologia Parasitaria, Faculdade de Biociências da Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Av. Ipiranga 6690, 90690-900, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Sukwan Handali
- Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Road, MS D-64, Bldg 23, Room 9-440, Atlanta, GA, 30329, USA
| | - Leandro de Mattos Pereira
- Laboratório de Parasitologia Molecular, Instituto de Pesquisas Biomédicas and Laboratório de Biologia Parasitaria, Faculdade de Biociências da Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Av. Ipiranga 6690, 90690-900, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; FATEC, Faculdade de Teologia e Ciências, Rua José Sanches Peres, 3040, 15501-210, Votuporanga, SP, Brazil
| | - José Ricardo Barradas
- Laboratório de Parasitologia Molecular, Instituto de Pesquisas Biomédicas and Laboratório de Biologia Parasitaria, Faculdade de Biociências da Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Av. Ipiranga 6690, 90690-900, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Alexandre Januário da Silva
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Center for Foods Safety and Applied Nutrition, Office of Applied Research and Safety Assessment, Division of Food and Environmental Microbiology, USA
| | - Carlos Graeff-Teixeira
- Laboratório de Parasitologia Molecular, Instituto de Pesquisas Biomédicas and Laboratório de Biologia Parasitaria, Faculdade de Biociências da Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Av. Ipiranga 6690, 90690-900, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Alessandra L Morassutti
- Laboratório de Parasitologia Molecular, Instituto de Pesquisas Biomédicas and Laboratório de Biologia Parasitaria, Faculdade de Biociências da Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Av. Ipiranga 6690, 90690-900, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
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Rebello KM, McKerrow JH, Mota EM, O´Donoghue AJ, Neves-Ferreira AGC. Activity profiling of peptidases in Angiostrongylus costaricensis first-stage larvae and adult worms. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2018; 12:e0006923. [PMID: 30379807 PMCID: PMC6231675 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0006923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2018] [Revised: 11/12/2018] [Accepted: 10/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Angiostrongylus costaricensis is a relatively uncharacterized nematode that causes abdominal angiostrongyliasis in Latin America, a human parasitic disease. Currently, no effective pharmacological treatment for angiostrongyliasis exists. Peptidases are known to be druggable targets for a variety of diseases and are essential for several biological processes in parasites. Therefore, this study aimed to systematically characterize the peptidase activity of A. costaricensis in different developmental stages of this parasitic nematode. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS A library of diverse tetradecapeptides was incubated with cellular lysates from adult worms and from first-stage larvae (L1) and cleaved peptide products were identified by mass spectrometry. Lysates were also treated with class specific peptidase inhibitors to determine which enzyme class was responsible for the proteolytic activity. Peptidase activity from the four major mechanistic classes (aspartic, metallo, serine and cysteine) were detected in adult worm lysate, whereas aspartic, metallo and serine-peptidases were found in the larval lysates. In addition, the substrate specificity profile was found to vary at different pH values. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE The proteolytic activities in adult worm and L1 lysates were characterized using a highly diversified library of peptide substrates and the activity was validated using a selection of fluorescent substrates. Taken together, peptidase signatures for different developmental stages of this parasite has improved our understanding of the disease pathogenesis and may be useful as potential drug targets or vaccine candidates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karina M. Rebello
- Laboratory of Toxinology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - James H. McKerrow
- Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States of America
| | - Ester M. Mota
- Laboratory of Pathology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Anthony J. O´Donoghue
- Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States of America
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Dard C, Nguyen D, Miossec C, de Meuron K, Harrois D, Epelboin L, Cabié A, Desbois-Nogard N. Angiostrongylus costaricensis infection in Martinique, Lesser Antilles, from 2000 to 2017. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 25:22. [PMID: 29633710 PMCID: PMC5892178 DOI: 10.1051/parasite/2018022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2018] [Accepted: 03/22/2018] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
Human abdominal angiostrongyliasis (HAA) is a parasitic disease caused by the accidental ingestion of the nematode Angiostrongylus costaricensis in its larval form. Human infection can lead to severe ischemic and inflammatory intestinal lesions, sometimes complicated by life-threatening ileal perforations. Only one case had been reported in Martinique, an Island in the French Antilles, in 1988. We retrospectively reviewed the medical charts of patients diagnosed with abdominal angiostrongyliasis at the University Hospital of Martinique between 2000 and 2017. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the incidence and perform a descriptive analysis of the clinical, biological, radiological, and histopathological features of HAA in Martinique. Two confirmed cases and two probable cases were identified in patients aged from 1 to 21 years during the 18-year period, with an estimated incidence of 0.2 cases per year (0.003 case/year/100.000 inhabitants (IC95% = 0.00-0.05)). All patients presented with abdominal pain associated with high blood eosinophilia (median: 7.24 G/L [min 4.25; max 52.28 G/L]). Two developed ileal perforation and were managed by surgery, with diagnostic confirmation based on histopathological findings on surgical specimens. The other two cases were probable, with serum specimens reactive to Angiostrongylus sp. antigen in the absence of surgery. All cases improved without sequelae. The description of this case series highlights the need to increase awareness of this life-threatening disease in the medical community and to facilitate access to specific diagnostic tools in Martinique. Environmental and epidemiological studies are needed to broaden our knowledge of the burden of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Céline Dard
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie-Mycologie, CHU Grenoble Alpes, 38700 Grenoble, France - Institute for Advanced Biosciences (IAB), INSERM U1209 - CNRS UMR5309, Université Grenoble Alpes, 38700 Grenoble, France
| | - Duc Nguyen
- Service de Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales et Médecine Polyvalente, CHU de la Martinique, 97200 Fort-de-France, France - EA3593, Ecosystèmes Amazoniens et Pathologie Tropicale, Université de la Guyane, 97306 Cayenne, France
| | - Charline Miossec
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie-Mycologie-Sérologies Bactériennes et Parasitaires, CHU de la Martinique, 97200 Fort-de-France, France
| | - Katia de Meuron
- Service de Pédiatrie, Maison de la Femme de la Mère et de l'Enfant, 97200 Fort-de-France, France
| | - Dorothée Harrois
- Laboratoire de Biologie Médicale, Centre Hospitalier de Basse-Terre, 97109 Basse-Terre, Guadeloupe, France
| | - Loïc Epelboin
- EA3593, Ecosystèmes Amazoniens et Pathologie Tropicale, Université de la Guyane, 97306 Cayenne, France - Unité des Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales, Centre Hospitalier Andrée Rosemon, 97306 Cayenne, France
| | - André Cabié
- Service de Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales et Médecine Polyvalente, CHU de la Martinique, 97200 Fort-de-France, France - CIC Antilles-Guyane, INSERM 1424, Centre Hospitalier Andrée Rosemon, 97306 Cayenne, France - Université des Antilles, EA4537, 97200 Fort-de-France, France
| | - Nicole Desbois-Nogard
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie-Mycologie-Sérologies Bactériennes et Parasitaires, CHU de la Martinique, 97200 Fort-de-France, France
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[Standardization of a multiplex real-time PCR test for the identification of Angiostrongylus cantonensis, A. costaricensis and A. vasorum]. BIOMEDICA 2018; 38:111-119. [PMID: 29668140 DOI: 10.7705/biomedica.v38i0.3407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2016] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Angiostrongyliasis is a disease caused by Angiostrongylus nematodes that is present worldwide. The infections with the highest impact on human and animal health are caused by A. cantonensis, A. costaricensis, and A. vasorum. Clinical forms of the disease in humans are eosinophilic meningitis and abdominal angiostrongyliasis, while the most common effect on dogs are cardiopulmonary damages. It is deemed as an emerging disease as the result of the global dissemination of the African snail Lissachatina fulica, an intermediary host of these parasites. The few diagnostic methods for Angiostrongylus spp. are unspecific, costly, and not very sensitive. It is urgent to develop a sensitive, specific and accessible diagnostic tool for the control of human and animal angiostrongyliasis. OBJECTIVE To develop a qPCR multiple test to identify the three pathogenic species of Angiostrongylus. MATERIALS AND METHODS Through a bio-informatic analysis, we selected a sequence of the ITS-2 region of the Angiostrongylus genome to guarantee the specificity of primers and probes. We extracted DNA from adult parasites as positive control, and from larvae using the DNeasy Blood&Tissue® kit. Quantitative PCR reactions were conducted on a Smartcycler Cepheid® thermocycler using a master mix QuantiTect® kit. DNA from human beings, other parasites and the African snail was used as negative control. RESULTS The threshold cycle values for positive DNA controls were: 21 for Angiostrongylus cantonensis, 22 for A. costaricensis, and 31 for A. vasorum. In negative controls, the threshold cycle was zero. qPCR showed an amplification efficiency of 2 (100%). CONCLUSIONS A multiple qPCR was standardized at the laboratory for three clinically significant species of Angiostrongylus.
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Rodriguez R, da Silva ACA, Müller CA, Alves SL, Graeff-Teixeira C, Fornari F. PCR for the diagnosis of abdominal angiostrongyliasis in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded human tissue. PLoS One 2014; 9:e93658. [PMID: 24705328 PMCID: PMC3976301 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0093658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2013] [Accepted: 03/09/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
To date the diagnosis of abdominal angiostrongyliasis (AA) depends on the histological identification of Angiostrongylus costaricensis (AC) in surgical specimens. However, microscopic evaluation is time consuming and often fails in identifying the parasite. We tested whether PCR might help in the diagnosis of AA by identifying parasite DNA in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue. We used primers based on DNA from Angiostrongilus cantonensis. Four groups of FFPE intestinal tissue were tested: (1) confirmed cases (n = 20), in which AC structures were present in the target tissue; (2) presumptive cases (n = 20), containing changes secondary to AC infection in the absence of AC structures; (3) negative controls (n = 3), consisting of normal colonic tissue; and (4) tissue affected by other parasitoses (n = 7), including strongyloidiasis, ascaridiasis, schistosomiasis, and enterobiasis. Most lesions of confirmed cases were located in small and/or large bowel (90%), as compared with presumptive cases, in which 70% of lesions were in appendix (P = 0.0002). When confronted with cases of other parasitoses, PCR showed sensitivity of 55%, specificity of 100% and positive predictive value of 100%. In presumptive cases PCR was positive in 4 (20%). All specimens from negative controls and other parasitoses were negative. In conclusion, the PCR technique showed intermediate sensitivity and optimal specificity, being clinically relevant when positive for abdominal angiostrongyliasis. It allowed a 20% gain in diagnosis of presumptive cases. PCR might help in the diagnosis of abdominal angiostrongyliasis, particularly when the pathologists are not experienced with such disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rubens Rodriguez
- Programa de Pós-Graduação: Ciências em Gastroenterologia e Hepatologia, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre-RS, Brazil
- Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Passo Fundo, Passo Fundo-RS, Brazil
- * E-mail:
| | - Ana Cristina Aramburú da Silva
- Laboratórios de Biologia Parasitária e Parasitologia Molecular, Pontifíca Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre-RS, Brazil
| | - Carla Aristonara Müller
- Laboratórios de Biologia Parasitária e Parasitologia Molecular, Pontifíca Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre-RS, Brazil
| | - Silvana Lunardini Alves
- Laboratórios de Biologia Parasitária e Parasitologia Molecular, Pontifíca Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre-RS, Brazil
| | - Carlos Graeff-Teixeira
- Laboratórios de Biologia Parasitária e Parasitologia Molecular, Pontifíca Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre-RS, Brazil
| | - Fernando Fornari
- Programa de Pós-Graduação: Ciências em Gastroenterologia e Hepatologia, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre-RS, Brazil
- Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Passo Fundo, Passo Fundo-RS, Brazil
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Abrahams-Sandi E, Mesén-Ramírez P, Suarez-Chacón D, Fernández-Quesada K. An indirect immunofluorescence antibody test employing whole eggs as the antigen for the diagnosis of abdominal angiostrongyliasis. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 2012; 106:390-3. [PMID: 21739024 DOI: 10.1590/s0074-02762011000400002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2010] [Accepted: 04/08/2011] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Abdominal angiostrongyliasis is a potentially fatal zoonotic disease with a broad geographical distribution throughout Central and South America. This study assessed the performance of Angiostrongylus costaricensis eggs as the antigen in an indirect immunofluorescence assay for the determination of parasite-specific IgG and IgG1 antibodies. For prevalence studies, an IgG antibody titre ≥ 16 was identified as the diagnostic threshold with the best performance, providing 93.7% sensitivity and 84.6% specificity. Cross reactivity was evaluated with 65 additional samples from patients with other known parasitic infections. Cross reactivity was observed only in samples from individuals infected with Strongyloides stercoralis. For clinical diagnosis, we recommend the determination of IgG only as a screening test. IgG1 determination may be used to increase the specificity of the results for patients with a positive screening test.
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Morassutti AL, Levert K, Pinto PM, da Silva AJ, Wilkins P, Graeff-Teixeira C. Characterization of Angiostrongylus cantonensis excretory-secretory proteins as potential diagnostic targets. Exp Parasitol 2011; 130:26-31. [PMID: 22019415 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2011.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2011] [Revised: 08/25/2011] [Accepted: 10/03/2011] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Angiostrongyliasis results from infections with intra-arterial nematodes that accidentally infect humans. Specifically, infections with Angiostrongylus cantonensis cause eosinophilic meningitis and Angiostrongylus costaricensis infections result in eosinophilic enteritis. Immunological tests are the primary means of diagnosing infections with either pathogen since these parasites are usually not recoverable in fecal or cerebrospinal fluid. However, well-defined, purified antigens are not currently available in sufficient quantities from either pathogen for use in routine immunodiagnostic assays. Since A. costaricensis and A. cantonensis share common antigens, sera from infected persons will recognize antigens from either species. In addition to their potential use in angiostrongyliasis diagnosis, characterization of these proteins that establish the host-parasite interphase would improve our understanding of the biology of these parasites. The main objective of the present work was to characterize A. cantonensis excretory-secretory (ES) products by analyzing ES preparations by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis coupled with immunoblotting using pools of positive sera (PS) and sera from healthy individuals (SC). Protein spots recognized by PS were excised and analyzed by electrospray ionization (ESI) mass spectrometry. MASCOT analysis of mass spectrometry data identified 17 proteins: aldolase; CBR-PYP-1 protein; beta-amylase; heat shock protein 70; proteosome subunit beta type-1; actin A3; peroxiredoxin; serine carboxypeptidase; protein disulfide isomerase 1; fructose-bisphosphate aldolase 2; aspartyl protease inhibitor; lectin-5; hypothetical protein F01F1.12; cathepsin B-like cysteine proteinase 1; hemoglobinase-type cysteine proteinase; putative ferritin protein 2; and a hypothetical protein. Molecular cloning of these respective targets will next be carried out to develop a panel of Angiostrongylus antigens that can be used for diagnostic purposes and to further study host-Angiostrongylus interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra L Morassutti
- Laboratório de Biologia Parasitária da Faculdade de Biociências e Laboratório de Parasitologia Molecular do Instituto de Pesquisas Biomédicas da Pontifícia Universidade do Rio Grande do Sul, Avenida Ipiranga 6690, 90690-900 Porto Alegre RS, Brazil.
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13
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Ben R, Rodrigues R, Agostini AA, Graeff-Teixeira C. Use of heterologous antigens for the immunodiagnosis of abdominal angiostrongyliasis by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 2011; 105:914-7. [PMID: 21120363 DOI: 10.1590/s0074-02762010000700013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2010] [Accepted: 08/26/2010] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Angiostrongylus costaricensis has a broad geographic distribution spanning from North to South America and the infections of vertebrates with this nematode can result in abdominal complications. Human infections are diagnosed by histological or serological methods because the isolation of larvae from feces is not feasible, as most parasites become trapped in intestinal tissues due to intense eosinophilic inflammation. Because A. costaricensis is difficult to maintain in the laboratory, an immunodiagnostic IgG enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) using antigens from the congeneric Angiostrongylus cantonensis species was evaluated against a panel of serum samples from patients who were histologically diagnosed with A. costaricensis infections. Sera from uninfected individuals and individuals infected with other parasites were used as controls. The sensitivity and specificity of the assay were estimated at 88.4% and 78.7%, respectively. Because the use of purified or cloned antigens has not been established as a reliable diagnostic tool, the use of heterologous antigens may provide a viable alternative for the development of an ELISA-based immunodetection system for the diagnosis of abdominal angiostrongyliasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renata Ben
- Laboratório de Biologia Parasitária, Instituto de Pesquisas Biomédicas, Faculdade de Biociências, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brasil
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14
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Rebello KM, Barros JSL, Mota EM, Carvalho PC, Perales J, Lenzi HL, Neves-Ferreira AGC. Comprehensive proteomic profiling of adult Angiostrongylus costaricensis, a human parasitic nematode. J Proteomics 2011; 74:1545-59. [PMID: 21596163 DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2011.04.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2011] [Revised: 04/27/2011] [Accepted: 04/29/2011] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Angiostrongylus costaricensis is a nematode helminth that causes an intestinal acute inflammatory process known as abdominal angiostrongyliasis, which is a poorly understood human disease occurring in Latin America. Our aim was to study the proteomic profiles of adult parasites focusing on immunogenic proteins. Total cellular extracts from both genders showed similar 2-DE profiles, with 60% of all protein spots focused between pH 5-7 and presenting molecular masses from 20.1 to 66 kDa. A total of 53 different dominant proteins were identified in our dataset and were mainly associated with the following over-represented Gene Ontology Biological Process terms: "macromolecule metabolic process", "developmental process", "response to stress", and "biological regulation". Female and male immunoblots showed similar patterns of reactive proteins. Immunoreactive spots identified by MALDI-PSD were found to represent heat shock proteins, a putative abnormal DAuer Formation family member, and galectins. To date, very few biochemical analyses have focused on the nematode Angiostrongylus costaricensis. As such, our results contribute to a better understanding of its biology and the mechanisms underlying the host-parasite relationship associated with this species. Moreover, our findings represent a first step in the search for candidate proteins for diagnostic assays and the treatment of this parasitic infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karina M Rebello
- Toxinology Laboratory, Oswaldo Cruz Institute (IOC), Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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15
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Rodriguez R, Dequi RM, Peruzzo L, Mesquita PM, Garcia E, Fornari F. Abdominal angiostrongyliasis: report of two cases with different clinical presentations. Rev Inst Med Trop Sao Paulo 2008; 50:339-41. [DOI: 10.1590/s0036-46652008000600005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2008] [Accepted: 09/11/2008] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Abdominal angiostrongyliasis is a sporadic infectious disease caused by the nematode Angiostrongylus costaricensis. It usually presents as acute abdomen, secondary to mesenteric ischemia, and pronounced eosinophilia. In some cases its course is insidious and transient, and the diagnosis is suspicious. The disease is confirmed by the detection of A. costaricensis elements in surgical specimen. The treatment is supportive, with avoidance of antihelminthic administration due to a possible erratic migration followed by worsening of the disease. We report two cases, both with intense eosinophilia and serum IgG-ELISA positive to A. costaricensis. The first case presented ileal perforation and was surgically treated. The second one showed hepatic nodules at ultrasound and was only symptomatically treated, evolving to an apparent protracted resolution. These two cases exemplify different clinical forms of the disease, one of them with liver involvement.
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16
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Palominos PE, Gasnier R, Rodriguez R, Agostini AA, Graeff-Teixeira C. Individual serological follow-up of patients with suspected or confirmed abdominal angiostrongyliasis. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 2008; 103:93-7. [PMID: 18327506 DOI: 10.1590/s0074-02762008005000002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2007] [Accepted: 02/11/2008] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Abdominal angiostrongyliasis (AA) is a zoonotic nematode infection caused by Angiostrongylus costaricensis, with widespread occurrence in the Americas. Although the human infection may be highly prevalent, morbidity is low in Southern Brazil. Confirmed diagnosis is based on finding parasitic structures in pathological examination of biopsies or surgical resections. Serology stands as an important diagnostic tool in the less severe courses of the infection. Our objective is to describe the follow up of humoral reactivity every 2-4 weeks up to one year, in six individuals with confirmed (C) and ten suspected (S) AA. Antibody (IgG) detection was performed by ELISA and resulted in gradually declining curves of reactivity in nine subjects (56%) (4C + 5S), that were consistently negative in only three of them (2C + 1S) after 221, 121 and 298 days. Three individuals (2C + 1S) presented with low persistent reacitivity, other two (1C + 1S) were serologically negative from the beginning, but also presenting a declining tendency. The study shows indications that abdominal angiostrongyliasis is usually not a persistent infection: although serological negativation may take many months, IgG reactivity is usually declining along time and serum samples pairing may add valuable information to the diagnostic workout.
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Affiliation(s)
- Penélope E Palominos
- Laboratório de Parasitologia Molecular, Instituto de Pesquisas Biomédicas, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul
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17
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Incani RN, Caleiras E, Martín M, González C. Human infection by Angiostrongylus costaricensis in Venezuela: first report of a confirmed case. Rev Inst Med Trop Sao Paulo 2007; 49:197-200. [PMID: 17625700 DOI: 10.1590/s0036-46652007000300012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2006] [Accepted: 10/27/2006] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
A proven case of human infection caused by Angiostrongylus costaricensis is reported for the first time in Venezuela. The patient was a 57-year-old female surgically operated because of signs of peritonitis with a palpable mass at the lower right quadrant of the abdomen. WBC count reported 16,600 cells/mm³, with 46% eosinophils. The tumoral aspect of ileocolic area and peritoneal lymph nodes prompted the resection of a large area of the terminal ileum, cecum, part of the ascending colon and a small part of the jejunum, where a small lesion was found. The pathology showed thickened areas of the intestinal wall with areas of hemorrhage and a perforation of the cecum. Histology showed intense eosinophil infiltration of the whole intestinal wall, granulomas with giant cells and eosinophils. Some of the granuloma surrounded round or oval eggs with content characterized by a large empty area, cells or embryo in the center, and sometimes nematode larvae. A cross section of an adult nematode worm was observed inside a branch of mesenteric artery. The intestinal affected area, the characteristics of the lesions, the presence of eggs in the submucosa with nematode larvae inside, and the observation of a nematode inside a mesenteric artery, makes sufficient criteria for the diagnosis of an infection by Angiostrongylus costaricensis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renzo Nino Incani
- Departamento de Parasitología, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Carabobo.
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18
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Graeff-Teixeira C. Expansion of Achatina fulica in Brazil and potential increased risk for angiostrongyliasis. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2007; 101:743-4. [PMID: 17481682 DOI: 10.1016/j.trstmh.2007.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The explosive introduction of the snail Achatina fulica in Brazil illustrates the current concern with global changes favouring dissemination of infectious diseases. The mollusc is an important host for Angiostrongylus cantonensis, which occurs in Asia and the Pacific Islands and is a causative agent for eosinophilic meningoencephalitis. In the Americas there is another metastrongylid worm, An. costaricensis, that causes abdominal disease and may also be transmitted by Ac. fulica. Although both infections may occur in focal outbreaks and with low morbidity, very severe complicated clinical courses pose a challenge for diagnosis and treatment. Data on abdominal angiostrongyliasis are briefly reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Graeff-Teixeira
- Laboratorio de Parasitologia Molecular do Instituto de Pesquisas Biomédicas, Instituto de Pesquisas Biomédicas da PUCRS, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
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19
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Bohrer Mentz M, Dallegrave E, Agostini A, Graeff-Teixeira C. Phenantroline, lovastatin, and mebendazole do not inhibit oviposition in the murine experimental infection with Angiostrongylus costaricensis. Parasitol Res 2006; 100:379-82. [PMID: 16944203 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-006-0271-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2006] [Accepted: 06/26/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Abdominal angiostrongyliasis is a zoonotic infection produced by a metastrongylid intra-arterial nematode, Angiostrongylus costaricensis. Human accidental infection may result in abdominal lesions. The presence of the eggs in the tissues plays an essential role in morbidity of abdominal angiostrongyliasis. The objective of this study is to evaluate and compare the effects of lovastatin, phenanthrolin, and mebendazole on oviposition of A. costaricensis in a murine experimental model. Each group of 12 male Swiss mice (Mus musculus) was orally infected with 10 L3 of the "Santa Rosa" strain of A. costaricensis. Two control groups were established: (1) mice were infected and not treated; (2) noninfected and nontreated animals. The experimental groups received (1) lovastatin TL), at a daily dose of 250 mg/kg for 10 consecutive days 16 days after infection; (2) phenanthroline at a daily dose of 20 mg/kg for 5 consecutive days 21 days after infection; and (3) mebendazole at a daily dose of 5 mg/kg for 5 consecutive days 21 days after infection. There was no significant inhibition of oviposition for lovastatin- and mebendazole-treated animals, whereas phenanthroline was associated with the lowest averages of larviposition per postinfection day and significant reduction of mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Márcia Bohrer Mentz
- Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde da Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
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20
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dos Santos JWA, Zambenedetti RM, Mann KC, da Rocha MP, Morais EN, Graeff-Teixeira C. Abdominal angiostrongyliasis: a case with severe evolution. Rev Inst Med Trop Sao Paulo 2006; 47:359-61. [PMID: 16553328 DOI: 10.1590/s0036-46652005000600010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
A case of acute abdomen disease caused by abdominal angiostrongyliasis is reported. A 42-year-old otherwise healthy patient presented with a complaint of nine days of abdominal pain, constipation, disury, fever and right iliac fossa palpable mass. Exploratory laparotomy was performed. After surgical treatment the patient presented serious complications.
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21
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Graeff-Teixeira C, Goulart AH, Brum CDO, Laitano AC, Sievers-Tostes C, Zanini GM, Bered PL, Morassutti A, Geiger S, Abrahms-Sandi E, Oliveira FTDS, Maurer RL, Aguiar LF, Garrido CT, da Silva ACA, Rodriguez R, Schulz-Key H, Agostini AA. Longitudinal clinical and serological survey of abdominal angiostrongyliasis in Guaporé, southern Brazil, from 1995 to 1999. Rev Soc Bras Med Trop 2005; 38:310-5. [PMID: 16082477 DOI: 10.1590/s0037-86822005000400006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Abdominal angiostrongyliasis is a zoonotic infection caused by Angiostrongylus costaricensis, a nematode with an intra-vascular location in the mesentery. Our objective was to address several aspects of the natural history of this parasitosis, in a longitudinal clinical and seroepidemiological study. A total of 179 individuals living in a rural area with active transmission in southern Brazil were followed for five years (1995-1999) resulting in yearly prevalence of 28.2%, 4.2%, 10%, 20.2% and 2.8% and incidences of 0%, 5.9%, 8% and 1.5%, respectively. Both men and woman were affected with higher frequencies at age 30-49 years. In 32 individuals serum samples were collected at all time points and IgG antibody reactivity detected by ELISA was variable and usually persisting not longer than one year. Some individual antibody patterns were suggestive of re-infection. There was no association with occurrence of abdominal pain or of other enteroparasites and there was no individual with a confirmed (histopathologic) diagnosis. Mollusks were found with infective third-stage larvae in some houses with an overall prevalence of 16% and a low parasitic burden. In conclusion, abdominal angiostrongyliasis in southern Brazil may be a frequent infection with low morbidity and a gradually decreasing serological reactivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Graeff-Teixeira
- Laboratório de Biologia Parasitária, Faculdade de Biociências, Pontificia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Ipiranga 6690, HSL 2o andar, sala 20, 90690-900 Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.
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22
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Nobre V, Serufo JC, Carvalho ODS, Mendonça CLGF, Santos SG, Mota EM, Gomes D, Braga E, Antunes CMF, Lenzi HL, Lambertucci JR. Alteration in the endogenous intestinal flora of swiss webster mice by experimental Angiostrongylus costaricensis infection. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 2004; 99:717-20. [PMID: 15654427 DOI: 10.1590/s0074-02762004000700009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The association between worm infections and bacterial diseases has only recently been emphasized. This study examined the effect of experimental Angiostrongylus costaricensis infection on endogenous intestinal flora of Swiss Webster mice. Eight mice aging six weeks were selected for this experiment. Four were infected with A. costaricensis and the other four were used as controls. Twenty eight days after the worm infection, all mice in both groups were sacrificed and samples of the contents of the ileum and colon were obtained and cultured for aerobic and anaerobic bacteria. In the mice infected with A. costaricensis there was a significant increase in the number of bacteria of the endogenous intestinal flora, accompanied by a decrease in the number of Peptostreptococcus spp. This alteration in the intestinal flora of mice infected by the nematode may help to understand some bacterial infections described in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vandack Nobre
- Serviço de DIP, Departamento de Clínica Médica, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Av. Alfredo Balena 190, sala 3045, 30130-100 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
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23
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Caldeira RL, Carvalho OS, Mendonça CL, Graeff-Teixeira C, Silva MC, Ben R, Maurer R, Lima WS, Lenzi HL. Molecular differentiation of Angiostrongylus costaricensis, A. cantonensis, and A. vasorum by polymerase chain reaction- restriction fragment length polymorphism. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 2003; 98:1039-43. [PMID: 15049087 DOI: 10.1590/s0074-02762003000800011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Angiostrongylus cantonensis, A. costaricensis, and A. vasorum are etiologic agents of human parasitic diseases. Their identification, at present, is only possible by examining the adult worm after a 40-day period following infection of vertebrate hosts with the third-stage larvae. In order to obtain a diagnostic tool to differentiate larvae and adult worm from the three referred species, polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism was carried out. The rDNA second internal transcribed spacer (ITS2) and mtDNA cytochrome oxidase I regions were amplified, followed by digestion of fragments with the restriction enzymes RsaI, HapII, AluI, HaeIII, DdeI and ClaI. The enzymes RsaI and ClaI exhibited the most discriminating profiles for the differentiation of the regions COI of mtDNA and ITS2 of rDNA respectively. The methodology using such regions proved to be efficient for the specific differentiation of the three species of Angiostrongylus under study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta L Caldeira
- Laboratório de Helmintoses Intestinais, Centro de Pesquisas René Rachou-Fiocruz, Av. Augusto de Lima 1715, 30190-002 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brasil
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24
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da Silva ACA, Graeff-Teixeira C, Zaha A. Diagnosis of abdominal angiostrongyliasis by PCR from sera of patients. Rev Inst Med Trop Sao Paulo 2003; 45:295-7. [PMID: 14743672 DOI: 10.1590/s0036-46652003000500011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Abdominal angiostrongyliasis is a zoonotic infection caused by an intra-vascular nematode parasitic of wild rodents, Angiostrongylus costaricensis. No parasitological diagnosis is currently available and immunodiagnosis presents several drawbacks. Primers constructed based on a congeneric species, A. cantonensis, were able to amplify a 232 bp fragment from serum samples of 3 patients with histopathological diagnosis. Extraction was better performed with DNAzol and the specificity of the primers was confirmed by Southern blot. This disease has been diagnosed with frequency in south of Brazil, thus, this method appears like the important and unpublished alternative to improve diagnostic of disease.
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25
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Nuchprayoon S, Sanprasert V, Suntravat M, Kraivichian K, Saksirisampant W, Nuchprayoon I. Study of specific IgG subclass antibodies for diagnosis of Gnathostoma spinigerum. Parasitol Res 2003; 91:137-43. [PMID: 12910416 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-003-0947-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2003] [Accepted: 06/24/2003] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Gnathostoma spinigerum infection is endemic in Thailand and many Asian countries. Current diagnosis is the skin test and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for IgG antibody against the G. spinigerum third-stage larvae (L3), but cross-reactivity is common. We evaluated the sensitivity and specificity of anti-G. spinigerum L3 IgG subclass antibodies for diagnosis of 43 patients with gnathostomiasis. The majority of patients with gnathostomiasis (91%) had eosinophilia. While the anti-G. spinigerum L3 IgG1 antibody provided the highest sensitivity (98%), the anti-G. spinigerum L3 IgG2 antibody had the highest specificity (88%). The ELISA that detected anti-G. spinigerum L3 IgG1 antibody could be a reliable laboratory screening test, while anti-G. spinigerum L3 IgG2 antibody could be used to confirm the diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Surang Nuchprayoon
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, 10330 Bangkok, Thailand.
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26
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Bender AL, Maurer RL, da Silva MCF, Ben R, Terraciano PB, da Silva ACA, Graeff-Teixeira C. [Eggs and reproductive organs of female Angiostrongylus costaricensis are more intensely recognized by human sera from acute phase in abdominal angiostrongyliasis]. Rev Soc Bras Med Trop 2003; 36:449-54. [PMID: 12937720 DOI: 10.1590/s0037-86822003000400003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Angiostrongylus costaricensisis is an intra-arterial nematode of rodents. Man may become accidentally infected through ingestion of contaminated food or water. Our objective was to describe the parasite structures recognized by human antibodies in serum samples from acute and convalescent phases of abdominal angiostrongyliasis. An indirect immunofluorescent method was employed to study reactivity on whole eggs and sections of female worms and first stage larvae (L1). L1 were also studied before and after sonication. Fluorescence, always higher with acute phase sera, was detected on the surface of whole eggs and in L1 fragments and was neither present on whole L1 nor on their sections. An inespecific reactivity was seen on the cuticular border of the general cavity and reproductive organs. The data indicate the latter as a main source of antigenicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Lígia Bender
- Laboratório de Parasitologia Molecular, Instituto de Pesquisas Biomédicas, Pontificia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brasil
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