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Keckeisen C, Šujanová A, Himmel T, Matt J, Nedorost N, Chagas CRF, Weissenböck H, Harl J. Isospora and Lankesterella Parasites (Eimeriidae, Apicomplexa) of Passeriform Birds in Europe: Infection Rates, Phylogeny, and Pathogenicity. Pathogens 2024; 13:337. [PMID: 38668292 PMCID: PMC11053544 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens13040337] [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: 02/20/2024] [Revised: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Wild birds are common hosts to numerous intracellular parasites such as single-celled eukaryotes of the family Eimeriidae (order Eucoccidiorida, phylum Apicomplexa). We investigated the infection rates, phylogeny, and pathogenicity of Isospora and Lankesterella parasites in wild and captive passerine birds. Blood and tissue samples of 815 wild and 15 deceased captive birds from Europe were tested using polymerase chain reaction and partial sequencing of the mitochondrial cytochrome b and cytochrome c oxidase I and the nuclear 18S rRNA gene. The infection rate for Lankesterella in wild birds was 10.7% compared to 5.8% for Isospora. Chromogenic in situ hybridization with probes targeting the parasites' 18S rRNA was employed to identify the parasites' presence in multiple organs, and hematoxylin-eosin staining was performed to visualize the parasite stages and assess associated lesions. Isospora parasites were mainly identified in the intestine, spleen, and liver. Extraintestinal tissue stages of Isospora were accompanied by predominantly lymphohistiocytic inflammation of varying severity. Lankesterella was most frequently detected in the spleen, lung, and brain; however, infected birds presented only a low parasite burden without associated pathological changes. These findings contribute to our understanding of Isospora and Lankesterella parasites in wild birds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carina Keckeisen
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Biological Sciences and Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, 1210 Vienna, Austria; (C.K.); (T.H.)
| | - Alžbeta Šujanová
- Institute of Zoology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, 845 06 Bratislava, Slovakia;
- Nature Research Centre, 084 12 Vilnius, Lithuania;
| | - Tanja Himmel
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Biological Sciences and Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, 1210 Vienna, Austria; (C.K.); (T.H.)
- Clinical Institutes of the MedUni Vienna, Department of Pathology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Julia Matt
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Biological Sciences and Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, 1210 Vienna, Austria; (C.K.); (T.H.)
| | - Nora Nedorost
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Biological Sciences and Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, 1210 Vienna, Austria; (C.K.); (T.H.)
| | | | - Herbert Weissenböck
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Biological Sciences and Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, 1210 Vienna, Austria; (C.K.); (T.H.)
| | - Josef Harl
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Biological Sciences and Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, 1210 Vienna, Austria; (C.K.); (T.H.)
- Clinical Institutes of the MedUni Vienna, Department of Pathology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
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McEntire MS, Landolfi JA, Adkesson MJ, Papich MG, Sander SJ, Roy L, Talley A, Vincent L, Allender MC. THE PHARMACOKINETICS AND PHARMACODYNAMICS OF ORAL PONAZURIL IN THE TREATMENT OF SYSTEMIC ISOSPOROSIS IN PASSERINE BIRDS. J Zoo Wildl Med 2023; 54:561-572. [PMID: 37817622 DOI: 10.1638/2022-0091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Systemic isosporosis, previously atoxoplasmosis, is a significant cause of mortality in juvenile passerine birds. Recommended treatment regimens are empiric and vary in efficacy. The goal of this study was to determine the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of ponazuril for treatment of systemic isosporosis. Ponazuril, diluted with water to create an oral suspension (50 mg/ml), was administered (100 mg/kg) to 72 European starlings (Sturnus vulgaris) by a single dose via direct oral gavage (n = 24), a single dose injected into superworm larvae (Zophobas morio; n = 24), or a daily dose mixed with commercial dog food to top-dress feed for 5 d (n = 24). Peak plasma concentrations were 5.84, 2.46, and 9.13 µg/ml for the direct gavage, injected larvae, and top-dressed feed groups, respectively. With repeated dosing, mean plasma concentrations from the top-dressed feed group were maintained between 8.12 to 13.11 µg/ml. Results suggested ponazuril at a dosage of 100 mg/kg administered via direct gavage or top-dressed feed, but not via injected larvae, would exceed the concentrations needed to inhibit merogony of other apicomplexan parasites in cell culture (5 µg/ml). To assess the pharmacodynamics of this dose, seven passerine birds, red-vented bulbuls (Pycnonotus cafer; n = 2), blue-grey tanager (Thraupis episcopus; n = 1), and red-capped cardinals (Paroaria gularis; n = 4), were identified as shedders of systemic Isospora spp. via fecal qPCR. Birds were then treated with ponazuril (100 mg/kg) daily on top-dressed feed for 14 d. Fecal shedding was assessed via qPCR for 6 wk from the initiation of treatment. Treatment was associated with reduction in proportions of fecal shedding during the treatment period and the week following treatment, but shedding resumed in all birds by the end of sampling. Results support that treatment of breeding birds with 100 mg/kg ponazuril could reduce the shedding of active oocysts and decrease risk of clinical infection in susceptible juveniles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael S McEntire
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana, Urbana, IL 61802, USA,
| | - Jennifer A Landolfi
- Zoological Pathology Program, University of Illinois, Brookfield, IL 60513, USA
| | | | - Mark G Papich
- Department of Molecular and Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27606, USA
| | - Samantha J Sander
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
| | - Leena Roy
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
| | - Alexandria Talley
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
| | - Lauren Vincent
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
| | - Matthew C Allender
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
- Chicago Zoological Society, Brookfield Zoo, Brookfield, IL 60513, USA
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Moura GHF, Nascimento GSD, Oliveira PRFD, Santana VS, Shimabukuro A, Valença YM, Calabuig C, Melo RPBD, Mota RA. Occurrence of Apicomplexa protozoa in wild birds in the Northeast region of Brazil. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA = BRAZILIAN JOURNAL OF VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY : ORGAO OFICIAL DO COLEGIO BRASILEIRO DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA 2023; 32:e014722. [PMID: 37075420 PMCID: PMC10124610 DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612023020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023]
Abstract
Protozoa of the Apicomplexa phylum are worldwide distributed with capacity to infect endothermic animals. The study of these protozoa in wild birds in Brazil is scarce. This study aimed to evaluate the occurrence of apicomplexan protozoa in wild birds in the Northeast of Brazil. From October to December 2019, brain tissue samples were collected from 71 captive birds from the Wild Animal Screening Center of the Pernambuco State (CETRAS-Tangara) and 25 free-living birds from the Caatinga biome in Rio Grande do Norte, totaling 96 animals (41 species). Brain fragments were subjected to molecular diagnosis by nested PCR for the 18s rDNA gene of Apicomplexa parasites, followed by DNA sequencing. This gene was detected in 25% (24/96) of the samples, and it was possible to perform DNA sequencing of 14 samples, confirming three genera: Isospora, Sarcocystis and Toxoplasma from eight bird species (Amazona aestiva, Coereba flaveola, Egretta thula, Paroaria dominicana, Sporophila nigricollis, Cariama cristata, Columbina talpacoti, Crypturellus parvirostris). The occurrence these coccidia in wild birds provides important epidemiological information for the adoption of preventive measures for its conservation. Future studies are needed to better understand the consequence of Apicomplexa infection in birds in Caatinga and Atlantic Forest biomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Hémylin Ferreira Moura
- Laboratório de Doenças Infectocontagiosas dos Animais Domésticos, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco - UFRPE, Recife, PE, Brasil
| | - Gleyce Silva do Nascimento
- Laboratório de Doenças Infectocontagiosas dos Animais Domésticos, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco - UFRPE, Recife, PE, Brasil
| | - Pollyanne Raysa Fernandes de Oliveira
- Laboratório de Doenças Infectocontagiosas dos Animais Domésticos, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco - UFRPE, Recife, PE, Brasil
| | - Vanessa Silva Santana
- Laboratório de Ecologia e Conservação de Fauna Terrestre, Departamento de Biociência, Universidade Federal do Semi-Árido - UFERSA, Mossoró, RN, Brasil
| | - Ayko Shimabukuro
- Laboratório de Ecologia e Conservação de Fauna Terrestre, Departamento de Biociência, Universidade Federal do Semi-Árido - UFERSA, Mossoró, RN, Brasil
| | - Yuri Marinho Valença
- Centro de Triagem e Reabilitação de Animais Silvestres de Pernambuco - CETRAS-Tangara, Recife, PE, Brasil
| | - Cecilia Calabuig
- Laboratório de Ecologia e Conservação de Fauna Terrestre, Departamento de Biociência, Universidade Federal do Semi-Árido - UFERSA, Mossoró, RN, Brasil
| | - Renata Pimentel Bandeira de Melo
- Laboratório de Doenças Infectocontagiosas dos Animais Domésticos, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco - UFRPE, Recife, PE, Brasil
| | - Rinaldo Aparecido Mota
- Laboratório de Doenças Infectocontagiosas dos Animais Domésticos, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco - UFRPE, Recife, PE, Brasil
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Wong TS, Stalis IH, Witte C, Kubiski SV. Unique Isospora-associated histologic lesions in white-rumped shama ( Copsychus malabaricus). Vet Pathol 2022; 59:869-872. [PMID: 35611703 PMCID: PMC9358608 DOI: 10.1177/03009858221098425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Twenty-one white-rumped shamas (19 necropsied, 2 biopsied) (Copsychus malabaricus) housed at the San Diego Zoo between 1992 and 2020 were diagnosed with Isospora infection based on evaluation of histologic sections. Review of these cases revealed a consistent histologic lesion characterized by nodular aggregates of atypical epithelioid macrophages containing few intracytoplasmic protozoa, with or without lymphocytic infiltrates. Of the 19 necropsied cases, 16 (84%) had systemic lesions variably affecting the liver, spleen, gastrointestinal tract, lung, pancreas, connective tissues, or bone marrow, while all 21 diagnosed cases had skin involvement. The findings suggest that white-rumped shamas have a unique inflammatory response to isosporosis with a predilection for the skin. Skin may be a diagnostically sensitive sampling site for histologic diagnosis of Isospora in this species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Talia S Wong
- San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, San Diego, CA.,University of California, Davis, Davis, CA
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SYSTEMIC ISOSPORIASIS (ATOXOPLASMOSIS) IN PASSERINE BIRDS AT THE ZOOLOGICAL SOCIETY OF LONDON, LONDON ZOO. J Zoo Wildl Med 2022; 53:70-82. [DOI: 10.1638/2021-0087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
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A QPCR ASSAY AND TESTING GUIDELINES FOR THE MOLECULAR DIAGNOSIS OF SYSTEMIC ISOSPOROSIS (FORMERLY ATOXPLASMOSIS) IN PASSERINE BIRDS. J Zoo Wildl Med 2020; 51:391-397. [PMID: 32549570 DOI: 10.1638/2019-0176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic isosporosis (formerly atoxoplasmosis), is a protozoal infection that causes death in nestling and fledgling passerine birds impacting ex situ breeding and reintroduction programs. Because current antemortem diagnostic tests lack sensitivity, a qPCR was developed for detection of Isospora spp. using primers and a fluorescent-tagged MGB probe targeting the large subunit (28s) ribosomal RNA gene (assay efficiency = >100%; sensitivity = <1 dsDNA copy). The assay was used to screen postmortem frozen or formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue samples from passerine birds (n = 24; 12 with confirmed systemic isosporosis), whole blood and feces (n = 38) from live passerines, and other tissues infected with phylogenetically similar protozoa. The qPCR identified Isospora sp. DNA in tissues from 21/24 birds including 12/12 birds with cytologically-histologically confirmed infection (100% sensitivity) and 9/12 birds lacking microscopic organisms. The assay also amplified Eimeria sp. DNA; however, sequence analysis ruled out infection in the passerine cases. Blood and/or feces were positive in 30/38 birds, and in only 7/38 birds, blood and feces both contained Isospora sp. DNA. Finally, the qPCR was utilized to screen 30 consecutive daily fecal samples from live passerines (n = 20) to determine optimal sampling protocols. One or more of the daily fecal samples were positive in all 20 birds. In individual birds, the interval between positive qPCR amplification results ranged from 0 to 23 days, with an average of 5.85 days. Simulated application of 13 potential sample collection schedules was used to identify the sensitivity of repeated testing for identification of infected birds. Increased sampling days resulted in higher sensitivity but increased both cost and animal handling requirements. Based on statistical analysis and clinical considerations, the testing recommendation for detection of fecal shedding was collection and assay of five consecutive daily fecal samples, which had an average diagnostic sensitivity of 0.86.
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Barbón AR, López J, Jamriška J, Price E, Thomasson A, Whitehead H, Braun J, Stidworthy MF. Clinical and Pathological Aspects of Systemic Isospora Infection in Blue-crowned Laughing Thrushes ( Garrulax courtoisi) at Jersey Zoo. J Avian Med Surg 2020; 33:265-277. [PMID: 31893622 DOI: 10.1647/2018-377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Based on a review of species mortalities, systemic Isospora species was identified as the primary cause of death in 22% (19 of 87) of blue-crowned laughing thrushes (BCLTs; Garrulax courtoisi) at the Jersey Zoo between 1997 and 2016. Fifty-eight percent of the affected birds were between 1 and 2 years old, and in 89% of cases, death occurred between August and December. Abnormal clinical findings in BCLTs with Isospora species infections included hepatomegaly and pectoral muscle myositis in 79% of the cases. The results of diagnostic blood testing in 90% of infected BCLTs 30 days before death were consistent with a severe leukocytosis with greater than 20% of mononuclear cells infected by merozoites. The most common lesions identified during gross necropsy examination were splenomegaly (100%), hepatomegaly (95%), and multifocal, raised, white foci in pectoral (84%) and heart (79%) muscle. Lymphohistiocytic inflammation was identified in the liver, heart, spleen, lung, striated muscle, and kidney tissue of birds with positive results for Isospora species. Merozoites were often observed in spleen, liver, pectoral muscle, and hearts of infected BCLTs. Polymerase chain reaction diagnostic testing that targeted the cytochrome c oxidase subunit, followed by Sanger sequencing, was used to confirm Isospora species in all 14 birds tested. Of samples tested, the highest genetic correlation was with GenBank accession number KT203397 (Isospora species JRB-2016 mitochondrion).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Javier López
- North of England Zoological Society, Upton-by-Chester, Chester CH2 2LH, England
| | - Jan Jamriška
- Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation Center-Into the Wild/Navrat do divociny, Borinka, Slovakia
| | - Eluned Price
- Jersey Zoo, Les Augres Manor, Jersey JE3 5BP, England
| | - Ann Thomasson
- Jersey Zoo, Les Augres Manor, Jersey JE3 5BP, England
| | | | - Josephine Braun
- Institute for Conservation Research, San Diego Zoo Global, Escondido, CA 92927-7000, USA
| | - Mark F Stidworthy
- International Zoo Veterinary Group, Station House, Keighley, West Yorkshire BD21 4NQ, England
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Gosbell MC, Olaogun OM, Luk K, Noormohammadi AH. Investigation of systemic isosporosis outbreaks in an aviary of greenfinch (Carduelis chloris) and goldfinch (Carduelis carduelis) and a possible link with local wild sparrows (Passer domesticus). Aust Vet J 2020; 98:338-344. [PMID: 32430906 DOI: 10.1111/avj.12947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2019] [Revised: 03/17/2020] [Accepted: 03/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
CASE REPORT An outbreak of systemic isosporosis caused mortalities in greenfinches (Carduelis chloris) and goldfinches (Carduelis carduelis) kept in an aviary in the western suburbs of Melbourne. The following year, a further outbreak in the same aviary occurred in a different flock of goldfinches. At the time of the second outbreak, dead and sick common sparrows (Passer domesticus) discovered near the aviary were also found to have systemic isosporosis. METHOD The systemic isosporosis was investigated and described using histopathology, electron microscopy and sequence analysis of the 18s gene. RESULTS Isospora spp. infecting the greenfinch and the goldfinch caused significant thickening of the duodenal lamina propria. Measurements in the goldfinches showed an inverse correlation coefficient between the thickening of the duodenum and the weightof the birds. Electron microscopy confirmed the presence of Isospora spp. within lymphocytes migrating into the lamina propria of the duodenum. Analysis of the 18s sequence discovered two different gene sequences across the three species of birds that didn't completely match any sequences previously deposited in GenBank. CONCLUSION Although the sparrows were found to have died from causes other than systemic Isospora, molecular studies of samples from their liver revealed the presence of an Isospora with 18s gene sequence identical to that found in the captive greenfinches.
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Affiliation(s)
- M C Gosbell
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, 3030, Australia.,Melbourne Bird Veterinary Clinic, Scoresby, Victoria, 3179, Australia
| | - O M Olaogun
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, 3030, Australia
| | - Khy Luk
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, 3030, Australia
| | - A H Noormohammadi
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, 3030, Australia
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Needle DB, Agnew DW, Bradway DS, Nordhausen RW, Garner MM. Avian coxiellosis in nine psittacine birds, one black-browed barbet, and one paradise tanager. Avian Pathol 2020; 49:268-274. [PMID: 32054295 DOI: 10.1080/03079457.2020.1729956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Infection with a novel species of the genus Coxiella was first described in three Swainson's blue mountain rainbow lorikeets from a zoological collection, and days later in a group of seven other psittacine birds and a toucan. We provide an update on coxiellosis in nine additional psittacines, and two non-psittacines. Psittacines originated in New England, the mid Atlantic, the Midwest, the South, and the Northwest. Psittacines most commonly had lesions in the brain, spleen, liver, and lungs, consisting of meningoencephalitis, hepatosplenomegaly, and interstitial pneumonia. Lesions contained histiocytic infiltrate, with intracytoplasmic, Gimenez-positive coccobacilli. Transmission electron microscopy revealed bacteria with trilaminar cell walls, electron dense cores, and spore-like forms. PCR revealed homology to the organism in index cases. In addition, one black-browed barbet and one paradise tanager were found with systemic coxiellosis; sequencing identified the same pathogen. These are the second piciforme and the first passerine affected by this pathogen, indicating expanded infectivity and pathogenicity.RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS Report of coxiellosis in nine psittacines; lesions often in brain, spleen, liver, lung.Second piciforme with coxiellosis, a black-browed barbet.First case of avian coxiellosis described in a passerine, a paradise tanager.
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Affiliation(s)
- David B Needle
- New Hampshire Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH, USA
| | - Dalen W Agnew
- Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Daniel S Bradway
- Washington Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
| | - Robert W Nordhausen
- California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
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Oliveira ARD, Souza TDD, Mol JPS, Flecher MC, Hiura E, Santos RL. Pathological and molecular characterization of systemic isosporosis (atoxoplasmosis) in captive green-winged saltator (Saltator similis). Vet Parasitol 2018; 255:98-101. [PMID: 29773145 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2018.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2018] [Revised: 04/11/2018] [Accepted: 04/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Systemic isosporosis, also called atoxoplasmosis or visceral coccidiosis, is a disease that affects birds in general. Pathogenesis of systemic isosporosis and its etiologic agent have not been well characterized, but taxonomically Atoxoplasma is currently considered a junior objective synonym of Isospora. The present report aimed to describe pathological and molecular findings of systemic isosporosis in captive green-winged saltators (Saltator similis) from the State of Espírito Santo, Brazil. In a commercial breeding facility eleven birds with two to nine months of age died from 2015 to 2016. These birds developed nonspecific clinical signs, including bristly feathers, hyporexia, loss of weight, and apathy. Two birds were necropsied, and grossly there were hepatomegaly, splenomegaly, necrosis of lymphoid follicles, hepatic necrosis, and severe enteritis. Merozoites were observed in the heart, small intestine, proventriculus, brain, liver, spleen, and kidneys. 23 S RNA PCR amplicons from DNA extracted from the liver and the intestinal contents had 99% identity with Atoxoplasma sp., whereas amplicons of mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 ha d 97% identity with Isospora greineri. In conclusion, this report indicates that systemic isosporosis in green-winged saltator is a disease that affects the spleen, liver, and small intestine, with high mortality for young birds, resulting in significant loses to commercial breeding facilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayisa Rodrigues de Oliveira
- Departamento de Clínica e Cirurgia Veterinárias, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
| | - Tayse Domingues de Souza
- Curso de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Vila Velha (UVV), Vila Velha, Espírito Santo, Brazil.
| | - Juliana P S Mol
- Departamento de Clínica e Cirurgia Veterinárias, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
| | - Mayra Cunha Flecher
- Curso de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Vila Velha (UVV), Vila Velha, Espírito Santo, Brazil.
| | - Emy Hiura
- Curso de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Vila Velha (UVV), Vila Velha, Espírito Santo, Brazil.
| | - Renato Lima Santos
- Departamento de Clínica e Cirurgia Veterinárias, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
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The Evolutionary Biology, Ecology and Epidemiology of Coccidia of Passerine Birds. ADVANCES IN PARASITOLOGY 2018. [PMID: 29530310 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apar.2018.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Coccidia are intracellular parasites of the phylum Apicomplexa that cause a range of pathologies collectively termed coccidiosis. Species of coccidia of commercial importance have been well studied, with the effect of other species on passerine birds receiving increasing attention. In this chapter, we review the literature on coccidia in passerines, with a particular focus on wild populations. The taxonomy and life cycle of passerine coccidia are covered, as is their impact on the health of passerines, their epidemiology and their role in parasite-mediated natural and sexual selection. Coccidia can pose a significant threat to the health of wild passerine populations, and high rates of mortality have been observed in some studies. We examine some of the genetic factors that influence host resistance to coccidia and discuss how these parasites may be important in relation to sexually selected traits. General patterns are beginning to emerge with regard to the epidemiology of the parasites, and the influence of different aspects of the host's ecology on the prevalence and intensity of coccidia is being revealed. We examine these, as well exceptions, in addition to the phenomenon of diurnal oocyst shedding that can bias studies if not accounted for. Finally, we discuss potential future directions for research on coccidia in passerines and the importance of understanding parasite ecology in the management of threatened species.
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INVESTIGATION OF THE PRESENCE OF ATOXOPLASMA SPP. IN BLUE-CROWNED LAUGHINGTHRUSH (DRYONASTES COURTOISI) ADULTS AND NEONATES. J Zoo Wildl Med 2017; 48:1-6. [PMID: 28363058 DOI: 10.1638/2016-0044.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Between 1996 and 2013, 71 blue-crowned laughingthrush (Dryonastes courtoisi) chicks, a small passerine bird endemic to China, were born at Mulhouse Zoo in northeast France. None of them survived past 1 yr, and 82% died between 0 and 6 days old of an unidentified cause and despite an attempt to establish an artificial breeding protocol. Atoxoplasma spp., causing a disease known as systemic isosporosis, is a coccidian parasite that can infect several species of birds. Mulhouse's adult birds were suspected to be infected with Atoxoplasma spp. and to transmit this parasite to their offspring. A treatment with toltrazuril (Baycox® 2.5%) was implemented in the four adult birds. Coprologic examinations were performed before, during, and after the treatment to quantify the parasite load in feces. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays were used to test blood samples from the adult and liver, lung, gizzard, and kidney samples from 10 chicks to detect Atoxoplasma spp. Five of the 10 chicks had some tissue samples positive for Atoxoplasma spp. in at least one of the three repeats of the atoxoplasmosis PCR. An average of 181 Isospora spp. oocysts per gram of feces were found in the group of adults before treatment. This number was reduced to zero 1 wk after the beginning of the toltrazuril treatment. The PCR results suggest a transovarian transmission of Atoxoplasma spp., but further investigation is needed for confirmation. The treatment with toltrazuril appears to allow a significant reduction of the parasite excretion.
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Jamriška J, Lavilla LA, Thomasson A, Barbon AR, Lopéz JF, Modrý D. Treatment of atoxoplasmosis in the Blue-crowned Laughing Thrush (Dryonastes courtoisi). Avian Pathol 2013; 42:569-71. [DOI: 10.1080/03079457.2013.854309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Carleton RE, Mertins JW, Yabsley MJ. Parasites and Pathogens of Eastern Bluebirds (Sialia sialis): A Field Survey of a Population Nesting Within a Grass-Dominated Agricultural Habitat in Georgia, U.S.A., with a Review of Previous Records. COMP PARASITOL 2012. [DOI: 10.1654/4493.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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Cushing TL, Schat KA, States SL, Grodio JL, O'Connell PH, Buckles EL. Characterization of the host response in systemic isosporosis (atoxoplasmosis) in a colony of captive American goldfinches (Spinus tristis) and house sparrows (Passer domesticus). Vet Pathol 2011; 48:985-92. [PMID: 21311069 DOI: 10.1177/0300985810391114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Systemic isosporosis, also known as atoxoplasmosis, is a common parasitic disease of passerines. Infection is thought to be endemic in wild birds with fulminant, fatal disease occurring under the influence of stress, concurrent infections, or immunosuppression. Here, we describe the histologic and immunohistochemical characteristics of the cellular infiltrate occurring in captive colonies of American goldfinches and house sparrows. Necropsies were performed on 9 birds, and histologic examination was performed on the intestines of 7 additional birds. Lesions were most severe in the proximal small intestines. Histologically, the changes ranged from variably intense infiltrates of lymphocytes that filled the lamina propria to sheets of large, atypical cells that expanded and obliterated normal mucosal epithelium and invaded through the wall of the intestine and into the ceolomic cavity. Both the smaller lymphocytes and large atypical cells were immunoreactive for CD3. Intracellular parasites consistent with Isospora were detected in the large atypical cells, but they were more easily detectable in the more differentiated lymphocytes. Polymerase chain reaction and virus isolation performed on tissues from 7 birds were negative for retroviruses and herpesvirus. The immunohistochemical results of this study and the destructive nature of the cellular infiltrate suggest that the lesion represents T-cell lymphoma. In birds, lymphomas are most often associated with herpes and retroviruses; the absence of these viruses suggests that the parasite initiated neoplastic transformation. Though much work needs to be done to prove the transformative nature of the lesions, these preliminary results suggest that passerine birds may be susceptible to parasite-associated lymphomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- T L Cushing
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
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McGill I, Feltrer Y, Jeffs C, Sayers G, Marshall RN, Peirce MA, Stidworthy MF, Pocknell A, Sainsbury AW. Isosporoid coccidiosis in translocated cirl buntings (Emberiza cirlus
). Vet Rec 2010; 167:656-60. [DOI: 10.1136/vr.c5179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- I. McGill
- Institute of Zoology; Zoological Society of London; Regent's Park London NW1 4RY
| | - Y. Feltrer
- Institute of Zoology; Zoological Society of London; Regent's Park London NW1 4RY
| | - C. Jeffs
- Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, South West Regional Office; Keble House, Southernhay Gardens Exeter EX1 1NT
| | - G. Sayers
- Paignton Zoo Environmental Park; Totnes Road Paignton Devon TQ4 7EU
| | - R. N. Marshall
- Veterinary Laboratories Agency - Weybridge; Woodham Lane, New Haw Addlestone Surrey KT15 3NB
| | - M. A. Peirce
- MP International Consultancy; 6 Normandale House, Normandale Bexhill-on-Sea East Sussex TN39 3NZ
| | - M. F. Stidworthy
- International Zoo Veterinary Group; Keighley Business Centre; South Street Keighley West Yorkshire BD21 1AG
| | - A. Pocknell
- Institute of Zoology; Zoological Society of London; Regent's Park London NW1 4RY
| | - A. W. Sainsbury
- Institute of Zoology; Zoological Society of London; Regent's Park London NW1 4RY
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