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Guzmán DA, Diaz E, Sáenz C, Álvarez H, Cueva R, Zapata-Ríos G, Prado-Vivar B, Falconí M, Pearson T, Barragán V. Domestic dogs in indigenous Amazonian communities: key players in Leptospira cycling and transmission? BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.09.19.558554. [PMID: 37786682 PMCID: PMC10541607 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.19.558554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/04/2023]
Abstract
Background Leptospirosis is the world's most common zoonotic disease. Mitigation and control rely on pathogen identification and understanding the roles of potential reservoirs in cycling and transmission. Underreporting and misdiagnosis obscure the magnitude of the problem and confound efforts to understand key epidemiological components. Difficulties in culturing hamper the use of serological diagnostics and delay the development of DNA detection methods. As a result, especially in complex ecosystems, we know very little about the importance of different mammalian host species in cycling and transmission to humans. Methodology/Principal Findings We sampled five indigenous Kichwa communities living in the Yasuní National Park in the Ecuadorian Amazon basin. Blood and urine samples from domestic dogs were collected to assess the exposure of these animals to Leptospira, and to identify the circulating species. Microscopic Agglutination Tests with a panel of 22 different serovars showed anti-leptospira antibodies in 36 sampled dogs (75%), and 10 serotypes were detected. Two DNA-based detection assays revealed pathogenic Leptospira DNA in 18 of 19 dog urine samples (94.7%). Amplicon sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of 16s rDNA and SecY genes from 15 urine samples revealed genetic diversity within two of three different Leptospira species: noguchii (n=7), santarosai (n=7), and interrogans (n=1). Conclusions/Significance The high prevalence of antibodies and Leptospira DNA provides strong evidence for high rates of past and current infections. Such high prevalence has not been previously reported for dogs. These dogs live in the peridomestic environment in close contact with humans, yet they are free-ranging animals that interact with wildlife. This complex web of interactions may explain the diverse types of pathogenic Leptospira observed in this study. Our results suggest that domestic dogs are likely to play an important role in the cycling and transmission of Leptospira. Future studies in areas with complex ecoepidemiology will enable better parsing of the significance of genotypic, environmental, and host characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego A. Guzmán
- Instituto de Microbiología, Colegio de Ciencias Biológicas y Ambientales, Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Eduardo Diaz
- Escuela de Medicina Veterinaria, Colegio de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad San Francisco de Quito USFQ, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Carolina Sáenz
- Hospital de Fauna Silvestre TUERI, Instituto de Biodiversidad Tropical IBIOTROP, Universidad San Francisco de Quito USFQ, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Hernán Álvarez
- Wildlife Conservation Society – Ecuador Program, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Rubén Cueva
- Wildlife Conservation Society – Ecuador Program, Quito, Ecuador
| | | | - Belén Prado-Vivar
- Instituto de Microbiología, Colegio de Ciencias Biológicas y Ambientales, Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Mercy Falconí
- Agencia de Regulación y Control Fito y Zoosanitario – Agrocalidad, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Talima Pearson
- Pathogen and Microbiome Institute, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, Arizona, United States of America
| | - Verónica Barragán
- Instituto de Microbiología, Colegio de Ciencias Biológicas y Ambientales, Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Quito, Ecuador
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Bradley EA, Lockaby G. Leptospirosis and the Environment: A Review and Future Directions. Pathogens 2023; 12:1167. [PMID: 37764975 PMCID: PMC10538202 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12091167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease of global importance with significant morbidity and mortality. However, the disease is frequently overlooked and underdiagnosed, leading to uncertainty of the true scale and severity of the disease. A neglected tropical disease, leptospirosis disproportionately impacts disadvantaged socioeconomic communities most vulnerable to outbreaks of zoonotic disease, due to contact with infectious animals and contaminated soils and waters. With growing evidence that Leptospira survives, persists, and reproduces in the environment, this paper reviews the current understanding of the pathogen in the environment and highlights the unknowns that are most important for future study. Through a systematic Boolean review of the literature, our study finds that detailed field-based study of Leptospira prevalence, survival, and transmission in natural waters and soils is lacking from the current literature. This review identified a strong need for assessment of physical characteristics and biogeochemical processes that support long-term viability of Leptospira in the environment followed by epidemiological assessment of the transmission and movement of the same strains of Leptospira in the present wildlife and livestock as the first steps in improving our understanding of the environmental stage of the leptospirosis transmission cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A. Bradley
- College of Forestry, Wildlife, and Environment, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
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3
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Torres FD, Borges ALDSB, Kolesnikovas C, Domit C, Barbosa CB, Carvalho-Costa FA, Di Azevedo MIN, Lilenbaum W. Pinnipeds carriers of pathogenic Leptospira: New data based on molecular characterization. Res Vet Sci 2023; 155:62-68. [PMID: 36634544 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2022.12.012] [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: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease caused by the infection of pathogenic strains of the genus Leptospira, endemic in tropical and subtropical regions. Although well documented in terrestrial animals and humans, little information is available on its distribution and impact on marine animals. Despite clinical manifestations that may occur, the occurrence of carriers was suggested in some species. Nevertheless, there are few studies regarding the infection by Leptospira sp. in marine mammals. In this context, and considering the One Health approach, the present aimed to investigate pinnipeds' role as Leptospira sp. carriers. Kidneys of 47 pinnipeds of two species, Arctocephalus australis (n = 40) and Arctocephalus tropicalis (n = 7) were collected. DNA was extracted and the diagnosis was performed through LipL32-PCR and genetic characterization based on secY gene sequencing. Phylogenetic analysis and haplotype networks were constructed. Pathogenic Leptospira sp. DNA was detected in 31.9% (15/47) of the tested pinnipeds. It was possible to amplify and sequence eight strains (6 for A. australis, 2 for A. tropicalis), all identified as L. interrogans, with high similarity with sequences from Icterohaemorrhagiae serogroup. Phylogenetic analysis revealed sequences from the present study grouped in species-specific unique clusters, but very close to others from humans, wild animals, and domestic animals. We demonstrate that pinnipeds could act as carriers, and play an important role in leptospirosis dynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felipe D'Azeredo Torres
- Laboratory of Veterinary Bacteriology, Biomedical Institute, Fluminense Federal University, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | | | - Camila Domit
- Laboratory of Ecology and Conservation, Center of Ocean Research, Paraná Federal University, Paraná, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Walter Lilenbaum
- Laboratory of Veterinary Bacteriology, Biomedical Institute, Fluminense Federal University, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
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4
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Rodrigues TC, Santos AL, Pinheiro ES, Piatti RM, Castro V, Buiatte AB, Lima AM, Marmontel M. Survey for Leptospira and Brucella in Amazonian manatees, Amazon river dolphins, and a tucuxi in the Brazilian Amazon. DISEASES OF AQUATIC ORGANISMS 2022; 150:17-29. [PMID: 35796508 DOI: 10.3354/dao03667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Leptospirosis and brucellosis are zoonotic diseases with global distributions that represent severe hazards to humans and animals. We investigated exposure to Leptospira spp. and Brucella spp. in samples from Amazonian manatees Trichechus inunguis, Amazon river dolphins Inia geoffrensis, and a tucuxi Sotalia fluviatilis. The animals were free-ranging or undergoing in situ rehabilitation in the mid-Solimões River region, Brazilian Amazon. Serum samples from 19 Amazonian manatees were tested by microscopic agglutination test, Rose Bengal test, and 2-mercaptoethanol Brucella agglutination test. Antibodies against Leptospira spp. were detected in 63% of the manatees tested and serovar Patoc was considered the infecting serovar in all positive samples. Titers were generally low, indicating chronic exposure, but higher titers indicative of an active infection were detected in 3 animals. Anti-Brucella spp. antibodies were not detected. Tissue and/or body fluid samples from 12 Amazon river dolphins, a tucuxi, and 2 Amazonian manatees were investigated by multiplex PCR and bacteriology for Leptospira spp. and Brucella spp. All samples were negative. However, Enterococcus faecalis was isolated from uterine fluid, lymph node, and lung of 3 Amazon river dolphins. Bacillus spp. were isolated from milk and synovial fluid from 2 Amazon river dolphins and from a milk sample from 1 Amazonian manatee. Knowledge of the pathogens present in Amazonian manatees, Amazon river dolphins, and tucuxis is of great relevance to species conservation and environmental health. Although no clinical signs were noted, further research is needed to elucidate the clinical relevance of infection by Leptospira sp. serovar Patoc in Amazonian aquatic mammals.
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Ahmadpour E, Rahimi MT, Ghojoghi A, Rezaei F, Hatam-Nahavandi K, Oliveira SMR, de Lourdes Pereira M, Majidiani H, Siyadatpanah A, Elhamirad S, Cong W, Pagheh AS. Toxoplasma gondii Infection in Marine Animal Species, as a Potential Source of Food Contamination: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Acta Parasitol 2022; 67:592-605. [PMID: 35038109 PMCID: PMC8761968 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-021-00507-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Many marine animals are infected and susceptible to toxoplasmosis, which is considered as a potential transmission source of Toxoplasma gondii to other hosts, especially humans. The current systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to determine the prevalence of T. gondii infection among sea animal species worldwide and highlight the existing gaps. METHODS Data collection was systematically done through searching databases, including PubMed, Science Direct, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Web of Science from 1997 to July 2020. RESULTS Our search strategy resulted in the retrieval of 55 eligible studies reporting the prevalence of marine T. gondii infection. The highest prevalence belonged to mustelids (sea otter) with 54.8% (95% CI 34.21-74.57) and cetaceans (whale, dolphin, and porpoise) with 30.92% (95% CI 17.85-45.76). The microscopic agglutination test (MAT) with 41 records and indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA) with 30 records were the most applied diagnostic techniques for T. gondii detection in marine species. CONCLUSIONS Our results indicated the geographic distribution and spectrum of infected marine species with T. gondii in different parts of the world. The spread of T. gondii among marine animals can affect the health of humans and other animals; in addition, it is possible that marine mammals act as sentinels of environmental contamination, especially the parasites by consuming water or prey species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ehsan Ahmadpour
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Altin Ghojoghi
- Department of Fisheries, Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Gorgān, Iran
| | | | | | - Sónia M R Oliveira
- CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
- Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI), New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Maria de Lourdes Pereira
- CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Hamidreza Majidiani
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Samira Elhamirad
- Infectious Diseases Research Center, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, PO Box 9717853577, Birjand, Iran
| | - Wei Cong
- Marine College, Shandong University, Weihai, China
| | - Abdol Sattar Pagheh
- Infectious Diseases Research Center, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, PO Box 9717853577, Birjand, Iran.
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Cilia G, Bertelloni F, Albini S, Fratini F. Insight into the Epidemiology of Leptospirosis: A Review of Leptospira Isolations from "Unconventional" Hosts. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:191. [PMID: 33466962 PMCID: PMC7830643 DOI: 10.3390/ani11010191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Leptospirosis is a re-emerging worldwide zoonotic disease. Even though the primary serological test for diagnosis and surveying is the microscopic agglutination test (MAT), isolation remains the gold-standard test to detect Leptospira infections. The leptospirosis transmission is linked to maintenance and accidental hosts. In the epidemiology of Leptospira some serovar are strictly related to specific maintenance hosts; however, in recent years, the bacterium was isolated from an even wider spectrum of species. The aim of this review is to report the isolation of Leptospira strains in animals which could be recognized as "unconventional" hosts, analyzing studies from 1960 to 2020 that highlighted the Leptospira isolation. This scientific literature aimed to provide evidence of infection in several animal species including of the Carnivora, Didelphimorphia, Rodentia, Cetacea, Cingulata, Afrosoricida, Chiroptera and Primate orders, as well as in Reptilia and Amphibia classes. In conclusion, the spreading of Leptospira is attention-worthy because the infection could occur in all the animal species ranging in a specific area. Further screening and isolations are needed to collect all necessary data to gain a complete understanding of leptospirosis epidemiology and its modifications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Fabrizio Bertelloni
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Pisa, Viale delle Piagge 2, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (G.C.); (S.A.); (F.F.)
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7
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Dubey JP, Murata FHA, Cerqueira-Cézar CK, Kwok OCH, Grigg ME. Recent epidemiologic and clinical importance of Toxoplasma gondii infections in marine mammals: 2009-2020. Vet Parasitol 2020; 288:109296. [PMID: 33271425 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2020.109296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2020] [Revised: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 10/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii infections are common in humans and animals worldwide. T. gondii causes mortality in several species of marine mammals, including threatened Southern sea otters (Enhydra lutris) and endangered Hawaiian monk seals (Monachus schauinslandi). Marine mammals are now considered sentinels for environmental exposure to protozoan agents contaminating marine waters, including T. gondii oocysts. Marine mammals also serve as food for humans and can result in foodborne T. gondii infections in humans. The present review summarizes worldwide information on the prevalence of clinical and subclinical infections, epidemiology, and genetic diversity of T. gondii infecting marine mammals in the past decade. The role of genetic types of T. gondii and clinical disease is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jitender P Dubey
- United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, Animal Parasitic Diseases Laboratory, Beltsville, MD 20705-2350, USA.
| | - Fernando H A Murata
- United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, Animal Parasitic Diseases Laboratory, Beltsville, MD 20705-2350, USA
| | - Camila K Cerqueira-Cézar
- United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, Animal Parasitic Diseases Laboratory, Beltsville, MD 20705-2350, USA
| | - Oliver C H Kwok
- United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, Animal Parasitic Diseases Laboratory, Beltsville, MD 20705-2350, USA
| | - Michael E Grigg
- Molecular Parasitology Section, Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20895, USA
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8
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Sánchez-Sarmiento AM, Carvalho VL, Meirelles ACO, Gravena W, Marigo J, Sacristán C, Costa-Silva S, Groch KR, Silva ND, Ferreira Neto JS, Catão-Dias JL. Survey of Brucella spp. and Leptospira spp. antibodies in cetaceans and manatees of the Amazon basin and Atlantic Ocean, Brazil. DISEASES OF AQUATIC ORGANISMS 2018; 132:1-11. [PMID: 30530926 DOI: 10.3354/dao03312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Aquatic mammals can act as sentinels of emerging and resurging pathogens in the environment. Brucella spp. and Leptospira spp. are 2 zoonotic pathogens relevant to aquatic mammals, and their detection can be used to assess pathogen exposure. In this study, serum from 84 individuals-63 cetaceans (families Iniidae, n = 37; Delphinidae, n = 22; and Kogiidae, n = 4) and 21 West Indian manatees Trichechus manatus-was tested by the Rose Bengal Test (RBT) and a commercial competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (c-ELISA) for detecting Brucella spp. antibodies, and the microscopic agglutination test (MAT) for screening Leptospira spp. exposure. Overall, 4.8% (3/63) of cetaceans were positive by RBT and 15.9% (10/63) by c-ELISA for Brucella spp. Serum from 8 c-ELISA positive cetaceans (with available serum) was further tested via serum agglutination test (SAT) and 1 individual was positive. c-ELISA was more sensitive than RBT. Exposure to Brucella spp. was found in 5 cetacean species: Clymene dolphin Stenella clymene, short-finned pilot whale Globicephala macrorhynchus, pygmy killer whale Feresa attenuata, melon-headed whale Peponocephala electra and Atlantic bottlenose dolphin Tursiops truncatus in the Atlantic Ocean, Brazil, expanding the range of known Brucella seropositive aquatic hosts. No evidence of Brucella spp. exposure was found in Iniidae and Kogiidae odontocetes and manatees. Antibodies against Leptospira spp. were not detected in cetaceans and sirenians by MAT. These results contribute to the evaluation of different Brucella spp. serological methods in cetaceans and manatees and highlight the epidemiology of zoonotic pathogens in aquatic mammals of the southwestern Atlantic Ocean and the Amazon basin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angélica M Sánchez-Sarmiento
- Laboratório de Patologia Comparada de Animais Selvagens, Departamento de Patologia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Avenida Professor Dr. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, 05508-270 São Paulo, SP, Brazil
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9
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The role of capybaras as carriers of leptospires in periurban and rural areas in the western Amazon. Acta Trop 2017; 169:57-61. [PMID: 28119048 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2017.01.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2016] [Revised: 08/04/2016] [Accepted: 01/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Although leptospirosis has been described in capybaras, usually based on serological evidences, bacterial culture of leptospires has been scarcely reported in this species. The western Amazon is a reportedly endemic area where high seroprevalences have been reported in different species of wildlife, domestic animals and in human beings. The present study aimed at investigating the role of capybaras as carriers of leptospires in periurban and rural areas in the western Amazon region. A total of 44 animals were captured, and 41 blood samples (for serology) and 41 urine samples (for PCR and bacterial culture) were obtained. A total of 18/41 (43.9%) of sera were reactive and titers were generally low, indicating chronic infection. PCR was positive in 13/41 (31.7%) samples, isolates were recovered from urine samples belonging to Icterohaemorrhagiae, Grippotyphosa and Shermani serogroups. A high number of carriers (confirmed by PCR) associated to a tendency for harboring Icterohaemorrhagiae serogroup strains could be noticed. Our results suggest that capybaras are massively infected by leptospires. Analogously to Norway rats, capybaras present chronic infection with low titers and long-term bacterial shedding, and may be acting as reservoirs of this bacterium.
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10
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Pérez-Flores J, Charruau P, Cedeño-Vázquez R, Atilano D. Evidence for Wild Crocodiles as a Risk for Human Leptospirosis, Mexico. ECOHEALTH 2017; 14:58-68. [PMID: 27807634 DOI: 10.1007/s10393-016-1196-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2016] [Revised: 09/28/2016] [Accepted: 10/19/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Sentinel species such as crocodilians are used to monitor the health of ecosystems. However, few studies have documented the presence of zoonotic diseases in wild populations of these reptiles. Herein we analyzed 48 serum samples from Crocodylus acutus (n = 34) and C. moreletii (n = 14) from different sites in the state of Quintana Roo (Mexico) to detect antibodies to Leptospira interrogans by means of a microscopic agglutination test (MAT). Crocodylus acutus and C. moreletii tested positive to 11 and 9 serovars, respectively, with Grippotyphosa being the serovar with the highest prevalence in Cozumel island (100%), Banco Chinchorro Biosphere Reserve (70.6%), and Río Hondo (100%), while in Chichankanab Lake, it was Bratislava (75%). Titers ranged from 1:50 to 1:3200, and the most frequent was 1:50 in all study sites. Leptospira is present in fresh and saltwater individuals due to the resistance of the bacterium in both environments. Cases of infected people involved with crocodile handling and egg collection suggest that these reptiles could play an important role in the transmission of leptospirosis. Preventive medicine programs should consider the monitoring of reptiles, and testing the soil and water, to prevent outbreaks of leptospirosis in facilities containing crocodiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Pérez-Flores
- Departamento de Sistemática y Ecología Acuática, El Colegio de la Frontera Sur, Unidad Chetumal, Avenida Centenario Km 5.5, C.P. 77014, Chetumal, Quintana Roo, Mexico.
| | - Pierre Charruau
- Centro del Cambio Global y la Sustentabilidad en el Sureste, A.C., Calle Centenario del Instituto Juárez s/n, Col. Reforma, C.P. 86080, Villahermosa, Tabasco, Mexico
| | - Rogelio Cedeño-Vázquez
- Departamento de Sistemática y Ecología Acuática, El Colegio de la Frontera Sur, Unidad Chetumal, Avenida Centenario Km 5.5, C.P. 77014, Chetumal, Quintana Roo, Mexico
| | - Daniel Atilano
- Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Circuito Exterior s/n, Ciudad Universitaria, C.P. 04510, Mexico
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11
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Smith LN, Waltzek TB, Rotstein DS, Francis-Floyd R, Walsh MT, Wellehan JFX, Gerhold R, Chapman AE, de Wit M. Disseminated toxoplasmosis Toxoplasma gondii in a wild Florida manatee Trichechus manatus latirostris and seroprevalence in two wild populations. DISEASES OF AQUATIC ORGANISMS 2016; 122:77-83. [PMID: 27901507 DOI: 10.3354/dao03055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Marine mammals are important indicators for ecosystem health and serve as sentinel species for infectious agents including zoonoses. Histological examination of tissues from a stranded Florida manatee Trichechus manatus latirostris revealed protozoal cysts in the cerebrum and intrahistiocytic tachyzoites in the liver and caudal mesenteric lymph node. Disseminated Toxoplasma gondii infection was confirmed by immunohistochemistry and sequencing of the nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer region of formalin-fixed tissues. The lack of baseline information on Florida manatees' exposure to this pathogen prompted a study into the seroprevalence of T. gondii in 2 separate geographic habitats in Florida, USA, during the winters from 2011-2014. Serum was collected during routine health assessments of 44 apparently healthy manatees from Crystal River (n = 26) on the west central coast of Florida and Brevard County (n = 18) on the east coast of Florida. Serum was screened for detection of T. gondii immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies via the modified agglutination test. Two animals from Crystal River from 2011 and 2012 (7.7%) and one animal from Brevard County from 2011 (5.6%) tested positive for T. gondii antibodies. Overall seroprevalence for T. gondii was low in the 2 sampled populations and may reflect a low seroprevalence or animal susceptibility. However, continued monitoring of this pathogen in aquatic ecosystems is warranted due to both possible anthropogenic sources and zoonotic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren N Smith
- Tampa's Lowry Park Zoo, 1101 W Sligh Avenue, Tampa, FL 33604, USA
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12
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van de Velde N, Devleesschauwer B, Leopold M, Begeman L, IJsseldijk L, Hiemstra S, IJzer J, Brownlow A, Davison N, Haelters J, Jauniaux T, Siebert U, Dorny P, De Craeye S. Toxoplasma gondii in stranded marine mammals from the North Sea and Eastern Atlantic Ocean: Findings and diagnostic difficulties. Vet Parasitol 2016; 230:25-32. [PMID: 27884438 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2016.10.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2016] [Revised: 10/19/2016] [Accepted: 10/22/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The occurrence of the zoonotic protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii in marine mammals remains a poorly understood phenomenon. In this study, samples from 589 marine mammal species and 34 European otters (Lutra lutra), stranded on the coasts of Scotland, Belgium, France, The Netherlands and Germany, were tested for the presence of T. gondii. Brain samples were analysed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for detection of parasite DNA. Blood and muscle fluid samples were tested for specific antibodies using a modified agglutination test (MAT), a commercial multi-species enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and an immunofluorescence assay (IFA). Out of 193 animals tested by PCR, only two harbour porpoise (Phocoena phocoena) cerebrum samples, obtained from animals stranded on the Dutch coast, tested positive. The serological results showed a wide variation depending on the test used. Using a cut-off value of 1/40 dilution in MAT, 141 out of 292 animals (41%) were positive. Using IFA, 30 out of 244 tested samples (12%) were positive at a 1/50 dilution. The commercial ELISA yielded 7% positives with a cut-off of the sample-to-positive (S/P) ratio≥50; and 12% when the cut-off was set at S/P ratio≥20. The high number of positives in MAT may be an overestimation due to the high degree of haemolysis of the samples and/or the presence of lipids. The ELISA results could be an underestimation due to the use of a multispecies conjugate. Our results confirm the presence of T. gondii in marine mammals in The Netherlands and show exposure to the parasite in both the North Sea and the Eastern Atlantic Ocean. We also highlight the limitations of the tests used to diagnose T. gondii in stranded marine mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norbert van de Velde
- Department of Pathology, Bacteriology and Avian Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Brecht Devleesschauwer
- Department of Virology, Parasitology and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium; Department of Public Health and Surveillance, Scientific Institute of Public Health (WIV-ISP), Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Mardik Leopold
- Wageningen IMARES - Institute for Marine Resources and Ecosystem Studies, Den Helder, The Netherlands
| | - Lineke Begeman
- Viroscience, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Lonneke IJsseldijk
- Utrecht University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Dept. Pathobiology, The Netherlands
| | - Sjoukje Hiemstra
- Utrecht University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Dept. Pathobiology, The Netherlands
| | - Jooske IJzer
- Utrecht University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Dept. Pathobiology, The Netherlands
| | - Andrew Brownlow
- Scottish Marine Animal Stranding Scheme, SAC Consulting. Veterinary Services, Drummondhill, Inverness, IV2 4JZ Scotland, UK
| | - Nicholas Davison
- Scottish Marine Animal Stranding Scheme, SAC Consulting. Veterinary Services, Drummondhill, Inverness, IV2 4JZ Scotland, UK
| | - Jan Haelters
- Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences (RBINS), Ostend, Belgium
| | - Thierry Jauniaux
- Department of Morphology and Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Ursula Siebert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Büsum, Germany
| | - Pierre Dorny
- Department of Virology, Parasitology and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium; Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Stéphane De Craeye
- National Reference Laboratory for Toxoplasmosis, Department of Communicable and Infectious Diseases, Scientific Institute of Public Health (WIV-ISP), Brussels, Belgium
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SEROPREVALENCE OFTOXOPLASMA GONDIIIN CAPTIVE ANTILLEAN MANATEE (TRICHECHUS MANATUS MANATUS) IN BRAZIL. J Zoo Wildl Med 2016; 47:423-6. [DOI: 10.1638/2015-0100.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
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Vitaliano SN, Mendonça GMD, Sandres FAMD, Camargo JDSAA, Tarso PD, Basano SDA, Silva JCDE, Souza VKGD, Cartonilho G, Almeida ATDSD, Gennari SM, Camargo LMA. Epidemiological aspects of Toxoplasma gondii infection in riverside communities in the Southern Brazilian Amazon. Rev Soc Bras Med Trop 2015; 48:301-6. [DOI: 10.1590/0037-8682-0040-2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2015] [Accepted: 04/24/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
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Seasonal prevalence of antibodies to Leptospira interrogans in Antillean manatees from a landlocked lake in Tabasco, Mexico. J Wildl Dis 2014; 50:505-11. [PMID: 24779468 DOI: 10.7589/2013-05-102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Factors that alter the dynamics of ecologic systems can influence transmission of infectious diseases and may lead to decreases in natural populations. Leptospirosis is a cosmopolitan disease of zoonotic importance that affects most mammals. At the southern Gulf of Mexico, Antillean manatees (Trichechus manatus manatus) inhabit highly variable environments, with extended floods during the rainy season and drought conditions during the dry season that affect food availability and the thermal environment for manatees. We tested for changes in prevalence and titers of antibodies to 12 serovars of Leptospira interrogans in manatees between dry and rainy seasons. We determined titers for L. interrogans through microscopic agglutination tests (MAT) from 10 manatees, six during the dry season (DS), and six during the rainy season (RS) in Laguna de las Ilusiones, a landlocked lake hosting a population of about 20 manatees. All individuals were antibody positive (titers ≥ 100) to at least one serovar. The serovars bataviae, bratislava, canicola, and icterohaemorrhagiae had overall prevalences ≥ 50%; bataviae, bratislava, and canicola had prevalences ≥ 50% during both seasons. Serovars icterohaemorrhagiae and pyrogenes had prevalences ≥ 50% during DS and pomona, tarassovi, wolfii, and autumnalis during RS. Significant differences in prevalence between seasons were found for pomona, tarassovi, and autumnalis. Titers of tarassovi, wolfii, autumnalis, and bataviae were significantly higher during RS. There was a high prevalence of L. interrogans during the RS independent of high availability of plant foods, coinciding with the epizootiology of the bacteria that are endemic to tropical regions. Another factor possibly influencing prevalence is high anthropogenic pressure at the lake, causing an increase in potential sources of infection. Because of possible cross-reaction in MAT, further research is needed on the molecular discrimination of serovars in animals in the lake.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To provide an overview of ocular toxoplasmosis, the leading cause of infectious posterior uveitis, focusing on recent trends of disease epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, therapy and prevention. RECENT FINDINGS Novel aspects of epidemiology, including growing importance of water transmission are discussed. The historical controversy of congenital versus postnatally acquired toxoplasmosis is revisited. Recent insights into pathogenesis of ocular toxoplasmosis are also reviewed, tipping the delicate balance between parasite virulence and host immunity. Diagnosis of ocular toxoplasmosis is also discussed in the light of serological, molecular and imaging tools. Finally, a critical analysis of current and emerging therapies for ocular toxoplasmosis is made. Preventive aspects are also commented upon. SUMMARY Waterborne toxoplasmosis is increasingly recognized in outbreaks and in endemic areas. The importance of postnatally acquired toxoplasmosis is now well established, but should not lead to underestimation of congenital disease. Genetic determination of parasite virulence/individual susceptibility might correlate with disease outcomes. Serological, molecular and imaging tools may improve the diagnosis and follow-up of individuals with ocular toxoplasmosis. Despite emergence of alternative therapeutic regimens, including intravitreal antibiotics, classical therapy with sulfadiazine/pyrimethamine is still standard for toxoplasmic retinochoroiditis. Adequate prophylaxis is expected to have an effect in ocular burden of toxoplasmosis.
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Toxoplasmosis in a Guiana dolphin (Sotalia guianensis) from Paraná, Brazil. Vet Parasitol 2013; 191:358-62. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2012.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2012] [Revised: 08/11/2012] [Accepted: 09/09/2012] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Bossart GD, Mignucci-Giannoni AA, Rivera-Guzman AL, Jimenez-Marrero NM, Camus AC, Bonde RK, Dubey JP, Reif JS. Disseminated toxoplasmosis in Antillean manatees Trichechus manatus manatus from Puerto Rico. DISEASES OF AQUATIC ORGANISMS 2012; 101:139-144. [PMID: 23135141 DOI: 10.3354/dao02526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Necropsies were conducted on 4 Antillean manatees Trichechus manatus manatus that were stranded in single events on the coastal beaches of Puerto Rico from August 2010 to August 2011. Three manatees were emaciated and the gastrointestinal tracts were devoid of digesta. Microscopically, all manatees had severe widespread inflammatory lesions of the gastrointestinal tract and heart with intralesional tachyzoites consistent with Toxoplasma gondii identified by histological, ultrastructural and immunohistochemical techniques. The gastrointestinal lesions included severe, multifocal to diffuse, chronic-active enteritis, colitis and/or gastritis often with associated ulceration, necrosis and hemorrhage. Enteric leiomyositis was severe and locally extensive in all cases and associated with the most frequently observed intralesional protozoans. Moderate to severe, multifocal, chronic to chronic-active, necrotizing myocarditis was also present in all cases. Additionally, less consistent inflammatory lesions occurred in the liver, lung and a mesenteric lymph node and were associated with fewer tachyzoites. Sera (n = 30) collected from free-ranging and captive Puerto Rican manatees and a rehabilitated/released Puerto Rican manatee from 2003 to 2012 were tested for antibodies for T. gondii. A positive T. gondii antibody titer was found in 2004 in 1 (3%) of the free-ranging cases tested. Disease caused by T. gondii is rare in manatees. This is the first report of toxoplasmosis in Antillean manatees from Puerto Rico. Additionally, these are the first reported cases of disseminated toxoplasmosis in any sirenian. The documentation of 4 cases of toxoplasmosis within one year and the extremely low seroprevalence to T. gondii suggest that toxoplasmosis may be an emerging disease in Antillean manatees from Puerto Rico.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory D Bossart
- Georgia Aquarium, 225 Baker Street Northwest, Atlanta, Georgia 30313, USA.
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Sulzner K, Kreuder Johnson C, Bonde RK, Auil Gomez N, Powell J, Nielsen K, Luttrell MP, Osterhaus ADME, Aguirre AA. Health assessment and seroepidemiologic survey of potential pathogens in wild Antillean manatees (Trichechus manatus manatus). PLoS One 2012; 7:e44517. [PMID: 22984521 PMCID: PMC3440391 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0044517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2012] [Accepted: 08/08/2012] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The Antillean manatee (Trichechus manatus manatus), a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, inhabits fresh, brackish, and warm coastal waters distributed along the eastern border of Central America, the northern coast of South America, and throughout the Wider Caribbean Region. Threatened primarily by human encroachment, poaching, and habitat degradation, Antillean manatees are listed as endangered by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature. The impact of disease on population viability remains unknown in spite of concerns surrounding the species' ability to rebound from a population crash should an epizootic occur. To gain insight on the baseline health of this subspecies, a total of 191 blood samples were collected opportunistically from wild Antillean manatees in Belize between 1997 and 2009. Hematologic and biochemical reference intervals were established, and antibody prevalence to eight pathogens with zoonotic potential was determined. Age was found to be a significant factor of variation in mean blood values, whereas sex, capture site, and season contributed less to overall differences in parameter values. Negative antibody titers were reported for all pathogens surveyed except for Leptospira bratislava, L. canicola, and L. icterohemorrhagiae, Toxoplasma gondii, and morbillivirus. As part of comprehensive health assessment in manatees from Belize, this study will serve as a benchmark aiding in early disease detection and in the discernment of important epidemiologic patterns in the manatees of this region. Additionally, it will provide some of the initial tools to explore the broader application of manatees as sentinel species of nearshore ecosystem health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn Sulzner
- Wildlife Health Center, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - Christine Kreuder Johnson
- Wildlife Health Center, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - Robert K. Bonde
- Sirenia Project, United States Geological Survey, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Nicole Auil Gomez
- Sea to Shore Alliance, St. Petersburg, Florida, United States of America
| | - James Powell
- Sea to Shore Alliance, St. Petersburg, Florida, United States of America
| | - Klaus Nielsen
- Canadian Food Inspection Agency, Nepean, Ontario, Canada
| | - M. Page Luttrell
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, United States of America
| | | | - A. Alonso Aguirre
- Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation, Front Royal, Virginia, United States of America
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, George Mason University, Fairfax, Virginia, United States of America
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