1
|
Investigation of comorbidities in dogs with leishmaniosis due to Leishmania infantum. Vet Parasitol Reg Stud Reports 2023; 39:100844. [PMID: 36878629 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2023.100844] [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: 04/23/2022] [Revised: 01/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023]
Abstract
In endemic areas, dogs with leishmaniosis due to Leishmania infantum frequently have comorbidities, including mostly neoplastic, infectious, and parasitic diseases. The aim of this study was to compare the prevalence of comorbidities among dogs that are not infected by L. infantum, dogs that are infected but do not present leishmaniosis, and dogs with leishmaniosis, and to examine if certain comorbidities are independent risk factors for the infection by L. infantum and/or for the development of canine leishmaniosis (CanL). A total of 111 dogs, older than 1-year and non-vaccinated against CanL, were allocated into three groups: group A (n = 18) included dogs that were not infected by L. infantum, group B (n = 52) included dogs that were infected by L. infantum but did not present CanL, and group C (n = 41) included dogs with CanL. Signalment and historical data were obtained using a structured questionnaire. Laboratory examinations included complete blood count, serum biochemistry, urinalysis, fecal parasitology, modified Knott's test, microscopic examination of capillary blood, buffy coat, lymph node, bone marrow and conjunctival smears, qualitative serology for Dirofilaria immitis, Anaplasma phagocytophilum/A. platys, Borrelia burgdorferi and E. canis, IFAT for L. infantum, ELISA for Babesia spp. and Neospora caninum, and real-time PCR for L. infantum in bone marrow, skin biopsies and conjunctival swabs. A variety of comorbidities were found in all three groups. No independent risk factors for infection by L. infantum were found. On the contrary, among dogs infected by L. infantum, being a mongrel [odds ratio (OR): 11.2], not receiving prevention for dirofilariosis (OR: 26.5) and being seropositive to N. caninum (OR: 17.1) or to Babesia spp. (OR: 37.6), were independent risk factors for presenting CanL. Although no comorbidities influence the probability of canine infection by L. infantum, certain comorbidities may be precipitating factors for the transition from the subclinical infection by L. infantum to the overt CanL.
Collapse
|
2
|
[Circulación de Leishmania infantum y Trypanosoma cruzi en perros domésticos de áreas urbanas de Sincelejo, región Caribe de Colombia]. BIOMEDICA : REVISTA DEL INSTITUTO NACIONAL DE SALUD 2022; 42:633-649. [PMID: 36511676 PMCID: PMC9814371 DOI: 10.7705/biomedica.6369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Introducción. La enfermedad de Chagas y la leishmaniasis tradicionalmente se han considerado zoonosis endémicas de áreas rurales del país. Sin embargo, la aparición de casos de estas enfermedades en áreas urbanas sugiere nuevos ciclos de circulación de estos parásitos. Por esta razón, se ha propuesto a los perros como centinelas de estos agentes zoonóticos, dado su rol como huéspedes accidentales o reservorios. Objetivo. Evaluar la circulación silenciosa de Leishmania spp. y Trypanosoma cruzi en perros de zonas urbanas de la ciudad de Sincelejo, Sucre. Materiales y métodos. Se analizaron 100 muestras de sangre de perros para amplificar la región ITS1 de Leishmania spp. Las muestras positivas se utilizaron para amplificar la región conservada del minicírculo del ADN del cinetoplasto de Leishmania infantum y para el análisis de polimorfismos de longitud de fragmentos de restricción con la endonucleasa HaeIII. Por otra parte, se amplificó un fragmento del ADN satelital de T. cruzi. Además, se evaluó la presencia de infecciones por Ehrlichia canis y Anaplasma platys, como potencialmente modificadoras de las manifestaciones clínicas. Resultados. De los 100 perros estudiados, se detectó: Leishmania spp. en 32, T. cruzi en 12, ambos parásitos en 7 y L. infantum en 18. Se encontraron infecciones por anaplasmatáceos en 18, y coinfecciones por bacterias y parásitos en 8 de los perros. En general, 47 de los animales estaban infectados por, al menos, un agente etiológico. Conclusión. Se demuestra la circulación de L. infantum y T. cruzi en zonas urbanas de Sincelejo, así como coinfecciones de estos parásitos junto con parásitos de la familia Anaplasmataceae. El presente estudio demuestra la conveniencia del uso de perros en la vigilancia epidemiológica de estos agentes zoonóticos.
Collapse
|
3
|
Gallo-Francisco PH, Brocchi M, Giorgio S. Leishmania and its relationships with bacteria. Future Microbiol 2022; 17:199-218. [PMID: 35040703 DOI: 10.2217/fmb-2021-0133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Leishmaniasis is a zoonotic and neglected disease, which represents an important public health problem worldwide. Different species of Leishmania are associated with different manifestations, and a practical problem that can worsen the condition of hosts infected with Leishmania is the secondary infection caused by bacteria. This review aims to examine the importance and prevalence of bacteria co-infection during leishmaniasis and the nature of this ecological relationship. In the cases discussed in this review, the facilitation phenomenon, defined as any interaction where the action of one organism has a beneficial effect on an organism of another species, was considered in the Leishmania-bacteria interaction, as well as the effects on one another and their consequences for the host.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pedro H Gallo-Francisco
- Department of Animal Biology, Biology Institute, State University of Campinas, Campinas SP, 13083-862, Brazil
| | - Marcelo Brocchi
- Department of Genetics, Microbiology & Immunology, Biology Institute, State University of Campinas, Campinas SP, Brazil
| | - Selma Giorgio
- Department of Animal Biology, Biology Institute, State University of Campinas, Campinas SP, 13083-862, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Beasley EA, Pessôa-Pereira D, Scorza BM, Petersen CA. Epidemiologic, Clinical and Immunological Consequences of Co-Infections during Canine Leishmaniosis. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11113206. [PMID: 34827938 PMCID: PMC8614518 DOI: 10.3390/ani11113206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Revised: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Canine leishmaniosis (CanL), the most severe, visceralizing form of disease caused by Leishmania infantum transmitted by phlebotomine sand flies. CanL is frequently diagnosed in the Mediterranean basin and South America, although it is also found in other regions, including the United States (U.S.). Dogs in these regions are at risk for co-infections, prominently tick-borne diseases. Our review examines epidemiologic, clinical, and immunologic mechanisms found during the most common eight CanL co-infections reported in published literature. Co-infections alter immunologic processes and disease progression impacting CanL diagnosis, therapeutic responses, and prognosis. Abstract Canine leishmaniosis (CanL) is a vector-borne, parasitic disease. CanL is endemic in the Mediterranean basin and South America but also found in Northern Africa, Asia, and the U.S. Regions with both competent sand fly vectors and L. infantum parasites are also endemic for additional infectious diseases that could cause co-infections in dogs. Growing evidence indicates that co-infections can impact immunologic responses and thus the clinical course of both CanL and the comorbid disease(s). The aim for this review is to summarize epidemiologic, clinical, and immunologic factors contributing to eight primary co-infections reported with CanL: Ehrlichia spp., Anaplasma spp., Borrelia spp., Babesia spp., Trypanosoma cruzi, Toxoplasma gondii, Dirofilaria immitis, Paracoccidioides braziliensis. Co-infection causes mechanistic differences in immunity which can alter diagnostics, therapeutic management, and prognosis of dogs with CanL. More research is needed to further explore immunomodulation during CanL co-infection(s) and their clinical impact.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erin A. Beasley
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Public Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA; (E.A.B.); (D.P.-P.); (B.M.S.)
- Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Danielle Pessôa-Pereira
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Public Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA; (E.A.B.); (D.P.-P.); (B.M.S.)
- Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Breanna M. Scorza
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Public Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA; (E.A.B.); (D.P.-P.); (B.M.S.)
- Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Christine A. Petersen
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Public Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA; (E.A.B.); (D.P.-P.); (B.M.S.)
- Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Portero M, Miró G, Checa R, Martínez de Merlo E, Fragío C, Benito M, Sainz Á, Pérez C. Role of Leishmania infantum in Meningoencephalitis of Unknown Origin in Dogs from a Canine Leishmaniosis Endemic Area. Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9030571. [PMID: 33802179 PMCID: PMC7998340 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9030571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2021] [Revised: 03/06/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The main hypothesis for the aetiology of meningoencephalitis of unknown origin (MUO) in dogs is an autoimmune or genetic cause that is associated with a triggering event (environmental factors/infectious agents). The aim of this ambispective cohort study was to test for Leishmania infantum infection in the blood and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of dogs with MUO in an endemic area of canine leishmaniosis. Dogs with MUO were selected amongst all dogs undergoing blood anti-L. infantum antibody testing (control group). The blood plasma or serum samples from all dogs were analysed for anti- L. infantum antibodies by a quantitative indirect fluorescent assay (IFAT). In dogs with MUO, CSF samples were obtained for analysed by PCR detection of L. infantum DNA. Forty-four percent and 22% of the dogs in the MUO group featured magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings and CSF cytology respectively, consistent with L. infantum infection. IFAT, PCR, and histological findings were negative for L. infantum. A significant difference in L. infantum infection prevalence was found between the control and MUO group (p = 0.0022). While it seems unlikely that L. infantum plays a role in the aetiology of MUO, in endemic areas, this pathogen should be included in the differential diagnosis of this neurological disorder.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Portero
- Department of Small Animal Medicine and Surgery, Hospital Clinico Veterinario Complutense, Veterinary Faculty, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (E.M.d.M.); (C.F.); (M.B.); (Á.S.); (C.P.)
- Correspondence: (M.P.); (G.M.)
| | - Guadalupe Miró
- Department of Animal Health, Veterinary Faculty, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain;
- Correspondence: (M.P.); (G.M.)
| | - Rocío Checa
- Department of Animal Health, Veterinary Faculty, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Elena Martínez de Merlo
- Department of Small Animal Medicine and Surgery, Hospital Clinico Veterinario Complutense, Veterinary Faculty, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (E.M.d.M.); (C.F.); (M.B.); (Á.S.); (C.P.)
| | - Cristina Fragío
- Department of Small Animal Medicine and Surgery, Hospital Clinico Veterinario Complutense, Veterinary Faculty, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (E.M.d.M.); (C.F.); (M.B.); (Á.S.); (C.P.)
| | - Miguel Benito
- Department of Small Animal Medicine and Surgery, Hospital Clinico Veterinario Complutense, Veterinary Faculty, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (E.M.d.M.); (C.F.); (M.B.); (Á.S.); (C.P.)
| | - Ángel Sainz
- Department of Small Animal Medicine and Surgery, Hospital Clinico Veterinario Complutense, Veterinary Faculty, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (E.M.d.M.); (C.F.); (M.B.); (Á.S.); (C.P.)
| | - Carmen Pérez
- Department of Small Animal Medicine and Surgery, Hospital Clinico Veterinario Complutense, Veterinary Faculty, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (E.M.d.M.); (C.F.); (M.B.); (Á.S.); (C.P.)
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Dubey JP, Murata FHA, Cerqueira-Cézar CK, Kwok OCH, Yang Y, Su C. Toxoplasma gondii infections in dogs: 2009-2020. Vet Parasitol 2020; 287:109223. [PMID: 33160144 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2020.109223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Revised: 08/23/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii infections are common in humans and animals worldwide. The present review summarizes worldwide information on the prevalence of clinical and subclinical infections, epidemiology, diagnosis, and genetic diversity of T. gondii in dogs (Canis familiaris) from 2009-2020. Seroprevalence estimates of T. gondii worldwide were tabulated. Reports of high seroprevalence in canine population and high congenital transmission of T. gondii in dogs in Brazil are reviewed. Most reports from China were published in Chinese, and these reports are now summarized here. Dogs have an additional importance in some countries such as China, Vietnam, and Nigeria; whereas in many cities dog meat is sold commercially for human consumption and given to felids, and transmission of T. gondii could occur if meat is not cooked properly. Dogs can ingest T. gondii-infected cat feces and these oocysts remain viable after passage through the digestive tract of the dog; T. gondii DNA was found in feces of dogs from New York City parks in USA. Most clinical canine cases of toxoplasmosis were in immunosuppressed dogs, and ulcerative dermatitis was one of the main presentations. Genetic diversity based on PCR-RFLP markers using DNA derived from 133 viable T. gondii isolates from dogs from several countries is discussed. T. gondii strains from Asia and Americas were more genetically diverse than those from Africa. This review will be of interest to biologists, parasitologists, veterinarians, and public health workers.
Collapse
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
| | - Yurong Yang
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450002, PR China
| | - Chunlei Su
- Department of Microbiology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996-0845, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Farré Mariné A, Borrego JF, Pumarola M, Luján Feliu-Pascual A. What Is Your Neurologic Diagnosis? J Am Vet Med Assoc 2020; 255:789-792. [PMID: 31517576 DOI: 10.2460/javma.255.7.789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
|
8
|
Panti-May JA, Rodríguez-Vivas RI. Canine babesiosis: A literature review of prevalence, distribution, and diagnosis in Latin America and the Caribbean. VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY- REGIONAL STUDIES AND REPORTS 2020; 21:100417. [PMID: 32862915 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2020.100417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2020] [Revised: 05/13/2020] [Accepted: 05/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Canine babesiosis is a tick-borne disease with worldwide distribution and global significance. Traditionally, canine babesiosis was caused by B. canis (large Babesia) and B. gibsoni (small Babesia) based on cytological examination of stained blood smears. Currently, molecular techniques have demonstrated that several Babesia species infect dogs: B. canis, B. vogeli, and B. rossi (large forms) and B. gibsoni, B. conradae, and B. vulpes (small forms). In this study, we compiled and reviewed currently available data on Babesia infections in dogs in Latin America and the Caribbean, as well as on distribution of Babesia species with respect to prevalence, geographic location, and methods of detection. Forty-three studies on canine babesiosis published from 2005 to 2019 were included. The publications retrieved reported three species of Babesia (B. vogeli, B. gibsoni, and B. caballi) based on molecular confirmation of the species. Babesia vogeli was reported in Mexico, Costa Rica, Granada, Haiti, Nicaragua, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Trinidad and Tobago, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Paraguay, Peru, and Venezuela. In contrast, B. gibsoni was recorded in Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Saint Kitts and Nevis, and Brazil. Babesia caballi was found in a dog from Brazil. Babesia prevalence in dogs varied considerably based on parasite species and geographic location, with values close zero to 26.2%. Besides molecular techniques such as PCR, studies included examination of blood smears by microscopy and/or serologic tests. Few countries in the region, e.g., Brazil and Costa Rica, possess profound data availability, whereas the majority of them have scarce information or no data. A deeper understanding of the ecology and epidemiology of Babesia spp. in dogs is needed for the region.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jesús Alonso Panti-May
- Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Campus de Ciencias Biológicas y Agropecuarias, Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán, km 15.5 carretera Mérida-Xmatkuil, Mérida 97135, Yucatán, Mexico
| | - Roger Iván Rodríguez-Vivas
- Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Campus de Ciencias Biológicas y Agropecuarias, Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán, km 15.5 carretera Mérida-Xmatkuil, Mérida 97135, Yucatán, Mexico.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Leishmania hide-and-seek: Parasite amastigotes in the choroid plexus of a dog with neurological signs in an endemic municipality in Brazil. VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY- REGIONAL STUDIES AND REPORTS 2019; 17:100291. [PMID: 31303241 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2019.100291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2019] [Revised: 04/10/2019] [Accepted: 04/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
A female adult mixed-breed stray dog presented with hind limb paraparesis and clinical signs of visceral leishmaniasis. The cerebrospinal fluid presented signs of blood-brain barrier disruption. Both spleen and brain were positive for Leishmania spp. DNA. Besides inflammation, in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry (IHC) revealed the presence of intracellular amastigotes in the choroid plexus (CP). Despite other studies that revealed parasite DNA, the current study describes the presence of Leishmania within the brain of a naturally infected dog, specifically in CP, with no previous reports in the Americas, and suggests the CP as a possible pathway to parasite entry into the brain.
Collapse
|
10
|
Calero-Bernal R, Gennari SM. Clinical Toxoplasmosis in Dogs and Cats: An Update. Front Vet Sci 2019; 6:54. [PMID: 30863754 PMCID: PMC6399377 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2019.00054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2018] [Accepted: 02/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis is caused by the globally distributed protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii (phylum Apicomplexa); the disease can be clinically important for almost all homeothermic animals, including birds and humans. Toxoplasmosis course involves general clinical signs, such as fever, anorexia, or dyspnea, and more specific signs with neural, respiratory, cutaneous, or ocular involvement. Because of the wide range of clinical signs, the diagnosis in domestic and pet animals can be complicated. Hence, this review aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of some scarcely discussed aspects of toxoplasmosis, such as ocular and cutaneous manifestations, congenital infections, influence of T. gondii genotype on clinical toxoplasmosis, and recent findings regarding differential diagnosis. This review could be of special interest to clinicians and researchers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Calero-Bernal
- Saluvet Group, Department of Animal Health, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Solange M. Gennari
- Program of Master's in Animal Medicine and Welfare, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Santo Amaro, São Paulo, Brazil
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Marcondes M, Day MJ. Current status and management of canine leishmaniasis in Latin America. Res Vet Sci 2019; 123:261-272. [PMID: 30708238 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2019.01.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2018] [Revised: 01/18/2019] [Accepted: 01/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Latin America encompasses diverse geographical, cultural and socio-economic conditions, which are reflected in the challenges for infectious disease control in the region. One of the most significant regional infectious diseases for humans and domestic dogs is leishmaniasis, occurring as visceral leishmaniasis (VL) caused by Leishmania infantum (syn. L. chagasi) transmitted by sand flies (Lutzomyia longipalpis) and with a canine reservoir, and the more common cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) involving multiple Leishmania spp. (particularly L. braziliensis), sand fly vectors and reservoir hosts. VL is spreading within Latin America for reasons related to mass migration of human and canine populations, with incursion into novel environments (e.g. related to deforestation) coupled with a background of poverty and poor public health infrastructure. The challenges for control of VL also include: (1) the accurate identification of infected dogs (particularly subclinically infected dogs) with the current reliance on serological rather than molecular diagnostic methods, (2) controversy surrounding the ethics and efficacy of culling of seropositive dogs, (3) the limited efficacy of currently available canine vaccines and their potential to interfere with interpretation of serological testing, (4) the expense associated with distribution of insecticidal dog collars, which may prove to be the most valuable control method, and (5) the cost and therefore accessibility of licensed medical treatment for canine leishmaniasis by the general population. Resolution of these isssues will necessitate a 'One Health' approach to co-ordination of resources between human and veterinary healthcare.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mary Marcondes
- São Paulo State University (Unesp), School of Veterinary Medicine, Araçatuba, 16050-680 Araçatuba, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Michael J Day
- School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Marcondes M, Hirata KY, Vides JP, Sobrinho LSV, Azevedo JS, Vieira TSWJ, Vieira RFC. Infection by Mycoplasma spp., feline immunodeficiency virus and feline leukemia virus in cats from an area endemic for visceral leishmaniasis. Parasit Vectors 2018; 11:131. [PMID: 29554969 PMCID: PMC5859654 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-018-2716-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2017] [Accepted: 02/15/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) has been increasingly recognized in cats living in areas endemic for the disease. Co-infection with Leishmania infantum and other infectious agents is well established in dogs. However, for cats, data on co-infections with L. infantum and other infectious agents are still sparse. The aim of this study was to identify the prevalence of vector-borne pathogens, Mycoplasma spp., feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and feline leukaemia virus (FeLV) in cats from an area endemic for VL in southeastern Brazil. Results Of the 90 cats, eight (8.9%) were infected with Mycoplasma spp., five (5.5%) were FIV- positive and one (1.1%) was FeLV-positive. Co-infection with L. infantum and at least one other infectious agent was found in 9/50 (18.0%; CI: 8.6–31.4%) cats. In Group 1 (cats infected naturally by L. infantum), 4/50 (8.0%) cats were positive for FIV, 4/50 (8%) for Mycoplasma spp. and 1/50 (2.0%) was co-infected with FeLV and Mycoplasma spp. In Group 2 (cats non-infected with L. infantum), 2/40 (5.0%) cats were infected with Mycoplasma spp. and 1/40 (2.5%) was co-infected with FIV and Mycoplasma spp. All cats were negative for Ehrlichia spp., Babesia spp. and Anaplasma platys. Conclusion A low prevalence of co-infection in Leishmania-infected and non-infected cats was found. Co-infections with Leishmania and vector-borne diseases in cats are not common in this area endemic for VL in Brazil.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mary Marcondes
- São Paulo State University (Unesp), School of Veterinary Medicine, Araçatuba, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Karina Y Hirata
- São Paulo State University (Unesp), School of Veterinary Medicine, Araçatuba, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Juliana P Vides
- São Paulo State University (Unesp), School of Veterinary Medicine, Araçatuba, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ludmila S V Sobrinho
- São Paulo State University (Unesp), School of Veterinary Medicine, Araçatuba, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Jaqueline S Azevedo
- São Paulo State University (Unesp), School of Veterinary Medicine, Araçatuba, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Thállitha S W J Vieira
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Rafael F C Vieira
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Attipa C, Solano-Gallego L, Papasouliotis K, Soutter F, Morris D, Helps C, Carver S, Tasker S. Association between canine leishmaniosis and Ehrlichia canis co-infection: a prospective case-control study. Parasit Vectors 2018; 11:184. [PMID: 29554932 PMCID: PMC5859779 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-018-2717-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2017] [Accepted: 02/15/2018] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background In the Mediterranean basin, Leishmania infantum is a major cause of disease in dogs, which are frequently co-infected with other vector-borne pathogens (VBP). However, the associations between dogs with clinical leishmaniosis (ClinL) and VBP co-infections have not been studied. We assessed the risk of VBP infections in dogs with ClinL and healthy controls. Methods We conducted a prospective case-control study of dogs with ClinL (positive qPCR and ELISA antibody for L. infantum on peripheral blood) and clinically healthy, ideally breed-, sex- and age-matched, control dogs (negative qPCR and ELISA antibody for L. infantum on peripheral blood) from Paphos, Cyprus. We obtained demographic data and all dogs underwent PCR on EDTA-blood extracted DNA for haemoplasma species, Ehrlichia/Anaplasma spp., Babesia spp., and Hepatozoon spp., with DNA sequencing to identify infecting species. We used logistic regression analysis and structural equation modelling (SEM) to evaluate the risk of VBP infections between ClinL cases and controls. Results From the 50 enrolled dogs with ClinL, DNA was detected in 24 (48%) for Hepatozoon spp., 14 (28%) for Mycoplasma haemocanis, 6 (12%) for Ehrlichia canis and 2 (4%) for Anaplasma platys. In the 92 enrolled control dogs, DNA was detected in 41 (45%) for Hepatozoon spp., 18 (20%) for M. haemocanis, 1 (1%) for E. canis and 3 (3%) for A. platys. No Babesia spp. or “Candidatus Mycoplasma haematoparvum” DNA was detected in any dog. No statistical differences were found between the ClinL and controls regarding age, sex, breed, lifestyle and use of ectoparasitic prevention. A significant association between ClinL and E. canis infection (OR = 12.4, 95% CI: 1.5–106.0, P = 0.022) was found compared to controls by multivariate logistic regression. This association was confirmed using SEM, which further identified that younger dogs were more likely to be infected with each of Hepatozoon spp. and M. haemocanis, and dogs with Hepatozoon spp. were more likely to be co-infected with M. haemocanis. Conclusions Dogs with ClinL are at a higher risk of co-infection with E. canis than clinically healthy dogs. We recommend that dogs diagnosed with ClinL should be tested for E. canis co-infection using PCR.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Charalampos Attipa
- Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Diagnostic Laboratories, Bristol Veterinary School and Langford Vets, University of Bristol, Langford, UK.,Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, University of London, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, UK.,Cyvets Veterinary Center, Paphos, Cyprus
| | - Laia Solano-Gallego
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Kostas Papasouliotis
- Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Diagnostic Laboratories, Bristol Veterinary School and Langford Vets, University of Bristol, Langford, UK.,IDEXX Laboratories Ltd, Wetherby, UK
| | - Francesca Soutter
- Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, University of London, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - David Morris
- Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Diagnostic Laboratories, Bristol Veterinary School and Langford Vets, University of Bristol, Langford, UK
| | - Chris Helps
- Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Diagnostic Laboratories, Bristol Veterinary School and Langford Vets, University of Bristol, Langford, UK
| | - Scott Carver
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Tasmania, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Séverine Tasker
- Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Diagnostic Laboratories, Bristol Veterinary School and Langford Vets, University of Bristol, Langford, UK. .,Bristol Veterinary School, University of Bristol, Langford, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Baxarias M, Álvarez-Fernández A, Martínez-Orellana P, Montserrat-Sangrà S, Ordeix L, Rojas A, Nachum-Biala Y, Baneth G, Solano-Gallego L. Does co-infection with vector-borne pathogens play a role in clinical canine leishmaniosis? Parasit Vectors 2018; 11:135. [PMID: 29554918 PMCID: PMC5859550 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-018-2724-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2017] [Accepted: 02/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The severity of canine leishmaniosis (CanL) due to Leishmania infantum might be affected by other vector-borne organisms that mimic its clinical signs and clinicopathological abnormalities. The aim of this study was to determine co-infections with other vector-borne pathogens based on serological and molecular techniques in dogs with clinical leishmaniosis living in Spain and to associate them with clinical signs and clinicopathological abnormalities as well as disease severity. METHODS Sixty-one dogs with clinical leishmaniosis and 16 apparently healthy dogs were tested for Rickettsia conorii, Ehrlichia canis, Anaplasma phagocytophilum and Bartonella henselae antigens by the immunofluorescence antibody test (IFAT) and for E. canis, Anaplasma spp., Hepatozoon spp., Babesia spp. and filarioid DNA by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). RESULTS Among the dogs examined by IFAT, the seroprevalences were: 69% for R. conorii, 57% for E. canis, 44% for A. phagocytophilum and 37% for B. henselae; while the prevalences found by PCR were: 8% for Ehrlichia/Anaplasma, 3% for Anaplasma platys and 1% for H. canis. No other pathogen DNA was detected. Statistical association was found between dogs with clinical leishmaniosis and seroreactivity to R. conorii antigen (Fisher's exact test: P = 0.025, OR = 4.1, 95% CI = 1-17) and A. phagocytophilum antigen (Fisher's exact test: P = 0.002, OR = 14.3, 95% CI = 2-626) and being positive to more than one serological or molecular tests (co-infections) (Mann-Whitney test: U = 243, Z = -2.6, n 1 = 14, n 2 = 61, P = 0.01) when compared with healthy dogs. Interestingly, a statistical association was found between the presence of R. conorii, E. canis, A. phagocytophilum and B. henselae antibodies in sick dogs and some clinicopathological abnormalities such as albumin and albumin/globulin ratio decrease and increase in serum globulins. Furthermore, seroreactivity with A. phagocytophilum antigens was statistically associated with CanL clinical stages III and IV. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates that dogs with clinical leishmaniosis from Catalonia (Spain) have a higher rate of co-infections with other vector-borne pathogens when compared with healthy controls. Furthermore, positivity to some vector-borne pathogens was associated with more marked clinicopathological abnormalities as well as disease severity with CanL.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marta Baxarias
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Alejandra Álvarez-Fernández
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Pamela Martínez-Orellana
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Sara Montserrat-Sangrà
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Laura Ordeix
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain.,Hospital Clínic Veterinari, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Alicia Rojas
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, Hebrew University, Rehovot, Israel
| | | | - Gad Baneth
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, Hebrew University, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Laia Solano-Gallego
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Puri B, Hakkarainen-Smith J, Monro J. The effect of artesunate on short-term memory in Lyme borreliosis. Med Hypotheses 2017; 105:4-5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2017.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2017] [Revised: 05/19/2017] [Accepted: 06/23/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
|
16
|
Giannuzzi AP, Ricciardi M, De Simone A, Gernone F. Neurological manifestations in dogs naturally infected by Leishmania infantum: descriptions of 10 cases and a review of the literature. J Small Anim Pract 2017; 58:125-138. [PMID: 28267216 DOI: 10.1111/jsap.12650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2016] [Revised: 10/12/2016] [Accepted: 10/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
In order to evaluate possible nervous system involvement in canine leishmaniasis, retrospective evaluation of all medical records of leishmaniotic dogs exhibiting neurological signs referred to our hospital over a 5-year period was performed. The records of 10 dogs were reviewed. Depending on the neuroanatomical localisation, the dogs underwent advanced diagnostic imaging, cerebrospinal fluid analysis, electrodiagnostic testing and histopathologic evaluations. The final neurological diagnosis was: meningoencephalitis (n=2), brain haemorrhagic stroke (n=1), haemorrhagic choroiditis (n=1), meningomyelitis (n=2), ischaemic myelopathy (n=1), polymyositis (n=2) and peripheral neuropathy (n=1). This study confirms that both central and peripheral nervous systems can be affected by leishmaniasis and provides an overview on the possible etiopathogenetic mechanisms. In addition, clinical and diagnostic findings, therapy and follow-up of affected dogs are described.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - M Ricciardi
- Pingry Veterinary Hospital, Bari, 70126, Italy
| | - A De Simone
- Pingry Veterinary Hospital, Bari, 70126, Italy
| | - F Gernone
- Pingry Veterinary Hospital, Bari, 70126, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Occurrence of Leishmania infantum in the central nervous system of naturally infected dogs: Parasite load, viability, co-infections and histological alterations. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0175588. [PMID: 28419136 PMCID: PMC5395170 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0175588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2016] [Accepted: 03/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Zoonotic visceral leishmaniasis is caused by the protozoan Leishmania infantum and little is known about the occurrence and pathogenesis of this parasite in the CNS. The aims of this study were to evaluate the occurrence, viability and load of L. infantum in the CNS, and to identify the neurological histological alterations associated with this protozoan and its co-infections in naturally infected dogs. Forty-eight Leishmania-seropositive dogs from which L. infantum was isolated after necropsy were examined. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples were analyzed by parasitological culture, quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) and the rapid immunochromatographic Dual Path Platform test. Brain, spinal cord and spleen samples were submitted to parasitological culture, qPCR, and histological techniques. Additionally, anti-Toxoplasma gondii and anti-Ehrlichia canis antibodies in serum and distemper virus antigens in CSF were investigated. None of the dogs showed neurological signs. All dogs tested positive for L. infantum in the CNS. Viable forms of L. infantum were isolated from CSF, brain and spinal cord in 25% of the dogs. Anti-L. infantum antibodies were detected in CSF in 61% of 36 dogs. Inflammatory histological alterations were observed in the CNS of 31% of the animals; of these, 66% were seropositive for E. canis and/or T. gondii. Amastigote forms were associated with granulomatous non-suppurative encephalomyelitis in a dog without evidence of co-infections. The highest frequency of L. infantum DNA was observed in the brain (98%), followed by the spinal cord (96%), spleen (95%), and CSF (50%). The highest L. infantum load in CNS was found in the spinal cord. These results demonstrate that L. infantum can cross the blood-brain barrier, spread through CSF, and cause active infection in the entire CNS of dogs. Additionally, L. infantum can cause inflammation in the CNS that can lead to neurological signs with progression of the disease.
Collapse
|