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Hobbs EC, Loukopoulos P, Stinear TP, Porter JL, Lee J, Whiteley P, Skerratt LF, Gibney KB, Meredith A. Severe cases of Buruli ulcer (infection with Mycobacterium ulcerans) in common ringtail possums in Victoria adversely affect animal welfare. Aust Vet J 2024. [PMID: 39054806 DOI: 10.1111/avj.13360] [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: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
Buruli ulcer is a chronic ulcerative disease of the skin and subcutaneous tissues caused by infection with Mycobacterium ulcerans. Although Australian possums are known to be susceptible to Buruli ulcer, many aspects of the disease in possums, including welfare impacts, remain largely unreported. Severe clinical Buruli ulcer was identified in four common ringtail possums (Pseudocheirus peregrinus) from Melbourne, Victoria. All four possums were euthanased due to the presence of deep ulcerative lesions on paws, with extensive tissue necrosis that exposed bones and tendons in three cases. Histologically, there was severe ulcerative necrotising pyogranulomatous dermatitis, panniculitis and myositis, with intralesional acid-fast bacteria. M. ulcerans was detected by real-time PCR in all swabs, tissues and faeces collected from all four cases. Buruli ulcer may be an important and under-recognised cause of poor possum welfare in endemic areas. The physical impacts of the severe cutaneous lesions, especially those extending to underlying bones and joints, would have directly impaired the mobility of these possums, affecting navigation of their natural environments and expression of natural behaviours including foraging and socialising. Systemic distribution of M. ulcerans throughout all major internal organs, as observed here, may further impact the health and fitness of infected possums. Faecal shedding of M. ulcerans in all four cases supports the role of possums as zoonotic reservoirs. Further research is needed to investigate the epidemiology, pathogenesis and welfare impacts of Buruli ulcer in possums and to inform the design of interventions that may protect their health and welfare.
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Affiliation(s)
- E C Hobbs
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Doherty Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - P Loukopoulos
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, Australia
| | - T P Stinear
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Doherty Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - J L Porter
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Doherty Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jyh Lee
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Doherty Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - P Whiteley
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, Australia
| | - L F Skerratt
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, Australia
| | - K B Gibney
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Doherty Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - A Meredith
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, Australia
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, The University of Keele, Keele, UK
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2
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O'Brien DP, Blasdell K, Muhi S, Marais BJ, Buddle B, McNamara B, Athan E. Is BCG vaccination of possums the solution to the Buruli ulcer epidemic in south-eastern Australia? Med J Aust 2023; 219:520-522. [PMID: 37679050 DOI: 10.5694/mja2.52096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel P O'Brien
- University Hospital Geelong, Geelong, VIC
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Royal Melbourne Hospital, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC
| | - Kim Blasdell
- Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Geelong, VIC
| | - Stephen Muhi
- Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC
| | - Ben J Marais
- Sydney Institute of Infectious Diseases, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW
- University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW
| | - Bryce Buddle
- Hopkirk Research Institute, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | | | - Eugene Athan
- Barwon Health, Geelong, VIC
- Centre for Innovation in Infectious Diseases and Immunology Research, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC
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3
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Davidovich N, Makhon A, Zizelski Valenci G, Dveyrin Z, Yahav T, Pretto T, Tchernov D, Morick D. Identification of Mycobacterium pseudoshottsii in the Eastern Mediterranean. Microbiol Spectr 2023; 11:e0085623. [PMID: 37272844 PMCID: PMC10434243 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.00856-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Among the numerous pathogenic nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM), which may cause disease in both poikilothermic and homoeothermic organisms, members of the unique clade Mycobacterium ulcerans/Mycobacterium marinum (MuMC) may cause disease in both fish and humans. Here, we describe the emergence of Mycobacterium pseudoshottsii, one of the four MuMC members, in Israel. For many years, M. marinum was the dominant NTM that was diagnosed in Israel as a fish pathogen. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first isolation and genomic characterization of M. pseudoshottsii infecting edible fish from two different fish species farmed in offshore sea cages in the eastern Mediterranean as well as in a recirculating aquaculture system in Israel. We compared the M. pseudoshottsii whole-genome sequences to all available genomic sequences of MuMC in free, publicly accessible databases. IMPORTANCE Mycobacterium pseudoshottsii was first detected in 1997 in the USA, infecting wild striped bass (Morone saxatilis). Since then, several reports from different countries worldwide have shown its capacity to become established in new regions as well as its pathogenicity to saltwater and euryhaline finfish of different genera. Our phylogenetic analysis revealed that the Mycobacterium ulcerans/Mycobacterium marinum clade (MuMC) is divided into two main branches: one that includes M. marinum and M. pseudoshottsii, and the second, which includes other M. marinum isolates as well as two isolates of M. shottsii. Our results reinforce the proposition that the geographical distribution of M. pseudoshottsii is much more extensive than is commonly believed. The emergence of M. pseudoshottsii in different parts of the world and its pathogenic traits that affect finfish of different genera may be a cause for concern among fish farmers, researchers, and environmental organizations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadav Davidovich
- Morris Kahn Marine Research Station, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
- Israeli Veterinary Services, Bet Dagan, Israel
| | - Andrei Makhon
- National Public Health Laboratory, Public Health Directorate, Ministry of Health, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Gal Zizelski Valenci
- National Public Health Laboratory, Public Health Directorate, Ministry of Health, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Zeev Dveyrin
- National Public Health Laboratory, Public Health Directorate, Ministry of Health, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Tal Yahav
- Bioinformatics Services Unit, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Tobia Pretto
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Legnaro, Padua, Italy
| | - Dan Tchernov
- Morris Kahn Marine Research Station, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Danny Morick
- Morris Kahn Marine Research Station, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
- Hong Kong Branch of Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Hong Kong, China
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4
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Bartley B, O'Brien D. Buruli ulcer - A neglected tropical disease in the Barwon region of Victoria, Australia: An emerging public health threat with local and national ramifications. Emerg Med Australas 2023; 35:697-701. [PMID: 37454363 DOI: 10.1111/1742-6723.14235] [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: 01/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Mycobacterium ulcerans (MU) is known to be endemic in heavily touristed coastal regions of Victoria and is the cause of Buruli ulcer (BU) disease. The incidence, severity and geographic spread of MU infection/BU disease is increasing, including metropolitan Victorian suburbs. While the specifics of disease transmission and effective prevention strategies remain uncertain, severe complications can be mitigated by health systems that provide vigilant population surveillance to underpin early recognition, early specialist involvement and definitive treatment for the individual. Current theories regarding disease transmission and 'best practice' (or best guess) prevention and mitigation measures are presented herein. Opportunities to improve the health system response to this emerging public health threat are identified. It is incumbent upon all healthcare providers, including ED clinicians, to contribute by familiarising themselves with the established and emerging areas of endemicity of MU infection and the array of BU clinical presentations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruce Bartley
- Emergency Department, University Hospital Geelong, Barwon Health, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Daniel O'Brien
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Geelong, Barwon Health, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
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5
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Muhi S, Osowicki J, O'Brien D, Johnson PDR, Pidot S, Doerflinger M, Marshall JL, Pellegrini M, McCarthy J, Stinear TP. A human model of Buruli ulcer: The case for controlled human infection and considerations for selecting a Mycobacterium ulcerans challenge strain. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2023; 17:e0011394. [PMID: 37384606 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0011394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Critical knowledge gaps regarding infection with Mycobacterium ulcerans, the cause of Buruli ulcer (BU), have impeded development of new therapeutic approaches and vaccines for prevention of this neglected tropical disease. Here, we review the current understanding of host-pathogen interactions and correlates of immune protection to explore the case for establishing a controlled human infection model of M. ulcerans infection. We also summarise the overarching safety considerations and present a rationale for selecting a suitable challenge strain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Muhi
- Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Service, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Joshua Osowicki
- Tropical Diseases Research Group, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, The Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Department of General Medicine, Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Daniel O'Brien
- Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Service, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Barwon Health, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Paul D R Johnson
- Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sacha Pidot
- Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Marcel Doerflinger
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Julia L Marshall
- Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Marc Pellegrini
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - James McCarthy
- Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Service, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Timothy P Stinear
- Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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6
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Tweedale B, Collier F, Waidyatillake NT, Athan E, O'Brien DP. Mycobacterium ulcerans culture results according to duration of prior antibiotic treatment: A cohort study. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0284201. [PMID: 37093836 PMCID: PMC10124831 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0284201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Mycobacterium ulcerans disease is a necrotising disease of the skin and subcutaneous tissue and is effectively treated with eight-weeks antibiotic therapy. Significant toxicities, however, are experienced under this prolonged regimen. Here, we investigated the length of antibiotic duration required to achieve negative cultures of M. ulcerans disease lesions and evaluated the influence of patient characteristics on this outcome. M. ulcerans cases from an observational cohort that underwent antibiotic treatment prior to surgery and had post-excision culture assessment at Barwon Health, Victoria, from May 25 1998 to June 30 2019, were included. Antibiotic duration before surgery was grouped as <2 weeks, ≥2-<4 weeks, ≥4-<6 weeks, ≥6-<8 weeks, ≥8-<10 weeks and ≥10-20 weeks. Cox regression analyses were performed to assess the association between variables and culture positive results. Ninety-two patients fitted the inclusion criteria. The median age was 60 years (IQR 28-74.5) and 51 (55.4%) were male. Rifampicin-based regimens were predominantly used in combination with clarithromycin (47.8%) and ciprofloxacin (46.7%), and the median duration of antibiotic treatment before surgery was 23 days (IQR, 8.0-45.5). There were no culture positive results after 19 days of antibiotic treatment and there was a significant association between antibiotic duration before surgery and a culture positive outcome (p<0.001). The World Health Organisation category of the lesion and the antibiotic regimen used had no association with the culture outcome. Antibiotics appear to be effective at achieving negative cultures of M. ulcerans disease lesions in less than the currently recommended eight-week duration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brodie Tweedale
- Geelong Centre for Emerging Infectious Diseases (GCEID), Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
- Department of Infectious Disease, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia
| | - Fiona Collier
- Geelong Centre for Emerging Infectious Diseases (GCEID), Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Nilakshi T Waidyatillake
- Department of Infectious Disease, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia
- Allergy and Lung Health Unit, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Eugene Athan
- Geelong Centre for Emerging Infectious Diseases (GCEID), Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
- Department of Infectious Disease, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia
| | - Daniel P O'Brien
- Department of Infectious Disease, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia
- Department of Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Royal Melbourne Hospital, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
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7
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Manilal A, Tadesse D, Sabu KR. Buruli Ulcer and Medical Geo-Microbiology. Infect Drug Resist 2022; 15:6811-6814. [PMID: 36458199 PMCID: PMC9707318 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s388005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Buruli ulcer is a chronic debilitating infectious disease caused by the pathogen Mycobacterium ulcerans, which can be cured if diagnosed and treated in an early stage. However, advanced cases need antibiotic treatment followed by surgical interventions. In this context, an extremely effective and less expensive treatment modality can be developed by means of an extended topical application of certain selected natural clay minerals, most of the time containing illite-smectite having some iron content. There is a scope for developing the speciality, medical geo-microbiology, which is truly a multidisciplinary one, for finding a cure for the severe and advanced cases of BU.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aseer Manilal
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
| | - Dagimawie Tadesse
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
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8
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Blasdell KR, McNamara B, O’Brien DP, Tachedjian M, Boyd V, Dunn M, Mee PT, Clayton S, Gaburro J, Smith I, Gibney KB, Tay EL, Hobbs EC, Waidyatillake N, Lynch SE, Stinear TP, Athan E. Environmental risk factors associated with the presence of Mycobacterium ulcerans in Victoria, Australia. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0274627. [PMID: 36099259 PMCID: PMC9469944 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0274627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years reported cases of Buruli ulcer, caused by Mycobacterium ulcerans, have increased substantially in Victoria, Australia, with the epidemic also expanding geographically. To develop an understanding of how M. ulcerans circulates in the environment and transmits to humans we analyzed environmental samples collected from 115 properties of recent Buruli ulcer cases and from 115 postcode-matched control properties, for the presence of M. ulcerans. Environmental factors associated with increased odds of M. ulcerans presence at a property included certain native plant species and native vegetation in general, more alkaline soil, lower altitude, the presence of common ringtail possums (Pseudocheirus peregrinus) and overhead powerlines. However, only overhead powerlines and the absence of the native plant Melaleuca lanceolata were associated with Buruli ulcer case properties. Samples positive for M. ulcerans were more likely to be found at case properties and were associated with detections of M. ulcerans in ringtail possum feces, supporting the hypothesis that M. ulcerans is zoonotic, with ringtail possums the strongest reservoir host candidate. However, the disparity in environmental risk factors associated with M. ulcerans positive properties versus case properties indicates the involvement of human behavior or the influence of other environmental factors in disease acquisition that requires further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kim R. Blasdell
- Health and Biosecurity, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
- * E-mail:
| | - Bridgette McNamara
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Barwon Health, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
- Centre of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Daniel P. O’Brien
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Barwon Health, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Health, Victorian State Government, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mary Tachedjian
- Health and Biosecurity, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Victoria Boyd
- Health and Biosecurity, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Michael Dunn
- Health and Biosecurity, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Peter T. Mee
- Agriculture Victoria Research, AgriBio Centre for AgriBiosciences, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Simone Clayton
- Health and Biosecurity, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Julie Gaburro
- Health and Biosecurity, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ina Smith
- Health and Biosecurity, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Katherine B. Gibney
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ee Laine Tay
- Department of Health, Victorian State Government, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Emma C. Hobbs
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Stacey E. Lynch
- Agriculture Victoria Research, AgriBio Centre for AgriBiosciences, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Timothy P. Stinear
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Eugene Athan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Barwon Health, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
- Geelong Centre for Emerging Infectious Diseases, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
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9
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Ishwarlall TZ, Okpeku M, Adeniyi AA, Adeleke MA. The search for a Buruli Ulcer vaccine and the effectiveness of the Bacillus Calmette-Guérin vaccine. Acta Trop 2022; 228:106323. [PMID: 35065013 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2022.106323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Revised: 01/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Buruli Ulcer is a neglected tropical disease that is caused by Mycobacterium ulcerans. It is not fatal; however, it manifests a range of devastating symptoms on the hosts' bodies. Various drugs and treatments are available for the disease; however, they are often costly and have adverse effects. There is still much uncertainty regarding the mode of transmission, vectors, and reservoir. At present, there are no official vector control methods, prevention methods, or a vaccine licensed to prevent infection. The Bacillus Calmette-Guérin vaccine developed against tuberculosis has some effectiveness against M. ulcerans. However, it is unable to induce long-lasting protection. Various types of vaccines have been developed based specifically against M. ulcerans; however, to date, none has entered clinical trials or has been released for public use. Additional awareness and funding are needed for research in this field and the development of more treatments, diagnostic tools, and vaccines.
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10
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Hall BS, Hsieh LTH, Sacre S, Simmonds RE. The One That Got Away: How Macrophage-Derived IL-1β Escapes the Mycolactone-Dependent Sec61 Blockade in Buruli Ulcer. Front Immunol 2022; 12:788146. [PMID: 35154073 PMCID: PMC8826060 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.788146] [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] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Buruli ulcer (BU), caused by Mycobacterium ulcerans, is a devastating necrotizing skin disease. Key to its pathogenesis is mycolactone, the exotoxin virulence factor that is both immunosuppressive and cytotoxic. The discovery that the essential Sec61 translocon is the major cellular target of mycolactone explains much of the disease pathology, including the immune blockade. Sec61 inhibition leads to a loss in production of nearly all cytokines from monocytes, macrophages, dendritic cells and T cells, as well as antigen presentation pathway proteins and costimulatory molecules. However, there has long been evidence that the immune system is not completely incapable of responding to M. ulcerans infection. In particular, IL-1β was recently shown to be present in BU lesions, and to be induced from M. ulcerans-exposed macrophages in a mycolactone-dependent manner. This has important implications for our understanding of BU, showing that mycolactone can act as the "second signal" for IL-1β production without inhibiting the pathways of unconventional secretion it uses for cellular release. In this Perspective article, we validate and discuss this recent advance, which is entirely in-line with our understanding of mycolactone's inhibition of the Sec61 translocon. However, we also show that the IL-1 receptor, which uses the conventional secretory pathway, is sensitive to mycolactone blockade at Sec61. Hence, a more complete understanding of the mechanisms regulating IL-1β function in skin tissue, including the transient intra-macrophage stage of M. ulcerans infection, is urgently needed to uncover the double-edged sword of IL-1β in BU pathogenesis, treatment and wound healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Belinda S Hall
- Department of Microbial Sciences, School of Bioscience and Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, United Kingdom
| | - Louise Tzung-Harn Hsieh
- Department of Microbial Sciences, School of Bioscience and Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, United Kingdom
| | - Sandra Sacre
- Brighton and Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex, Brighton, United Kingdom
| | - Rachel E Simmonds
- Department of Microbial Sciences, School of Bioscience and Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, United Kingdom
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11
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Linke JA, Athan E, Friedman ND. Correlation between Buruli Ulcer Incidence and Vectorborne Diseases, Southeastern Australia, 2000-2020. Emerg Infect Dis 2021; 27:3191-3192. [PMID: 34808092 PMCID: PMC8632172 DOI: 10.3201/eid2712.203182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Researchers have hypothesized that mosquitoes are vectors involved in Mycobacterium ulcerans transmission. Previous findings of a correlation between incidence of M. ulcerans, which causes Buruli ulcer, and locally acquired vectorborne diseases in southeastern Australia further strengthened this argument. However, our updated data indicate that this correlation has not continued beyond 2008.
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12
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The key factors contributing to the risk, diagnosis and treatment of non-tuberculous mycobacterial opportunistic infections. POSTEP HIG MED DOSW 2021. [DOI: 10.2478/ahem-2021-0050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
The incidence and prevalence of diseases caused by non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) have been steadily increasing worldwide. NTM are environmental saprophytic organisms; however, a few strains are known to produce diseases in humans affecting pulmonary and extra-pulmonary sites. Although the environment is a major source of NTM infection, recent studies have shown that person-to-person dissemination could be an important transmission route for these microorganisms. Structural and functional lung defects and immunodeficiency are major risk factors for acquiring NTM infections. Diagnosis of NTM diseases is very complex owing to the necessity of distinguishing between a true pathogen and an environmental contaminant. Identification at the species level is critical due to differences in the antibiotic susceptibility patterns of various NTM strains. Such identification is mainly achieved by molecular methods; additionally, mass spectrometry (e.g., MALDI-TOF) is useful for NTM species determination. Natural resistance of NTM species to a wide spectrum of antibiotics makes prescribing treatment for NTM diseases very difficult. NTM therapy usually takes more than one year and requires multi-drug regimens, yet the outcome often remains poor. Therefore, alternatives to antibiotic therapy treatment methods is an area under active exploration. NTM infections are an active global health problem imposing the necessity for better diagnostic tools and more effective treatment methods.
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13
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Bahadoran P, Hammoudi N, Gaudart A, Saad J, Di Filippo Y, Drancourt M, Ruimy R. Case Report: A New Mycobacterium ulcerans Genotype Causing Buruli Ulcer in Côte d'Ivoire. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2021; 104:1782-1783. [PMID: 33819173 PMCID: PMC8103442 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.20-1307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Mycobacterium ulcerans, the opportunistic pathogen causing Buruli ulcer, is reported to affect rural populations in 36 tropical countries. We report one case of Buruli ulcer in a peri-urban area in Côte d'Ivoire, confirmed by whole genome sequencing which indicated a M. ulcerans genotype previously unreported in Côte d'Ivoire.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philippe Bahadoran
- Department of Dermatology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, Université Côte D’Azur, Inserm, Nice, France
| | - Nassim Hammoudi
- IRD, MEPHI, IHU Méditerranée Infection, Aix-Marseille-Université, Marseille, France;,IHU Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
| | - Alice Gaudart
- Laboratoire de Bactériologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, Hôpital de l’Archet II, Nice, France
| | - Jamal Saad
- IRD, MEPHI, IHU Méditerranée Infection, Aix-Marseille-Université, Marseille, France;,IHU Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
| | - Yoan Di Filippo
- Department of Dermatology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, Université Côte D’Azur, Inserm, Nice, France
| | - Michel Drancourt
- IRD, MEPHI, IHU Méditerranée Infection, Aix-Marseille-Université, Marseille, France;,IHU Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
| | - Raymond Ruimy
- Laboratoire de Bactériologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, Hôpital de l’Archet II, Nice, France;,Université Côte D’Azur, Inserm, C3M, Nice, France;,Inserm U1065, C3M, Equipe 6, Nice, France,Address correspondence to Raymond Ruimy, Laboratoire de Bacteriologie, 151, Route de St Antoine de Ginestière, Nice 06000, France. E-mail:
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14
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Fevereiro J, Fraga AG, Pedrosa J. Genetics in the Host-Mycobacterium ulcerans interaction. Immunol Rev 2021; 301:222-241. [PMID: 33682158 DOI: 10.1111/imr.12958] [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: 01/05/2021] [Revised: 01/30/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Buruli ulcer is an emerging infectious disease associated with high morbidity and unpredictable outbreaks. It is caused by Mycobacterium ulcerans, a slow-growing pathogen evolutionarily shaped by the acquisition of a plasmid involved in the production of a potent macrolide-like cytotoxin and by genome rearrangements and downsizing. These events culminated in an uncommon infection pattern, whereby M. ulcerans is both able to induce the initiation of the inflammatory cascade and the cell death of its proponents, as well as to survive within the phagosome and in the extracellular milieu. In such extreme conditions, the host is sentenced to rely on a highly orchestrated genetic landscape to be able to control the infection. We here revisit the dynamics of M. ulcerans infection, drawing parallels from other mycobacterioses and integrating the most recent knowledge on its evolution and pathogenicity in its interaction with the host immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Fevereiro
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Alexandra G Fraga
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Jorge Pedrosa
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
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15
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Jerjen R, Moodley A, Sinclair R. The Bairnsdale ulcer (
Mycobacterium ulcerans
) in an urban Victorian practice: A case series. Australas J Dermatol 2020; 61:376-377. [DOI: 10.1111/ajd.13361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2020] [Revised: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 05/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ameshin Moodley
- Sinclair Dermatology East Melbourne Victoria Australia
- UKZN University of KwaZulu‐Natal Durban South Africa
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16
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Menlah A, Appiah EO, Boahemaa MK. Experiences of Buruli Ulcer Patients Following Discharge in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana. INT J LOW EXTR WOUND 2020; 21:303-311. [PMID: 32856525 DOI: 10.1177/1534734620939528] [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: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Buruli ulcer (BU) is one of the skin diseases that causes physical deformity, loss of function of the affected part, social stigmatization, and financial burden to individuals affected. Annually, an approximated 6000 cases of BU are reported worldwide especially from West Africa, Central Africa, and Asia. The aim of the study was to assess the experiences of BU patients in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana following discharge from the hospital. The study employed a qualitative descriptive phenomenological approach using snowballing sampling technique to sample 15 participants from the Greater Accra Region of Ghana who have been treated and discharged home. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews that was later transcribed and coded using qualitative content analysis. Findings from this study revealed that individuals with BU goes through several challenges during admission and after discharge including feeling of embarrassment, financially handicapped, and marital conflicts. The study concluded that BU has not been totally eradicated from the country, hence must be given the attention it deserves to help individuals cope better.
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17
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Toward a Single-Dose Cure for Buruli Ulcer. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2020; 64:AAC.00727-20. [PMID: 32631818 DOI: 10.1128/aac.00727-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
A single dose of Q203 (Telacebec), a phase 2 clinical candidate for tuberculosis, eradicates Mycobacterium ulcerans in a mouse model of Buruli ulcer infection without relapse up to 19 weeks posttreatment. Clinical use of Q203 may dramatically simplify the clinical management of Buruli ulcer, a neglected mycobacterial disease.
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18
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The diversity of mycolactone-producing mycobacteria. Microb Pathog 2020; 149:104362. [PMID: 32702376 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2020.104362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Accepted: 06/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Mycolactone-producing mycobacteria (MPM) form an intriguing group of environmental opportunistic pathogens of mammals and human patients in whom they cause cutaneous and subcutaneous ulcers known as "Buruli ulcer" when they occur in humans. We reviewed whole genome sequence data and ecological and phenotypic characteristics from 44 MPMs and closely related Mycobacterium marinum. This analysis indicated that all the 24 M. marinum isolates were delineated into seven taxa and our comprehensive, polyphasic taxonomic approach led to the proposal of delineating M. marinum genomospecies, 01-07. Likewise, 20 MPMs isolates were delineated into seven additional M. ulcerans genomospecies, 01-07. A taxonomic card explaining the ecology, hosts of isolation and the plasmid harboured is provided for each taxon.
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19
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Phillips RO, Robert J, Abass KM, Thompson W, Sarfo FS, Wilson T, Sarpong G, Gateau T, Chauty A, Omollo R, Ochieng Otieno M, Egondi TW, Ampadu EO, Agossadou D, Marion E, Ganlonon L, Wansbrough-Jones M, Grosset J, Macdonald JM, Treadwell T, Saunderson P, Paintsil A, Lehman L, Frimpong M, Sarpong NF, Saizonou R, Tiendrebeogo A, Ohene SA, Stienstra Y, Asiedu KB, van der Werf TS. Rifampicin and clarithromycin (extended release) versus rifampicin and streptomycin for limited Buruli ulcer lesions: a randomised, open-label, non-inferiority phase 3 trial. Lancet 2020; 395:1259-1267. [PMID: 32171422 PMCID: PMC7181188 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(20)30047-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2019] [Revised: 11/23/2019] [Accepted: 01/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Buruli ulcer is a neglected tropical disease caused by Mycobacterium ulcerans infection that damages the skin and subcutis. It is most prevalent in western and central Africa and Australia. Standard antimicrobial treatment with oral rifampicin 10 mg/kg plus intramuscular streptomycin 15 mg/kg once daily for 8 weeks (RS8) is highly effective, but streptomycin injections are painful and potentially harmful. We aimed to compare the efficacy and tolerability of fully oral rifampicin 10 mg/kg plus clarithromycin 15 mg/kg extended release once daily for 8 weeks (RC8) with that of RS8 for treatment of early Buruli ulcer lesions. METHODS We did an open-label, non-inferiority, randomised (1:1 with blocks of six), multicentre, phase 3 clinical trial comparing fully oral RC8 with RS8 in patients with early, limited Buruli ulcer lesions. There were four trial sites in hospitals in Ghana (Agogo, Tepa, Nkawie, Dunkwa) and one in Benin (Pobè). Participants were included if they were aged 5 years or older and had typical Buruli ulcer with no more than one lesion (caterories I and II) no larger than 10 cm in diameter. The trial was open label, and neither the investigators who took measurements of the lesions nor the attending doctors were masked to treatment assignment. The primary clinical endpoint was lesion healing (ie, full epithelialisation or stable scar) without recurrence at 52 weeks after start of antimicrobial therapy. The primary endpoint and safety were assessed in the intention-to-treat population. A sample size of 332 participants was calculated to detect inferiority of RC8 by a margin of 12%. This study was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT01659437. FINDINGS Between Jan 1, 2013, and Dec 31, 2017, participants were recruited to the trial. We stopped recruitment after 310 participants. Median age of participants was 14 years (IQR 10-29) and 153 (52%) were female. 297 patients had PCR-confirmed Buruli ulcer; 151 (51%) were assigned to RS8 treatment, and 146 (49%) received oral RC8 treatment. In the RS8 group, lesions healed in 144 (95%, 95% CI 91 to 98) of 151 patients, whereas lesions healed in 140 (96%, 91 to 99) of 146 patients in the RC8 group. The difference in proportion, -0·5% (-5·2 to 4·2), was not significantly greater than zero (p=0·59), showing that RC8 treatment is non-inferior to RS8 treatment for lesion healing at 52 weeks. Treatment-related adverse events were recorded in 20 (13%) patients receiving RS8 and in nine (7%) patients receiving RC8. Most adverse events were grade 1-2, but one (1%) patient receiving RS8 developed serious ototoxicity and ended treatment after 6 weeks. No patients needed surgical resection. Four patients (two in each study group) had skin grafts. INTERPRETATION Fully oral RC8 regimen was non-inferior to RS8 for treatment of early, limited Buruli ulcer and was associated with fewer adverse events. Therefore, we propose that fully oral RC8 should be the preferred therapy for early, limited lesions of Buruli ulcer. FUNDING WHO with additional support from MAP International, American Leprosy Missions, Fondation Raoul Follereau France, Buruli ulcer Groningen Foundation, Sanofi-Pasteur, and BuruliVac.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard O Phillips
- Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research in Tropical Medicine, Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Jérôme Robert
- Centre d'immunologie et des maladies infectieuses, Inserm, Sorbonne Université, Bactériologie site Pitié, AP-HP Sorbonne Université, Centre National de Référence des Mycobactéries, Paris, France
| | | | | | - Fred Stephen Sarfo
- Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research in Tropical Medicine, Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana
| | | | | | - Thierry Gateau
- Centre de diagnostic et de traitement de la lèpre et de l'Ulcère de Buruli Madeleine et Raoul Follereau, Ouémé-Plateau, Pobè, Bénin
| | - Annick Chauty
- Centre de diagnostic et de traitement de la lèpre et de l'Ulcère de Buruli Madeleine et Raoul Follereau, Ouémé-Plateau, Pobè, Bénin
| | - Raymond Omollo
- Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative, Africa Regional Office, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Thaddaeus W Egondi
- Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative, Africa Regional Office, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Edwin O Ampadu
- National Buruli ulcer Control Programme, Ghana Health Service, Accra, Ghana
| | - Didier Agossadou
- Programme National de Lutte contre la lèpre et l'Ulcère de Buruli, Cotonou, Benin
| | - Estelle Marion
- Centre de recherche en cancérologie et immunologie Nantes-Angers, French National Institute of Health and Medical Research, Université d'Angers, Angers, France
| | - Line Ganlonon
- Centre de diagnostic et de traitement de la lèpre et de l'Ulcère de Buruli Madeleine et Raoul Follereau, Ouémé-Plateau, Pobè, Bénin
| | | | - Jacques Grosset
- Center for Tuberculosis Research, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - John M Macdonald
- Department of Dermatology & Cutaneous Surgery, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA; Hospital Bernard Meys Project Medishare, Port-au-Prince, Haiti
| | | | | | - Albert Paintsil
- Reconstructive and Plastic Surgery Unit, Korle-BU Teaching Hospital, Accra, Ghana
| | | | - Michael Frimpong
- Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research in Tropical Medicine, Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Nanaa Francisca Sarpong
- Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research in Tropical Medicine, Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana
| | | | | | | | - Ymkje Stienstra
- Department of Medicine/Infectious Diseases, University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | | | - Tjip S van der Werf
- Department of Medicine/Infectious Diseases, University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands.
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20
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Omansen TF, Erbowor-Becksen A, Yotsu R, van der Werf TS, Tiendrebeogo A, Grout L, Asiedu K. Global Epidemiology of Buruli Ulcer, 2010-2017, and Analysis of 2014 WHO Programmatic Targets. Emerg Infect Dis 2020; 25:2183-2190. [PMID: 31742506 PMCID: PMC6874257 DOI: 10.3201/eid2512.190427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Buruli ulcer is a neglected tropical disease caused by Myocobacterium ulcerans; it manifests as a skin lesion, nodule, or ulcer that can be extensive and disabling. To assess the global burden and the progress on disease control, we analyzed epidemiologic data reported by countries to the World Health Organization during 2010–2017. During this period, 23,206 cases of Buruli ulcer were reported. Globally, cases declined to 2,217 in 2017, but local epidemics seem to arise, such as in Australia and Liberia. In 2013, the World Health Organization formulated 4 programmatic targets for Buruli ulcer that addressed PCR confirmation, occurrence of category III (extensive) lesions and ulcerative lesions, and movement limitation caused by the disease. In 2014, only the movement limitation goal was met, and in 2019, none are met, on a global average. Our findings support discussion on future Buruli ulcer policy and post-2020 programmatic targets.
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21
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Walker G, Friedman DN, O'Brien MP, Cooper C, McDonald A, Callan P, O'Brien DP. Paediatric Buruli ulcer in Australia. J Paediatr Child Health 2020; 56:636-641. [PMID: 31821679 DOI: 10.1111/jpc.14704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2019] [Accepted: 11/03/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
AIM This study describes an Australian cohort of paediatric Buruli ulcer (BU) patients and compares them with adult BU patients. METHODS Analysis of a prospective cohort of all BU cases managed at Barwon Health, Victoria, from 1 January 1998 to 31 May 2018 was performed. Children were defined as ≤15 years of age. RESULTS A total of 565 patients were included: 52 (9.2%) children, 289 (51.2%) adults aged 16-64 years and 224 (39.6%) adults aged ≥65 years. Among children, half were female and the median age was 8.0 years (interquartile range 4.8-12.3 years). Six (11.5%) cases were diagnosed from 2001 to 2006, 14 (26.9%) from 2007 to 2012 and 32 (61.5%) from 2013 to 2018. Compared to adults, children had a significantly higher proportion of non-ulcerative lesions (32.7%, P < 0.001) and a higher proportion of severe lesions (26.9%, P < 0.01). The median duration of symptoms prior to diagnosis was shorter for children compared with adults aged 16-64 years (42 vs. 56 days, P = 0.04). Children were significantly less likely to experience antibiotic complications (6.1%) compared with adults (20.6%, P < 0.001), but had a significantly higher rate of paradoxical reactions (38.8%) compared with adults aged 16-64 (19.2%) (P < 0.001). Paradoxical reactions in children occurred significantly earlier than in adults (median 17 vs. 56 days, P < 0.01). Cure rates were similarly high for children compared to adults treated with antibiotics alone or with antibiotics and surgery. CONCLUSIONS Paediatric BU cases in Australia are increasing and represent an important but stable proportion of Australian BU cohorts. Compared with adults, there are significant differences in clinical presentation and treatment outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgia Walker
- Department of Paediatrics, Barwon Health, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Deborah N Friedman
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Barwon Health, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Matthew P O'Brien
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Perth Children's Hospital, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Chris Cooper
- Department of Paediatrics, Barwon Health, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Anthony McDonald
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Barwon Health, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Peter Callan
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Barwon Health, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Daniel P O'Brien
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Barwon Health, Geelong, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Royal Melbourne Hospital, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Manson Unit, Médecins Sans Frontières, London, United Kingdom
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22
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Muñoz-Egea MC, Carrasco-Antón N, Esteban J. State-of-the-art treatment strategies for nontuberculous mycobacteria infections. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2020; 21:969-981. [PMID: 32200657 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2020.1740205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Non-tuberculous Mycobacteria (NTM) are a group of organisms whose importance in medicine seems to be increasing in recent times. The increasing number of patients susceptible to these diseases make it necessary to expand our knowledge of therapeutic options and to explore future possibilities for the development of a therapeutic arsenal. AREAS COVERED In this review, the authors provide a brief introduction about the present importance of NTM and describe the present recommendations of the available guidelines for their treatment. They include a description of the future options for the management of these patients, especially focusing on new antibiotics. The authors also look at possibilities for future therapeutic options, such as antibiofilm strategies. EXPERT OPINION No actual changes have been made to the current recommendations for the management of most NTM infections (except perhaps the availability of nebulized amikacin). However, it is also true that we have increased the number of available antibiotic treatment options with good in vitro activity against NTM. The use of these drugs in selected cases could increase the therapeutic possibilities. However, some problems are still present, such as the knowledge of the actual meaning of a NTM isolate, and will probably be a key part of future research.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jaime Esteban
- Departments of Clinical Microbiology, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, UAM , Madrid, Spain
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23
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Aquatic Hemiptera in Southwest Cameroon: Biodiversity of Potential Reservoirs of Mycobacterium ulcerans and Multiple Wolbachia Sequence Types Revealed by Metagenomics. DIVERSITY 2019. [DOI: 10.3390/d11120225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Buruli ulcer (BU), caused by Mycobacterium ulcerans, is a neglected tropical disease associated with freshwater habitats. A variety of limnic organisms harbor this pathogen, including aquatic bugs (Hemiptera: Heteroptera), which have been hypothesized to be epidemiologically important reservoirs. Aquatic Hemiptera exhibit high levels of diversity in the tropics, but species identification remains challenging. In this study, we collected aquatic bugs from emerging foci of BU in the Southwest Region of Cameroon, which were identified using morphological and molecular methods. The bugs were screened for mycobacterial DNA and a selection of 20 mycobacteria-positive specimens from the families Gerridae and Veliidae were subjected to next-generation sequencing. Only one individual revealed putative M. ulcerans DNA, but all specimens contained sequences from the widespread alpha-proteobacterial symbiont, Wolbachia. Phylogenetic analysis placed the Wolbachia sequences into supergroups A, B, and F. Circularized mitogenomes were obtained for seven gerrids and two veliids, the first from these families for the African continent. This study suggests that aquatic Hemiptera may have a minor role (if any) in the spread of BU in Southwest Cameroon. Our metagenomic analysis provides new insights into the incursion of Wolbachia into aquatic environments and generated valuable resources to aid molecular taxonomic studies of aquatic Hemiptera.
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Delays in Patient Presentation and Diagnosis for Buruli Ulcer ( Mycobacterium ulcerans Infection) in Victoria, Australia, 2011-2017. Trop Med Infect Dis 2019; 4:tropicalmed4030100. [PMID: 31277453 PMCID: PMC6789443 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed4030100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2019] [Revised: 07/02/2019] [Accepted: 07/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Uncertainty regarding transmission pathways and control measures makes prompt presentation and diagnosis for Buruli ulcer critical. To examine presentation and diagnosis delays in Victoria, Australia, we conducted a retrospective study of 703 cases notified between 2011 and 2017, classified as residing in an endemic (Mornington Peninsula; Bellarine Peninsula; South-east Bayside and Frankston) or non-endemic area. Overall median presentation delay was 30 days (IQR 14–60 days), with no significant change over the study period (p = 0.11). There were significant differences in median presentation delay between areas of residence (p = 0.02), but no significant change over the study period within any area. Overall median diagnosis delay was 10 days (IQR 0–40 days), with no significant change over the study period (p = 0.13). There were significant differences in median diagnosis delay between areas (p < 0.001), but a significant decrease over time only on the Mornington Peninsula (p < 0.001). On multivariable analysis, being aged <15 or >65 years; having non-ulcerative disease; and residing in the Bellarine Peninsula or South-East Bayside (compared to non-endemic areas) were significantly associated with shorter presentation delay. Residing in the Bellarine or Mornington Peninsula and being notified later in the study period were significantly associated with shorter diagnosis delay. To reduce presentation and diagnosis delays, awareness of Buruli ulcer must be raised with the public and medical professionals, particularly those based outside established endemic areas.
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25
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Loftus MJ, Tay EL, Globan M, Lavender CJ, Crouch SR, Johnson PDR, Fyfe JAM. Epidemiology of Buruli Ulcer Infections, Victoria, Australia, 2011-2016. Emerg Infect Dis 2019; 24:1988-1997. [PMID: 30334704 PMCID: PMC6199991 DOI: 10.3201/eid2411.171593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Buruli ulcer (BU) is a destructive soft-tissue infection caused by the environmental pathogen Mycobacterium ulcerans. In response to rising BU notifications in the state of Victoria, Australia, we reviewed all cases that occurred during 2011–2016 to precisely map the time and likely place of M. ulcerans acquisition. We found that 600 cases of BU had been notified; just over half were in residents and the remainder in visitors to defined BU-endemic areas. During the study period, notifications increased almost 3-fold, from 66 in 2013 to 182 in 2016. We identified 4 BU-endemic areas: Bellarine Peninsula, Mornington Peninsula, Frankston region, and the southeastern Bayside suburbs of Melbourne. We observed a decline in cases on the Bellarine Peninsula but a progressive increase elsewhere. Acquisitions peaked in late summer. The appearance of new BU-endemic areas and the decline in established areas probably correlate with changes in the level of local environmental contamination with M. ulcerans.
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26
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O'Brien DP, Athan E, Blasdell K, De Barro P. Tackling the worsening epidemic of Buruli ulcer in Australia in an information void: time for an urgent scientific response. Med J Aust 2019; 208:287-289. [PMID: 29642808 DOI: 10.5694/mja17.00879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2017] [Accepted: 12/27/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Eugene Athan
- Geelong Centre for Emerging Infectious Diseases, Geelong, VIC
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27
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The paediatric participation scale measuring participation restrictions among former Buruli Ulcer patients under the age of 15 in Ghana and Benin: Development and first validation results. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2019; 13:e0007273. [PMID: 30870426 PMCID: PMC6435175 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0007273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2018] [Revised: 03/26/2019] [Accepted: 02/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Buruli Ulcer (BU) is a neglected tropical disease caused by Mycobacterium ulcerans. Former BU patients may experience participation restrictions due to physical limitations, stigmatization and other social factors. A scale that measures participation restrictions among children, who represent almost half of the affected population, has not been developed yet. Here, we present the development of a scale that measures participation restrictions in former BU paediatric patients, the psychometric properties of this scale and the scales' results. METHODS Items were selected and a scale was developed based on interviews with health care workers and former BU patients in and around the BU treatment centre in Lalo, Benin. Construct validity was tested using six a priori formulated hypotheses. Former BU patients under 15 years of age who received treatment in one of the BU treatment centres in Ghana and Benin between 2007-2012 were interviewed. RESULTS A feasible 16-item scale that measures the concept of participation among children under 15 years of age was developed. In total, 109 (Ghana) and 90 (Benin) former BU patients were interviewed between 2012-2017. Five construct validity hypotheses were confirmed of which 2 hypotheses related to associations with existing questionnaires were statistically significant (p<0.05). In Ghana 77% of the former patients had a Paediatric Participation (PP) scale score of 0 compared to 22% in Benin. More severe lesions related to BU were seen in Benin. Most of the reported participation problems were related to sports, mainly in playing games with others, going to the playfield and doing sports at school. CONCLUSION The preliminary results of the PP-scale validation are promising but further validation is needed. The developed PP-scale may be valid for use in patients with more severe BU lesions. This is the first research to confirm that former BU patients under 15-year face participation restrictions in important aspects of their lives.
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28
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O’Brien DP, Murrie A, Meggyesy P, Priestley J, Rajcoomar A, Athan E. Spontaneous healing of Mycobacterium ulcerans disease in Australian patients. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2019; 13:e0007178. [PMID: 30779807 PMCID: PMC6396929 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0007178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2018] [Revised: 03/01/2019] [Accepted: 01/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Mycobacterium ulcerans causes necrotising infections of skin and soft tissue mediated by the polyketide exotoxin mycolactone that causes cell apoptosis and immune suppression. It has been postulated that infection can be eradicated before the development of clinical lesions but spontaneous resolution of clinical lesions has been rarely described. Methodology/Principal findings We report a case series of five Australian patients who achieved healing of small M. ulcerans lesions without antibiotics or surgery. The median age of patients was 47 years (IQR 30–68 years) and all patients had small ulcerative lesions (median size 144mm2, IQR 121-324mm2). The median duration of symptoms prior to diagnosis was 90 days (IQR 90–100 days) and the median time to heal from diagnosis without treatment was 68 days (IQR 63–105 days). No patients recurred after a median follow-up of 16.6 months (IQR 16.6–17.9 months) from the development of symptoms and no patients suffered long-term disability from the disease. Conclusions We have shown that healing without specific treatment can occur for small ulcerated M. ulcerans lesions suggesting that in selected cases a robust immune response alone can cure lesions. Further research is required to determine what lesion and host factors are associated with spontaneous healing, and whether observation alone is an effective and safe form of management for selected small M. ulcerans lesions. Mycobacterium ulcerans causes a destructive infection of skin and soft tissue known as Buruli ulcer that when severe can lead to serious long-term deformity and disability. It is currently not well documented whether people with Mycobacterium ulcerans disease can cure themselves without treatment. In our study we describe five people with small ulcers who cured their disease without specific medical or surgical treatment. This suggests that a proportion of people can develop an immune response sufficient enough to eradicate the disease without the help of medical intervention. This is an important step, as recognition of this possibility provides important further insights into the human immune response against the disease. It also opens the possibility to further studies that may determine characteristics of the organism and hosts that favour spontaneous healing of lesions. This knowledge may in turn improve efforts to prevent and control the disease which are currently lacking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel P. O’Brien
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Barwon Health, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Royal Melbourne Hospital, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- * E-mail:
| | - Adrian Murrie
- Sorrento Medical Centre, Sorrento, Victoria, Australia
| | | | | | | | - Eugene Athan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Barwon Health, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
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Tetro JA. From hidden outbreaks to epidemic emergencies: the threat associated with neglecting emerging pathogens. Microbes Infect 2019; 21:4-9. [PMID: 29959095 PMCID: PMC7110498 DOI: 10.1016/j.micinf.2018.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2018] [Accepted: 06/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Not all infectious disease outbreaks undergo full epidemiological investigations. In certain situations, the resultant lack of knowledge has led to the development of epidemics and public health emergencies. This review will examine six emerging pathogens including their history, present status, and potential to expand to epidemics. Recommendations to improve our understanding of these hidden outbreaks and others also will be provided in the context of health systems policy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason A Tetro
- College of Biological Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada.
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Bretzel G, Beissner M. PCR detection of Mycobacterium ulcerans-significance for clinical practice and epidemiology. Expert Rev Mol Diagn 2018; 18:1063-1074. [PMID: 30381977 DOI: 10.1080/14737159.2018.1543592] [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] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Buruli ulcer (BU) is a neglected disease which has been reported from mostly impoverished, remote rural areas from 35 countries worldwide. BU affects skin, subcutaneous tissue, and bones, and may cause massive tissue destruction and life-long disabilities if not diagnosed and treated early. Without laboratory confirmation diagnostic and treatment errors may occur. This review describes the application of IS2404 PCR, the preferred diagnostic test, in the area of individual patient management and clinico-epidemiological studies. Areas covered: A Medline search included publications on clinical sample collection, DNA extraction, and PCR detection formats of the past and present, potential and limitations of clinical application, as well as clinico-epidemiological studies. Expert commentary: A global network of reference laboratories basically provides the possibility for PCR confirmation of 70% of all BU cases worldwide as requested by the WHO. Keeping laboratory confirmation on a constant level requires continuous outreach activities. Among the potential measures to maintain sustainability of laboratory confirmation and outreach activities are decentralized or mobile diagnostics available at point of care, such as IS2404-based LAMP, which complement the standard IS2404-based diagnostic tools available at central level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gisela Bretzel
- a Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine , University Hospital, Ludwigs-Maximilians-University , Munich , Germany
| | - Marcus Beissner
- a Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine , University Hospital, Ludwigs-Maximilians-University , Munich , Germany
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Abstract
Mycobacterium ulcerans is recognised as the third most common mycobacterial infection worldwide. It causes necrotising infections of skin and soft tissue and is classified as a neglected tropical disease by the World Health Organization (WHO). However, despite extensive research, the environmental reservoir of the organism and mode of transmission of the infection to humans remain unknown. This limits the ability to design and implement public health interventions to effectively and consistently prevent the spread and reduce the incidence of this disease. In recent years, the epidemiology of the disease has changed. In most endemic regions of the world, the number of cases reported to the WHO are reducing, with a 64% reduction in cases reported worldwide in the last 9 years. Conversely, in a smaller number of countries including Australia and Nigeria, reported cases are increasing at a rapid rate, new endemic areas continue to appear, and in Australia cases are becoming more severe. The reasons for this changing epidemiology are unknown. We review the epidemiology of M. ulcerans disease worldwide, and document recent changes. We also outline and discuss the current state of knowledge on the ecology of M. ulcerans, possible transmission mechanisms to humans and what may be enabling the spread of M. ulcerans into new endemic areas.
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O'Brien DP, Callan P, Friedman ND, Athan E, Hughes A, McDonald A. Mycobacterium ulcerans disease management in Australian patients: the re-emergence of surgery as an important treatment modality. ANZ J Surg 2018; 89:653-658. [PMID: 30239097 DOI: 10.1111/ans.14829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2018] [Revised: 07/16/2018] [Accepted: 07/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
With the demonstration of the effectiveness of antibiotic treatment, the management of Mycobacterium ulcerans disease has changed from a predominantly surgically to a predominantly medically treated disease. However, research among Australian patients has revealed that antibiotic treatment alone is associated with prolonged wound healing times, high rates of treatment toxicity, and the potential for significant tissue destruction associated with severe paradoxical reactions. We present the current state of M. ulcerans management in Barwon Health, Australia, where a close working relationship exists between the Plastic Surgical and Infectious Diseases units. Here treatment has evolved based on nearly 20 years of experience gained from managing more around 600 patients from a M. ulcerans epidemic on the nearby Bellarine and Mornington Peninsulas. In our experience, surgery has re-emerged to play an important role in the treatment of M. ulcerans in improving the rate of wound healing, minimizing antibiotic associated toxicity and preventing further tissue loss associated with severe paradoxical reactions. For selected small lesions surgery without antibiotics may also be an effective treatment option, however aggressive surgical resection of lesions with wide margins through uninvolved tissue should no longer be performed. Furthermore, extensive excisional surgery that will require the use of split skin grafts and vascularized tissue flaps to repair skin defects should be avoided if possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel P O'Brien
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Barwon Health, Geelong, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Medicine and Infectious Diseases, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Manson Unit, Médecins Sans Frontières, London, UK
| | - Peter Callan
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Barwon Health, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - N Deborah Friedman
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Barwon Health, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Eugene Athan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Barwon Health, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Andrew Hughes
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Barwon Health, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Anthony McDonald
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Barwon Health, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
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De Groote MA, Jarvis TC, Wong C, Graham J, Hoang T, Young CL, Ribble W, Day J, Li W, Jackson M, Gonzalez-Juarrero M, Sun X, Ochsner UA. Optimization and Lead Selection of Benzothiazole Amide Analogs Toward a Novel Antimycobacterial Agent. Front Microbiol 2018; 9:2231. [PMID: 30294313 PMCID: PMC6158578 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2018.02231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2018] [Accepted: 08/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Mycobacteria remain an important problem worldwide, especially drug resistant human pathogens. Novel therapeutics are urgently needed to tackle both drug-resistant tuberculosis (TB) and difficult-to-treat infections with nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM). Benzothiazole adamantyl amide had previously emerged as a high throughput screening hit against M. tuberculosis (Mtb) and was subsequently found to be active against NTM as well. For lead optimization, we applied an iterative process of design, synthesis and screening of several 100 analogs to improve antibacterial potency as well as physicochemical and pharmacological properties to ultimately achieve efficacy. Replacement of the adamantyl group with cyclohexyl derivatives, including bicyclic moieties, resulted in advanced lead compounds that showed excellent potency and a mycobacteria-specific spectrum of activity. MIC values ranged from 0.03 to 0.12 μg/mL against M. abscessus (Mabs) and other rapid- growing NTM, 1–2 μg/mL against M. avium complex (MAC), and 0.12–0.5 μg/mL against Mtb. No pre-existing resistance was found in a collection of n = 54 clinical isolates of rapid-growing NTM. Unlike many antibacterial agents commonly used to treat mycobacterial infections, benzothiazole amides demonstrated bactericidal effects against both Mtb and Mabs. Metabolic labeling provided evidence that the compounds affect the transfer of mycolic acids to their cell envelope acceptors in mycobacteria. Mapping of resistance mutations pointed to the trehalose monomycolate transporter (MmpL3) as the most likely target. In vivo efficacy and tolerability of a benzothiazole amide was demonstrated in a mouse model of chronic NTM lung infection with Mabs. Once daily dosing over 4 weeks by intrapulmonary microspray administration as 5% corn oil/saline emulsion achieved statistically significant CFU reductions compared to vehicle control and non-inferiority compared to azithromycin. The benzothiazole amides hold promise for development of a novel therapeutic agent with broad antimycobacterial activity, though further work is needed to develop drug formulations for direct intrapulmonary delivery via aerosol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary A De Groote
- Mycobacteria Research Laboratories, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Pathology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, United States
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Joshua Day
- Crestone, Inc., Boulder, CO, United States
| | - Wei Li
- Mycobacteria Research Laboratories, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Pathology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, United States
| | - Mary Jackson
- Mycobacteria Research Laboratories, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Pathology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, United States
| | - Mercedes Gonzalez-Juarrero
- Mycobacteria Research Laboratories, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Pathology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, United States
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Buruli ulcer is a necrotizing cutaneous infection caused by infection with Mycobacterium ulcerans bacteria that occurs mainly in tropical and subtropical regions. The infection progresses from nodules under the skin to deep ulcers, often on the upper and lower limbs or on the face. If left undiagnosed and untreated, it can lead to lifelong disfigurement and disabilities. It is often treated with drugs and surgery. OBJECTIVES To summarize the evidence of drug treatments for treating Buruli ulcer. SEARCH METHODS We searched the Cochrane Infectious Diseases Group Specialized Register; the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), published in the Cochrane Library; MEDLINE (PubMed); Embase (Ovid); and LILACS (Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature; BIREME). We also searched the US National Institutes of Health Ongoing Trials Register (clinicaltrials.gov) and the World Health Organization (WHO) International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP) (www.who.int/ictrp/search/en/). All searches were run up to 19 December 2017. We also checked the reference lists of articles identified by the literature search, and contacted leading researchers in this topic area to identify any unpublished data. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared antibiotic therapy to placebo or alternative therapy such as surgery, or that compared different antibiotic regimens. We also included prospective observational studies that evaluated different antibiotic regimens with or without surgery. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently applied the inclusion criteria, extracted the data, and assessed methodological quality. We calculated the risk ratio (RR) for dichotomous data with 95% confidence intervals (CI). We assessed the certainty of the evidence using the GRADE approach. MAIN RESULTS We included a total of 18 studies: five RCTs involving a total of 319 participants, ranging from 12 participants to 151 participants, and 13 prospective observational studies, with 1665 participants. Studies evaluated various drugs usually in addition to surgery, and were carried out across eight countries in areas with high Buruli ulcer endemicity in West Africa and Australia. Only one RCT reported adequate methods to minimize bias. Regarding monotherapy, one RCT and one observational study evaluated clofazimine, and one RCT evaluated sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim. All three studies had small sample sizes, and no treatment effect was demonstrated. The remaining studies examined combination therapy.Rifampicin combined with streptomycinWe found one RCT and six observational studies which evaluated rifampicin combined with streptomycin for different lengths of treatment (2, 4, 8, or 12 weeks) (941 participants). The RCT did not demonstrate a difference between the drugs added to surgery compared with surgery alone for recurrence at 12 months, but was underpowered (RR 0.12, 95% CI 0.01 to 2.51; 21 participants; very low-certainty evidence).An additional five single-arm observational studies with 828 participants using this regimen for eight weeks with surgery (given to either all participants or to a select group) reported healing rates ranging from 84.5% to 100%, assessed between six weeks and one year. Four observational studies reported healing rates for participants who received the regimen alone without surgery, reporting healing rates ranging from 48% to 95% assessed between eight weeks and one year.Rifampicin combined with clarithromycinTwo observational studies administered combined rifampicin and clarithromycin. One study evaluated the regimen alone (no surgery) for eight weeks and reported a healing rate of 50% at 12 months (30 participants). Another study evaluated the regimen administered for various durations (as determined by the clinicians, durations unspecified) with surgery and reported a healing rate of 100% at 12 months (21 participants).Rifampicin with streptomycin initially, changing to rifampicin with clarithromycin in consolidation phaseOne RCT evaluated this regimen (four weeks in each phase) against continuing with rifampicin and streptomycin in the consolidation phase (total eight weeks). All included participants had small lesions, and healing rates were above 90% in both groups without surgery (healing rate at 12 months RR 0.94, 95% CI 0.87 to 1.03; 151 participants; low-certainty evidence). One single-arm observational study evaluating the substitution of streptomycin with clarithromycin in the consolidation phase (6 weeks, total 8 weeks) without surgery given to a select group showed a healing rate of 98% at 12 months (41 participants).Novel combination therapyTwo large prospective studies in Australia evaluated some novel regimens. One study evaluating rifampicin combined with either ciprofloxacin, clarithromycin, or moxifloxacin without surgery reported a healing rate of 76.5% at 12 months (132 participants). Another study evaluating combinations of two to three drugs from rifampicin, ciprofloxacin, clarithromycin, ethambutol, moxifloxacin, or amikacin with surgery reported a healing rate of 100% (90 participants).Adverse effects were reported in only three RCTs (158 participants) and eight prospective observational studies (878 participants), and were consistent with what is already known about the adverse effect profile of these drugs. Paradoxical reactions (clinical deterioration after treatment caused by enhanced immune response to M ulcerans) were evaluated in six prospective observational studies (822 participants), and the incidence of paradoxical reactions ranged from 1.9% to 26%. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS While the antibiotic combination treatments evaluated appear to be effective, we found insufficient evidence showing that any particular drug is more effective than another. How different sizes, lesions, and stages of the disease may contribute to healing and which kind of lesions are in need of surgery are unclear based on the included studies. Guideline development needs to consider these factors in designing practical treatment regimens. Forthcoming trials using clarithromycin with rifampicin and other trials of new regimens that also address these factors will help to identify the best regimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rie R Yotsu
- National Center for Global Health and MedicineDepartment of Dermatology1‐21‐1 ToyamaShinjuku‐kuTokyoJapan162‐8655
- National Suruga SanatoriumDepartment of Dermatology1915 KoyamaGotenba‐shiShizuokaJapan412‐8512
| | - Marty Richardson
- Liverpool School of Tropical MedicineCochrane Infectious Diseases GroupPembroke PlaceLiverpoolUKL3 5QA
| | - Norihisa Ishii
- Leprosy Research Center, National Institute of Infectious Diseases4‐2‐1 AobachoHigashimurayamaTokyoJapan189‐0002
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Loftus MJ, Trubiano JA, Tay EL, Lavender CJ, Globan M, Fyfe JAM, Johnson PDR. The incubation period of Buruli ulcer (Mycobacterium ulcerans infection) in Victoria, Australia - Remains similar despite changing geographic distribution of disease. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2018; 12:e0006323. [PMID: 29554096 PMCID: PMC5875870 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0006323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2017] [Revised: 03/29/2018] [Accepted: 02/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Buruli ulcer (BU) is a geographically-restricted infection caused by Mycobacterium ulcerans; contact with an endemic region is the primary risk factor for disease acquisition. Globally, efforts to estimate the incubation period of BU are often hindered as most patients reside permanently in endemic areas. However, in the south-eastern Australian state of Victoria, a significant proportion of people who acquire BU are visitors to endemic regions. During a sustained outbreak of BU on the Bellarine peninsula we estimated a mean incubation period of 4.5 months. Since then cases on the Bellarine peninsula have declined but a new endemic area has developed centred on the Mornington peninsula. METHOD Retrospective review of 443 cases of BU notified in Victoria between 2013 and 2016. Telephone interviews were performed to identify all cases with a single visit to an endemic region, or multiple visits within a one month period. The incubation period was defined as the time between exposure to an endemic region and symptom onset. Data were subsequently combined with those from our earlier study incorporating cases from 2002 to 2012. RESULTS Among the 20 new cases identified in short-term visitors, the mean incubation period was 143 days (4.8 months), very similar to the previous estimate of 135 days (4.5 months). This was despite the predominant exposure location shifting from the Bellarine peninsula to the Mornington peninsula. We found no association between incubation period and age, sex, location of exposure, duration of exposure to an endemic region or location of BU lesion. CONCLUSIONS Our study confirms the mean incubation period of BU in Victoria to be between 4 and 5 months. This knowledge can guide clinicians and suggests that the mode of transmission of BU is similar in different geographic regions in Victoria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J. Loftus
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
- Victorian Department of Health and Human Services, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- * E-mail:
| | - Jason A. Trubiano
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Medicine, Melbourne University, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ee Laine Tay
- Victorian Department of Health and Human Services, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Caroline J. Lavender
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, North Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Maria Globan
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, North Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Janet A. M. Fyfe
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, North Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Paul D. R. Johnson
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Medicine, Melbourne University, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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van der Werf TS. Diagnostic Tests for Buruli Ulcer: Clinical Judgment Revisited. Clin Infect Dis 2018. [DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciy203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Tjip S van der Werf
- Infectious Diseases Division, Internal Medicine, and Pulmonary Diseases and Tuberculosis, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, The Netherlands
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Yotsu RR, Suzuki K, Simmonds RE, Bedimo R, Ablordey A, Yeboah-Manu D, Phillips R, Asiedu K. Buruli Ulcer: a Review of the Current Knowledge. CURRENT TROPICAL MEDICINE REPORTS 2018; 5:247-256. [PMID: 30460172 PMCID: PMC6223704 DOI: 10.1007/s40475-018-0166-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF THE REVIEW Buruli ulcer (BU) is a necrotizing and disabling cutaneous disease caused by Mycobacterium ulcerans, one of the skin-related neglected tropical diseases (skin NTDs). This article aims to review the current knowledge of this disease and challenges ahead. RECENT FINDINGS Around 60,000 cases of BU have been reported from over 33 countries between 2002 and 2017. Encouraging findings for development of point-of-care tests for BU are being made, and its treatment is currently in the transition period from rifampicin plus streptomycin (injection) to all-oral regimen. A major recent advance in our understanding of its pathogenesis has been agreement on the mechanism of action of the major virulence toxin mycolactone in host cells, targeting the Sec61 translocon during a major step in protein biogenesis. SUMMARY BU is distributed mainly in West Africa, but cases are also found in other parts of the world. We may be underestimating its true disease burden, due to the limited awareness of this disease. More awareness and more understanding of BU will surely contribute in enhancing our fight against this skin NTD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rie R. Yotsu
- School of Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
- Department of Dermatology, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Dermatology, National Suruga Sanatorium, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Koichi Suzuki
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Medical Technology, Teikyo University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Rachel E. Simmonds
- Department of Microbial Sciences, School of Bioscience and Medicine, University of Surrey, Surrey, UK
| | - Roger Bedimo
- Department of Medicine, VA North Texas Healthcare System, Dallas, TX USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Texas Dallas Southwestern, Dallas, TX USA
| | - Anthony Ablordey
- Department of Bacteriology, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
| | - Dorothy Yeboah-Manu
- Department of Bacteriology, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
| | - Richard Phillips
- Kumansi Centre for Collaborative Research in Tropical Medicine, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Kingsley Asiedu
- Department of Control of Neglected Tropical Diseases, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
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