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Diekmann I, Blazejak K, Krücken J, Strube C, von Samson-Himmelstjerna G. Comparison of morphological and molecular Strongylus spp. identification in equine larval cultures and first report of a patent Strongylus asini infection in a horse. Equine Vet J 2024. [PMID: 39012065 DOI: 10.1111/evj.14134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Surveillance of Strongylus vulgaris and other Strongylus spp. in equids is important for targeted intervention in parasite control, requiring reliable routine diagnostic methods. OBJECTIVES Comparing morphological examination and PCR analyses of larval cultures to identify Strongylus spp. species based on German diagnostic samples from 2018. STUDY DESIGN Method comparison. METHODS During the routine diagnostic investigations, in total 712 strongyle-egg positive equine faecal samples were cultured. Third-stage larvae (L3) were morphologically differentiated. For molecular validation, samples were examined using S. vulgaris real-time PCR and Strongylus edentatus/Strongylus equinus/Strongylus asini high-resolution melting PCRs. RESULTS Based on 28S rRNA PCR, 594 samples positive for nematode DNA were included in the study. The inter-rater reliability to compare morphological and molecular species identification was fair for Strongylus spp. without species identification and for S. edentatus, slight for S. equinus and poor for S. vulgaris. The frequency based on morphological and molecular data in this study were for S. vulgaris 0% and 0.8%, respectively, for S. edentatus 0.3% and 1.5%, respectively, and for S. equinus 2.0% and 0.2%, respectively. Based on molecular analyses, one sample obtained from a domestic horse contained S. asini DNA, which was confirmed by sequencing. MAIN LIMITATIONS For many samples, no or only incomplete data regarding clinical history, the exact geographical location and whether samples were obtained on individual or farm level, were available. CONCLUSIONS Results of morphological and molecular examination methods of strongyle L3 from equine samples can differ substantially. Further evaluation of these methods is required to provide reliable and cost-effective methods of screening equine parasites. Further studies using approaches suitable to detect S. asini are needed to evaluate its clinical and epidemiological relevance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irina Diekmann
- Institute for Parasitology and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Veterinary Centre for Resistance Research (TZR), Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Katrin Blazejak
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Jürgen Krücken
- Institute for Parasitology and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Veterinary Centre for Resistance Research (TZR), Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Christina Strube
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Georg von Samson-Himmelstjerna
- Institute for Parasitology and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Veterinary Centre for Resistance Research (TZR), Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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Domshy KA, Whitehead AE, Poissant J, Goldsmith DA, Legge C, Knight CG, Zachar EK, Loch SS, Davies JL. A retrospective study of the prevalence in equine postmortems of cranial mesenteric arteritis caused by Strongylus vulgaris in Alberta (2010 to 2022). THE CANADIAN VETERINARY JOURNAL = LA REVUE VETERINAIRE CANADIENNE 2024; 65:587-593. [PMID: 38827589 PMCID: PMC11132149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
Background Strongylus vulgaris is one of the most pathogenic nematodes affecting equids. Larval migration through the cranial mesenteric artery (CMA) with attendant arteritis and thromboembolism can result in fatal non-strangulating intestinal infarction. Once considered a historical disease, recent studies have described the reemergence of this pathogen in several European countries; however, little is known of the current prevalence of S. vulgaris in the Canadian horse population. Objective To determine the prevalence of active S. vulgaris cranial mesenteric arteritis in horses submitted for postmortem examination to the Diagnostic Services Unit (DSU) at the University of Calgary Faculty of Veterinary Medicine. Animals and procedure We conducted a retrospective review of all equine postmortem cases submitted to the DSU between July 1, 2010 and June 30, 2022. Over 12 y, 510 horses > 2 mo of age from Alberta were submitted to the DSU for necropsy. Active cases were defined as those with endarteritis and thrombosis in the CMA or its branches. Those cases with only intimal scarring of the CMA were classified as historical. Results The prevalence of all CMA lesions (both historical and active) over the study period was 17.3% (88/510). Active S. vulgaris cranial mesenteric arteritis was documented in 6.1% (31/510) of equine postmortems and the sequelae of verminous arteritis were the cause of euthanasia or death in 1.5% (8/510) of the cases submitted. Conclusion and clinical relevance Even after historically intense efforts to eradicate this parasite, the continued effects of S. vulgaris are demonstrated by the results of this study. Strongylus vulgaris should not be regarded as a parasite of the past and verminous arteritis remains an important differential diagnosis for horses in western Canada presenting with mild colic or dull demeanor and anorexia of duration > 24 h. Furthermore, S. vulgaris should be taken into careful consideration when implementing antiparasitic control strategies. Practitioners should remain current on prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of this potentially reemerging and fatal equine disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrice A Domshy
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta T2N 1N4
| | - Ashley E Whitehead
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta T2N 1N4
| | - Jocelyn Poissant
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta T2N 1N4
| | - Dayna A Goldsmith
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta T2N 1N4
| | - Carolyn Legge
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta T2N 1N4
| | - Cameron G Knight
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta T2N 1N4
| | - Erin K Zachar
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta T2N 1N4
| | - Sara S Loch
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta T2N 1N4
| | - Jennifer L Davies
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta T2N 1N4
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Rendle D, Hughes K, Bowen M, Bull K, Cameron I, Furtado T, Peachey L, Sharpe L, Hodgkinson J. BEVA primary care clinical guidelines: Equine parasite control. Equine Vet J 2024; 56:392-423. [PMID: 38169127 DOI: 10.1111/evj.14036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is a lack of consensus on how best to balance our need to minimise the risk of parasite-associated disease in the individual horse, with the need to limit the use of anthelmintics in the population to preserve their efficacy through delaying further development of resistance. OBJECTIVES To develop evidence-based guidelines utilising a modified GRADE framework. METHODS A panel of veterinary scientists with relevant expertise and experience was convened. Relevant research questions were identified and developed with associated search terms being defined. Evidence in the veterinary literature was evaluated using the GRADE evidence-to-decision framework. Literature searches were performed utilising CAB abstracts and PubMed. Where there was insufficient evidence to answer the research question the panel developed practical guidance based on their collective knowledge and experience. RESULTS Search results are presented, and recommendation or practical guidance were made in response to 37 clinically relevant questions relating to the use of anthelmintics in horses. MAIN LIMITATIONS There was insufficient evidence to answer many of the questions with any degree of certainty and practical guidance frequently had to be based upon extrapolation of relevant information and the panel members' collective experience and opinions. CONCLUSIONS Equine parasite control practices and current recommendations have a weak evidence base. These guidelines highlight changes in equine parasite control that should be considered to reduce the threat of parasite-associated disease and delay the development of further anthelmintic resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kristopher Hughes
- School of Agricultural, Environmental and Veterinary Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Mark Bowen
- Medicine Vet Referrals, Nottinghamshire, UK
| | - Katie Bull
- Bristol Veterinary School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | | | - Tamzin Furtado
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Neston, UK
| | - Laura Peachey
- Bristol Veterinary School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | | | - Jane Hodgkinson
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Neston, UK
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4
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Cai E, Wu R, Wu Y, Gao Y, Zhu Y, Li J. A systematic review and meta-analysis on the current status of anthelmintic resistance in equine nematodes: A global perspective. Mol Biochem Parasitol 2024; 257:111600. [PMID: 38030084 DOI: 10.1016/j.molbiopara.2023.111600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The intensive application of anthelmintics in equine has led to considerable resistance in cyathostomins and Parascaris equorum. It has been well documented that benzimidazole (BZ) and pyrantel resistance is widespread in cyathostomins and Parascaris equorum. Since no new classes of anthelmintic have been introduced in the last 40 years, it is critical to be aware of the current risk factors of anthelmintic application to avoid further resistance. OBJECTIVE To review the factors affecting the level of anthelmintics resistance in equine around the world, type of anthelmintics, mode of application, dosage, nematode species, and location of anthelmintics application were evaluated and summarized. DESIGN/PROCEDURE A systematic review and meta-analyses following the PRISMA Framework were conducted to identify, evaluate, and synthesize primary literature reporting the efficacy of anthelmintic drugs in equines. Information on the bibliographic data, anthelmintic drugs, animals, continents, parasite genera, type of anthelmintics, and dosage was collected. Nonparametric tests (Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney) were used in SPSS (v.27) to investigate the association between variables. Factors that have a significant impact on efficacy have been subjected to binary logistic regression. Six meta-analyses were conducted in Microsoft Excel (2021) to qualify current resistance issues of the three major anthelmintics classes. RESULTS The final database was composed of 60 articles published between 1994 and 2022 with a total of 11835 animals. Anthelmintic class as well as anthelmintic active principle selection did have a significant effect on resistance (P < 0.01), whilst no correlation of the type of anthelmintics, mode of application, and dosage with efficacy were found. Anthelmintics resistance in ascarid was significantly more severe than in strongyle (P < 0.01). Macrocyclic lactone (ML) class and the benzimidazole and probenzimidazole (BP) class have the lowest efficacy against ascarid and strongyle, respectively (67.83% and 69.85%). The effect of location (by continent) also had a significant influence on the resistance of the ML class (P < 0.01). The resistance of the BP class which is the most prevalently applied was demonstrated in all six continents. Binary logistic regression revealed that parasite genera and drug class independently influenced the presence of drug resistance. The forest plots included in this study did not show a significant difference over time. CONCLUSION Current evidence indicated that anthelmintics resistance of ML and BP class were common in ascarid and strongyle. A combination of anthelmintics may reduce anthelmintics resistance, but multi-drug resistance may be a concern. Customerised anthelmintics strategy could help reduce resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enjia Cai
- Equine Clinical Diagnostic Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Rongzheng Wu
- Equine Clinical Diagnostic Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Yuhong Wu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN 55108, United States
| | - Yu Gao
- University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover Foundation, Hannover D-30559, Germany
| | - Yiping Zhu
- Equine Clinical Diagnostic Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China.
| | - Jing Li
- Equine Clinical Diagnostic Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China.
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Lightbody KL, Austin A, Lambert PA, von Samson-Himmelstjerna G, Jürgenschellert L, Krücken J, Nielsen MK, Sallé G, Reigner F, Donnelly CG, Finno CJ, Walshe N, Mulcahy G, Housby-Skeggs N, Grice S, Geyer KK, Austin CJ, Matthews JB. Validation of a serum ELISA test for cyathostomin infection in equines. Int J Parasitol 2024; 54:23-32. [PMID: 37536388 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2023.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
Cyathostomins are ubiquitous equine nematodes. Infection can result in larval cyathostominosis due to mass larval emergence. Although faecal egg count (FEC) tests provide estimates of egg shedding, these correlate poorly with burden and provide no information on mucosal/luminal larvae. Previous studies describe a serum IgG(T)-based ELISA (CT3) that exhibits utility for detection of mucosal/luminal cyathostomins. Here, this ELISA is optimised/validated for commercial application using sera from horses for which burden data were available. Optimisation included addition of total IgG-based calibrators to provide standard curves for quantification of antigen-specific IgG(T) used to generate a CT3-specific 'serum score' for each horse. Validation dataset results were then used to assess the optimised test's performance and select serum score cut-off values for diagnosis of burdens above 1000, 5000 and 10,000 cyathostomins. The test demonstrated excellent performance (Receiver Operating Characteristic Area Under the Curve values >0.9) in diagnosing infection, with >90% sensitivity and >70% specificity at the selected serum score cut-off values. CT3-specific serum IgG(T) profiles in equines in different settings were assessed to provide information for commercial test use. These studies demonstrated maternal transfer of CT3-specific IgG(T) in colostrum to newborns, levels of which declined before increasing as foals consumed contaminated pasture. Studies in geographically distinct populations demonstrated that the proportion of horses that reported as test positive at a 14.37 CT3 serum score (1000-cyathostomin threshold) was associated with parasite transmission risk. Based on the results, inclusion criteria for commercial use were developed. Logistic regression models were developed to predict probabilities that burdens of individuals are above defined thresholds based on the reported serum score. The models performed at a similar level to the serum score cut-off approach. In conclusion, the CT3 test provides an option for veterinarians to obtain evidence of low cyathostomin burdens that do not require anthelmintic treatment and to support diagnosis of infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsty L Lightbody
- Austin Davis Biologics, Unit 1 Denfield Lodge, Great Addington, NN14 4BL, UK
| | - Andrew Austin
- Austin Davis Biologics, Unit 1 Denfield Lodge, Great Addington, NN14 4BL, UK
| | - Peter A Lambert
- College of Health and Life Sciences, Aston University, Birmingham, B4 7ET, UK
| | - Georg von Samson-Himmelstjerna
- Freie Universität Berlin, Institute for Parasitology and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Robert-von-Ostertag-Str. 7, 14163 Berlin, Germany
| | - Laura Jürgenschellert
- Freie Universität Berlin, Institute for Parasitology and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Robert-von-Ostertag-Str. 7, 14163 Berlin, Germany
| | - Jürgen Krücken
- Freie Universität Berlin, Institute for Parasitology and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Robert-von-Ostertag-Str. 7, 14163 Berlin, Germany
| | - Martin K Nielsen
- Gluck Equine Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40546, USA
| | - Guillaume Sallé
- INRAE, Université de Tours, UMR1282 ISP, F-37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - Fabrice Reigner
- INRAE, UE Physiologie Animale de l'Orfrasière, 37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - Callum G Donnelly
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Carrie J Finno
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Nicola Walshe
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Veterinary Sciences Centre, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Grace Mulcahy
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Veterinary Sciences Centre, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | | | - Steven Grice
- The Horse Trust, Slad Lane, Princes Risborough HP27 0PP, UK
| | | | - Corrine J Austin
- Austin Davis Biologics, Unit 1 Denfield Lodge, Great Addington, NN14 4BL, UK
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Lüthin S, Zollinger A, Basso W, Bisig M, Caspari N, Eng V, Frey CF, Grimm F, Igel P, Lüthi S, Regli W, Roelfstra L, Rosskopf M, Steiner B, Stöckli M, Waidyasekera D, Waldmeier P, Schnyder M, Torgerson PR, Hertzberg H. Strongyle faecal egg counts in Swiss horses: A retrospective analysis after the introduction of a selective treatment strategy. Vet Parasitol 2023; 323:110027. [PMID: 37837729 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2023.110027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/16/2023]
Abstract
The standard parasite management of horses based on regular anthelmintic treatments, now practiced for decades has resulted in a worrying expansion of resistant helminth populations, which may considerably impair control on the farm level. The aim of the present study was to obtain a retrospective (year 2010 - 2016) nationwide analysis of faecal egg count (FEC) data from the Swiss adult horse population, related to horse age and geographic region. Thirteen labs provided a total of 16,387 FEC data of horses aged four to 39 years (average: 13.6 years). The annual number of performed FEC tests increased from 38 to 4,939 within the observation period. Independent of the annual sample size the yearly patterns of the FEC were very similar. Seventy-eight percent (n = 12,840) of the samples were negative and 90 % (n = 14,720) showed a FEC below 200 strongyle eggs per gram (EPG) of faeces. The annual mean strongyle FEC ranged between 60 and 88 EPG with a total mean of 75 EPG. Horses aged 4-7 years showed a significantly (p < 0.00001) higher mean FEC compared with the other age groups, differences were not significant among the older horses. Based on ZIP codes, samples were allocated by 70.0 %, 6.0 % and 0.2 % to the German-, French- and Italian-speaking regions of Switzerland, respectively. With 222 EPG the mean FEC in the French part of Switzerland was significantly higher (p < 0.05) than in the German-speaking region (60 EPG). Eggs of Parascaris spp., anoplocephalids and Strongyloides westeri were found in 0.36 %, 0.32 % and 0.01 % of the samples, respectively. Based on 3,813 questionnaire feedbacks from owners in 2017 covering a total of 12,689 horses, sixty-eight percent (n = 8,476) were dewormed without diagnosis, two percent (n = 240) were not dewormed at all, whereas for 30 % (n = 3,721) the selective anthelmintic treatment (SAT) concept was applied. The SAT implementation rate differed significantly (p < 0.0005) between regions, with 33 %, 20 % and 25 % for the German-, French- and Italian-speaking areas, respectively. The rate of horses spending 16-24 h on pasture per day was significantly higher in the French-speaking region compared to the German-speaking part of Switzerland (p < 0.0001). In addition, pasture hygiene was practiced at a significantly lower rate in the French-speaking part compared to the German- and Italian-speaking regions (both p < 0.0001). Overall, the shift towards the SAT-concept represents a very promising development with respect to mitigating the further spread of anthelmintic resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Lüthin
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 266a, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - A Zollinger
- Agroscope, Swiss National Stud Farm SNSF, Les Longs-Prés, 1580 Avenches, Switzerland
| | - W Basso
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Berne, Länggass-Strasse 122, 3012 Berne, Switzerland
| | - M Bisig
- Bisig Tierärzte AG, Wildbrunnstrasse 3, 8722 Kaltbrunn, Switzerland
| | - N Caspari
- IDEXX Diavet Labor AG, Schlyffistrasse 10, 8806 Bäch SZ, Switzerland
| | - V Eng
- Tierarztpraxis Arche, Sonnenrain 4, 6133 Hergiswil b. Willisau, Switzerland
| | - C F Frey
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Berne, Länggass-Strasse 122, 3012 Berne, Switzerland
| | - F Grimm
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 266a, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - P Igel
- Tierärztliche Gemeinschaftspraxis Zücken, Zückerain 5, 6017 Ruswil, Switzerland
| | - S Lüthi
- Tierarztpraxis Dr. med. vet. Sybil Lüthi, Attenreute 6, 9315 Neukirch (Egnach), Switzerland
| | - W Regli
- Labor Zentral, Stationsweg 3, 6232 Geuensee, Switzerland
| | - L Roelfstra
- Animal Diagnostic Sàrl, Avenue de Beauregard 28, 2036 Cormondrèche, Switzerland
| | - M Rosskopf
- IDEXX Diavet Labor AG, Schlyffistrasse 10, 8806 Bäch SZ, Switzerland
| | - B Steiner
- Zoetis Schweiz GmbH, Rue de la Jeunesse 2, 2800 Delémont, Switzerland
| | - M Stöckli
- Pferdeklinik Dalchenhof, Talchenweg 7, 4805 Brittnau, Switzerland
| | - D Waidyasekera
- Tierarztpraxis am Pfannenstil, Zelgmatt 69, 8132 Egg b. Zürich, Switzerland
| | - P Waldmeier
- Tierarztpraxis Waldmeier GmbH, Hauptstrasse 15, 5273 Oberhofen AG, Switzerland
| | - M Schnyder
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 266a, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - P R Torgerson
- Section of Epidemiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 270, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - H Hertzberg
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 266a, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland; Health Balance Tiergesundheit, Flawilerstrasse 35, 9244 Niederuzwil, Switzerland.
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7
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Onder Z, Yildirim A, Duzlu O, Ciloglu A, Yetismis G, Karabulut F, Inci A. Detection of SNPs and benzimidazole resistance in strongyle nematode eggs of horses by allele-specific PCR. Parasitol Res 2023; 122:2037-2043. [PMID: 37354256 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-023-07903-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023]
Abstract
This study was conducted to determine single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and the benzimidazole (BZ) resistance in strongyle nematode egg populations in horses using molecular techniques. A total of 200 fecal samples were collected from horses in 26 farms in two provinces (Kayseri and Nevşehir) of the Central Anatolia Region of Türkiye between May and August 2022. The flotation method was used to detect strongyle nematode eggs in the fecal samples of the horses. Afterward, strongyle nematode eggs were collected, and the allele-specific polymerase chain reaction (AS-PCR) technique was used to detect the BZ resistance. BZ-susceptible and BZ-resistant PCR products were sequenced to determine single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the β-tubulin isotype 1 gene. The strongyle nematode eggs were determined in 85 (42.5%) out of 200 fecal samples. AS-PCR detected 50.58% (43/85) BZ-resistant (homozygous resistant) and 36.4% (31/85) BZ-susceptible (homozygous susceptible) genes in the strongyle eggs. Both BZ-resistant and BZ-susceptible genes (heterozygous) were determined in 11 samples. BZ-resistant and BZ-susceptible allele frequencies were determined as 57.0% (48.5/85) and 43.0% (36.5/85), respectively. SNPs were detected only in codon 200 of the β-tubulin isotype 1 gene in four sequenced isolates of the two resistant and two susceptible isolates. This study is the first molecular report on BZ resistance in strongyle nematode eggs in horses in Türkiye. The widespread prevalence of BZ-resistant alleles in equine strongyle nematodes shows the requirement for the immediate usage of other anthelmintics instead of the BZ group drugs for the effective management and control of equine strongyle nematodes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuhal Onder
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Erciyes University, 38280, Kayseri, Turkey.
| | - Alparslan Yildirim
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Erciyes University, 38280, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Onder Duzlu
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Erciyes University, 38280, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Arif Ciloglu
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Erciyes University, 38280, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Gamze Yetismis
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Erciyes University, 38280, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Faruk Karabulut
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Erciyes University, 38280, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Abdullah Inci
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Erciyes University, 38280, Kayseri, Turkey
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8
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Stummer M, Frisch V, Glitz F, Hinney B, Spergser J, Krücken J, Diekmann I, Dimmel K, Riedel C, Cavalleri JMV, Rümenapf T, Joachim A, Lyrakis M, Auer A. Presence of Equine and Bovine Coronaviruses, Endoparasites, and Bacteria in Fecal Samples of Horses with Colic. Pathogens 2023; 12:1043. [PMID: 37624003 PMCID: PMC10458731 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12081043] [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: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute abdominal pain (colic) is one of the major equine health threats worldwide and often necessitates intensive veterinary medical care and surgical intervention. Equine coronavirus (ECoV) infections can cause colic in horses but are rarely considered as a differential diagnosis. To determine the frequency of otherwise undetected ECoV infections in horses with acute colic, fresh fecal samples of 105 horses with acute colic and 36 healthy control horses were screened for viruses belonging to the Betacoronavirus 1 species by RT-PCR as well as for gastrointestinal helminths and bacteria commonly associated with colic. Horses with colic excreted significantly fewer strongyle eggs than horses without colic. The prevalence of anaerobic, spore-forming, gram-positive bacteria (Clostridium perfringens and Clostridioides difficile) was significantly higher in the feces of horses with colic. Six horses with colic (5.7%) and one horse from the control group (2.8%) tested positive for Betacoronaviruses. Coronavirus-positive samples were sequenced to classify the virus by molecular phylogeny (N gene). Interestingly, in three out of six coronavirus-positive horses with colic, sequences closely related to bovine coronaviruses (BCoV) were found. The pathogenic potential of BCoV in horses remains unclear and warrants further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moritz Stummer
- Institute of Virology, University of Veterinary Medicine, 1210 Vienna, Austria (K.D.); (T.R.)
| | - Vicky Frisch
- Clinical Unit of Equine Internal Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine, 1210 Vienna, Austria; (V.F.); (J.-M.V.C.)
| | | | - Barbara Hinney
- Institute of Parasitology, University of Veterinary Medicine, 1210 Vienna, Austria; (B.H.); (A.J.)
| | - Joachim Spergser
- Institute of Microbiology, University of Veterinary Medicine, 1210 Vienna, Austria;
| | - Jürgen Krücken
- Institute for Parasitology and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, 14163 Berlin, Germany; (J.K.); (I.D.)
| | - Irina Diekmann
- Institute for Parasitology and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, 14163 Berlin, Germany; (J.K.); (I.D.)
| | - Katharina Dimmel
- Institute of Virology, University of Veterinary Medicine, 1210 Vienna, Austria (K.D.); (T.R.)
| | - Christiane Riedel
- CIRI-Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie, Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Inserm, U1111, CNRS, UMR5308, ENS Lyon, 46 allée d’Italie, 69364 Lyon, France;
| | | | - Till Rümenapf
- Institute of Virology, University of Veterinary Medicine, 1210 Vienna, Austria (K.D.); (T.R.)
| | - Anja Joachim
- Institute of Parasitology, University of Veterinary Medicine, 1210 Vienna, Austria; (B.H.); (A.J.)
| | - Manolis Lyrakis
- Platform for Bioinformatics and Biostatistics, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Veterinary Medicine, 1210 Vienna, Austria;
| | - Angelika Auer
- Institute of Virology, University of Veterinary Medicine, 1210 Vienna, Austria (K.D.); (T.R.)
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9
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Poulsen L, Henriksson FV, Dahl M, Honoré ML, Olsen SN, Leifsson PS, Staerk-Østergaard J, Jacobsen S, Pihl TH. Differentiating Strongylus vulgaris-associated, non-strangulating intestinal infarctions from idiopathic peritonitis and acute colitis in horses. Vet Rec 2023; 192:e2538. [PMID: 36567639 DOI: 10.1002/vetr.2538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 11/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Horses with non-strangulating intestinal infarction (NSII) are often misdiagnosed with idiopathic peritonitis or acute colitis. Early diagnosis is essential to ensure early surgical intervention and improve survival. METHODS Clinical and laboratory data from horses admitted to the University of Copenhagen Large Animal Teaching Hospital with NSII, idiopathic peritonitis or acute colitis between 2009 and 2018 were used for univariate comparisons and a multivariable logistic regression model for prediction of NSII. RESULTS Two hundred and thirty-one horses were included. A multivariable model for the prediction of NSII included gastric reflux (more than 5 L) (odds ratio [OR] 8.7; 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.1-36.2), abnormal findings palpated per rectum (intestinal dilatations/impactions [OR 4.43; 95% CI 1.43-13.38], colon displacements [OR 23.16; 95% CI 5.26-101.97] or intestinal mass [OR 179.7; 95% CI 23.5-1375.5]), white blood cell count (OR 1.2; 95% CI 1.1-1.4), packed cell volume (OR 0.9; 95% CI 0.8-0.9), age (OR 0.9; 95% CI 0.8-1.0) and heart rate (OR 1.1; 95% CI 1.0-1.1). The model had a low false positive rate (5%), but a high false negative rate (50%). LIMITATIONS Due to the retrospective nature of the study, sample collection was inconsistent, resulting in missing values. CONCLUSION The model had some capability in predicting NSII. However, the high risk of false negatives means that exploratory laparotomy should be considered in horses with peritonitis of unknown aetiology in areas where Strongylus vulgaris is prevalent and occurrence of idiopathic peritonitis is low.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lea Poulsen
- Medicine and Surgery Section, Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Frida V Henriksson
- Medicine and Surgery Section, Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Melissa Dahl
- Medicine and Surgery Section, Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Marie Louise Honoré
- Medicine and Surgery Section, Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Susanne N Olsen
- Medicine and Surgery Section, Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Páll S Leifsson
- Pathobiological Sciences, Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jacob Staerk-Østergaard
- Animal Welfare and Disease Control, Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Stine Jacobsen
- Medicine and Surgery Section, Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Tina H Pihl
- Medicine and Surgery Section, Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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10
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Rinaldi L, Krücken J, Martinez-Valladares M, Pepe P, Maurelli MP, de Queiroz C, Castilla Gómez de Agüero V, Wang T, Cringoli G, Charlier J, Gilleard JS, von Samson-Himmelstjerna G. Advances in diagnosis of gastrointestinal nematodes in livestock and companion animals. ADVANCES IN PARASITOLOGY 2022; 118:85-176. [PMID: 36088084 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apar.2022.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Diagnosis of gastrointestinal nematodes in livestock and companion animals has been neglected for years and there has been an historical underinvestment in the development and improvement of diagnostic tools, undermining the undoubted utility of surveillance and control programmes. However, a new impetus by the scientific community and the quickening pace of technological innovations, are promoting a renaissance of interest in developing diagnostic capacity for nematode infections in veterinary parasitology. A cross-cutting priority for diagnostic tools is the development of pen-side tests and associated decision support tools that rapidly inform on the levels of infection and morbidity. This includes development of scalable, parasite detection using artificial intelligence for automated counting of parasitic elements and research towards establishing biomarkers using innovative molecular and proteomic methods. The aim of this review is to assess the state-of-the-art in the diagnosis of helminth infections in livestock and companion animals and presents the current advances of diagnostic methods for intestinal parasites harnessing (i) automated methods for copromicroscopy based on artificial intelligence, (ii) immunodiagnosis, and (iii) molecular- and proteome-based approaches. Regardless of the method used, multiple factors need to be considered before diagnostics test results can be interpreted in terms of control decisions. Guidelines on how to apply diagnostics and how to interpret test results in different animal species are increasingly requested and some were recently made available in veterinary parasitology for the different domestic species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Rinaldi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy.
| | - J Krücken
- Institute for Parasitology and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Veterinary Centre for Resistance Research, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - M Martinez-Valladares
- Instituto de Ganadería de Montaña (CSIC-Universidad de León), Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de León, León, Spain
| | - P Pepe
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - M P Maurelli
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - C de Queiroz
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, 3331 Hospital Drive, Host-Parasite Interactions (HPI) Program University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, St Georges University, Grenada
| | - V Castilla Gómez de Agüero
- Instituto de Ganadería de Montaña (CSIC-Universidad de León), Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de León, León, Spain
| | - T Wang
- Kreavet, Kruibeke, Belgium
| | - Giuseppe Cringoli
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | | | - J S Gilleard
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, 3331 Hospital Drive, Host-Parasite Interactions (HPI) Program University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - G von Samson-Himmelstjerna
- Institute for Parasitology and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Veterinary Centre for Resistance Research, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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