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Ginders J, Stirn M, Novacco M, Hofmann-Lehmann R, Riond B. Validation of the Sysmex XN-V Automated Nucleated Red Blood Cell Enumeration for Canine and Feline EDTA-Anticoagulated Blood. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:455. [PMID: 38338098 PMCID: PMC10854831 DOI: 10.3390/ani14030455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The enumeration of nRBCs (nucleated red blood cells) by manual counting is time-consuming and imprecise. As the first veterinary hematology analyzer, Sysmex XN-V provides automated nRBC counts. This study aimed to evaluate the performance of Sysmex XN-V in the enumeration of nRBCs for cats and dogs by comparing automated nRBC counts to manual counts from a total of 3810 canine and 2844 feline specimens. Repeatability, reproducibility, stability, carry-over, and linearity were assessed. The repeatability and reproducibility of Sysmex XN-V were good, with mean coefficients of variation (CV) of 4.5% and 5.4%, respectively. Bland-Altman difference analysis revealed mean biases shown as nRBCs/100 WBCs of 0.01 in dogs and 0.11 in cats with low nRBCs (<5/100 WBCs), mean biases of -1.27 in dogs and -0.24 in cats with moderate nRBC counts (5-20 nRBCs/100 WBCs), and mean biases of -7.76 in dogs and -1.31 in cats with high nRBC counts (>20 nRBCs/100 WBCs). The total observable error was below 9% in both species and at all ranges. Overall concordance between methods was high (91% in canine and 93% in feline samples). The automated nRBC count by Sysmex XN-V was found to be accurate and precise and can replace manual counts for cat and dog samples. Non-statistical quality assurance by scattergram evaluation, re-gating, and confirmation by blood smear evaluation is, however, recommended, especially in cases with severe normoblastosis. This advancement will save time, reduce errors, and add prognostic value to hematological results for animal patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Ginders
- Clinical Laboratory, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland; (M.S.); (M.N.); (R.H.-L.); (B.R.)
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Lourdes Frehner B, Christen M, Reichler IM, Jagannathan V, Novacco M, Riond B, Peters LM, Suárez Sánchez-Andrade J, Pieńkowska-Schelling A, Schelling C, Kipar A, Leeb T, Balogh O. Autosomal recessive hyposegmentation of granulocytes in Australian Shepherd Dogs indicates a role for LMBR1L in myeloid leukocytes. PLoS Genet 2023; 19:e1010805. [PMID: 37347778 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1010805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Pelger-Huët anomaly (PHA) in humans is an autosomal dominant hematological phenotype without major clinical consequences. PHA involves a characteristic hyposegmentation of granulocytes (HG). Human PHA is caused by heterozygous loss of function variants in the LBR gene encoding lamin receptor B. Bi-allelic variants and complete deficiency of LBR cause the much more severe Greenberg skeletal dysplasia which is lethal in utero and characterized by massive skeletal malformation and gross fetal hydrops. HG phenotypes have also been described in domestic animals and homology to human PHA has been claimed in the literature. We studied a litter of Australian Shepherd Dogs with four stillborn puppies in which both parents had an HG phenotype. Linkage analysis excluded LBR as responsible gene for the stillborn puppies. We then investigated the HG phenotype in Australian Shepherd Dogs independently of the prenatal lethality. Genome-wide association mapped the HG locus to chromosome 27 and established an autosomal recessive mode of inheritance. Whole genome sequencing identified a splice site variant in LMBR1L, c.191+1G>A, as most likely causal variant for the HG phenotype. The mutant allele abrogates the expression of the longer X2 isoform but does not affect transcripts encoding the shorter X1 isoform of the LMBR1L protein. The homozygous mutant LMBR1L genotype associated with HG is common in Australian Shepherd Dogs and was found in 39 of 300 genotyped dogs (13%). Our results point to a previously unsuspected function of LMBR1L in the myeloid lineage of leukocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bianca Lourdes Frehner
- Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Matthias Christen
- Institute of Genetics, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Iris M Reichler
- Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Vidhya Jagannathan
- Institute of Genetics, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Marilisa Novacco
- Clinical Laboratory, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Barbara Riond
- Clinical Laboratory, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Laureen M Peters
- Clinical Diagnostic Laboratory, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | | | - Aldona Pieńkowska-Schelling
- Institute of Genetics, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Research Platform AgroVet-Strickhof, Vetsuisse Faculty Zurich, University of Zurich, Lindau, Switzerland
| | - Claude Schelling
- Research Platform AgroVet-Strickhof, Vetsuisse Faculty Zurich, University of Zurich, Lindau, Switzerland
| | - Anja Kipar
- Institute of Veterinary Pathology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Tosso Leeb
- Institute of Genetics, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Orsolya Balogh
- Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
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Dervas E, Michalopoulou E, Liesegang A, Novacco M, Schwarzenberger F, Hetzel U, Kipar A. Haematology, biochemistry and morphological features of peripheral blood cells in captive Boa constrictor. Conserv Physiol 2023; 11:coad001. [PMID: 36726862 PMCID: PMC9885740 DOI: 10.1093/conphys/coad001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The common boa (Boa constrictor) belongs to the family Boidae and represents one of the most popular traded and kept snake species in captivity. The early diagnosis, prevention and prophylaxis of diseases in this species, and in reptiles in general, still pose major challenges, also due to the lack of reliable reference values. This prompted us to conduct a study on clinically healthy captive B. constrictor to assess their basic health parameters in the blood (haematological and biochemical values, stress markers). Several parameters differed significantly between younger (<3 years) and older (≥3 years) boas; in the latter, the percentages of eosinophils, the haemoglobin and haematocrit levels, as well as the albumin and total protein levels, were higher. In male snakes, cholesterol levels were significantly higher than in females. Light and electron microscopy as well as immunohistochemistry served to identify and determine the morphological features of peripheral blood cells, that is, heterophils, basophils, eosinophils, azurophils, monocytes, lymphocytes, thrombocytes and erythrocytes. Leukocyte subpopulations, that is, T and B cells and monocytes, were also identified based on specific marker expression. The study provides data on haematological, biochemical and stress hormone levels, suitable as reference values, and on the blood cell morphology of B. constrictor which can serve as a guideline for further research on this species.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Dervas
- Institute of Veterinary Pathology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 268, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - E Michalopoulou
- Institute of Veterinary Pathology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 268, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - A Liesegang
- Institute for Animal Nutrition and Dietetics, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 270, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - M Novacco
- Clinical Laboratory, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - F Schwarzenberger
- Unit of Physiology, Pathophysiology and Experimental Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210, Vienna, Austria
| | - U Hetzel
- Institute of Veterinary Pathology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 268, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - A Kipar
- Institute of Veterinary Pathology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 268, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
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Lapsina S, Stirn M, Novacco M, Cueni C, Meli ML, Hofmann-Lehmann R, Riond B. What is your diagnosis? Blood smear of a dog. Vet Clin Pathol 2022; 52 Suppl 2:93-96. [PMID: 35297067 DOI: 10.1111/vcp.13109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Revised: 11/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Lapsina
- Clinical Laboratory, Department for Clinical Diagnostics and Services, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Martina Stirn
- Clinical Laboratory, Department for Clinical Diagnostics and Services, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | - Claudia Cueni
- Clinic for Small Animal Internal Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Marina L Meli
- Clinical Laboratory, Department for Clinical Diagnostics and Services, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Regina Hofmann-Lehmann
- Clinical Laboratory, Department for Clinical Diagnostics and Services, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Barbara Riond
- Clinical Laboratory, Department for Clinical Diagnostics and Services, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Dervas E, Hepojoki J, Liesegang A, Novacco M, Baggio F, Hetzel U, Kipar A. Boid Inclusion Body Disease (BIBD) is Associated with Altered Haematological Parameters and Immune Functions in Captive Boa Constrictor. J Comp Pathol 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcpa.2021.11.130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Spiri AM, Novacco M, Meli ML, Stirn M, Riond B, Fogle JE, Boretti FS, Herbert I, Hosie MJ, Hofmann-Lehmann R. Modified-Live Feline Calicivirus Vaccination Elicits Cellular Immunity against a Current Feline Calicivirus Field Strain in an Experimental Feline Challenge Study. Viruses 2021; 13:v13091736. [PMID: 34578316 PMCID: PMC8473420 DOI: 10.3390/v13091736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Feline calicivirus (FCV) is a common cat virus associated with oral ulcerations and virulent-systemic disease. Efficacious FCV vaccines protect against severe disease but not against infection. The high genetic diversity of FCV poses a challenge in vaccine design. Protection against FCV has been related to humoral and cellular immunity; the latter has not been studied in detail. This study investigates the cellular and humoral immune response of specified pathogen-free (SPF) cats after modified-live FCV F9 vaccinations and two heterologous FCV challenges by the analysis of lymphocyte subsets, cytokine mRNA transcription levels, interferon (IFN)-γ release assays in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), anti-FCV antibodies, and neutralisation activity. Vaccinated cats developed a Th1 cytokine response after vaccination. Vaccination resulted in antibodies with neutralising activity against the vaccine but not the challenge viruses. Remarkably, IFN-γ-releasing PBMCs were detected in vaccinated cats upon stimulation with the vaccine strain and the first heterologous FCV challenge strain. After the first experimental infection, the mRNA transcription levels of perforin, granzyme B, INF-γ, and antiviral factor MX1 and the number of IFN-γ-releasing PBMCs when stimulated with the first challenge virus were higher in vaccinated cats compared to control cats. The first FCV challenge induced crossneutralising antibodies in all cats against the second challenge virus. Before the second challenge, vaccinated cats had a higher number of IFN-γ-releasing PBMCs when stimulated with the second challenge virus than control cats. After the second FCV challenge, there were less significant differences detected between the groups regarding lymphocyte subsets and cytokine mRNA transcription levels. In conclusion, modified-live FCV vaccination induced cellular but not humoral crossimmunity in SPF cats; innate immune mechanisms, secretory and membranolytic pathways, and IFN-γ-releasing PBMCs seem to be important in the host immune defence against FCV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea M. Spiri
- Clinical Laboratory, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland; (M.N.); (M.L.M.); (M.S.); (B.R.); (R.H.-L.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +41-44-635-83-78
| | - Marilisa Novacco
- Clinical Laboratory, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland; (M.N.); (M.L.M.); (M.S.); (B.R.); (R.H.-L.)
| | - Marina L. Meli
- Clinical Laboratory, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland; (M.N.); (M.L.M.); (M.S.); (B.R.); (R.H.-L.)
| | - Martina Stirn
- Clinical Laboratory, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland; (M.N.); (M.L.M.); (M.S.); (B.R.); (R.H.-L.)
| | - Barbara Riond
- Clinical Laboratory, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland; (M.N.); (M.L.M.); (M.S.); (B.R.); (R.H.-L.)
| | - Jonathan E. Fogle
- Comparative Immunology Research Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA;
| | - Felicitas S. Boretti
- Clinic for Small Animal Internal Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland;
| | - Imogen Herbert
- Medical Research Council-University of Glasgow, Centre for Virus Research, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK; (I.H.); (M.J.H.)
| | - Margaret J. Hosie
- Medical Research Council-University of Glasgow, Centre for Virus Research, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK; (I.H.); (M.J.H.)
| | - Regina Hofmann-Lehmann
- Clinical Laboratory, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland; (M.N.); (M.L.M.); (M.S.); (B.R.); (R.H.-L.)
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Spiri AM, Riond B, Stirn M, Novacco M, Meli ML, Boretti FS, Herbert I, Hosie MJ, Hofmann-Lehmann R. Modified-Live Feline Calicivirus Vaccination Reduces Viral RNA Loads, Duration of RNAemia, and the Severity of Clinical Signs after Heterologous Feline Calicivirus Challenge. Viruses 2021; 13:1505. [PMID: 34452370 PMCID: PMC8402717 DOI: 10.3390/v13081505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Revised: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Feline calicivirus (FCV) is a common cat virus causing clinical signs such as oral ulcerations, fever, reduced general condition, pneumonia, limping and occasionally virulent-systemic disease. Efficacious FCV vaccines protect against severe disease but not against infection. FCV is a highly mutagenic RNA virus whose high genetic diversity poses a challenge in vaccine design. The use of only one modified-live FCV strain over several decades might have driven the viral evolution towards more vaccine-resistant variants. The present study investigated the clinical signs, duration, and amount of FCV shedding, RNAemia, haematological changes and acute phase protein reaction in SPF cats after subcutaneous modified-live single strain FCV vaccination or placebo injection and two subsequent oronasal heterologous FCV challenge infections with two different field strains. Neither clinical signs nor FCV shedding from the oropharynx and FCV RNAemia were detected after vaccination. After the first experimental infection, vaccinated cats had significantly lower clinical scores, less increased body temperature and lower acute phase protein levels than control cats. The viral RNA loads from the oropharynx and duration and amount of RNAemia were significantly lower in the vaccinated animals. No clinical signs were observed in any of the cats after the second experimental infection. In conclusion, FCV vaccination was beneficial for protecting cats from severe clinical signs, reducing viral loads and inflammation after FCV challenge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea M. Spiri
- Clinical Laboratory, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services and Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland; (B.R.); (M.S.); (M.N.); (M.L.M.); (R.H.-L.)
| | - Barbara Riond
- Clinical Laboratory, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services and Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland; (B.R.); (M.S.); (M.N.); (M.L.M.); (R.H.-L.)
| | - Martina Stirn
- Clinical Laboratory, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services and Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland; (B.R.); (M.S.); (M.N.); (M.L.M.); (R.H.-L.)
| | - Marilisa Novacco
- Clinical Laboratory, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services and Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland; (B.R.); (M.S.); (M.N.); (M.L.M.); (R.H.-L.)
| | - Marina L. Meli
- Clinical Laboratory, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services and Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland; (B.R.); (M.S.); (M.N.); (M.L.M.); (R.H.-L.)
| | - Felicitas S. Boretti
- Clinic for Small Animal Internal Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland;
| | - Imogen Herbert
- Medical Research Council-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK; (I.H.); (M.J.H.)
| | - Margaret J. Hosie
- Medical Research Council-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK; (I.H.); (M.J.H.)
| | - Regina Hofmann-Lehmann
- Clinical Laboratory, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services and Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland; (B.R.); (M.S.); (M.N.); (M.L.M.); (R.H.-L.)
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Novacco M, Hofmann-Lehmann R, Grimm F, Meli ML, Stirn M. Fatal acute babesiosis associated with Babesia venatorum infection (Babesia sp. EU1) in a captive reindeer calf in Switzerland. Vet Parasitol Reg Stud Reports 2019; 18:100336. [PMID: 31796172 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2019.100336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2019] [Revised: 06/24/2019] [Accepted: 09/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Babesia venatorum was isolated from a captive reindeer calf in Switzerland. The clinical signs consistent with acute babesiosis included hemolytic anemia and hemoglobinuria. The diagnosis was made based on visualization of intraerythrocytic parasites in the stained blood smears and confirmed by PCR analysis of the 18S rRNA gene, with subsequent species identification within Babesia confirmed by sequencing. The reindeer calf was initially treated with supportive care and an antiprotozoal drug (imidocarb dipropionate) but died a few days after hospitalization. Babesia venatorum is also known as Babesia sp. EU1 and can infect different mammalian species, including humans. The current case report aims to increase awareness among veterinarians and reindeer owners about the presence and the associated risk of this zoonotic pathogen. Considering the high morbidity and possible mortality associated with acute babesiosis, captive reindeer should receive tick prevention measures and be tested for subclinical infections in endemic area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marilisa Novacco
- Clinical Laboratory, Department for Clinical Diagnostics and Services, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Switzerland; Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Regina Hofmann-Lehmann
- Clinical Laboratory, Department for Clinical Diagnostics and Services, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Switzerland; Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Felix Grimm
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Marina L Meli
- Clinical Laboratory, Department for Clinical Diagnostics and Services, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Switzerland; Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Martina Stirn
- Clinical Laboratory, Department for Clinical Diagnostics and Services, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Switzerland; Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Switzerland
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de Miranda LHM, Meli M, Conceição-Silva F, Novacco M, Menezes RC, Pereira SA, Sugiarto S, dos Reis ÉG, Gremião IDF, Hofmann-Lehmann R. Co-infection with feline retrovirus is related to changes in immunological parameters of cats with sporotrichosis. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0207644. [PMID: 30500849 PMCID: PMC6267967 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0207644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2017] [Accepted: 11/04/2018] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Feline sporotrichosis due to Sporothrix brasiliensis is frequently severe and often correlated to zoonotic transmission. Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) and Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) cause immunodeficiency in cats; no association has been identified with critical cases of sporotrichosis. Moreover, the cytokine profile in Sporothrix-infected cats and a potential impact of retrovirus co-infections on their immunity is unknown. This study assessed immunological parameters in cats with sporotrichosis with and without FIV or FeLV co-infection. FeLV infection was detected by antigen ELISA and by provirus PCR. FIV infection was investigated through ELISA and Western blot. Cytokine transcription (IFN-γ, IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-10, IL-12, TNF-α) was quantified using RT-qPCR and lymphocyte subpopulations (CD4, CD8, CD5 and CD21) were assessed by flow cytometry. Thirty cats with sporotrichosis were recruited to the study, including three FIV-positive and five FeLV-positive (progressive infection) cats. One cat with regressive FeLV infection was excluded from statistics. In comparison to retrovirus-negative cats, FIV-positive cats and FeLV-positive cats had higher IL-10 levels, FeLV-positive cats had lower IL-4 levels and FIV-positive cats had lower IL-12 levels and a lower CD4+/CD8+ ratio. Remarkably, all cats with poor general condition were FeLV (progressive infection) or FIV-positive, but the retrovirus status was not associated with the sporotrichosis treatment length or outcome. The immunological changes and the more severe clinical presentation observed in cats with retrovirus co-infections encourage future prospective studies that address the impact of these changes on prognostic determinants of feline sporotrichosis and the development of new therapy strategies that control disease spread.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luisa Helena Monteiro de Miranda
- Laboratory of Clinical Research on Dermatozoonoses in Domestic Animals, Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Clinical Laboratory and Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- * E-mail:
| | - Marina Meli
- Clinical Laboratory and Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Fátima Conceição-Silva
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Marilisa Novacco
- Clinical Laboratory and Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Rodrigo Caldas Menezes
- Laboratory of Clinical Research on Dermatozoonoses in Domestic Animals, Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Sandro Antonio Pereira
- Laboratory of Clinical Research on Dermatozoonoses in Domestic Animals, Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Sarah Sugiarto
- Clinical Laboratory and Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Érica Guerino dos Reis
- Laboratory of Clinical Research on Dermatozoonoses in Domestic Animals, Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Isabella Dib Ferreira Gremião
- Laboratory of Clinical Research on Dermatozoonoses in Domestic Animals, Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Regina Hofmann-Lehmann
- Clinical Laboratory and Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Novacco M, Hofmann-Lehmann R, Hetzel U, Hatt JM, Ohlerth S, Stirn M. Lipoid pneumonia in an orangutan (Pongo abelii) with chronic respiratory problems. J Med Primatol 2018; 48:133-136. [PMID: 30443913 DOI: 10.1111/jmp.12391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2018] [Revised: 09/21/2018] [Accepted: 10/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
An orangutan (Pongo abelii) presented with chronic respiratory problems. Cytological evaluation of the bronchoalveolar lavage fluids revealed macrophages with well-circumscribed intracytoplasmic clear vacuoles and lipid droplets in the background, confirmed by Oil Red O staining. The findings were indicative of lipoid pneumonia. This is the first report of lipoid pneumonia in an orangutan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marilisa Novacco
- Clinical Laboratory, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | - Udo Hetzel
- Institute of Veterinary Pathology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Jean-Michel Hatt
- Clinic for Zoo Animals, Exotic Pets and Wildlife, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Stefanie Ohlerth
- Clinic for Diagnostic Imaging, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Martina Stirn
- Clinical Laboratory, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Novacco M, Sugiarto S, Willi B, Baumann J, Spiri AM, Oestmann A, Riond B, Boretti FS, Naegeli H, Hofmann-Lehmann R. Consecutive antibiotic treatment with doxycycline and marbofloxacin clears bacteremia in Mycoplasma haemofelis-infected cats. Vet Microbiol 2018; 217:112-120. [PMID: 29615243 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2018.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2017] [Revised: 03/06/2018] [Accepted: 03/09/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Mycoplasma haemofelis is the most pathogenic feline hemoplasma species and a causative agent of infectious hemolytic anemia in cats. Current treatment protocols are effective in reducing M. haemofelis blood loads and clinical signs but consistent bacteremia clearance is rarely achieved. The aim of this study was to develop an antibiotic treatment protocol capable of clearing M. haemofelis bacteremia. Doxycycline and marbofloxacin treatment protocols were evaluated in chronically M. haemofelis infected cats in two pre-experiments and a controlled treatment study (main experiment) using five treated and four untreated cats. The blood bacterial loads in the main experiment were monitored weekly by real-time PCR for 203 days. Cats were treated with doxycycline (5 mg/kg bid orally) for 28 days. Cats that remained M. haemofelis PCR-positive or became positive again (all 5 cats in the main experiment) were switched to marbofloxacin treatment (2 mg/kg sid orally) for 14 days; then, all cats were PCR-negative. Immunosuppression after the antibiotic treatment did not lead to reactivation of bacteremia. Fine needle aspirates of different organs and bone marrow collected before and after immunosuppression were PCR-negative. Overall, 5 cats cleared bacteremia with doxycycline alone (showing lower bacterial loads at the treatment start), while 10 cats needed to be switched to marbofloxacin. Based on our results, we recommend doxycycline treatment (10 mg/kg up to 28 days) for clearance of M. haemofelis infection and monitoring bacterial loads by real-time PCR. Only if bacteremia persists or reoccurs, antibiotic treatment should be switched to marbofloxacin (2 mg/kg sid for 14 days).
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Affiliation(s)
- Marilisa Novacco
- Clinical Laboratory, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Sarah Sugiarto
- Clinical Laboratory, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Barbara Willi
- Clinical Laboratory, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Clinic for Small Animal Internal Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Julia Baumann
- Clinical Laboratory, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Andrea M Spiri
- Clinical Laboratory, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Angelina Oestmann
- Clinical Laboratory, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Barbara Riond
- Clinical Laboratory, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Felicitas S Boretti
- Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Clinic for Small Animal Internal Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Hanspeter Naegeli
- Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Regina Hofmann-Lehmann
- Clinical Laboratory, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Hofmann-Lehmann R, Wagmann N, Meli ML, Riond B, Novacco M, Joekel D, Gentilini F, Marsilio F, Pennisi MG, Lloret A, Carrapiço T, Boretti FS. Detection of 'Candidatus Neoehrlichia mikurensis' and other Anaplasmataceae and Rickettsiaceae in Canidae in Switzerland and Mediterranean countries. SCHWEIZ ARCH TIERH 2016; 158:691-700. [PMID: 27707682 DOI: 10.17236/sat00087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION 'Candidatus Neoehrlichia mikurensis' is an emerging tick-borne zoonotic agent that primarily affects immunocompromised human patients. Dogs and foxes are frequently exposed to ticks, and both species are in close proximity to humans. This is the first study to systematically investigate the occurrence of 'Candidatus Neoehrlichia mikurensis' in Canidae in Europa. We analyzed 1'739 blood samples from dogs in Switzerland, Italy, Spain and Portugal and 162 blood samples from free-ranging red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) in Switzerland. All samples were tested using a previously described multiplex real-time PCR for the Anaplasmataceae family, the 'Candidatus Neoehrlichia' genus and the 'Candidatus Neoehrlichia mikurensis' species. All Anaplasmataceae positive samples were subsequently tested using specific real-time PCRs for Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Anaplasma platys, Ehrlichia canis and Rickettsia helvetica. Among the tested animals, one dog from Zurich tested positive for 'Candidatus Neoehrlichia mikurensis'. The 12-year old West Highland white terrier had been splenectomized 3 months prior to the blood collection and presented with polyuria/polydipsia. Fanconi syndrome was diagnosed based on glucosuria with normoglycemia and hyperaminoaciduria. A. platys and E. canis were detected in 14/249 dogs from Sicily and Portugal; two of the dogs were coinfected with both agents. Four Swiss foxes tested positive for A. phagocytophilium. R. helvetica was detected for the first time in a red fox. In conclusion, 'Candidatus Neoehrlichia mikurensis' infection should be considered in sick dogs, particularly when immunocompromised. The pathogen seems not to be widespread in Canidae in the investigated countries. Conversely, other Anaplasmataceae were more readily detected in dogs and foxes.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Hofmann-Lehmann
- Clinical Laboratory, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Switzerland.,Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Switzerland
| | - N Wagmann
- Clinical Laboratory, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Switzerland.,Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Switzerland
| | - M L Meli
- Clinical Laboratory, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Switzerland.,Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Switzerland
| | - B Riond
- Clinical Laboratory, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Switzerland
| | - M Novacco
- Clinical Laboratory, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Switzerland.,Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Switzerland
| | - D Joekel
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Switzerland
| | - F Gentilini
- Veterinary Clinical Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bologna, Italy
| | - F Marsilio
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Località Piano d'Accio, Teramo, Italy
| | - M G Pennisi
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell'Annunziata, Messina, Italy
| | - A Lloret
- Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - T Carrapiço
- Clinica Veterinaria Canham, Avenida Duarte Pacheco, Almancil, Portugal
| | - F S Boretti
- Clinic for Small Animal Internal Medicine, Department for Small Animals, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich
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13
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Sugiarto S, Spiri AM, Riond B, Novacco M, Oestmann A, de Miranda LHM, Meli ML, Boretti FS, Hofmann-Lehmann R, Willi B. Passive immunization does not provide protection against experimental infection with Mycoplasma haemofelis. Vet Res 2016; 47:79. [PMID: 27496124 PMCID: PMC4975915 DOI: 10.1186/s13567-016-0361-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2015] [Accepted: 07/18/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Mycoplasma haemofelis (Mhf) is the most pathogenic feline hemotropic mycoplasma. Cats infected with Mhf that clear bacteremia are protected from Mhf reinfection, but the mechanisms of protective immunity are unresolved. In the present study we investigated whether the passive transfer of antibodies from Mhf-recovered cats to naïve recipient cats provided protection against bacteremia and clinical disease following homologous challenge with Mhf; moreover, we characterized the immune response in the recipient cats. Ten specified pathogen-free (SPF) cats were transfused with pooled plasma from cats that had cleared Mhf bacteremia; five control cats received plasma from naïve SPF cats. After homologous challenge with Mhf, cats were monitored for 100 days using quantitative PCR, hematology, blood biochemistry, Coombs testing, flow cytometry, DnaK ELISA, and red blood cell (RBC) osmotic fragility (OF) measurement. Passively immunized cats were not protected against Mhf infection but, compared to control cats, showed significantly higher RBC OF and B lymphocyte (CD45R/B220+) counts and occasionally higher lymphocyte, monocyte and activated CD4+ T lymphocyte (CD4+CD25+) counts; they also showed higher bilirubin, total protein and globulin levels compared to those of control cats. At times of peak bacteremia, a decrease in eosinophils and lymphocytes, as well as subsets thereof (B lymphocytes and CD5+, CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes), and an increase in monocytes were particularly significant in the passively immunized cats. In conclusion, passive immunization does not prevent bacteremia and clinical disease following homologous challenge with Mhf, but enhances RBC osmotic fragility and induces a pronounced immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Sugiarto
- Clinical Laboratory, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstr. 260, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland.,Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstr. 260, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Andrea M Spiri
- Clinical Laboratory, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstr. 260, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland.,Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstr. 260, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Barbara Riond
- Clinical Laboratory, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstr. 260, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland.,Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstr. 260, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Marilisa Novacco
- Clinical Laboratory, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstr. 260, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland.,Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstr. 260, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Angelina Oestmann
- Clinical Laboratory, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstr. 260, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland.,Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstr. 260, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Luisa H Monteiro de Miranda
- Laboratory of Clinical Research on Dermatozoonosis in Domestic Animals, National Institute of Infectiology, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Marina L Meli
- Clinical Laboratory, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstr. 260, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland.,Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstr. 260, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Felicitas S Boretti
- Clinic for Small Animal Internal Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstr. 260, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Regina Hofmann-Lehmann
- Clinical Laboratory, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstr. 260, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland.,Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstr. 260, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Barbara Willi
- Clinical Laboratory, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstr. 260, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland. .,Clinic for Small Animal Internal Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstr. 260, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland.
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14
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Baumann J, Novacco M, Willi B, Riond B, Meli ML, Boretti FS, Hofmann-Lehmann R. Lack of cross-protection against Mycoplasma haemofelis infection and signs of enhancement in "Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis"-recovered cats. Vet Res 2015; 46:104. [PMID: 26403079 PMCID: PMC4581119 DOI: 10.1186/s13567-015-0240-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2015] [Accepted: 08/11/2015] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
“Mycoplasma haemofelis” and “Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis” are feline hemoplasmas that induce hemolytic anemia. Protection from homologous re-challenge was recently demonstrated in cats recovered from primary infection. Here, we determined if cats recovered from “Cand. M. turicensis” infection were protected against infections with the more pathogenic M. haemofelis. Ten specified pathogen-free cats were exposed to M. haemofelis. Five of the ten cats had recovered from “Cand. M. turicensis” bacteremia (group A), and five cats were naïve controls (group B). No cross-protection was observed. By contrast, the “Cand. M. turicensis”-recovered cats displayed faster M. haemofelis infection onset (earlier PCR-positive and anemic) than the controls. No “Cand. M. turicensis” was detected in any cat. M. haemofelis shedding was observed in saliva, feces and urine. In both groups, evidence of a Th1 response was observed (high IFN-γ, low IL-4), but IL-10 levels were also high. In group A, total, CD4+ and CD8+ T cells increased within days after M. haemofelis exposure. At times of maximal bacteremia, macrocytic hypochromic anemia, neutropenia, monocytosis and a decrease in leukocyte, eosinophil, and lymphocyte counts and subsets thereof (B- and T-cells, CD4+, CD8+ and CD4+CD25+ cells) were particularly significant in group A. Moreover, an increase in protein concentrations, hypoalbuminemia and a polyclonal hypergammaglobulinemia were observed. Five of ten M. haemofelis-infected cats subsequently cleared bacteremia without antibiotic treatment. In conclusion, the study suggests that a previous hemoplasma infection, even when the cat has ostensibly recovered, may influence subsequent infections, lead to an enhancement phenomenon and other differences in infection kinetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Baumann
- Clinical Laboratory, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland. .,Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Marilisa Novacco
- Clinical Laboratory, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland. .,Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Barbara Willi
- Clinical Laboratory, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland. .,Clinic for Small Animal Internal Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Barbara Riond
- Clinical Laboratory, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Marina L Meli
- Clinical Laboratory, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland. .,Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Felicitas S Boretti
- Clinic for Small Animal Internal Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Regina Hofmann-Lehmann
- Clinical Laboratory, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland. .,Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland.
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15
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Novacco M, Martini V, Grande C, Comazzi S. Analytic errors in Sysmex-generated hematology results in blood from a dog with chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Vet Clin Pathol 2015; 44:337-41. [PMID: 26147613 DOI: 10.1111/vcp.12270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
A blood sample from a 14-year-old dog was submitted to the veterinary diagnostic laboratory of the University of Milan for marked leukocytosis with atypical cells. A diagnosis of chronic T-cell lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) was made based on blood smear evaluation and flow cytometric phenotyping. A CBC by Sysmex XT-2000iV revealed a moderate normocytic normochromic anemia. Red blood cells counted by optic flow cytometry (RBC-O) resulted in a higher value than using electrical impedance (RBC-I). The relative reticulocyte count based on RNA content and size was 35.3%, while the manual reticulocyte count was < 1%. The WBC count of 1,562,680 cells/μL was accompanied by a flag. Manual counts for RBC and WBC using the Bürker chamber confirmed the Sysmex impedance results. Finally the manual PCV was lower than HCT by Sysmex. While Sysmex XT can differentiate between RBC and WBC by impedance, even in the face of extreme lymphocytosis due to CLL, RBC-O can be affected by bias, resulting in falsely increased RBC and reticulocyte numbers. Overestimation of RBC-O may be due to incorrect Sysmex classification of leukemic cells or their fragments as reticulocytes. This phenomenon is known as pseudoreticulocytosis and can lead to misinterpretation of regenerative anemia. On the other side PCV can be affected by bias in CLL due to the trapping of RBC in the buffy coat, resulting in a pink hue in the separation area. As HGB concentration is not affected by flow cytometric or other cell-related artifacts it may represent the most reliable variable to assess the degree of anemia in cases of CLL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marilisa Novacco
- Department of Veterinary Sciences and Public Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Valeria Martini
- Department of Veterinary Sciences and Public Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Stefano Comazzi
- Department of Veterinary Sciences and Public Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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16
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Novacco M, Comazzi S, Marconato L, Cozzi M, Stefanello D, Aresu L, Martini V. Prognostic factors in canine acute leukaemias: a retrospective study. Vet Comp Oncol 2015; 14:409-416. [PMID: 25623886 DOI: 10.1111/vco.12136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2014] [Revised: 11/23/2014] [Accepted: 11/26/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Canine acute leukaemias (ALs) have a poor prognosis, with reported survival times (ST) of only a few weeks or months. Also, clinical studies assessing prognostic factors are lacking. This study aims to retrospectively assess variables that predict ST in dogs with AL, and to identify correlations between outcome and therapeutic protocols. Diagnosis and sub-classification into AL subtypes was made based on haematological findings, morphological assessment and flow cytometric immunophenotyping. Clinical-pathological features of AL subtypes at presentation concurred with those described in the literature. A normal neutrophil count at presentation significantly prolonged ST (P = 0.027). Additionally, there was a trend for anaemic dogs to have shorter survival compared with those without anaemia, and the incorporation of cytosine in the chemotherapy protocol produced a moderate but not significant increase in median ST for dogs with AL. Further prospective studies with standardized treatments are needed to confirm and improve our results.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Novacco
- Department of Veterinary Sciences and Public Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - S Comazzi
- Department of Veterinary Sciences and Public Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - L Marconato
- Centro Oncologico Veterinario, Sasso Marconi, Bologna, Italy
| | - M Cozzi
- Department of Veterinary Sciences and Public Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - D Stefanello
- Department of Veterinary Sciences and Public Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - L Aresu
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - V Martini
- Department of Veterinary Sciences and Public Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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Baumann J, Novacco M, Riond B, Boretti FS, Hofmann-Lehmann R. Establishment and characterization of a low-dose Mycoplasma haemofelis infection model. Vet Microbiol 2013; 167:410-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2013.07.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2013] [Revised: 07/24/2013] [Accepted: 07/25/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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18
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Novacco M, Riond B, Meli ML, Grest P, Hofmann-Lehmann R. Tissue sequestration of 'Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis'. Vet Microbiol 2013; 167:403-9. [PMID: 23998428 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2013.07.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2013] [Revised: 07/12/2013] [Accepted: 07/13/2013] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
'Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis' ('Candidatus M. turicensis') is a hemoplasma species that infects felids. It differs from other feline hemoplasma species due to its particular infection kinetics and phylogenetic similarity to rodent hemoplasma species. The lower and shorter bacteremia produced by 'Candidatus M. turicensis' suggests a possible tissue sequestration of the organism. The aim of this study was to explore this possibility. Five specified-pathogen free cats were subcutaneously inoculated with 'Candidatus M. turicensis' and sacrificed 86 days after inoculation. Thirty-one selected organs were collected upon necropsy, and samples were analyzed by real-time Taqman(®) PCR. The humoral immune response was monitored by DnaK ELISA. All five cats had detectable 'Candidatus M. turicensis' loads in the majority (52-100%) of the tested tissues. High 'Candidatus M. turicensis' tissue loads (average 3.46×10(4) copies/10 mg) were detected in the samples. The presence of the organisms in the tissues could not be explained by the blood burdens because the blood of four out of five cats tested PCR-negative at the time of necropsy. This is the first study to describe the distribution of 'Candidatus M. turicensis' in various organs; it also demonstrates that, in contrast to other feline hemoplasma species, significant sequestration of 'Candidatus M. turicensis' occurs in many tissues. These results represent an important step toward the understanding of the pathogenesis of 'Candidatus M. turicensis'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marilisa Novacco
- Clinical Laboratory, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland.
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19
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Novacco M, Boretti FS, Franchini M, Riond B, Meli ML, Hofmann-Lehmann R. Protection from reinfection in "Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis"-infected cats and characterization of the immune response. Vet Res 2012; 43:82. [PMID: 23216686 PMCID: PMC3558367 DOI: 10.1186/1297-9716-43-82] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2012] [Accepted: 11/15/2012] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
“Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis” (CMt) is a hemoplasma species of felids. Recent evidence has shown that cats that overcome bacteremia may be protected from reinfection. The purposes of this study were to (1) re-inoculate ostensibly recovered cats, (2) evaluate the immune response and (3) assess CMt tissue loads. Fifteen specified pathogen-free cats were subcutaneously inoculated with CMt: 10 cats (group A) had previously undergone bacteremia and recovered, and 5 naïve cats (group B) served as controls. CMt infections were monitored by real-time PCR using blood and tissue, and the humoral immune response was assessed using DnaK ELISA. Cytokine mRNA expression levels were measured by real-time PCR, and lymphocyte subsets were detected by flow cytometry. The cats in group A were protected from reinfection (no detectable bacteremia) and showed a transient decrease in antibodies. Eosinophilia was noted in cats from group A. The cats from group B became PCR-positive and seroconverted. All of the tissues analyzed from the cats in group B but none of the tissues analyzed from the cats in group A were CMt PCR-positive. Significant changes were observed in the expression of tumor necrosis factor-α, interferon-γ, interleukin-4 and the Th2/Th1 ratio in both groups. The cats from group A occasionally showed higher numbers of CD4+, CD8+, CD4+CD25+ and CD5+MHCII+ T lymphocytes than the control cats. In conclusion, this study describes, for the first time, the occurrence of immunological protection within the same hemoplasma species. Furthermore, the immune response during CMt infections appeared to be skewed toward the Th2 type.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marilisa Novacco
- Clinical Laboratory, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, Zurich, 8057, Switzerland.
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Novacco M, Wolf-Jäckel G, Riond B, Hofmann-Lehmann R. Humoral immune response to a recombinant hemoplasma antigen in experimental ‘Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis’ infection. Vet Microbiol 2012; 157:464-70. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2011.12.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2011] [Revised: 12/21/2011] [Accepted: 12/29/2011] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
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Novacco M, Boretti FS, Wolf-Jäckel GA, Riond B, Meli ML, Willi B, Lutz H, Hofmann-Lehmann R. Chronic "Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis" infection. Vet Res 2011; 42:59. [PMID: 21507220 PMCID: PMC3090992 DOI: 10.1186/1297-9716-42-59] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2010] [Accepted: 04/20/2011] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
"Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis" infects felids. The pathogenesis of "Candidatus M. turicensis" chronic infection is poorly understood. The goals of the present study were to (1) induce reactivation of the infection in chronic carrier cats by attempted immunosuppression, (2) identify potential tissue sequestration using real-time TaqMan® PCR and (3) monitor the humoral immune response by DnaK enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Ten specified pathogen-free cats that had ostensibly recovered from experimental "Candidatus M. turicensis" infection were used: five cats (group 1) received high dose methylprednisolone (attempted immunosuppression), while five cats served as untreated controls (group 2). Besides weekly blood samples, tissue samples were collected from bone marrow, kidney, liver and salivary glands at selected time points. The cats in group 1 had significantly lower lymphocyte counts and higher blood glucose levels after methylprednisolone administration than the controls. After methylprednisolone administration one blood and three tissue samples from cats in group 1 tested PCR-positive; before the administration, only one sample was positive. All other samples tested PCR-negative. All cats stayed seropositive; the antibody levels of the cats in group 1 showed a significant transient decrease after methylprednisolone administration. This is the first study to report the presence of "Candidatus M. turicensis" in tissues of chronically infected cats and the persistence of anti-feline hemoplasma antibodies in the absence of detectable bacteremia. Methylprednisolone administration did not lead to a significant reactivation of the infection. Our results enhance the knowledge of "Candidatus M. turicensis" infection pathogenesis and are clinically relevant to the prognosis of hemoplasma-infected cats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marilisa Novacco
- Clinical Laboratory, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland.
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Willi B, Museux K, Novacco M, Schraner EM, Wild P, Groebel K, Ziegler U, Wolf-Jäckel GA, Kessler Y, Geret C, Tasker S, Lutz H, Hofmann-Lehmann R. First morphological characterization of 'Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis' using electron microscopy. Vet Microbiol 2010; 149:367-73. [PMID: 21183295 PMCID: PMC3127424 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2010.11.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2010] [Revised: 11/11/2010] [Accepted: 11/12/2010] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
At least three haemotropic mycoplasmas have been recognized in cats: Mycoplasma haemofelis (Mhf), ‘Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum’ (CMhm) and ‘Candidatus M. turicensis’ (CMt). The latter was originally identified in a Swiss pet cat with haemolytic anaemia and shown to be prevalent in domestic cats and wild felids worldwide using molecular methods. So far, there has been no confirmatory morphological evidence of the existence of CMt presumably due to low blood loads during infection while CMhm has only been characterized by light microscopy with discrepant results. This study aimed to provide for the first time electron microscopic characteristics of CMt and CMhm and to compare them to Mhf. Blood samples from cats experimentally infected with CMt, CMhm and Mhf were used to determine copy numbers in blood by real-time PCR and for transmission and scanning electron microscopy. High resolution scanning electron microscopy revealed CMt and CMhm to be discoid-shaped organisms of 0.3 μm in diameter attached to red blood cells (RBCs). In transmission electron microscopy of CMt, an oval organism of about 0.25 μm with several intracellular electron dense structures was identified close to the surface of a RBC. CMhm and CMt exhibited similar morphology to Mhf but had a smaller diameter. This is the first study to provide morphological evidence of CMt thereby confirming its status as a distinct haemoplasma species, and to present electron microscopic features of CMhm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Willi
- Clinical Laboratory, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
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Willi B, Novacco M, Meli M, Wolf-Jäckel G, Boretti F, Wengi N, Lutz H, Hofmann-Lehmann R. Haemotropic mycoplasmas of cats and dogs: transmission, diagnosis, prevalence and importance in Europe. SCHWEIZ ARCH TIERH 2010; 152:237-44. [PMID: 20464683 DOI: 10.1024/0036-7281/a000055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Haemotropic mycoplasmas (or haemoplasmas) are the causative agents of infectious anaemia in many mammalian species. They were previously known as Haemobartonella and Eperythrozoon species. The development of sensitive, specific PCR assays has expanded our knowledge of these agents and PCR is the method of choice to diagnose and differentiate haemoplasma infections. In felids, Mycoplasma haemofelis, 'Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum' and 'Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis' have been described. They vary strongly in their pathogenic potential and co-factors may influence the disease severity. In dogs, Mycoplasma haemocanis and 'Candidatus Mycoplasma haematoparvum' are known; clinical signs are mainly found in immunocompromised dogs. Transmission of haemoplasmas may occur via infected blood (aggressive interaction, transfusion) or blood-sucking arthropods. Infections can be treated with Doxycycline, although it is disputable whether the infection is completely eliminated. Feline haemoplasmas must be expected in cats all over Europe, while canine haemoplasmas are mainly encountered in dogs in Mediterranean countries but should also be considered in Swiss dogs with a travel history.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Willi
- Clinical Laboratory and Clinic for Small Animal Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Switzerland
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Novacco M, Meli ML, Gentilini F, Marsilio F, Ceci C, Pennisi MG, Lombardo G, Lloret A, Santos L, Carrapiço T, Willi B, Wolf G, Lutz H, Hofmann-Lehmann R. Prevalence and geographical distribution of canine hemotropic mycoplasma infections in Mediterranean countries and analysis of risk factors for infection. Vet Microbiol 2009; 142:276-84. [PMID: 19931320 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2009.09.069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2009] [Revised: 09/11/2009] [Accepted: 09/24/2009] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Two hemoplasma species are known in dogs: Mycoplasma haemocanis (Mhc) and 'Candidatus Mycoplasma haematoparvum' (CMhp). Although their transmission routes are poorly understood, Rhipicephalus sanguineus has been suggested as a potential tick vector. The aim of the present study was to assess the prevalence, risk factors, and clinical importance of canine hemoplasmas in countries with a Mediterranean climate where R. sanguineus is highly prevalent using TaqMan real-time PCR, and to molecularly characterize the identified isolates. DNA (canine glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase) was successfully amplified from all samples collected from 850 dogs in Italy, Spain, and Portugal, and 82 (9.6%) were PCR-positive for canine hemoplasmas (43 Mhc, 34 CMhp and 5 co-infected). The hemoplasma sample prevalence was significantly higher in Portugal (40%) than in Italy (9.5%) and Spain (2.5%). Risk factors for infection included living in kennels, young age, crossbreeding, and mange infection. No association was found with anemia. Phylogenetic analyses of the 16S rRNA and RNase P genes revealed >99% identity to other European isolates. In conclusion, canine hemoplasma infections were readily encountered in Mediterranean countries. The climate and living conditions seemed to influence canine hemoplasma prevalence. The clinical importance of canine hemoplasma infections appeared to be low, but the infection stage of the presented dogs was unknown.
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Gentilini F, Novacco M, Turba ME, Willi B, Bacci ML, Hofmann-Lehmann R. Use of combined conventional and real-time PCR to determine the epidemiology of feline haemoplasma infections in northern Italy. J Feline Med Surg 2008; 11:277-85. [PMID: 18790658 DOI: 10.1016/j.jfms.2008.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/10/2008] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Although knowledge of feline haemotropic mycoplasmas (haemoplasmas) has dramatically improved in recent years, some issues still remain to be elucidated. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the prevalence of feline haemoplasma infections in blood samples collected from cats in northern Italy. A convenience-sample of 307 cats (40 anaemic; 258 non-anaemic; nine with unknown haematocrit [HCT]) was investigated using polymerase chain reaction assays. Furthermore, the date of blood collection, signalment and clinicopathological data were retrospectively evaluated to assess predictors and risk factors for infection. Haemoplasma infections were highly prevalent in the sample investigated with an overall prevalence of 18.9% (95% confidence interval: 14.5-23.3%). The prevalence for the three feline haemoplasmas was 17.3% for 'Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum' (CMhm), 5.9% for Mycoplasma haemofelis (Mhf) and 1.3% for 'Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis' (CMt). Feline immunodeficiency virus-positive status represented a risk factor for infection with an odds ratio of 4.19 (P=0.02). Moreover, a higher prevalence was observed in summer (odds ratio 1.78; P=0.04) which may be consistent with arthropod-borne disease transmission. Cats infected with Mhf showed significantly lower HCT (P=0.03), haemoglobin values (P=0.02) and red blood cell counts (P=0.04), lower mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (P<0.01) and higher white blood cell counts (P<0.01) when compared with non-infected cats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Gentilini
- Veterinary Clinical Department, University of Bologna, Ozzano dell'Emilia, Bologna, Italy.
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