1
|
Deak G, Ionică AM, Taulescu M, Negoescu A, Ifteme C, Roșoiu M, Mihalca AD. A severe case of hyperinfection by Strongyloides stercoralis in a pet dog from Romania. Parasitol Int 2024; 100:102849. [PMID: 38151172 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2023.102849] [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] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
Strongyloides stercoralis is a zoonotic soil-transmitted nematode affecting mainly humans and dogs but identified also in non-human primates, cats and wild carnivores. It has a cosmopolitan distribution being endemic in tropical and subtropical areas. In Romania, the infection was reported on several occasions in dogs with low prevalence (3.5% -3.8%), assessed by coproscopy and it was confirmed in human patients with no travel history. A 2-year-old male Boston Terrier dog presented to a private clinic due to severe digestive problems, in July 2022. The animal had a long history of health problems. The dog was in a very bad clinical condition with severe abdominal pain, bloody diarrhea, and weight loss. Coproparasitological examinations using the saline flotation method and the modified Baermann's technique were done, both being negative. In addition, an intestinal biopsy was performed during the second endoscopy. Nematodes were collected and identified morphologically and molecularly confirmed. Histology revealed severe inflammation of the duodenal mucosa with areas of edema, necrosis, and hemorrhage, and in the intestinal glands, there were numerous nematodes suggesting a parasitic infection by Strongyloides spp. PCR followed by sequencing confirmed the infection with S. stercoralis. The dog was treated with a combination of oral fenbendazole and milbemycin oxime for 5 months. No relapse was observed 3 months after negativity was attained. This case describes a severe clinical infection by Strongyloides stercoralis in a domestic dog from Romania and the recovery after long-term treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Georgiana Deak
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Calea Mănăștur 3-5, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; Parasitology Consultancy Group, Corusu 145B, Romania.
| | - Angela Monica Ionică
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Calea Mănăștur 3-5, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; Clinical Hospital for Infectious Diseases Cluj-Napoca, Iuliu Moldovan Street nr 23, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Marian Taulescu
- Department of Pathology, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Calea Mănăștur 3-5, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; Synevovet, 81 Pache Protopopescu, Bucharest 021408, Romania
| | - Andrada Negoescu
- Department of Pathology, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Calea Mănăștur 3-5, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Constantin Ifteme
- Endoscopy and Minimal Invasive Surgery Veterinary Center, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mădălina Roșoiu
- Endoscopy and Minimal Invasive Surgery Veterinary Center, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Andrei Daniel Mihalca
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Calea Mănăștur 3-5, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; Parasitology Consultancy Group, Corusu 145B, Romania
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Prato M, Tamarozzi F, Tais S, Rizzi E, Mazzi C, Buonfrate D. Evaluation of the SsIR/NIE recombinant antigen ELISA for the follow up of patients infected by Strongyloides stercoralis: a diagnostic study. Parasitology 2024; 151:295-299. [PMID: 38185819 PMCID: PMC11007275 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182024000027] [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] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
Some serology assays demonstrated useful for post-treatment monitoring of Strongyloides stercoralis infection. Serology frequently has low specificity, which might be improved by the use of recombinant antigens. The Strongy Detect ELISA is based on 2 recombinant antigens (SsIR and NIE) and proved good accuracy. Aim of this study was to evaluate the performance of this test for the post-treatment monitoring of strongyloidiasis. We tested 38 paired sera, with matched fecal tests results, stored in our biobank and originating from a randomized controlled trial. At baseline, all patients tested positive for at least 1 fecal assay among PCR, direct stool microscopy and agar plate culture. Patients were re-tested with both serology and fecal assays 12 months after treatment. Primary outcome was the relative reduction in optical density (OD) between baseline and follow up. We observed that about 95% samples showed a reduction between pre and post-treatment OD, with a median relative reduction of 93.9% (IQR 77.3%–98.1%). In conclusion, the test proved reliable for post-treatment monitoring. However, some technical issues, including that the threshold for positivity has not be predefined, and that a substantial number of samples showed overflow signals, need to be fixed to permit use in routine practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marco Prato
- Department of Infectious Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Verona, Negrar di Valpolicella, Italy
| | - Francesca Tamarozzi
- Department of Infectious Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Verona, Negrar di Valpolicella, Italy
| | - Stefano Tais
- Department of Infectious Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Verona, Negrar di Valpolicella, Italy
| | - Eleonora Rizzi
- Department of Infectious Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Verona, Negrar di Valpolicella, Italy
| | - Cristina Mazzi
- Department of Infectious Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Verona, Negrar di Valpolicella, Italy
| | - Dora Buonfrate
- Department of Infectious Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Verona, Negrar di Valpolicella, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Rodrigues JGM, Miranda GS, Camelo GMA, Rodrigues VF, Silva JKAO, Gouveia CBG, Porto WJN, Wanderley FS, Geiger SM, Negrão-Corrêa DA. Modifications to the parasitological technique of Rugai increase the diagnostic sensitivity for strongyloidiasis. Parasitol Res 2024; 123:101. [PMID: 38233532 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-023-08111-y] [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] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
Strongyloidiasis is a neglected tropical disease caused mainly by Strongyloides stercoralis, a nematode that can persist for decades in the human host with a very low parasitic burden and without specific symptoms. Hence, it is difficult to diagnose and control. Larval concentration and culture methods with fecal samples show higher sensitivity for the diagnosis of Strongyloides-infected individuals; however, these techniques are not routinely used, primarily due to the challenges associated with processing a substantial volume of fecal samples. In the current study, we comparatively evaluated the sensitivity and applicability of modifications made to the Rugai parasitological method for the diagnosis of strongyloidiasis in fecal samples of experimentally infected rats and in 68 individuals from an urban community close to Maceió, Brazil. The presence and quantity of parasite larvae in the feces were comparatively evaluated using different parasitological techniques. In the experimental model, we demonstrated that the modified Rugai technique (RMOD) allowed for significantly higher recovery of larvae than the original Rugai technique (RO). Moreover, the sediment was cleaner and easier to evaluate using optical microscopy. Compared to other parasitological techniques, such as agar-plate culture (A-PC) and spontaneous sedimentation (SS), the RMOD technique showed higher sensitivity in the detection of larvae in all infected groups and presented comparatively better performance, especially in rats with a low parasite burden. In the human population, among the 68 stool samples evaluated, Strongyloides larvae were detected in the feces of six individuals with an estimated prevalence of 8.82%. However, the performance of each parasitological method was remarkably different. SS identified Strongyloides larvae in only two individuals and A-PC in three, whereas RMOD was able to identify six infected individuals, resulting in sensitivities of 33.3%, 50%, and 100%, respectively. In conclusion, the modifications introduced to the Rugai technique resulted in improved sensitivity for the detection of Strongyloides spp. infections, especially in stool samples with a low parasite burden, in comparison with other routinely used parasitological techniques.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- João Gustavo Mendes Rodrigues
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Parasitology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Guilherme Silva Miranda
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Parasitology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
- Department of Biology, Federal Institute of Education, Science and Technology of Maranhão, São Raimundo das Mangabeiras, Brazil
| | - Genil Mororó Araújo Camelo
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Parasitology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Vanessa Fernandes Rodrigues
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Parasitology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | | | - Caio Brandão Goes Gouveia
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Parasitology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | | | - Flaviana Santos Wanderley
- Laboratory of Parasitic Infectious Diseases, State University of Health Sciences of Alagoas, Maceió, Brazil
| | - Stefan Michael Geiger
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Parasitology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Buonfrate D, Montresor A, Bisoffi Z, Tamarozzi F, Bisanzio D. Progress towards the implementation of control programmes for strongyloidiasis in endemic areas: estimation of number of adults in need of ivermectin for strongyloidiasis. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2024; 379:20220433. [PMID: 38008113 PMCID: PMC10676811 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2022.0433] [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] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The World Health Organization has started a process to issue guidelines for the control of strongyloidiasis. The guidelines might recommend to implement preventive chemotherapy (PC) at community level (i.e. to all individuals above 5 years of age), over a defined prevalence threshold. We previously estimated the number of school-age children (SAC) who would need PC. Here we estimate the number of people above 15 years of age who might be included in PC for strongyloidiasis. Based on previous Strongyloides prevalence estimates and on countries' age distribution, we retrieved the number of adults in need of PC. We then subtracted the number of people already involved in ivermectin mass distribution for the elimination of onchocerciasis and lymphatic filariasis and people living in countries where Loa loa is endemic. The number of adults to be involved in PC was estimated at 905.4 (95% confidence interval (CI): 520.6-1177.2), 660.2 (95% CI: 512.7-1214.9), and 512.1 (95% CI: 276-719.4) million people, when the strongyloidiasis prevalence threshold for implementing PC was set to 10%, 15% and 20%, respectively. Estimates at country level are also provided.These estimates might help endemic countries wishing to implement PC for strongyloidiasis to allocate resources to include adults in addition to SAC in control programmes. This article is part of the Theo Murphy meeting issue 'Strongyloides: omics to worm-free populations'.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dora Buonfrate
- Department of Infectious Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore don Calabria Hospital, 370242, Negrar, Verona, Italy
| | - Antonio Montresor
- Department of Control of Neglected Tropical Diseases, World Health Organization, 12024, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Zeno Bisoffi
- Department of Infectious Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore don Calabria Hospital, 370242, Negrar, Verona, Italy
| | - Francesca Tamarozzi
- Department of Infectious Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore don Calabria Hospital, 370242, Negrar, Verona, Italy
| | - Donal Bisanzio
- Research Triangle Institute International, Washington, DC 20005-3967, USA
- Division of Epidemiology and Public Health, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG5 1PB, UK
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Nosková E, Sambucci KM, Petrželková KJ, Červená B, Modrý D, Pafčo B. Strongyloides in non-human primates: significance for public health control. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2024; 379:20230006. [PMID: 38008123 PMCID: PMC10676817 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2023.0006] [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] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Primates are an important source of infectious disease in humans. Strongyloidiasis affects an estimated 600 million people worldwide, with a global distribution and hotspots of infection in tropical and subtropical regions. Recently added to the list of neglected tropical diseases, global attention has been demanded in the drive for its control. Through a literature review of Strongyloides in humans and non-human primates (NHP), we analysed the most common identification methods and gaps in knowledge about this nematode genus. The rise of molecular-based methods for Strongyloides detection is evident in both humans and NHP and provides an opportunity to analyse all data available from primates. Dogs were also included as an important host species of Strongyloides and a potential bridge host between humans and NHP. This review highlights the lack of molecular data across all hosts-humans, NHP and dogs-with the latter highly underrepresented in the database. Despite the cosmopolitan nature of Strongyloides, there are still large gaps in our knowledge for certain species when considering transmission and pathogenicity. We suggest that a unified approach to Strongyloides detection be taken, with an optimized, repeatable molecular-based method to improve our understanding of this parasitic infection. This article is part of the Theo Murphy meeting issue 'Strongyloides: omics to worm-free populations'.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eva Nosková
- Institute of Vertebrate Biology, Czech Academy of Sciences, 603 00 Brno, Czech Republic
- Department of Botany and Zoology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Kelly M. Sambucci
- Institute of Vertebrate Biology, Czech Academy of Sciences, 603 00 Brno, Czech Republic
- Department of Anthropology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, 611 37 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Klára J. Petrželková
- Institute of Vertebrate Biology, Czech Academy of Sciences, 603 00 Brno, Czech Republic
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, 370 05 České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Barbora Červená
- Institute of Vertebrate Biology, Czech Academy of Sciences, 603 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - David Modrý
- Department of Botany and Zoology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, 370 05 České Budějovice, Czech Republic
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, 165 00 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Barbora Pafčo
- Institute of Vertebrate Biology, Czech Academy of Sciences, 603 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Rychlá N, Navrátilová M, Kohoutová E, Raisová Stuchlíková L, Štěrbová K, Krátký J, Matoušková P, Szotáková B, Skálová L. Flubendazole carbonyl reduction in drug-susceptible and drug-resistant strains of the parasitic nematode Haemonchus contortus: changes during the life cycle and possible inhibition. Vet Res 2024; 55:7. [PMID: 38225645 PMCID: PMC10790374 DOI: 10.1186/s13567-023-01264-9] [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] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Carbonyl-reducing enzymes (CREs) catalyse the reduction of carbonyl groups in many eobiotic and xenobiotic compounds in all organisms, including helminths. Previous studies have shown the important roles of CREs in the deactivation of several anthelmintic drugs (e.g., flubendazole and mebendazole) in adults infected with the parasitic nematode Haemonchus contortus, in which the activity of a CRE is increased in drug-resistant strains. The aim of the present study was to compare the abilities of nematodes of both a drug-susceptible strain (ISE) and a drug-resistant strain (IRE) to reduce the carbonyl group of flubendazole (FLU) in different developmental stages (eggs, L1/2 larvae, L3 larvae, and adults). In addition, the effects of selected CRE inhibitors (e.g., glycyrrhetinic acid, naringenin, silybin, luteolin, glyceraldehyde, and menadione) on the reduction of FLU were evaluated in vitro and ex vivo in H. contortus adults. The results showed that FLU was reduced by H. contortus in all developmental stages, with adult IRE females being the most metabolically active. Larvae (L1/2 and L3) and adult females of the IRE strain reduced FLU more effectively than those of the ISE strain. Data from the in vitro inhibition study (performed with cytosolic-like fractions of H. contortus adult homogenate) revealed that glycyrrhetinic acid, naringenin, mebendazole and menadione are effective inhibitors of FLU reduction. Ex vivo study data showed that menadione inhibited FLU reduction and also decreased the viability of H. contortus adults to a similar extent. Naringenin and mebendazole were not toxic at the concentrations tested, but they did not inhibit the reduction of FLU in adult worms ex vivo.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nikola Rychlá
- Department of Biochemical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Charles University, Heyrovského, 1203, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic
| | - Martina Navrátilová
- Department of Biochemical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Charles University, Heyrovského, 1203, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic
| | - Eliška Kohoutová
- Department of Biochemical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Charles University, Heyrovského, 1203, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic
| | - Lucie Raisová Stuchlíková
- Department of Biochemical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Charles University, Heyrovského, 1203, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic
| | - Karolína Štěrbová
- Department of Biochemical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Charles University, Heyrovského, 1203, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic
| | - Josef Krátký
- Department of Biochemical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Charles University, Heyrovského, 1203, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic
| | - Petra Matoušková
- Department of Biochemical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Charles University, Heyrovského, 1203, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic
| | - Barbora Szotáková
- Department of Biochemical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Charles University, Heyrovského, 1203, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic
| | - Lenka Skálová
- Department of Biochemical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Charles University, Heyrovského, 1203, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Buonfrate D, Hunt VL, Odermatt P, Streit A. Strongyloides: omics to worm-free populations. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2024; 379:20220448. [PMID: 38008116 PMCID: PMC10676809 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2022.0448] [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] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/28/2023] Open
Abstract
This article is part of the Theo Murphy meeting issue 'Strongyloides: omics to worm-free populations'.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dora Buonfrate
- IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria hospital, Negrar, Verona 37024, Italy
| | - Vicky L. Hunt
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Bath, Bath BA2 7AY, UK
| | - Peter Odermatt
- Epidemiology and Public Health, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Insitute, Allschwil, Basel 4123, Switherland
| | - Adrian Streit
- Max Planck Institute for Biology Tübingen, Tübingen, Baden-Württemberg 72076, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Al-Jawabreh R, Lastik D, McKenzie D, Reynolds K, Suleiman M, Mousley A, Atkinson L, Hunt V. Advancing Strongyloides omics data: bridging the gap with Caenorhabditis elegans. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2024; 379:20220437. [PMID: 38008117 PMCID: PMC10676819 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2022.0437] [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] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Among nematodes, the free-living model organism Caenorhabditis elegans boasts the most advanced portfolio of high-quality omics data. The resources available for parasitic nematodes, including Strongyloides spp., however, are lagging behind. While C. elegans remains the most tractable nematode and has significantly advanced our understanding of many facets of nematode biology, C. elegans is not suitable as a surrogate system for the study of parasitism and it is important that we improve the omics resources available for parasitic nematode species. Here, we review the omics data available for Strongyloides spp. and compare the available resources to those for C. elegans and other parasitic nematodes. The advancements in C. elegans omics offer a blueprint for improving omics-led research in Strongyloides. We suggest areas of priority for future research that will pave the way for expansions in omics resources and technologies. This article is part of the Theo Murphy meeting issue 'Strongyloides: omics to worm-free populations'.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Reem Al-Jawabreh
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Bath, Bath, BA2 7AY, UK
| | - Dominika Lastik
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Bath, Bath, BA2 7AY, UK
| | | | - Kieran Reynolds
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Bath, Bath, BA2 7AY, UK
| | - Mona Suleiman
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Bath, Bath, BA2 7AY, UK
| | | | | | - Vicky Hunt
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Bath, Bath, BA2 7AY, UK
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Bryant AS, Akimori D, Stoltzfus JDC, Hallem EA. A standard workflow for community-driven manual curation of Strongyloides genome annotations. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2024; 379:20220443. [PMID: 38008112 PMCID: PMC10676816 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2022.0443] [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] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Advances in the functional genomics and bioinformatics toolkits for Strongyloides species have positioned these species as genetically tractable model systems for gastrointestinal parasitic nematodes. As community interest in mechanistic studies of Strongyloides species continues to grow, publicly accessible reference genomes and associated genome annotations are critical resources for researchers. Genome annotations for multiple Strongyloides species are broadly available via the WormBase and WormBase ParaSite online repositories. However, a recent phylogenetic analysis of the receptor-type guanylate cyclase (rGC) gene family in two Strongyloides species highlights the potential for errors in a large percentage of current Strongyloides gene models. Here, we present three examples of gene annotation updates within the Strongyloides rGC gene family; each example illustrates a type of error that may occur frequently within the annotation data for Strongyloides genomes. We also extend our analysis to 405 previously curated Strongyloides genes to confirm that gene model errors are found at high rates across gene families. Finally, we introduce a standard manual curation workflow for assessing gene annotation quality and generating corrections, and we discuss how it may be used to facilitate community-driven curation of parasitic nematode biodata. This article is part of the Theo Murphy meeting issue 'Strongyloides: omics to worm-free populations'.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Astra S. Bryant
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Damia Akimori
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Molecular Biology Interdepartmental PhD Program, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | | | - Elissa A. Hallem
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
McClure CR, Patel R, Hallem EA. Invade or die: behaviours and biochemical mechanisms that drive skin penetration in Strongyloides and other skin-penetrating nematodes. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2024; 379:20220434. [PMID: 38008119 PMCID: PMC10676818 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2022.0434] [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] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Skin-penetrating nematodes, including the human threadworm Strongyloides stercoralis and hookworms in the genera Necator and Ancylostoma, are gastrointestinal parasites that are a major cause of neglected tropical disease in low-resource settings worldwide. These parasites infect hosts as soil-dwelling infective larvae that navigate towards hosts using host-emitted sensory cues such as odorants and body heat. Upon host contact, they invade the host by penetrating through the skin. The process of skin penetration is critical for successful parasitism but remains poorly understood and understudied. Here, we review current knowledge of skin-penetration behaviour and its underlying mechanisms in the human parasite S. stercoralis, the closely related rat parasite Strongyloides ratti, and other skin-penetrating nematodes such as hookworms. We also highlight important directions for future investigations into this underexplored process and discuss how recent advances in molecular genetic and genomic tools for Strongyloides species will enable mechanistic investigations of skin penetration and other essential parasitic behaviours in future studies. This article is part of the Theo Murphy meeting issue 'Strongyloides: omics to worm-free populations'.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Courtney R. McClure
- Molecular Toxicology Interdepartmental PhD Program, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Ruhi Patel
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Elissa A. Hallem
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Al-Jawabreh R, Anderson R, Atkinson LE, Bickford-Smith J, Bradbury RS, Breloer M, Bryant AS, Buonfrate D, Cadd LC, Crooks B, Deiana M, Grant W, Hallem E, Hedtke SM, Hunt V, Khieu V, Kikuchi T, Kounosu A, Lastik D, van Lieshout L, Liu Y, McSorley HJ, McVeigh P, Mousley A, Murcott B, Nevin WD, Nosková E, Pomari E, Reynolds K, Ross K, Streit A, Suleiman M, Tiberti N, Viney M. Strongyloides questions-a research agenda for the future. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2024; 379:20230004. [PMID: 38008122 PMCID: PMC10676812 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2023.0004] [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] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The Strongyloides genus of parasitic nematodes have a fascinating life cycle and biology, but are also important pathogens of people and a World Health Organization-defined neglected tropical disease. Here, a community of Strongyloides researchers have posed thirteen major questions about Strongyloides biology and infection that sets a Strongyloides research agenda for the future. This article is part of the Theo Murphy meeting issue 'Strongyloides: omics to worm-free populations'.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Roy Anderson
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Imperial College London, London SW7 2BX, UK
| | - Louise E. Atkinson
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 5DL, UK
| | | | | | - Minka Breloer
- Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg 20359, Germany
| | - Astra S. Bryant
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Washington, Seattle 98195, USA
| | - Dora Buonfrate
- Department of Infectious Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Verona 37024, Italy
| | - Luke C. Cadd
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 5DL, UK
| | - Bethany Crooks
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 5DL, UK
| | - Michela Deiana
- Department of Infectious Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Verona 37024, Italy
| | - Warwick Grant
- Department of Environment and Genetics, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria 3083, Australia
| | - Elissa Hallem
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, Molecular Biology Institute, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles 90095, USA
| | - Shannon M. Hedtke
- Department of Environment and Genetics, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria 3083, Australia
| | - Vicky Hunt
- Life Sciences Department, University of Bath, Bath BA2 7AY, UK
| | - Virak Khieu
- National Centre for Parasitology, Entomology and Malaria Control, Cambodia Ministry of Health, Cambodia
| | - Taisei Kikuchi
- Department of Integrated Biosciences, Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Kashiwa 277-8652, Japan
| | - Asuka Kounosu
- Division of Parasitology, Department of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki 889-1692, Japan
| | - Dominika Lastik
- Life Sciences Department, University of Bath, Bath BA2 7AY, UK
| | - Lisette van Lieshout
- Leiden University Center for Infectious Diseases, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Yuchen Liu
- Department of Evolution, Ecology & Behaviour, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 7ZB, UK
| | - Henry J. McSorley
- Division of Cell Signalling and Immunology, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 5EH, UK
| | - Paul McVeigh
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 5DL, UK
| | - Angela Mousley
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 5DL, UK
| | - Ben Murcott
- Life Sciences Department, University of Bath, Bath BA2 7AY, UK
| | - William David Nevin
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Imperial College London, London SW7 2BX, UK
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool L3 5QA, UK
| | - Eva Nosková
- Department of Botany and Zoology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, 611 37 Brno, Czech Republic
- Institute of Vertebrate Biology, Czech Academy of Sciences, 603 65 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Elena Pomari
- Department of Infectious Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Verona 37024, Italy
| | - Kieran Reynolds
- Life Sciences Department, University of Bath, Bath BA2 7AY, UK
| | - Kirstin Ross
- Environmental Health, College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, South Australia 5042, Australia
| | - Adrian Streit
- Department of Integrative Evolutionary Biology, Max Planck Institute for Biology Tübingen, Tübingen 72076, Germany
| | - Mona Suleiman
- Life Sciences Department, University of Bath, Bath BA2 7AY, UK
| | - Natalia Tiberti
- Department of Infectious Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Verona 37024, Italy
| | - Mark Viney
- Department of Evolution, Ecology & Behaviour, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 7ZB, UK
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Bradbury RS, Streit A. Is strongyloidiasis a zoonosis from dogs? Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2024; 379:20220445. [PMID: 38008118 PMCID: PMC10676807 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2022.0445] [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] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Strongyloides stercoralis infection remains a major veterinary and public health challenge globally. This chronic and potentially lifelong disease has fatal outcomes in immunosuppressed people and dogs. Currently, the role of dogs in the transmission cycle of human strongyloidiasis remains enigmatic. While zoonotic transmission to humans from companion animals has been proposed, this has not been confirmed. Modern molecular methods have allowed greater opportunity to explore the genotypes of S. stercoralis in dogs and humans. Work thus far has demonstrated that at least two distinct lineages exist, one apparently confined to canine hosts and one found in canine, feline, human and non-human primate hosts. Although genotyping of dog and human isolates from the same village has demonstrated identical genotypes in both species, coprophagia of human waste by dogs confounds interpretation. It remains unclear if dogs act as a zoonotic reservoir for human infection, or vice versa, or if this occurs only in some regions of the world and not in others. These questions must be answered before effective control strategies for strongyloidiasis can be instituted. This review explores the evidence for and against cross-species transmission of S. stercoralis between dogs and humans and summarizes future directions for research in this area. This article is part of the Theo Murphy meeting Issue 'Strongyloides: omics to worm-free populations'.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Richard S. Bradbury
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Federation University, Melbourne, Victoria 3806, Australia
| | - Adrian Streit
- Department for Integrative Evolutionary Biology, Max Planck Institute for Biology Tübingen, Tübingen, 72076, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Graham EA, Los Kamp EW, Thompson NM, Tillis SB, Childress AL, Wellehan JFX, Walden HDS, Ossiboff RJ. Proliferative strongyloidiasis in a colony of colubrid snakes. Vet Pathol 2024; 61:109-118. [PMID: 37458163 DOI: 10.1177/03009858231186391] [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] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Strongyloides are small rhabditid nematodes primarily associated with enteric disease in a variety of animal species, including reptiles. Strongyloides spp life stages were associated with a disease outbreak in a large breeding colony of snakes. Multiple Pantherophis and Lampropeltis colubrids exhibited respiratory distress, anorexia, stomatitis, facial deformation, and waning body condition that resulted in death or necessitated euthanasia. Postmortem examinations of 13 snakes revealed epithelial hyperplasia and inflammation of the alimentary and respiratory tracts associated with varying numbers of adult and larval nematodes and embryonated or larvated ova. In a subset of snakes, aberrant nematode migration was also observed in the eye, genitourinary system, coelom, and vasculature. Histomorphology and gross examination of parasitic adult female nematodes from host tissues were consistent with a Strongyloides spp. Sedimented fecal material from 101/160 (63%) snakes housed in the affected facility was positive for nematodes and/or larvated ova. Polymerase chain reaction amplification and sequencing of portions of the 18S and 28S ribosomal ribonucleic acid (RNA) genes and the internal transcribed spacer region of adult female parasites and positive fecal samples supported the diagnosis of strongyloidiasis. Strongyloides spp possess a unique life cycle capable of alternating between parasitic (homogonic) and free-living (heterogonic) stages, resulting in the production of directly infective larvae. Commonly utilized husbandry practices in reptile collections can amplify the numbers of infective larvae generated in the captive environment, increasing the risk for rhabditid hyperinfections. This report documents morbidity, mortality, and non-enteric disease manifestations due to Strongyloides hyperinfections in a captive colubrid snake colony.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erin A Graham
- University of Georgia, Tifton, GA
- University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Buonfrate D, Bradbury RS, Watts MR, Bisoffi Z. Human strongyloidiasis: complexities and pathways forward. Clin Microbiol Rev 2023; 36:e0003323. [PMID: 37937980 PMCID: PMC10732074 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00033-23] [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] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Strongyloidiasis is a World Health Organization neglected tropical disease usually caused by Strongyloides stercoralis, a parasitic worm with a complex life cycle. Globally, 300-600 million people are infected through contact with fecally contaminated soil. An autoinfective component of the life cycle can lead to chronic infection that may be asymptomatic or cause long-term symptoms, including malnourishment in children. Low larval output can limit the sensitivity of detection in stool, with serology being effective but less sensitive in immunocompromise. Host immunosuppression can trigger catastrophic, fatal hyperinfection/dissemination, where large numbers of larvae pierce the bowel wall and disseminate throughout the organs. Stable disease is effectively treated by single-dose ivermectin, with disease in immunocompromised patients treated with multiple doses. Strategies for management include raising awareness, clarifying zoonotic potential, the development and use of effective diagnostic tests for epidemiological studies and individual diagnosis, and the implementation of treatment programs with research into therapeutic alternatives and medication safety.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dora Buonfrate
- Department of Infectious Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Negrar, Verona, Italy
| | - Richard S. Bradbury
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Federation University Australia, Berwick, Victoria, Australia
| | - Matthew R. Watts
- Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, Institute of Clinical Pathology and Medical Research – New South Wales Health Pathology and Sydney Institute for Infectious Diseases, Westmead Hospital, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Zeno Bisoffi
- Department of Infectious Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Negrar, Verona, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Bradbury RS, Martin L, Malloch L, Martin M, Williams JM, Patterson K, Sanders C, Singh G, Arguello I, Rodriguez E, Byers P, Haynie L, Qvarnstrom Y, Hobbs CV. Surveillance for Soil-Transmitted Helminths in High-Risk County, Mississippi, USA. Emerg Infect Dis 2023; 29:2533-2537. [PMID: 37987591 PMCID: PMC10683803 DOI: 10.3201/eid2912.230709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent reports of hookworm infection in Alabama, USA, has prompted surveillance in Mississippi, given the states' similar environmental conditions. We collected stool specimens from 277 children in Rankin County, Mississippi. Kato-Katz microscopic smear, agar plate culture, and quantitative PCR indicated no soil-transmitted helminths. Nevertheless, further surveillance in other high-risk Mississippi counties is warranted.
Collapse
|
16
|
Tandan S, Kshetri S, Paudel S, Dhakal P, Kyes RC, Khanal L. Prevalence of gastrointestinal helminth parasites in rhesus macaques and local residents in the central mid-hills of Nepal. Helminthologia 2023; 60:327-335. [PMID: 38222485 PMCID: PMC10787631 DOI: 10.2478/helm-2023-0037] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta) are distributed across Nepal in close association with humans and with a high probability of sharing of soil-transmitted intestinal helminth parasites. This study was carried out to determine the prevalence, richness and risk factors of gastrointestinal (GI) helminth parasites among rhesus macaques and humans in the Daunne Forest area, a community managed forest in the central mid-hills of Nepal. A total of 190 fecal samples, including 120 samples from rhesus macaques residing around the Daunne Devi Temple and in the surrounding forest, and 70 from local people, were microscopically examined by direct wet mount, floatation and sedimentation methods. Seasonal and age-sex based variations in helminth parasite prevalence were analyzed. Among the rhesus macaques, the total parasite prevalence was 39.2 %. Strongyloides sp. accounted for the highest prevalence (19.17 %) followed by Ascaris sp. (13.33 %), hookworm (10.83 %) and Trichuris sp. (4.17 %). Among the humans, Ascaris lumbricoides (11.3 %) was the only parasite detected. The Sorenson's coefficient of similarity of GI parasites between the macaques and local people at the generic level was 0.4. Mean parasite richness for the macaques was 1.21 ± 0.41 (SD) per infected sample. Parasite prevalence in the summer season (41.4 %) was higher than in the winter season (36 %). Adult macaques (41.67 %) had higher GI parasite prevalence than the young (30.77 %) and infants (27.27 %). Among the adult macaques, the prevalence rate was significantly higher (P=0.005) in females (52.46 %) than in males (22.86 %). Our results indicate that the temple rhesus macaques have a high prevalence of GI helminth parasites and could pose a potential zoonotic risk. As such, the need for routine monitoring and an effective management strategy is essential.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S. Tandan
- Central Department of Zoology, Institute of Science and Technology, Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu44618, Nepal
| | - S. Kshetri
- Central Department of Zoology, Institute of Science and Technology, Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu44618, Nepal
| | - S. Paudel
- Central Department of Zoology, Institute of Science and Technology, Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu44618, Nepal
| | - P. Dhakal
- Central Department of Zoology, Institute of Science and Technology, Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu44618, Nepal
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou450046, China
| | - R. C. Kyes
- Departments of Psychology, Global Health, and Anthropology, Center for Global Field Study, and Washington National Primate Research Center, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - L. Khanal
- Central Department of Zoology, Institute of Science and Technology, Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu44618, Nepal
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Bayo Sánchez C, Razquin Olazarán I, Martín Salas C, Portillo Bordonabe ME, Ezpeleta Baquedano C. Answer to the Photo Quiz: Unexpected finding in a Gram stain. J Clin Microbiol 2023; 61:e0064223. [PMID: 37987731 PMCID: PMC10662333 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.00642-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Bayo Sánchez
- Servicio de Microbiología, Hospital Universitario de Navarra, Pamplona, Navarra, Spain
| | - Iosu Razquin Olazarán
- Servicio de Microbiología, Hospital Universitario de Navarra, Pamplona, Navarra, Spain
| | - Carmen Martín Salas
- Servicio de Microbiología, Hospital Universitario de Navarra, Pamplona, Navarra, Spain
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Bayo Sánchez C, Razquin Olazarán I, Martin Salas C, Portillo Bordonabe ME, Ezpeleta Baquedano C. Photo Quiz: Unexpected finding in a Gram stain. J Clin Microbiol 2023; 61:e0064123. [PMID: 37987732 PMCID: PMC10662341 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.00641-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Bayo Sánchez
- Servicio de Microbiología. Hospital Universitario de Navarra, Pamplona, Navarra, Spain
| | - Iosu Razquin Olazarán
- Servicio de Microbiología. Hospital Universitario de Navarra, Pamplona, Navarra, Spain
| | - Carmen Martin Salas
- Servicio de Microbiología. Hospital Universitario de Navarra, Pamplona, Navarra, Spain
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Requena-Méndez A, Roos E, van der Werff SD, Wyss K, Davidsson L, Naucler P, Färnert A, Asgeirsson H. Clinical presentation and diagnosis of imported strongyloidiasis at a tertiary hospital, Stockholm, Sweden. Travel Med Infect Dis 2023; 56:102666. [PMID: 37977232 DOI: 10.1016/j.tmaid.2023.102666] [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] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since Strongyloides can persist in its host for decades, and cause life threatening infections data on prevalence, the burden and risk factors for infection is crucial in migrant populations. METHODS In this observational retrospective cohort study, we describe the epidemiological, clinical, and microbiological characteristics of imported strongyloidiasis diagnosed at the Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden, during 2010-2021. RESULTS We identified 98 individuals with strongyloidiasis, 89 (90.8%) born in endemic and 9 (9.2%) in non-endemic countries. Sub-Saharan Africa was the most common origin among the group born in endemic countries (62, 69.7%), (p < 0.005). There were 22 individuals with an underlying immunosuppressive condition. Gastrointestinal symptoms (53/98, 54.1%) were the symptoms most frequently described, and were more frequent in adults (57.0%) vs children (0%) (p = 0.013). Eosinophilia was detected in 74 (75.5%), being more frequent in the endemic-borne group (79.8% vs 33.3%, p = 0.002). Eight persons developed complications of strongyloidiasis because of either hyperinfection or disseminated disease. No people living with HIV with CD4 <500/mm3 (n = 6) developed severe strongyloidiasis. CONCLUSION A limited number of strongyloidiasis cases was identified, with few complicated cases in immunosuppressed patients. Further studies focusing on identifying and exploring the risk of complicated strongyloidiasis in immunosuppressed patients are needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Requena-Méndez
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine Solna Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Infectious Diseases, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden; Barcelona Institute for Global Health, (ISGlobal, University of Barcelona), Spain; CIBERINFEC, ISCIII - CIBER de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Emilia Roos
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine Solna Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Suzanne D van der Werff
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine Solna Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Infectious Diseases, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Katja Wyss
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine Solna Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Infectious Diseases, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Pontus Naucler
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine Solna Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Infectious Diseases, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anna Färnert
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine Solna Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Infectious Diseases, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Hilmir Asgeirsson
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden; Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Furtado Jost R, Müller N, Marreros N, Moré G, Antoine L, Basso W, Frey CF. What is the role of Swiss domestic cats in environmental contamination with Echinococcus multilocularis eggs? Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:353. [PMID: 37807080 PMCID: PMC10561489 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-05983-y] [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] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The role of the domestic cat as definitive host for Echinococcus multilocularis and thus in environmental contamination with eggs has not yet been entirely resolved. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of E. multilocularis and other gastrointestinal parasites in Swiss domestic cats and to compare the diagnostic sensitivity of different methods for the detection of intestinal taeniid infection. METHODS Faecal samples from 146 cats were included in the study. Faecal samples only were available from 55 cats; for the other 91 cats, necropsy was performed in addition to faecal sample testing. All (n = 146) faecal samples were analysed by a combined sedimentation/flotation technique (44% ZnCl2) and by the sodium acetate-acetic acid-formalin (SAF) sedimentation technique; when sufficient material was available (n = 121 samples) the Baermann-Wetzel technique was also used. Additionally, all samples were analysed by two coproantigen (copro)-quantitative PCRs (qPCR): (i) a multiplex qPCR able to detect and differentiate between E. multilocularis, Echinococcus granulosus sensu lato and Taenia spp./other cestodes (CEST-qPCR) and (ii) an E. multilocularis-specific qPCR (EM-qPCR). Finally, the intestines were examined macroscopically and microscopically for parasite stages at necropsy (n = 91) and using an intestinal scraping technique (IST) (n = 64). RESULTS Of the 146 cats examined, 24 (17.1%) were infected by intestinal parasites, namely Hydatigera (syn. Taenia) taeniaeformis (8.9%), Toxocara cati (6.1%), Capillaria sp. (3.4%), hookworms (3.4%), Mesocestoides litteratus (1.4%), Giardia sp. (1.4%), Cystoisospora rivolta (1.4%), Cystoisospora felis (0.7%), Toxoplasma gondii (0.7%), Hammondia hammondi (0.7%) and Strongyloides sp. (0.7%). Necropsy and the IST revealed adult H. taeniaeformis in 12 animals, of which eight faecal samples were positive by the CEST-qPCR (sensitivity = 67%) and six samples by the sedimentation/flotation technique (sensitivity = 50%). No E. multilocularis infection was detected in the sampled cats. Using Bayesian latent class analysis, the mean posterior prevalence probability was 0.0% (95% confidence interval 0-0.83%) for E. multilocularis. CONCLUSIONS There was no evidence of E. multilocularis infection among the 146 cats examined, suggesting that the prevalence of this parasite is low (< 1%) in the Swiss domestic cat population. Nonetheless, some of the sampled cats were infected by parasites that have rodents as intermediate hosts, demonstrating successful predation by these cats, and some were infected with zoonotic parasites. Cats therefore should not be disregarded as potential hosts for E. multilocularis and other zoonotic parasites.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Furtado Jost
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Länggassstrasse 122, 3012, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Norbert Müller
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Länggassstrasse 122, 3012, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Nelson Marreros
- School of Agricultural, Forest and Food Sciences HAFL, Bern University of Applied Sciences, Länggasse 85, 3052, Zollikofen, Switzerland
| | - Gastón Moré
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Länggassstrasse 122, 3012, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Loic Antoine
- Boehringer-Ingelheim Animal Health, 29 Avenue Tony Garnier, 69007, Lyon, France
| | - Walter Basso
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Länggassstrasse 122, 3012, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Caroline F Frey
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Länggassstrasse 122, 3012, Bern, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Chan AHE, Kusolsuk T, Watthanakulpanich D, Pakdee W, Doanh PN, Yasin AM, Dekumyoy P, Thaenkham U. Prevalence of Strongyloides in Southeast Asia: a systematic review and meta-analysis with implications for public health and sustainable control strategies. Infect Dis Poverty 2023; 12:83. [PMID: 37705080 PMCID: PMC10498648 DOI: 10.1186/s40249-023-01138-4] [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] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Strongyloidiasis, caused by the nematodes Strongyloides stercoralis and Strongyloides fuelleborni, is estimated to affect over 600 million individuals worldwide. The disease is endemic in Southeast Asia, where a warm-humid climate and socio-economic conditions maintain the parasite's life cycle and transmission. However, the current diagnostic methods may not be sufficiently sensitive, suggesting that the true prevalence of strongyloidiasis could be seriously underestimated in this. This study aims to determine the prevalence of strongyloidiasis in Southeast Asia through a systematic review and meta-analysis and to discuss the implications of the estimated prevalence on diagnostic approaches and control strategies. METHODS Following PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a systematic literature search in PubMed and Google Scholar databases to identify studies reporting Strongyloides prevalence data in the 11 Southeast Asian countries up to December 2022. A random effects model was employed to estimate the pooled prevalence of S. stercoralis at both regional and country levels. RESULTS Out of 3722 articles identified, 224 met our inclusion criteria. For S. stercoralis specifically, we found 187 articles, of which 52.4% were from Thailand. All Southeast Asian countries, except Brunei, had at least one study on Strongyloides prevalence. The estimated pooled prevalence of S. stercoralis regionally was 12.7% (95% CI 10.70-14.80%), ranging from 0.4 to 24.9% at the country level. Cambodia had the highest pooled prevalence (24.9%, 95% CI 15.65-35.38%), followed by Lao PDR (16.5%, 95% CI 9.50-24.95%). Moreover, we obtained a pooled prevalence of 10% (95% CI 7.06-13.52%) in a group comprising immigrants, workers, and veterans from Southeast Asian countries. S. stercoralis infects various host types, including nonhuman primates, domestic dogs and cats, rodents, and transport carriers such as cockroaches and vegetables. CONCLUSIONS A high prevalence of strongyloidiasis in Southeast Asia was revealed, highlighting the importance of the region's ongoing research, surveillance, and control efforts. Factors contributing to the strongyloidiasis transmission include the role of animal hosts, the impact of global connectivity, and the significance of the co-endemicity of other Strongyloides species. Based on these findings, a multi-pronged One-Health approach is essential for sustainable intervention and control.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abigail Hui En Chan
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Teera Kusolsuk
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Dorn Watthanakulpanich
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Wallop Pakdee
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Pham Ngoc Doanh
- Institute of Ecology and Biological Resources, Graduate University of Science and Technology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Azlin Mohd Yasin
- Department of Parasitology and Medical Entomology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Paron Dekumyoy
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Urusa Thaenkham
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Singh A, Prasad P, Singh A. A case of strongyloidiasis with aplastic anaemia: A common disease with an uncommon presentation. IDCases 2023; 33:e01883. [PMID: 37663134 PMCID: PMC10474063 DOI: 10.1016/j.idcr.2023.e01883] [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: 07/29/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Strongyloidiasis is an opportunistic infection caused by the nematode helminth Strongyloides stercoralis and transmitted mostly via soil. The disease is usually asymptomatic, limited, and long-standing. Herein, we report a case of strongyloidiasis in a patient who seemed to be immunocompetent despite his malnourished appearance. He was presented with pancytopenia and aplastic anaemia and well responded to albendazole therapy with complete resolution of symptoms within three months. We recommend, prior to beginning of immunosuppressive regimens, it may be prudent to examine all patients presenting with abdominal discomfort along with pancytopenia for a possible worm infestation. Bone marrow suppression induced by worm infestation is an extremely rare but potentially comorbid condition that can lead to pancytopenia and severe aplastic anaemia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alka Singh
- Department of Pathology, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, India
| | - Pallavi Prasad
- Department of Pathology, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, India
| | - Anurag Singh
- Department of Pathology, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, India
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Lupia T, Crisà E, Gaviraghi A, Rizzello B, Di Vincenzo A, Carnevale-Schianca F, Caravelli D, Fizzotti M, Tolomeo F, Vitolo U, De Benedetto I, Shbaklo N, Cerutti A, Fenu P, Gregorc V, Corcione S, Ghisetti V, De Rosa FG. Overlapping Infection by Strongyloides spp. and Cytomegalovirus in the Immunocompromised Host: A Comprehensive Review of the Literature. Trop Med Infect Dis 2023; 8:358. [PMID: 37505654 PMCID: PMC10385408 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed8070358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [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: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Strongyloides and cytomegalovirus co-infections are rarely reported, even though they are distinguished by high morbidity and mortality, especially in immunocompromised hosts. We narratively reviewed the literature on reported cases of Strongyloides and CMV co-infections in immunosuppressed patients. Most cases occurred in males with a median age of 47 (IQR, 37-59). Strongyloides/CMV co-infections occurred among immunocompromised hosts, especially in solid organ transplants and hematological or rheumatological diseases. Most of the patients underwent a course of steroid treatment before the diagnosis of co-infections. Other common immunomodulatory agents were tacrolimus and mycophenolate. The first clinical manifestations of co-infections were mainly gastrointestinal, followed by respiratory symptoms. CMV was, in most patients, co-infected with an isolated reactivation, although Strongyloides manifested especially as hyperinfection syndrome. Ganciclovir and ivermectin are the mainstays of CMV and Strongyloides treatment. However, the treatment mortality reported in this narrative review is around 52.4%. Interestingly secondary bacterial infections are common in CMV/Strongyloides-infected patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tommaso Lupia
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Cardinal Massaia, 14100 Asti, Italy
| | - Elena Crisà
- Unit of Oncology and Haematology, Candiolo Cancer Institute (FPO-IRCCS), Strada Provinciale 142, Km 3,95, 10060 Candiolo, Italy
| | - Alberto Gaviraghi
- Department of Medical Sciences, Infectious Diseases, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Barbara Rizzello
- Department of Medical Sciences, Infectious Diseases, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | | | - Fabrizio Carnevale-Schianca
- Unit of Oncology and Haematology, Candiolo Cancer Institute (FPO-IRCCS), Strada Provinciale 142, Km 3,95, 10060 Candiolo, Italy
| | - Daniela Caravelli
- Unit of Oncology and Haematology, Candiolo Cancer Institute (FPO-IRCCS), Strada Provinciale 142, Km 3,95, 10060 Candiolo, Italy
| | - Marco Fizzotti
- Unit of Oncology and Haematology, Candiolo Cancer Institute (FPO-IRCCS), Strada Provinciale 142, Km 3,95, 10060 Candiolo, Italy
| | - Francesco Tolomeo
- Unit of Oncology and Haematology, Candiolo Cancer Institute (FPO-IRCCS), Strada Provinciale 142, Km 3,95, 10060 Candiolo, Italy
| | - Umberto Vitolo
- Unit of Oncology and Haematology, Candiolo Cancer Institute (FPO-IRCCS), Strada Provinciale 142, Km 3,95, 10060 Candiolo, Italy
| | - Ilaria De Benedetto
- Department of Medical Sciences, Infectious Diseases, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Nour Shbaklo
- Department of Medical Sciences, Infectious Diseases, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | | | - Piero Fenu
- Healthcare Management, IRCCS Candiolo, 10100 Candiolo, Italy
| | - Vanesa Gregorc
- Unit of Oncology and Haematology, Candiolo Cancer Institute (FPO-IRCCS), Strada Provinciale 142, Km 3,95, 10060 Candiolo, Italy
| | - Silvia Corcione
- Department of Medical Sciences, Infectious Diseases, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy
- School of Medicine, Tufts University, Boston, MA 02111, USA
| | - Valeria Ghisetti
- Microbiology Unit, Amedeo di Savoia Hospital, 10100 Turin, Italy
| | - Francesco Giuseppe De Rosa
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Cardinal Massaia, 14100 Asti, Italy
- Department of Medical Sciences, Infectious Diseases, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Winterton MB, Ghous G. Strongyloides stercoralis: Intriguing cough in an acute lymphoblastic leukemia patient. Hematol Transfus Cell Ther 2023; 45:412-413. [PMID: 35688790 PMCID: PMC10499562 DOI: 10.1016/j.htct.2022.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ghulam Ghous
- Ellis Fischel Cancer Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Macpherson ML, Zendejas-Heredia PA, Sylvester W, Gasser RB, Traub RJ, Colella V, Macpherson CN. Zoonotic helminths of dogs and risk factors associated with polyparasitism in Grenada, West Indies. Parasitology 2023; 150:754-759. [PMID: 37184089 PMCID: PMC10410397 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182023000495] [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] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Canine soil-transmitted helminths (STHs) cause important zoonoses in the tropics, with varying degrees of intensity of infection in humans and dogs. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and associated risk factors for STHs in community dogs residing in Grenada, West Indies. In May 2021, 232 canine fecal samples were examined for zoonotic helminths by microscopy (following flotation), and genomic DNA from a subset of 211 of these samples were subjected to multiplex qPCR for the detection and specific identification of hookworms, Toxocara spp. and Strongyloides. Microscopic examination revealed that 46.5% (108/232, 95% CI 40–52.9), 9% (21/232, 95% CI 5.35–12.7) and 5.2% (12/232, 95% CI 2.3–8) of the samples contained eggs of Ancylostoma spp., Toxocara spp. and Trichuris vulpis, respectively. Multiplex qPCR revealed that, 42.2% (89/211, 95% CI 35.5–48.8) were positive for at least 1 zoonotic parasite. Of these, 40.8% (86/211, 95% CI 34.1–47.3) of samples tested positive for Ancylostoma spp., 36% (76/211, 95% CI 29.5–42.9) were positive for A. caninum, 13.3% (28/211, 95% CI 9–18.6) for A. ceylanicum, 5.7% for T. canis (12/211, 95% CI 2.97–8.81) and 1% (2/211, 95% CI 0–2.26) for Strongyloides spp. (identified as S. stercoralis and S. papillosus by conventional PCR-based Sanger sequencing). Using a multiple logistic regression model, a low body score and free-roaming behaviour were significant predictors of test-positivity for these parasitic nematodes in dogs (P < 0.05). Further studies of zoonotic STHs in humans should help elucidate the public health relevance of these parasites in Grenada.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maxine L.A. Macpherson
- Windward Islands Research and Education Foundation, St. George's, Grenada, West Indies
- School of Veterinary Medicine, St. George's University, St. George's, Grenada, West Indies
| | | | - Wayne Sylvester
- Windward Islands Research and Education Foundation, St. George's, Grenada, West Indies
- School of Veterinary Medicine, St. George's University, St. George's, Grenada, West Indies
| | - Robin B. Gasser
- Faculty of Science, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Rebecca J. Traub
- Faculty of Science, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Vito Colella
- Faculty of Science, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Calum N.L. Macpherson
- Windward Islands Research and Education Foundation, St. George's, Grenada, West Indies
- School of Veterinary Medicine, St. George's University, St. George's, Grenada, West Indies
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Al Busaidi N, Al Farsi F, Al Batashi H, Kashoub MS, Al Sinani A, Al Balushi Z, Khamis F. Steroid-induced Strongyloidiasis with Cholestasis Post-COVID-19 Pneumonia. Oman Med J 2023; 38:e534. [PMID: 37593525 PMCID: PMC10427783 DOI: 10.5001/omj.2023.31] [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] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 08/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The use of immunosuppressive agents has recently been raised during the COVID-19 pandemic to manage the COVID-19-induced systemic inflammatory response and improve mortality. This widespread use of steroids and other immunomodulators for severe COVID-19 diseases might pose a potential risk of reactivation of latent diseases and the emergence of opportunistic infections such as strongyloidiasis. We report a case of strongyloidiasis with cholestasis in a middle-aged man; who was otherwise healthy and had no history of recent travel, developed three weeks after a prolonged course of steroids for the management of severe COVID-19 pneumonia. The patient was managed with a combination of albendazole and ivermectin. A high index of suspicion of strongyloidiasis in symptomatic patients post immunosuppressant therapy for severe COVID-19 is required to prevent unfavorable outcomes. In selected high-risk patients, post prolonged steroid therapy for COVID-19 pneumonia screening for strongyloidiasis and ivermectin empirical treatment might be considered even in non-endemic areas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Noora Al Busaidi
- Medical Microbiology Residency Training Program, Oman Medical Specialty Board, Muscat, Oman
| | - Fatma Al Farsi
- Medical Microbiology Residency Training Program, Oman Medical Specialty Board, Muscat, Oman
| | - Huda Al Batashi
- Internal Medicine Residency Training Program, Oman Medical Specialty Board, Muscat, Oman
| | - Masoud Salim Kashoub
- Internal Medicine Residency Training Program, Oman Medical Specialty Board, Muscat, Oman
| | - Ahmed Al Sinani
- Acute Medicine Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Royal Hospital, Muscat, Oman
| | - Zakariya Al Balushi
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Royal Hospital, Muscat, Oman
| | - Faryal Khamis
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Royal Hospital, Muscat, Oman
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Lupia T, Crisà E, Gaviraghi A, Rizzello B, Di Vincenzo A, Carnevale-Schianca F, Caravelli D, Fizzotti M, Tolomeo F, Vitolo U, De Benedetto I, Shbaklo N, Cerutti A, Fenu P, Gregorc V, Corcione S, Ghisetti V, De Rosa FG. Strongyloides spp. and Cytomegalovirus Co-Infection in Patient Affected by Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma. Trop Med Infect Dis 2023; 8:331. [PMID: 37368749 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed8060331] [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: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
To our knowledge, we have described the first case of Strongyloides/Cytomegalovirus (CMV) concomitant infection that occurred in a European country. The patient was a 76-year-old woman affected by relapsed non-Hodgkin lymphoma who presented interstitial pneumonia with a rapidly progressive worsening of respiratory insufficiency, leading to cardiac dysfunction and consequent death. CMV reactivation is a common complication in immunocompromised patients, while hyperinfection/disseminated strongyloidiasis (HS/DS) is rare in low endemic regions, but has been widely described in Southeast Asia and American countries. HS and DS are two consequences of the failure of infection control by the immune system: HS is the uncontrolled replication of the parasite within the host and DS the spreading of the L3 larvae in organs other than the usual replication sites. Only a few cases of HS/CMV infection have been reported in the literature, and only in one patient with lymphoma as an underlying disease. The clinical manifestations of these two infections overlap, usually leading to a delayed diagnosis and a consequent poor outcome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tommaso Lupia
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Cardinal Massaia, 14100 Asti, Italy
| | - Elena Crisà
- Unit of Oncology and Haematology, Candiolo Cancer Institute, 10060 Candiolo, Italy
| | - Alberto Gaviraghi
- Department of Medical Sciences, Infectious Diseases, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Barbara Rizzello
- Department of Medical Sciences, Infectious Diseases, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | | | | | - Daniela Caravelli
- Unit of Oncology and Haematology, Candiolo Cancer Institute, 10060 Candiolo, Italy
| | - Marco Fizzotti
- Unit of Oncology and Haematology, Candiolo Cancer Institute, 10060 Candiolo, Italy
| | - Francesco Tolomeo
- Unit of Oncology and Haematology, Candiolo Cancer Institute, 10060 Candiolo, Italy
| | - Umberto Vitolo
- Unit of Oncology and Haematology, Candiolo Cancer Institute, 10060 Candiolo, Italy
| | - Ilaria De Benedetto
- Department of Medical Sciences, Infectious Diseases, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Nour Shbaklo
- Department of Medical Sciences, Infectious Diseases, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | | | - Piero Fenu
- Healthcare Management, IRCCS Candiolo, 10100 Candiolo, Italy
| | - Vanesa Gregorc
- Unit of Oncology and Haematology, Candiolo Cancer Institute, 10060 Candiolo, Italy
| | - Silvia Corcione
- Department of Medical Sciences, Infectious Diseases, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy
- School of Medicine, Tufts University, Boston, MA 02111, USA
| | - Valeria Ghisetti
- Microbiology Unit, Amedeo di Savoia Hospital, 10100 Turin, Italy
| | - Francesco Giuseppe De Rosa
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Cardinal Massaia, 14100 Asti, Italy
- Department of Medical Sciences, Infectious Diseases, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Li H, Gazzola D, Hu Y, Aroian RV. An efficient method for viable cryopreservation and recovery of hookworms and other gastrointestinal nematodes in the laboratory. Int J Parasitol 2023:S0020-7519(23)00093-0. [PMID: 37201563 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2023.05.001] [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: 01/25/2023] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Hookworms (genera Ancylostoma and Necator) are amongst the most prevalent and important parasites of humans globally. These intestinal parasites ingest blood, resulting in anemia, growth stunting, malnutrition, and adverse pregnancy outcomes. They are also critical parasites of dogs and other animals. In addition, hookworms and hookworm products are being explored for their use in treatment of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. There is thus a significant and growing interest in these mammalian host-obligate parasites. Laboratory research is hampered by the lack of good means of cryopreservation and recovery of parasites. Here, we describe a robust method for long-term (≥3 year) cryopreservation and recovery of both Ancylostoma and Necator hookworms that is also applicable to two other intestinal parasites that passage through the infective L3 stage, Strongyloides ratti and Heligmosomoides polygyrus bakeri. The key is a revised recovery method, in which cryopreserved L1s are thawed and raised to the infective L3 stage using activated charcoal mixed with uninfected feces from a permissive host. This technique will greatly facilitate research on and availability of gastrointestinal parasitic nematodes with great importance to global health, companion animal health, and autoimmune/inflammatory disease therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hanchen Li
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - David Gazzola
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Yan Hu
- Department of Biology, Worcester State University, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Raffi V Aroian
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Llenas-García J, Del Pozo A, Talaya A, Roig-Sánchez N, Poveda Ruiz N, Devesa García C, Borrajo Brunete E, González Cuello I, Lucas Dato A, Navarro M, Wikman-Jorgensen P. Ivermectin Effect on In-Hospital Mortality and Need for Respiratory Support in COVID-19 Pneumonia: Propensity Score-Matched Retrospective Study. Viruses 2023; 15:v15051138. [PMID: 37243224 DOI: 10.3390/v15051138] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION There is negligible evidence on the efficacy of ivermectin for treating COVID-19 pneumonia. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of ivermectin for pre-emptively treating Strongyloides stercoralis hyperinfection syndrome in order to reduce mortality and the need for respiratory support in patients hospitalized for COVID-19. METHODS This single-center, observational, retrospective study included patients admitted with COVID-19 pneumonia at Hospital Vega Baja from 23 February 2020 to 14 March 2021. Because strongyloidiasis is endemic to our area, medical criteria support empiric administration of a single, 200 μg/kg dose of ivermectin to prevent Strongyloides hyperinfection syndrome. The outcome was a composite of all-cause in-hospital mortality and the need for respiratory support. RESULTS Of 1167 patients in the cohort, 96 received ivermectin. After propensity score matching, we included 192 patients. The composite outcome of in-hospital mortality or need for respiratory support occurred in 41.7% of the control group (40/96) and 34.4% (33/96) of the ivermectin group. Ivermectin was not associated with the outcome of interest (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 0.77, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.35, 1.69; p = 0.52). The factors independently associated with this endpoint were oxygen saturation (aOR 0.78, 95% CI 0.68, 0.89, p < 0.001) and C-reactive protein at admission (aOR: 1.09, 95% CI 1.03, 1.16, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS In hospitalized patients with COVID-19 pneumonia, ivermectin at a single dose for pre-emptively treating Strongyloides stercoralis is not effective in reducing mortality or the need for respiratory support measures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jara Llenas-García
- Internal Medicine Service, Hospital Vega Baja, 03314 Orihuela, Spain
- Foundation for the Promotion of Health and Biomedical Research of the Valencia Region (FISABIO), 46020 Valencia, Spain
- Clinical Medicine Department, Miguel Hernández University, 03202 Elche, Spain
| | - Alfonso Del Pozo
- Internal Medicine Service, Hospital Vega Baja, 03314 Orihuela, Spain
- Foundation for the Promotion of Health and Biomedical Research of the Valencia Region (FISABIO), 46020 Valencia, Spain
| | - Alberto Talaya
- Internal Medicine Service, Hospital Vega Baja, 03314 Orihuela, Spain
- Foundation for the Promotion of Health and Biomedical Research of the Valencia Region (FISABIO), 46020 Valencia, Spain
| | - Nuria Roig-Sánchez
- Internal Medicine Service, Hospital Vega Baja, 03314 Orihuela, Spain
- Foundation for the Promotion of Health and Biomedical Research of the Valencia Region (FISABIO), 46020 Valencia, Spain
| | | | | | | | - Inmaculada González Cuello
- Internal Medicine Service, Hospital Vega Baja, 03314 Orihuela, Spain
- Foundation for the Promotion of Health and Biomedical Research of the Valencia Region (FISABIO), 46020 Valencia, Spain
| | - Ana Lucas Dato
- Internal Medicine Service, Hospital Vega Baja, 03314 Orihuela, Spain
- Foundation for the Promotion of Health and Biomedical Research of the Valencia Region (FISABIO), 46020 Valencia, Spain
| | - Miriam Navarro
- Foundation for the Promotion of Health and Biomedical Research of the Valencia Region (FISABIO), 46020 Valencia, Spain
- Epidemiology Unit, Public Health Centre, 03202 Elche, Spain
| | - Philip Wikman-Jorgensen
- Foundation for the Promotion of Health and Biomedical Research of the Valencia Region (FISABIO), 46020 Valencia, Spain
- Internal Medicine Service, Elda General University Hospital, 03600 Elda, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Rosca EC, Heneghan C, Spencer EA, Plüddemann A, Maltoni S, Gandini S, Onakpoya IJ, Evans D, Conly JM, Jefferson T. Coinfection with Strongyloides and SARS-CoV-2: A Systematic Review. Trop Med Infect Dis 2023; 8:tropicalmed8050248. [PMID: 37235296 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed8050248] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Treatments for COVID-19, including steroids, might exacerbate Strongyloides disease in patients with coinfection. We aimed to systematically review clinical and laboratory features of SARS-CoV-2 and Strongyloides coinfection, investigate possible interventions, assess outcomes, and identify research gaps requiring further attention. METHODS We searched two electronic databases, LitCOVID and WHO, up to August 2022, including SARS-CoV-2 and Strongyloides coinfection studies. We adapted the World Health Organization-Uppsala Monitoring Centre (WHO-UMC) system for standardized case causality assessment to evaluate if using corticosteroids or other immunosuppressive drugs in COVID-19 patients determined acute manifestations of strongyloidiasis. RESULTS We included 16 studies reporting 25 cases of Strongyloides and SARS-CoV-2 coinfection: 4 with hyperinfection syndrome; 2 with disseminated strongyloidiasis; 3 with cutaneous reactivation of strongyloidiasis; 3 with isolated digestive symptoms; and 2 with solely eosinophilia, without clinical manifestations. Eleven patients were asymptomatic regarding strongyloidiasis. Eosinopenia or normal eosinophil count was reported in 58.3% of patients with Strongyloides reactivation. Steroids were given to 18/21 (85.7%) cases. A total of 4 patients (19.1%) received tocilizumab and/or Anakirna in addition to steroids. Moreover, 2 patients (9.5%) did not receive any COVID-19 treatment. The causal relationship between Strongyloides reactivation and COVID-19 treatments was considered certain (4% of cases), probable (20% of patients), and possible (20% of patients). For 8% of cases, it was considered unlikely that COVID-19 treatment was associated with strongyloidiasis reactivations; the relationship between the Strongyloides infection and administration of COVID-19 treatment was unassessable/unclassifiable in 48% of cases. Of 13 assessable cases, 11 (84.6%) were considered to be causally associated with Strongyloides, ranging from certain to possible. CONCLUSIONS Further research is needed to assess the frequency and risk of Strongyloides reactivation in SARS-CoV-2 infection. Our limited data using causality assessment supports recommendations that clinicians should screen and treat for Strongyloides infection in patients with coinfection who receive immunosuppressive COVID-19 therapies. In addition, the male gender and older age (over 50 years) may be predisposing factors for Strongyloides reactivation. Standardized guidelines should be developed for reporting future research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elena C Rosca
- Department of Neurology, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Piata Eftimie Murgu 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Carl Heneghan
- Centre for Evidence Based Medicine, Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Radcliffe Observatory Quarter, Oxford OX2 6GG, UK
| | - Elizabeth A Spencer
- Centre for Evidence Based Medicine, Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Radcliffe Observatory Quarter, Oxford OX2 6GG, UK
| | - Annette Plüddemann
- Centre for Evidence Based Medicine, Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Radcliffe Observatory Quarter, Oxford OX2 6GG, UK
| | - Susanna Maltoni
- Division of Research and Innovation, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Sara Gandini
- Department of Experimental Oncology, IEO European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, 20141 Milan, Italy
| | - Igho J Onakpoya
- Department of Continuing Education, University of Oxford, Rewley House, 1 Wellington Square, Oxford OX1 2JA, UK
| | - David Evans
- Li Ka Shing Institute of Virology and Department of Medical Microbiology & Immunology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E1, Canada
| | - John M Conly
- Departments of Medicine, Microbiology, Immunology & Infectious Diseases, and Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Synder Institute for Chronic Diseases and O'Brien Institute for Public Health, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary and Alberta Health Services, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Tom Jefferson
- Department of Continuing Education, University of Oxford, Rewley House, 1 Wellington Square, Oxford OX1 2JA, UK
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Hiebert K, Gardhouse S, Sarvi J, Herrin B, Miller K, Chelladurai JJ. Identification and treatment of Strongyloides cebus in captive ring-tailed lemurs (Lemur catta) in the midwestern United States. Vet Parasitol Reg Stud Reports 2023; 39:100839. [PMID: 36878624 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2023.100839] [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: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
Strongyloides spp. are parasitic enteric nematodes that infect a variety of hosts. While the Strongyloides spp. that affect humans, apes, and Old World primates have been previously identified, this genus has not been as fully investigated in prosimian species such as ring-tailed lemurs (Lemur catta). A high burden (4+) of larvated eggs and larvae were identified in the fecal samples of two captive ring-tailed lemurs during routine intake examination at a zoo in the midwestern United States. Conventional PCR targeting the 18S RNA gene of nematodes was used identified the parasite as Strongyloides cebus. The lemurs were initially treated with 0.2 mg/kg ivermectin orally twice, two weeks apart. Repeat fecal sampling showed persistent, but decreased eggs and larvae from 4+ to 3+. Ivermectin treatment was repeated with the addition of fenbendazole at 50 mg/kg orally once daily for 3 days. No parasite stages were seen on fecal samples one week and six weeks after the last ivermectin indicating successful clearance of the infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kara Hiebert
- Departments of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary of Medicine, Kansas State University, 1800 S Denison Ave, Manhattan, KS 66506., United States of America.
| | - Sara Gardhouse
- Departments of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary of Medicine, Kansas State University, 1800 S Denison Ave, Manhattan, KS 66506., United States of America
| | - Jasmine Sarvi
- Departments of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary of Medicine, Kansas State University, 1800 S Denison Ave, Manhattan, KS 66506., United States of America
| | - Brian Herrin
- Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, 1800 S Denison Ave, Manhattan, KS 66506, United States of America
| | - Kamilyah Miller
- Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, 1800 S Denison Ave, Manhattan, KS 66506, United States of America
| | - Jeba Jesudoss Chelladurai
- Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, 1800 S Denison Ave, Manhattan, KS 66506, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Seeger D, Cornejo Cisneros E, Lucar J, Denyer R. Strongyloides and COVID-19: Challenges and Opportunities for Future Research. Trop Med Infect Dis 2023; 8. [PMID: 36828543 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed8020127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Strongyloides stercoralis is a soil transmitted helminth endemic to tropical and subtropical areas that can persist for decades in immunocompetent human hosts as a chronic asymptomatic infection. The use of corticosteroids, a mainstay of treatment for patients hospitalized with severe coronavirus disease (COVID-19), can trigger a life-threatening Strongyloides hyperinfection syndrome and disseminated disease. We identified 22 previously published cases of strongyloidiasis occurring in individuals with COVID-19, with one death reported among the seven patients who had Strongyloides hyperinfection syndrome. A total of seventeen patients had previously received corticosteroids, and of the five with no prior corticosteroid use, one presented with hyperinfection syndrome. We identify the key challenges in the diagnosis and treatment of Strongyloides within the context of COVID-19, including our imprecise knowledge of the global distribution of Strongyloides, the overlapping symptoms and signs of COVID-19 and Strongyloides hyperinfection syndrome, the limited utility of eosinophilia as a clinical marker for strongyloidiasis in this setting, the lack of validated algorithms to screen for Strongyloides prior to corticosteroid use, and the paucity of treatment options for critically ill patients with COVID-19 who cannot take oral ivermectin. Future research should focus on improved diagnostic methods and population prevalence estimates, optimizing the approaches for Strongyloides screening in persons with COVID-19 (including clinical trial participants and strategies for resource-limited settings) and better defining the role of pre-emptive treatment.
Collapse
|
33
|
Ward H, Edwards AE, Bapat A. An acute presentation of chronic Strongyloides infection with larva currens. IDCases 2023; 31:e01679. [PMID: 36654736 PMCID: PMC9841363 DOI: 10.1016/j.idcr.2023.e01679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Ward
- Department of Infectious Diseases & Microbiology, The Royal London Hospital, London, United Kingdom
- Correspondence to: Department of Infectious Diseases & Microbiology, The Royal London Hospital, Whitechapel E1 1FR, United Kingdom.
| | - Amy E. Edwards
- Department of Infectious Diseases & Microbiology, The Royal London Hospital, London, United Kingdom
- Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Anjaneya Bapat
- Department of Infectious Diseases & Microbiology, The Royal London Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Krolewiecki A, Enbiale W, Gandasegui J, van Lieshout L, Kepha S, Messa Junior A, Bengtson M, Gelaye W, Escola V, Martinez-Valladares M, Cambra-Pellejà M, Algorta J, Martí-Soler H, Fleitas P, Ballester MR, Doyle SR, Williams NA, Legarda A, Mandomando I, Mwandawiro C, Muñoz J. An adaptive phase II/III safety and efficacy randomized controlled trial of single day or three-day fixed-dose albendazole-ivermectin co-formulation versus albendazole for the treatment of Trichuris trichiura and other STH infections. ALIVE trial protocol. Gates Open Res 2022; 6:62. [PMID: 36540062 PMCID: PMC9714317 DOI: 10.12688/gatesopenres.13615.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Soil-transmitted helminths (STH) are targeted for control through mass drug-administration campaigns to prevent morbidity affecting at-risk groups in endemic regions. Although broadly successful, the use of albendazole and mebendazole achieved variable progress, with deficiencies against Trichuris trichiura and a predictable low efficacy against Strongyloides stercoralis. Novel drug combinations offer a potential solution, providing they can be delivered safely and maintain efficacy against all STH species. Here we present the protocol of a clinical trial to evaluate a fixed-dose combination (FDC) tablet containing albendazole and ivermectin that will be compared against albendazole against STH . Methods: An adaptive phase II/III randomized controlled trial will be undertaken in STH endemic sites in Ethiopia, Kenya and Mozambique to evaluate an oral FDC of 400 mg albendazole and either 9- or 18 mg ivermectin. FDC will be administered as a single dose or single doses over three-consecutive days and assessed against a single dose of 400 mg albendazole. In the phase II trial, 126 T. trichiura-infected children weighting 15 to 45 kg will be treated in a dose-escalation manner to determine safety objectives. In the phase III trial, 1097 participants aged 5 to 18 years old infected with T. trichiura, hookworm and S. stercoralis will be recruited to determine safety and efficacy. The trial will be open-label with blinded outcome assessors. Cure rate measured 21-days after-treatment in duplicate Kato-Katz is the primary efficacy outcome. Secondary objectives include efficacy evaluation by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) as an outcome measurement, description of pharmacokinetic parameters, palatability and acceptability evaluations, and monitoring of anthelmintic resistance. Conclusions: This trial with registrational goals seeks to evaluate an innovative fixed-dose combination of albendazole and ivermectin co-formulated tablets, with the goal of providing an anthelmintic regimen with improved efficacy and spectrum of coverage against STH. ClinicalTrials.gov registration: NCT05124691 (18/11/2021).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alejandro Krolewiecki
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Hospital Clínic-Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Instituto de Investigaciones de Enfermedades Tropicales, Universidad Nacional de Salta, Oran, Salta, 4530, Argentina
| | - Wendemagegn Enbiale
- College of Medicine and Health Science, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia.,Department of Dermatology,, Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Academic Medical Centre, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Javier Gandasegui
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Hospital Clínic-Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Lisette van Lieshout
- Department of Parasitology, Centre of Infectious Diseases, Leiden University Medical Centre (LUMC), Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Stella Kepha
- Eastern and Southern Africa Centre of International Parasite Control, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Michel Bengtson
- Department of Parasitology, Centre of Infectious Diseases, Leiden University Medical Centre (LUMC), Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Woyneshet Gelaye
- College of Medicine and Health Science, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
| | - Valdemiro Escola
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça (CISM), Maputo, Mozambique
| | - María Martinez-Valladares
- Instituto de Ganadería de Montaña, CSIC-Universidad de León, Grulleros, León, Spain.,Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de León, Campus de Vegazana, León, Spain
| | - María Cambra-Pellejà
- Instituto de Ganadería de Montaña, CSIC-Universidad de León, Grulleros, León, Spain.,Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de León, Campus de Vegazana, León, Spain
| | | | - Helena Martí-Soler
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Hospital Clínic-Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Pedro Fleitas
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Hospital Clínic-Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Instituto de Investigaciones de Enfermedades Tropicales, Universidad Nacional de Salta, Oran, Salta, 4530, Argentina
| | - Maria Rosa Ballester
- Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica Sant Pau (IIB SANT PAU), Barcelona, Spain.,Faculty of Health Sciences Blanquerna,, University Ramon Llull, Barcelona, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Nana Aba Williams
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Hospital Clínic-Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Almudena Legarda
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Hospital Clínic-Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Inácio Mandomando
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça (CISM), Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Charles Mwandawiro
- Eastern and Southern Africa Centre of International Parasite Control, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - José Muñoz
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Hospital Clínic-Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Akhmetzhanova A, Duyssembaev S, Zhanat N, Koigeldinova A, Tussupov S. Strongyloides and Eimeria Infection and Its Treatment Way in Sheep. Arch Razi Inst 2022; 77:2359-2363. [PMID: 37274915 PMCID: PMC10237549 DOI: 10.22092/ari.2022.360104.2552] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Parasitic infections are one of the main problems in sheep breeding farms. For this reason, in order to control the damage caused by parasitic infections, a wide range of antiparasitic drugs with different forms are used. A particular area is important due to contamination with radioactive substances and its effect on the immune system of livestock in the area. Therefore, the aim of the present study was the effectiveness of antiparasitic drugs in sheep farms in Kazakhstan. In the current study, 3 groups of lambs were evaluated; each one included 30 infected lambs of 5 to 6 months with Strongyloides and Eimeria spp. and treated with antiparasitic compounds in two forms of tablets (Albendazole, Pyrantel, Ivermectin, Phenasal) and mineral-salt cube (Albenvet, Trimeratinvet). The result of the study showed that began 10, 20, and 30 days after experimentation, the mineral-salt cube significantly reduced the number of helminths and Eimeria spp. in sheep (92.18%) (P≤0.05). Ant antiparasitic drugs in livestock diet are essential in reducing contamination and its effects on the herd.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Akhmetzhanova
- Department of Veterinary, Faculty of Agrarian, Shakarim State University of Semey, 20a Glinka St., 071400 Semey, Republic of Kazakhstan, Kazakhstan
| | - S Duyssembaev
- Department of Veterinary, Faculty of Agrarian, Shakarim State University of Semey, 20a Glinka St., 071400 Semey, Republic of Kazakhstan, Kazakhstan
| | - N Zhanat
- Department of Veterinary, Faculty of Agrarian, Shakarim State University of Semey, 20a Glinka St., 071400 Semey, Republic of Kazakhstan, Kazakhstan
| | - A Koigeldinova
- Department of Veterinary, Faculty of Agrarian, Shakarim State University of Semey, 20a Glinka St., 071400 Semey, Republic of Kazakhstan, Kazakhstan
| | - S Tussupov
- Department of Veterinary, Faculty of Agrarian, Shakarim State University of Semey, 20a Glinka St., 071400 Semey, Republic of Kazakhstan, Kazakhstan
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Eckhardt LGJ, Kelley JL, Maes D. Challenges in managing a multifactorial eosinophilic pneumonia: daptomycin vs strongyloidiasis case report. BMC Infect Dis 2022; 22:873. [PMID: 36418971 PMCID: PMC9682830 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-022-07852-y] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Eosinophilia is defined as a blood eosinophil count > 500/mcL with etiology usually an allergic reaction or parasitic infection which can lead to serious organ damage. CASE PRESENTATION A patient being treated for hardware infection develops eosinophilia while on daptomycin in the setting of a positive strongyloides antibody. The patient was on chronic steroids prior to admission for epitheliopathy which complicated care. The daptomycin was discontinued, ivermectin initiated to treat strongyloidiasis, and high dose steroids initiated simultaneously. Eosinophilia resolved and patient discharged home after two months in the hospital. CONCLUSION Multifactorial eosinophilia poses question of steroid harm in the setting of parasitic infection. Patient was treated for both strongyloides and daptomycin induced eosinophilia with improvement and discharge from the hospital.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lynda G. J. Eckhardt
- grid.413001.70000 0004 0403 4646Department of Pharmacy Services, University of Kentucky HealthCare Good Samaritan Hospital, 310 South Limestone, B003, Lexington, KY 40536 USA ,grid.266539.d0000 0004 1936 8438University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy, 789 South Limestone, Lexington, KY 40536 USA
| | - Jordan L. Kelley
- grid.413001.70000 0004 0403 4646Department of Pharmacy Services, University of Kentucky HealthCare Good Samaritan Hospital, 310 South Limestone, B003, Lexington, KY 40536 USA ,grid.266539.d0000 0004 1936 8438University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy, 789 South Limestone, Lexington, KY 40536 USA
| | - Dorothy Maes
- grid.461341.50000 0004 0402 4392Department of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, University of Kentucky Medical Center, Kentucky Clinic, Room K504, 740 South Limestone Street, Lexington, KY 40536 USA
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Abad CLR, Bhaimia E, Schuetz AN, Razonable RR. A comprehensive review of Strongyloides stercoralis infection after solid organ and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Clin Transplant 2022; 36:e14795. [PMID: 35987856 PMCID: PMC10078215 DOI: 10.1111/ctr.14795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [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: 06/16/2022] [Revised: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We reviewed the scientific literature to gain insight on the epidemiology and outcome of Strongyloides stercoralis infections after transplantation. METHODS CINAHL, PUBMED, and OVID/MEDLINE were reviewed from inception through March 31, 2022 using key words Strongyloides and transplantation. RESULTS Our review identified 108 episodes of Strongyloides infection among 91 solid organ transplant (SOT) and 15 hematopoietic cell transplant (HCT) recipients. Median time to infection was 10.8 (range, .14-417) and 8.8 (range, 0-208) weeks after SOT and HCT, respectively. Gastrointestinal symptoms were frequent (86/108 [79.6%]), while skin rash (22/108 [20.3%]) and fever (31/103 [30%]) were less common. Peripheral eosinophilia was observed in half of patients (41/77 [53.2%]). Bacteremia (31/59 [52.5%]) was frequently due to Gram-negative organisms (24/31 [77.4%]). Abnormal chest radiologic findings were reported in half (56/108 [51.9%]). The majority had hyperinfection syndrome (97/108 [89.8%]) while disseminated strongyloidiasis was less common (11/108 [10.2%]). Thirty-two cases were categorized as donor-derived infection (DDI), with donors (23/24 [95.8%]) who had traveled to or lived in endemic areas. Median time to DDI was 8 weeks (range .5-34.3 weeks) after transplantation. Treatment consisted of ivermectin (n = 26), a benzimidazole (n = 27), or both drugs (n = 28). There was high all-cause mortality (48/107, 44.9%) and a high Strongyloides-attributable mortality (32/49, 65.3%). CONCLUSIONS Strongyloidiasis should be strongly considered among recipients with epidemiologic risk factors for infection, even in the absence of eosinophilia or rash. A policy that provides guidance on pro-active screening is needed, to ensure preventive measures are provided to recipients at increased risk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cybele Lara R Abad
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of the Philippines-Manila, Philippine General Hospital, Manila, Philippines
| | - Eric Bhaimia
- Department of Medicine, Division of Public Health, Infectious Diseases and Occupational Medicine, and The William J Von Liebig Center for Transplantation and Clinical Regeneration, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Sciences, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Audrey N Schuetz
- Division of Clinical Microbiology, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Sciences, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Raymund R Razonable
- Department of Medicine, Division of Public Health, Infectious Diseases and Occupational Medicine, and The William J Von Liebig Center for Transplantation and Clinical Regeneration, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Sciences, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Cadd LC, Crooks B, Marks NJ, Maule AG, Mousley A, Atkinson LE. The Strongyloides bioassay toolbox: A unique opportunity to accelerate functional biology for nematode parasites. Mol Biochem Parasitol 2022; 252:111526. [PMID: 36240960 DOI: 10.1016/j.molbiopara.2022.111526] [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] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Caenorhabditis elegans is a uniquely powerful tool to aid understanding of fundamental nematode biology. While C. elegans boasts an unrivalled array of functional genomics tools and phenotype bioassays the inherent differences between free-living and parasitic nematodes underscores the need to develop these approaches in tractable parasite models. Advances in functional genomics approaches, including RNA interference and CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, in the parasitic nematodes Strongyloides ratti and Strongyloides stercoralis provide a unique and timely opportunity to probe basic parasite biology and reveal novel anthelmintic targets in species that are both experimentally and therapeutically relevant pathogens. While Strongyloides functional genomics tools have progressed rapidly, the complementary range of bioassays required to elucidate phenotypic outcomes post-functional genomics remain more limited in scope. To adequately support the exploitation of functional genomic pipelines for studies of gene function in Strongyloides a comprehensive set of species- and parasite-specific quantitative bioassays are required to assess nematode behaviours post-genetic manipulation. Here we review the scope of the current Strongyloides bioassay toolbox, how established Strongyloides bioassays have advanced knowledge of parasite biology, opportunities for Strongyloides bioassay development and, the need for investment in tractable model parasite platforms such as Strongyloides to drive the discovery of novel targets for parasite control.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luke C Cadd
- Microbes & Pathogen Biology, The Institute for Global Food Security, School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, 19 Chlorine Gardens, Belfast BT9 5DL, UK
| | - Bethany Crooks
- Microbes & Pathogen Biology, The Institute for Global Food Security, School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, 19 Chlorine Gardens, Belfast BT9 5DL, UK
| | - Nikki J Marks
- Microbes & Pathogen Biology, The Institute for Global Food Security, School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, 19 Chlorine Gardens, Belfast BT9 5DL, UK
| | - Aaron G Maule
- Microbes & Pathogen Biology, The Institute for Global Food Security, School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, 19 Chlorine Gardens, Belfast BT9 5DL, UK
| | - Angela Mousley
- Microbes & Pathogen Biology, The Institute for Global Food Security, School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, 19 Chlorine Gardens, Belfast BT9 5DL, UK
| | - Louise E Atkinson
- Microbes & Pathogen Biology, The Institute for Global Food Security, School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, 19 Chlorine Gardens, Belfast BT9 5DL, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Buonfrate D, Tamarozzi F, Paradies P, Watts MR, Bradbury RS, Bisoffi Z. The diagnosis of human and companion animal Strongyloides stercoralis infection: Challenges and solutions. A scoping review. Adv Parasitol 2022; 118:1-84. [PMID: 36088083 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apar.2022.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Strongyloidiasis is the infection caused by soil-transmitted nematodes of Strongyloides species, infecting humans and some animals. Strongyloides stercoralis is the species with most clinical and epidemiological relevance in humans and dogs, due to its high prevalence and its capacity of inducing a life-threatening hyperinfection. Diagnosis of strongyloidiasis is challenging, due to the absence of a single reference standard test with high sensitivity and specificity, which also hampers the estimation of the accuracy of other diagnostic tests. In this chapter, we review the deployment and performance of the parasitological, immunological, molecular tests for the diagnosis of strongyloidiasis in humans and in dogs. Further, we comment the available evidence from genotyping studies that have addressed the zoonotic potential of S. stercoralis. Finally, we discuss the use of different diagnostic methods in relation to the purpose (i.e., screening, individual diagnosis, inclusion in a clinical trial) and the setting (endemic/non-endemic areas) and report the accuracy figures reported by systematic reviews on either parasitological, serological or molecular techniques published in literature.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dora Buonfrate
- Department of Infectious Tropical diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Verona, Italy.
| | - Francesca Tamarozzi
- Department of Infectious Tropical diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Verona, Italy
| | - Paola Paradies
- Department of Emergency and Organs Transplantation, Veterinary Section, Campus of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Matthew R Watts
- Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, Institute of Clinical Pathology and Medical Research - New South Wales Health Pathology and Sydney Institute for Infectious Diseases, Westmead Hospital, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Richard S Bradbury
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Federation University Australia, Berwick, VC, Australia
| | - Zeno Bisoffi
- Department of Infectious Tropical diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Verona, Italy; Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Roldán Gonzáles WH, Coelho GR, Pimenta DC, de Paula FM, Gryschek RCB. Proteomic analysis of the excretory-secretory products from Strongyloides venezuelensis infective larvae: new insights for the immunodiagnosis of human strongyloidiasis. Parasitol Res 2022; 121:3155-3170. [PMID: 36044090 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-022-07636-y] [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] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Serodiagnosis of human strongyloidiasis is a practical alternative to parasitological methods due to its high sensitivity. However, cross-reactivity with other helminth infections limits its utility, and this problem is due to the use of homologous or heterologous somatic extracts of the parasite as an antigen source. Excretory-secretory (E/S) products from Strongyloides infective larvae can be used to improve the serodiagnosis. The combined use of western blot and proteomics became an interesting strategy to identify immunological markers for the serodiagnosis of strongyloidiasis. The present study describes the proteomic analysis of the antigenic components from E/S products of S. venezuelensis infective larvae that were recognized by IgG antibodies from patients with strongyloidiasis. Our results showed that IgG antibodies from patients with strongyloidiasis recognized between 15 and 16 antigenic bands in the E/S products from S. venezuelensis that were incubated in PBS or in RPMI culture medium, respectively. Overall, antigenic bands of low and high molecular weight were more specific than those of intermediate molecular weight, which were cross-reactive. A 36-kDa antigenic band was 93% sensitive and 100% specific (a probably arginine kinase of 37 kDa), while other antigenic bands were highly sensitive but low specific. Proteomic analysis revealed differences between the protein profiles from E/S-RPMI and E/S-PBS since only one-third of all proteins identified were common in both types of E/S products. Bioinformatic analysis showed that more than 50% of the proteins from E/S products are secreted within extracellular vesicles and only a small percentage of them are actually released by the classical secretory pathway. Several components from the E/S products were identified as plasminogen-binding proteins, probably used as an immune evasion mechanism. The data provided here provide valuable information to increase understanding of E/S products from S. venezuelensis infective larvae. This may help us to find new targets for the immunodiagnosis of human strongyloidiasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- William Henry Roldán Gonzáles
- Laboratório de Investigação Médica (LIM/06), Hospital das Clinicas, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
- Instituto de Medicina Tropical, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | | | | | - Fabiana Martins de Paula
- Laboratório de Investigação Médica (LIM/06), Hospital das Clinicas, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil.
- Instituto de Medicina Tropical, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil.
| | - Ronaldo Cesar Borges Gryschek
- Laboratório de Investigação Médica (LIM/06), Hospital das Clinicas, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
- Instituto de Medicina Tropical, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Massetti L, Wiethoelter A, McDonagh P, Rae L, Marwedel L, Beugnet F, Colella V, Traub RJ. Faecal prevalence, distribution and risk factors associated with canine soil-transmitted helminths contaminating urban parks across Australia. Int J Parasitol 2022; 52:637-646. [PMID: 36007621 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2022.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Dog parks provide an ideal urban space where dogs and their owners can exercise, play, and socialize in a safe environment. However, these parks can also increase the risk of exposure to a series of infectious agents including canine soil-transmitted helminths (cSTHs) such as hookworms, roundworms, Strongyloides stercoralis, and Trichuris vulpis, which are endemic to Australia. In this study, we collected 1581 canine faecal samples in 190 urban parks across Australia and subjected these to faecal floatation and multiplex real-time PCRs (qPCR) to detect a range of cSTHs. In total, 44.2% of the parks sampled were contaminated with at least one species of cSTH, with hookworms being the most prevalent parasites (10.2%) followed by Trichuris spp. (1.3%) and Strongyloides spp. (1.2%). This is the first large-scale study investigating the contamination of urban parks with cSTHs in Australia, and the first nation-wide study to demonstrate the occurrence of Strongyloides spp. in canine faecal samples from urban areas in the country. This study reveals a high rate of contamination with cSTHs in dog parks in urban Australia, most of which having proven zoonotic potential. Preventive measures, including awareness-raising educational programs promoting responsible pet ownership, should be encouraged to minimise the health risks associated with cSTHs for both dogs and humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luca Massetti
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC3052, Australia.
| | - Anke Wiethoelter
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC3052, Australia
| | - Phillip McDonagh
- Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health Australia, North Ryde, New South Wales 2113, Australia
| | - Louise Rae
- Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health Australia, North Ryde, New South Wales 2113, Australia
| | - Lara Marwedel
- Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health Australia, North Ryde, New South Wales 2113, Australia
| | | | - Vito Colella
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC3052, Australia
| | - Rebecca J Traub
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC3052, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Buonfrate D, Rodari P, Barda B, Page W, Einsiedel L, Watts M. Current pharmacotherapeutic strategies for Strongyloidiasis and the complications in its treatment. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2022; 23:1617-1628. [PMID: 35983698 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2022.2114829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Strongyloidiasis, an infection caused by the soil-transmitted helminth Strongyloides stercoralis, can lead immunocompromised people to a life-threatening syndrome. We highlight here current and emerging pharmacotherapeutic strategies for strongyloidiasis and discuss treatment protocols according to patient cohort. We searched PubMed and Embase for papers published on this topic between 1990 and May 2022. AREAS COVERED Ivermectin is the first-line drug, with an estimated efficacy of about 86% and excellent tolerability. Albendazole has a lower efficacy, with usage advised when ivermectin is not available or not recommended. Moxidectin might be a valid alternative to ivermectin, with the advantage of being a dose-independent formulation. EXPERT OPINION The standard dose of ivermectin is 200 µg/kg single dose orally, but multiple doses might be needed in immunosuppressed patients. In the case of hyperinfection, repeated doses are recommended up to 2 weeks after clearance of larvae from biological fluids, with close monitoring and further dosing based on review. Subcutaneous ivermectin is used where there is impaired intestinal absorption/paralytic ileus. In pregnant or lactating women, studies have not identified increased risk with ivermectin use. However, with limited available data, a risk-benefit assessment should be considered for each case.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dora Buonfrate
- Department of Infectious, Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria hospital, via Sempreboni 5, 37024 Negrar, Verona, Italy
| | - Paola Rodari
- Department of Infectious, Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria hospital, via Sempreboni 5, 37024 Negrar, Verona, Italy
| | - Beatrice Barda
- Ospedale La Carità, Ospedale regionale di Locarno, Locarno 6600, Switzerland
| | - Wendy Page
- Miwatj Health Aboriginal Corporation, 1424 Arnhem Rd, Nhulunbuy NT 0880, Australia
| | - Lloyd Einsiedel
- Peter Doherty Institute, University of Melbourne, 792 Elizabeth St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
| | - Matthew Watts
- Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, Institute of Clinical Pathology and Medical Research - New South Wales Health Pathology and Sydney Institute for Infectious Diseases, Westmead Hospital, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Dulovic A, Koch I, Hipp K, Streit A. Strongyloides spp. eliminate male-determining sperm post-meiotically. Mol Biochem Parasitol 2022; 251:111509. [PMID: 35985494 DOI: 10.1016/j.molbiopara.2022.111509] [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: 03/16/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
If normal male meiosis occurs, it would be expected that 50 % of sperm lack an X chromosome (nullo X) and hence upon fertilisation, result in male progeny. However, for sexual reproduction within the free-living stages of Strongyloides spp. male offspring are absent. We had shown earlier by quantitative whole genome sequencing that within Strongyloides spp., nullo-X sperm are either absent (S. papillosus) or underrepresented (S. ratti) among mature sperm. To investigate how and when this elimination of male-determining sperm occurs, we characterised spermatogenesis and the dynamic localisation of important molecular players such as tubulin, actin and major sperm protein by DIC microscopy, immunohistochemistry, and fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) in S. ratti, S. papillosus and Parastrongyloides trichosuri. We found that meiotic divisions in these parasites proceeded as expected for organisms with XO males, resulting in four equally sized spermatocytes, two with and two without an X chromosome. However, mature sperm were found to almost always contain an X chromosome. We also observed structures that contained protein constituents of sperm, such as actin and major sperm protein (MSP) but no DNA. These structures resemble C. elegans residual bodies in appearance and may assume their function. We hypothesize that spermatocytes without an X-chromosome undergo some form of programmed cell death and transform into these residual body-like structures. As in C. elegans, MSP is found in fibrous body-membranous organelles (FB-MOs). Knocking down MSP by RNAi showed that MSP is essential for fertility in S. ratti, as it is in C. elegans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alex Dulovic
- Department of Integrative Evolutionary Biology, Max Planck Institute for Biology Tübingen, Max-Planck-Ring 5, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Iris Koch
- Electron Microscopy Facility, Max Planck Institute for Biology Tübingen, Max-Planck-Ring 5, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Katharina Hipp
- Electron Microscopy Facility, Max Planck Institute for Biology Tübingen, Max-Planck-Ring 5, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Adrian Streit
- Department of Integrative Evolutionary Biology, Max Planck Institute for Biology Tübingen, Max-Planck-Ring 5, 72076 Tübingen, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Jacobson D, Zheng Y, Plucinski MM, Qvarnstrom Y, Barratt JLN. Evaluation of various distance computation methods for construction of haplotype-based phylogenies from large MLST dataset. Mol Phylogenet Evol 2022; 177:107608. [PMID: 35963590 PMCID: PMC10127246 DOI: 10.1016/j.ympev.2022.107608] [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: 04/18/2022] [Revised: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Multi-locus sequence typing (MLST) is widely used to investigate genetic relationships among eukaryotic taxa, including parasitic pathogens. MLST analysis workflows typically involve construction of alignment-based phylogenetic trees - i.e., where tree structures are computed from nucleotide differences observed in a multiple sequence alignment (MSA). Notably, alignment-based phylogenetic methods require that all isolates/taxa are represented by a single sequence. When multiple loci are sequenced these sequences may be concatenated to produce one tree that includes information from all loci. Alignment-based phylogenetic techniques are robust and widely used yet possess some shortcomings, including how heterozygous sites are handled, intolerance for missing data (i.e., partial genotypes), and differences in the way insertions-deletions (indels) are scored/treated during tree construction. In certain contexts, 'haplotype-based' methods may represent a viable alternative to alignment-based techniques, as they do not possess the aforementioned limitations. This is namely because haplotype-based methods assess genetic similarity based on numbers of shared (i.e., intersecting) haplotypes as opposed to similarities in nucleotide composition observed in an MSA. For haplotype-based comparisons, choosing an appropriate distance statistic is fundamental, and several statistics are available to choose from. However, a comprehensive assessment of various available statistics for their ability to produce a robust haplotype-based phylogenetic reconstruction has not yet been performed. We evaluated seven distance statistics by applying them to extant MLST datasets from the gastrointestinal parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis and two species of pathogenic nematode of the genus Strongyloides. We compare the genetic relationships identified using each statistic to epidemiologic, geographic, and host metadata. We show that Barratt's heuristic definition of genetic distance was the most robust among the statistics evaluated. Consequently, it is proposed that Barratt's heuristic represents a useful approach for use in the context of challenging MLST datasets possessing features (i.e., high heterozygosity, partial genotypes, and indel or repeat-based polymorphisms) that confound or preclude the use of alignment-based methods.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David Jacobson
- Parasitic Diseases Branch, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA; Oak Ridge Associated Universities, Oak Ridge, TN, USA
| | - Yueli Zheng
- Parasitic Diseases Branch, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA; Eagle Global Scientific, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Mateusz M Plucinski
- Malaria Branch, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA; U.S. President's Malaria Initiative, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Yvonne Qvarnstrom
- Parasitic Diseases Branch, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Joel L N Barratt
- Parasitic Diseases Branch, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Jenks NP, Driscoll B, Locke T. Strongyloidiasis Hyperinfection Syndrome in COVID-19 Positive Migrants Treated with Corticosteroids. J Immigr Minor Health 2022; 24:1431-1434. [PMID: 35939223 PMCID: PMC9358917 DOI: 10.1007/s10903-022-01386-w] [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] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study is to highlight the potentially fatal risk of Strongyloidiasis Hyperinfection Syndrome for hospitalized immigrant patients with moderate to severe COVID-19 disease and undiagnosed Strongyloidiasis. We reviewed electronic medical records of immigrants from 2010 to 2022 and extracted the number of patients with eosinophilia, strongyloidiasis and COVID-19 infection, outpatient and hospitalized. While 885 outpatients were diagnosed with eosinophilia, only 356 (40.2%) were tested for strongyloidiasis and 160 (44.9%) yielded a reactive serology. COVID-19 infection was reported in 6,412 patients. 1135 (17.7%) of these patients sought hospital care. Patients with undiagnosed strongyloidiasis are at risk for a potentially fatal parasitosis if treated with systemic corticosteroids for COVID-19. This supports clinical guidelines in hospital settings for those with severe COVID-19. Strongyloidiasis should be considered by taking a thorough travel or migration history and testing before giving immunosuppressive drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nancy Piper Jenks
- Sun River Health, 1037 Main St, Peekskill, NY, 10566, United States.
| | - Brendan Driscoll
- Sun River Health, 1037 Main St, Peekskill, NY, 10566, United States
| | | |
Collapse
|
46
|
Abstract
Widespread use of corticosteroids for COVID-19 treatment has led to Strongyloides reactivation and severe disease in patients from endemic areas. We describe a US patient with COVID-19 and Strongyloides hyperinfection syndrome and review other reported cases. Our findings highlight the need for Strongyloides screening and treatment in high-risk populations.
Collapse
|
47
|
Mendez P, Walsh B, Hallem EA. Using newly optimized genetic tools to probe Strongyloides sensory behaviors. Mol Biochem Parasitol 2022; 250:111491. [PMID: 35697205 PMCID: PMC9339661 DOI: 10.1016/j.molbiopara.2022.111491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [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: 02/08/2022] [Revised: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The oft-neglected human-parasitic threadworm, Strongyloides stercoralis, infects roughly eight percent of the global population, placing disproportionate medical and economic burden upon marginalized communities. While current chemotherapies treat strongyloidiasis, disease recrudescence and the looming threat of anthelminthic resistance necessitate novel strategies for nematode control. Throughout its life cycle, S. stercoralis relies upon sensory cues to aid in environmental navigation and coordinate developmental progression. Odorants, tastants, gases, and temperature have been shown to shape parasite behaviors that drive host seeking and infectivity; however, many of these sensory behaviors remain poorly understood, and their underlying molecular and neural mechanisms are largely uncharacterized. Disruption of sensory circuits essential to parasitism presents a promising strategy for future interventions. In this review, we describe our current understanding of sensory behaviors - namely olfactory, gustatory, gas sensing, and thermosensory behaviors - in Strongyloides spp. We also highlight the ever-growing cache of genetic tools optimized for use in Strongyloides that have facilitated these findings, including transgenesis, CRISPR/Cas9-mediated mutagenesis, RNAi, chemogenetic neuronal silencing, and the use of fluorescent biosensors to measure neuronal activity. Bolstered by these tools, we are poised to enter an era of rapid discovery in Strongyloides sensory neurobiology, which has the potential to shape pioneering advances in the prevention and treatment of strongyloidiasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Mendez
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Molecular Biology Interdepartmental PhD Program, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - Breanna Walsh
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Molecular Biology Interdepartmental PhD Program, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Medical Scientist Training Program, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - Elissa A Hallem
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Lok JB, Kliewer SA, Mangelsdorf DJ. The 'nuclear option' revisited: Confirmation of Ss-daf-12 function and therapeutic potential in Strongyloides stercoralis and other parasitic nematode infections. Mol Biochem Parasitol 2022; 250:111490. [PMID: 35697206 DOI: 10.1016/j.molbiopara.2022.111490] [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: 02/14/2022] [Revised: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Mechanisms governing morphogenesis and development of infectious third-stage larvae (L3i) of parasitic nematodes have been likened to those regulating dauer development in Caenorhabditis elegans. Dauer regulatory signal transduction comprises initial G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) signaling in chemosensory neurons of the amphidial complex that regulates parallel insulin- and TGFβ-like signaling in the tissues. Insulin- and TGFβ-like signals converge to co-regulate steroid signaling through the nuclear receptor (NR) DAF-12. Discovery of the steroid ligands of DAF-12 opened a new avenue of small molecule physiology in C. elegans. These signaling pathways are conserved in parasitic nematodes and an increasing body of evidence supports their function in formation and developmental regulation of L3i during the infectious process in soil transmitted species. This review presents these lines of evidence for G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR), insulin- and TGFβ-like signaling in brief and focuses primarily on signaling through parasite orthologs of DAF-12. We discuss in some depth the deployment of sensitive analytical techniques to identify Δ7-dafachronic acid as the natural ligand of DAF-12 homologs in Strongyloides stercoralis and Haemonchus contortus and of targeted mutagenesis by CRISPR/Cas9 to assign dauer-like regulatory function to the NR Ss-DAF-12, its coactivator Ss-DIP-1 and the key ligand biosynthetic enzyme Ss-CYP-22a9. Finally, we present published evidence of the potential of Ss-DAF-12 signaling as a chemotherapeutic target in human strongyloidiasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- James B Lok
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3800 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - Steven A Kliewer
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA; Department of Molecular Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - David J Mangelsdorf
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX USA
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Unterköfler MS, Eipeldauer I, Merz S, Pantchev N, Hermann J, Brunthaler R, Basso W, Hinney B. Strongyloides stercoralis infection in dogs in Austria: two case reports. Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:168. [PMID: 35570317 PMCID: PMC9107779 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05270-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Strongyloides stercoralis is endemic in tropical and subtropical regions, but reports of infections in central and northern Europe have been recently increasing. Infections occur mainly in humans and dogs. In dogs, both dog-adapted and zoonotic S. stercoralis genotypes seem to occur. Clinical manifestations mainly include gastrointestinal and respiratory signs. The severity of the disease can vary greatly and depends on the immune status of the host. The infection is potentially fatal in immunosuppressed individuals, either medically induced or due to an underlying disease, in which hyperinfections and disseminated infections with extraintestinal parasite dissemination may occur. Methods Diagnosis was based on coproscopy, including flotation and the Baermann funnel technique, histology of small intestinal biopsies and molecular analysis of mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) and hypervariable regions I and IV (HVR I and HVR IV) of the nuclear 18S rDNA loci. Results Two independent cases of severe canine S.stercoralis infection in Austria are presented. In both cases, S. stercoralis was detected in histological sections of the small intestine and with the Baermann funnel technique. Molecular analysis revealed strains with zoonotic potential. Case 1 was a 1-year-old female French bulldog with a long history of respiratory and gastrointestinal signs, severe emaciation and apathy before S.stercoralis infection was diagnosed. Treatment with moxidectin (2.5 mg/kg body weight [BW], oral route) did not eliminate the infection, but treatment with ivermectin (0.2 mg/kg BW, subcutaneously) was successful. Case 2 consisted of two 2-month-old Pomeranian puppies, one female and one male, from a litter of four, which died soon after presenting dyspnoea and haemorrhagic diarrhoea (female) or torticollis (male); S.stercoralis infection was first diagnosed post-mortem. Conclusion More attention should be paid to this nematode because although it appears to be rare in Austria, it is easily overlooked on standard coproscopy unless a Baermann funnel technique is used, and even then, it can be missed. Moxidectin is not always successful in eliminating the infection, and treatment with ivermectin should be considered in cases of infection. Graphical Abstract ![]()
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Iris Eipeldauer
- Institute of Parasitology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | | | | | - Josef Hermann
- Veterinary Practice Dipl.Tzt. Josef Hermann, Trautmannsdorf, Austria
| | - René Brunthaler
- Institute of Pathology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Walter Basso
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Barbara Hinney
- Institute of Parasitology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Tamarozzi F, Longoni SS, Mazzi C, Rizzi E, Noordin R, Buonfrate D. The accuracy of a recombinant antigen immunochromatographic test for the detection of Strongyloides stercoralis infection in migrants from sub-Saharan Africa. Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:142. [PMID: 35461265 PMCID: PMC9034504 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05249-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Strongyloidiasis, a nematode infection which is mainly caused by Strongyloides stercoralis in humans, can lead to a fatal syndrome in immunocompromised individuals. Its diagnosis is challenging due to the absence of a diagnostic gold standard. The infection is highly prevalent in migrants from endemic countries in tropical and subtropical areas, and a rapid diagnostic test would be helpful for screening purposes. The aim of this study was to estimate the accuracy of a novel immunochromatographic test (ICT) for the diagnosis of S. stercoralis infection. Methods A single-centre diagnostic accuracy study was undertaken using well-characterized frozen sera available from the biobank of a referral hospital for parasitic diseases in Italy. The included sera were from migrants from sub-Saharan Africa, and matching results were available for agar plate culture and/or polymerase chain reaction for S. stercoralis; moreover, the results of both a commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay test and an in-house immunofluorescence test for strongyloidiasis were made available. Laboratory staff who read the ICT results were blinded as regards the results of the other tests. Two readers independently read the ICT, and a third one was involved when results were discrepant. The accuracy of the ICT was assessed both against the results of the panel of faecal tests and by latent class analysis (LCA). Results Agreement between the readers was excellent [Cohen’s κ = 92.7%, 95% confidence interval (CI) 88.3–97.1%]. When assessed against the results of the faecal tests, the sensitivity and specificity of the ICT were 82.4% (95% CI 75.7–89.0%) and 73.8% (95% CI 66.8–80.9%), respectively. According to the LCA, the sensitivity and specificity were 86.3% (95% CI 80.1–92.5%) and 73.9% (95% CI 67.0–80.8%), respectively. Conclusions The results of the ICT demonstrated ease of interpretation. The accuracy proved good, though the sensitivity might be further improved for screening purposes. Graphical Abstract ![]()
Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13071-022-05249-z.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Tamarozzi
- Department of Infectious Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, 37024, Negrar, Verona, Italy
| | - Silvia Stefania Longoni
- Department of Infectious Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, 37024, Negrar, Verona, Italy
| | - Cristina Mazzi
- Clinical Research Unit, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, 37024, Negrar, Verona, Italy
| | - Eleonora Rizzi
- Department of Infectious Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, 37024, Negrar, Verona, Italy
| | - Rahmah Noordin
- Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Dora Buonfrate
- Department of Infectious Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, 37024, Negrar, Verona, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|