Gastrointestinal and respiratory parasites in captive mammals at Rabat zoo, with the first record of Capillaria spp. in the Fennec fox (Vulpes zerda)

The aim of the present study was to broaden the understanding of parasitism in captive wild mammals in Morocco. For this purpose, an investigation on gastrointestinal and respiratory parasites in African mammals from Rabat Zoo was carried out. A total of 47 fecal samples were collected from 30 species from November 2021 to March 2022 and examined macroscopically and microscopically. Parasites were detected in 21 species at a prevalence of 70%, with a parasite positivity rate of 89% in artiodactyls, 50% in perissodactyls, 67% in both carnivores and primates. No parasitic infection was detected in proboscideans. The most frequent infection was by nematodes with a percentage of 50%, followed by both protozoa and mixed infection with a prevalence of 10%. In conclusion, the results demonstrated that parasite prevalence remains high, even in enclosed spaces like zoos. Therefore, in order to ensure animal welfare and staff safety, sanitary measures should be implemented in such facilities, including routine diagnostic tests followed by appropriate treatment.

Capillaria Ova and Diagnosis of Trichuris trichiura Infection in Humans by Kato-Katz Smear, Liberia

We examined human stool samples from Liberia for soil-transmitted helminth ova by Kato-Katz smear and by quantitative PCR. Twenty-five samples were positive for Trichuris trichiura by smear but negative by quantitative PCR. Reexamination of samples showed that they contained Capillaria eggs that resemble T. trichiura in Kato-Katz smears.

Diagnosis and therapy of Capillaria plica infection: report and literature review

Worldwide, data on Capillaria (Pearsonema) plica infections of the urinary tract in domestic carnivores are limited. Nevertheless, cystitis with hematuria, dysuria or pollakiuria may suggest a C. plica infection. A three-year old dog from Poland showing pollakiuria and hematuria was presented. At urine analysis, C. plica eggs were found in the urine sediment. The dog was unsuccessfully treated with a daily oral dose of fenbendazole 50 mg/kg BW for 5 days, while a single subcutaneous administration of ivermectin 0.2 mg/kg BW once effectively eliminated C. plica infection.

Capillaria hepatica infection: a rare differential for peripheral eosinophilia and an imaging dilemma for abdominal lymphadenopathy

Capillaria hepatica which accidentally infects humans is a zoonotic parasite of mammalian liver, primarily rodents and causes hepatic capillariasis. The diagnosis is difficult because of the non-specific nature of clinical symptoms, leading to misdiagnosis and can be confirmed only through liver biopsy or on autopsy results. This paper is written with an objective to report a new case of hepatic capillariasis as a rare differential for peripheral eosinophilia and an imaging dilemma for abdominal lymphadenopathy.

Molecular phylogeny of Pseudocapillaroides xenopi (Moravec et Cosgrov 1982) and development of a quantitative PCR assay for its detection in aquarium sediment

We used high-fidelity PCR to amplify a portion of the small ribosomal subunit (18S rRNA) of Pseudocapillaroides xenopi, a nematode that parasitizes the skin of Xenopus laevis. The 1113-bp amplicon was cloned, sequenced, and aligned with sequences from 22 other nematodes in the order Trichocephalida; Caenorhabditis elegans was used as the outgroup. Maximum-likelihood and Bayesian inference phylogenetic analyses clustered P. xenopi in a clade containing only members of the genus Capillaria. Our analyses support the following taxonomic relationships: 1) members of the family Trichuridae form a clade distinct from those in the family Trichocephalida; 2) members of the genera Trichuris and Capillaria form 2 distinct clades within the family Trichuridae; and 3) the genus Trichuris includes 2 distinct clades, one representing parasites that infect herbivores and the other representing parasites that infect omnivores and carnivores. Using 18S rRNA sequence unique to P. xenopi, we developed a Taq Man quantitative PCR assay to detect this P. xenopi sequence in total DNA isolated from aquarium sediment. The assay's lower limit of detection is 3 copies of target sequence in a reaction. The specificity of our assay was validated by using negative control DNA from 9 other pathogens of Xenopus. Our quantitative PCR assay detected P. xenopi DNA in the sediment of 2 of 12 aquaria from the source institution of the specimen used to develop the assay; these aquaria had been treated with ivermectin 6 mo previously.

[Investigation of Capillaria hepatica infection in rodents from Wuhan section of Yangtze River marshland]

OBJECTIVE

To understand the prevalence of Capillaria hepatica in rodents from Wuhan section of the Yangtze River marshland.

METHODS

Rodents were trapped in Jiang'an section of Wuhan marshland of the Yangtze River. The livers of the rodents were examined for pathological changes by unaided eyes and the liver tissues were examined for the eggs of C. hepatica by a microscope.

RESULTS

According to the natural conditions, the investigation was carried out in 6 survey areas. Each survey area was placed with 60 mousetraps, and all 360 mousetraps were recovered. A total of 31 rodents (rodent density 8.61%) were captured and examined, including 24 Apodemus agrarius, 3 Rattus norvegicus, 4 Sorex caecutiens, and C. hepatica eggs were found in 1 R. norvegicus (1/3) and not found in A. agrarius, and S. caecutiens.

CONCLUSION

This study has documented a prevalence of C. hepatica in rodents from Wuhan section of the Yangtze River marshland where is a natural epidemic focus of capillariasis hepatica.

An overview of the host spectrum and distribution of Calodium hepaticum (syn. Capillaria hepatica): part 1-Muroidea

Calodium hepaticum (syn. Capillaria hepatica) is a worldwide-distributed species of zoonotic nematodes with a high affinity to the liver. Several rodent species of the superfamily Muroidea serve as main hosts for this pathogen. C. hepaticum has been found in Muroidean hosts in more than 60 countries in Europe; North, Central, and South America; Asia; Africa; and Oceania. C. hepaticum was documented in more than 90 Muroidean rodent species (Murinae, Deomyinae, Arvicolinae, Neotominae, Cricetinae, Sigmodontinae, Gerbillinae, and Cricetomyinae). Globally, the Norway rat (Rattus norvegicus) seems to be the main host species for this nematode. However, locally high prevalences (above 50 %) have also been observed in several other synanthropic (commensal and non-commensal) Muroidea species (e.g., Rattus tanezumi, Ondatra zibethicus, Apodemus sylvaticus). This review gives an overview of the distribution and host spectrum of C. hepaticum in Muroidea host species.

An overview of the host spectrum and distribution of Calodium hepaticum (syn. Capillaria hepatica): part 2-Mammalia (excluding Muroidea)

Calodium hepaticum (syn. Capillaria hepatica) is a globally distributed zoonotic nematode with low host specificity and a high affinity to the liver. Although murid rodents are the main definite hosts, various other mammals can be affected with hepatic capillariasis: non-murid rodents, Insectivora, Chiroptera, Lagomorpha, Artiodactyla, Perissodactyla, Hyracoidea, Marsupialia, Carnivora, and Primates. Overall, more than 180 mammalian species (including humans) are known as suitable hosts of this pathogen. This review gives an overview of the distribution and host spectrum of C. hepaticum in non-Muroidean mammals in wildlife and zoos as well as in domesticated and laboratory animals. Furthermore, the role of spurious infections in animals and the dissemination of C. hepaticum by mammalian and non-mammalian animals are summarized.

Serious diarrhea with weight loss caused by Capillaria philippinensis acquired in China: a case report

BACKGROUND

Diarrhea caused by Capillaria philippinensis (C. philippinensis) has not been reported in any areas with the exception of Taiwan province in China. We herein report the misdiagnosis and subsequent management of a patient with diarrhea caused by C. philippinensis.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 33-year-old woman from the outskirts of Danzhou city, Hainan province, China, had an 11-month history of chronic diarrhea with abdominal pain, edema, hypoalbuminemia, and severe weight loss. The patient was misdiagnosed at an outpatient clinic and one hospital. She was finally correctly diagnosed with C. philippinensis by stool examination. The patient was given a 30-days course of albendazole (400 mg/day) and had an uneventful and stable recovery.

CONCLUSION

Doctors cannot lose sight of patients' dietary histories, must query stool examination results, and need to expand their knowledge of certain nonlocal and global diseases, especially those described in new case reports. Some diagnostic examinations must be performed repeatedly. Hainan province may be the epidemic focus of C. philippinensis.

[Helminths of pheasant (Phasianus colchicus) detected by necropsy and faecal examination in Samsun, Turkey]

OBJECTIVE

This study was performed at the Gelemen Pheasant Procreation Farm affiliated to the General Directorate of Nature Conservation and National Parks, Ministry of Forest and Water Affairs.

METHODS

A total of 203 faecal samples and 17 necropsies were examined.

RESULTS

In the faecal examination, Capillaria spp. accounted for 28.6% and Heterakis spp. for 17.2% of eggs; in necropsy, Capillaria annulata (17.6%), C. bursata (35.3%), C. caudinflata (23.5%), C. contorta (64.7%), C. obsignata (5.9%) and Heterakis gallinarum (58.8%) were detected.

DISCUSSION

Syngamus trachea, often reported in helminths in pheasant, could be found neither upon faecal examination nor on necropsy.

CONCLUSION

This study is the first extensive research to identify helminths of pheasants in Turkey. Capillaria bursata, C. caudinflata, C. contorta, C. obsignata and H. gallinarum are the first reports from pheasants in Turkey.

Prevalence and chemo-therapeutical investigations of gastrointestinal nematodes in domestic pigeons in Lahore, Pakistan

The prevalence of gastrointestinal nematodes was studied in 143 (80 male and 63 female) domestic pigeons. Faecal samples were collected to determine the gastrointestinal nematodes of domestic pigeons through qualitative and quantitative faecal examinations. A total of 48 (male 33 and 25 female) naturally infected domestic pigeons were divided into G1 (albendzdole) and G2 (fenbendazole) treatment-groups along with one control group (C). The overall prevalence of gastrointestinal nematodes was 40.5% (58/143) in domestic pigeons. Likewise, the prevalence of gastrointestinal nematodes in males and females was found 41.3% (33/58) and 39.7% (25/58) respectively. The overall prevalence of Capillaria obsignata and Ascaridia columbae was found to be 67.2% and 32.8%, respectively. The prevalence of C. obsignata and A. columbae in males was 72.7% (24/33) and 27.8% (9/33) and in females was 60% (15/25) and 40% (10/25), respectively. There was no significant sex related difference seen in the prevalence of C. obsignata (p>0.56) and A. columbae (p>0.40) in domestic pigeons, respectively. The overall efficacy of albendazole and fenbendazole was calculated to be 66% and 71%. A remarkable significant difference (p<0.05) was observed in eggs per gram before and after treatment in both G1 and G2 treated-groups. The efficacy of fenbendazole was found to be more significant (p<0.02) than albendazole.

[Determination of the helminths of wild pigeons (Columba livia Gmelin, 1789 Columbiformes) in the Bursa region]

The helminth fauna of 113 wild pigeons, (Columba livia Gmelin, 1789), in the Bursa Province was investigated. As a result of the investigation 3 helminth species were detected. These were Capillaria columbae (Gmelin, 1789), Ascaridia columbae (Gmelin, 1790) (Nemathelminthes) and Raillietina echinobothrida (Megnin, 1881) (Cestoda).

Capillariasis: chronic watery diarrhea--not only from microorganisms

A 54-year-old male Thai patient from Prachin Buri Province presented with a history of chronic watery diarrhea for many years. He passed stool five to ten times per day with occasionally colicky pain, abdominal distension, nausea and vomiting. He had visited hospitals and private clinics and received treatment but with no improvement. He presented to the Hospital for Tropical Diseases, Bangkok, Thailand, where on physical examination, he had moderate dehydration, weakness, abdominal distension and a gurgling abdomen. The eggs, larvae and adult worms of Capillaria philippinensis were found on stool examination. The patient was admitted and treated with Mebendazole for 20 days, whereupon his symptoms resolved. Two months previously, he had ingested a raw small fresh-water fish dish called "Phra-Pla Siw/Soi". Small fresh-water fish near the patient's home were collected and examined for Capillaria philippinensis larva. The results were negative for parasitic organisms.

Three cases of intestinal capillariasis in Lao People's Democratic Republic

Capillaria philippinensis is a rare zoonotic intestinal parasite that emerged in the 1960s. The outcome of intestinal capillariasis may be fatal if untreated in due time. We report three cases of intestinal capillariasis in Lao People's Democratic Republic (Lao PDR). The three patients were unrelated previously healthy young men (24, 26, and 27 years of age) with no underlying disease or immune depression. They had chronic diarrhea, abdominal pain, edema, and severe weight loss. Two of them acquired the infection in Thailand; the other patient had no travel history outside Lao PDR. All patients were seen several times in different hospitals before the diagnosis was made. All had concurrent parasite infections: Giardia lamblia, Entamoeba histolytica, Strongyloides stercoralis, Opisthorchis viverrini, and hookworm. The patients frequently consumed uncooked fish. After treatment with albendazole (400 mg/day for 21-30 days) all patients recovered. In Lao PDR, consumption of raw small freshwater fish is common. Therefore, the possibility of a capillariasis outbreak should be considered.

Eucoleus aerophilus respiratory infection in a dog with Addison's disease

A 4-year-old, standard poodle was presented to the Ontario Veterinary College for a 3-week history of a moist, productive cough that was first noted while boarding at a kennel. Bronchoalveolar lavage revealed numerous ova identified as Eucoleus aerophilus, previously known as Capillaria aerophila. Clinical signs resolved following treatment with fenbendazole.

Granulomatous, hepatolithiasis and hepatomegaly caused by Capillaria hepatica infection: first case report of Thailand

This is the first case report in Thailand of a Capillaria hepatica infection causing a granulomatous hepatic lesion, bile duct dilatation, hepatolithiasis and hepatomegaly. The patient's chief complaint was abdominal pain with fever and chills. Imaging of the liver revealed a 3-cm mass in the postero-inferior sub-segment of the right lobe of the liver with bile duct dilatation. Right hepatectomy and cholecystectomy were performed. Gross pathology of the right hepatectomy revealed focal intrahepatic duct dilatation with prominent periductal fibrosis. The histopathological section revealed chronic inflammation and some granuloma formation surrounding the bile ducts, generalized portal infiltration, prominence of eosinophils and hepatolithiasis. Histopathotogical section revealed oblique sections of C. hepatica egg (size 35.4+/-6.38 microm in width) and brown amorphous pigment.

Paleoparasitological analysis of a raptor pellet from southern Patagonia

Organic remains attributable to one regurgitated pellet were examined. The pellet, belonging to a bird of prey and collected from a cave of Southern Patagonia, was dated at 6,540 +/- 110 yr. With standard paleoparasitological procedures, eggs of Capillaria sp. and a mite, Demodex sp., were found. The parasites found in the pellet belong to a rodent ingested by the bird. The present report constitutes the first paleoparasitological study of a regurgitated pellet.

[Intestinal parasites of parrots]

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to determine a parasitic species composition, prevalence and intensity of infection in selected parrots.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The studies were carried out on faecal samples of budgerigars Melopsittacus undulatus (n = 36), cockatiels Nymphicus hollandicus (n = 21), grey parrots Psittacus erithacus (n = 18), eastern rosella Platycercus eximius (n = 10) and senegal parrots Poicephalus senegalus (n = 10) using the Willis-Schlaff and McMaster's methods.

RESULTS

Protozoans (Isosporidae and Eimeriidae) and nematodes (Ascarididae, Capillaridae and Heterakidae) were detected in the tested samples. Coccidian oocysts were detected in all examined parrots. Isospora and Eimeria oocysts were found in 52.9% Melopsittacus undulatus, 60% Poicephalus senegalus and 66.7% Psittacus erithacus. Mean number of oocysts per gram of feces (OPG) was high: from about 270 to 1500 depending on both parasite and host species. Three species of parrots were infected with the nematodes (Nymphicus hollandicus and Poicephalus senegalus were free from this infection), but only Ascaridia platycerci was present in these hosts, with the highest prevalence (20%) and highest mean number of eggs per gram of feces (EPG = 1242) in Platycercus eximinus. Heterakis gallinarum was observed only in Psittacus erithacus; 16.6% individuals were infected, and EPG was 212. The highest intensity of infection with nematodes of Ascarididae and Capillaridae was in Platycercus eximius. EPG in this species of parrots was 1242 and 2480, respectively. The obtained results show that introduction of parasitological prophylaxis programs is necessary, especially in the larger birds' farmings and zoological shops.

Population dynamics of nematode parasites of reindeer in the sub-arctic

Nematode parasite infections of semi-domestic reindeer grazing in their natural habitat in northern Finland were monitored for approximately 2 years. This was achieved by monthly faecal egg counts of male and female calves and adult females from an experimental reindeer herd, in addition to estimating the acquisition of nematode infection from pasture using tracer reindeer calves. The most abundant parasite was Ostertagia gruehneri in the worm counts of tracer animals and in faecal egg counts of adult female reindeer. Capillaria sp. eggs were detected in calves and adults, but Nematodirinae eggs were only recovered from calves. Faecal egg counts showed variations between months for each nematode species, with male and female calves shedding similar numbers of eggs. During each year, calves shed more Capillaria sp. eggs than adult female reindeer, but similar numbers of O. gruehneri eggs. Egg counts of O. gruehneri were more abundant in late summer-autumn (July-September), whereas Capillaria sp. and the Nematodirinae dominated the winter months (November-February). The seasonal trends of adult worm burdens of O. gruehneri in the tracers paralleled the egg count patterns. Capillaria sp. was not detected in tracer worm counts. Tracer worm burdens showed that the proportion of inhibited larvae of O. gruehneri and Nematodirinae steadily increased from spring to early winter, followed by a decline and a commensurate increase in the number of adult parasites in the second summer. This investigation showed that parasite transmission occurs continuously throughout the year for nematode parasites of reindeer in northern Finland.

Prevalence of Trichinella larvae and extra-intestinal nematodes in Norwegian red foxes (Vulpes vulpes)

A survey of the parasitic fauna of the Norwegian red fox (Vulpes vulpes) population was carried out in 1994/1995 and 2002-2005. All foxes were killed during the licensed hunting season from October to April and, in total, 393 animals from all regions of the country were examined. The present study details the results of extra-intestinal nematode and Trichinella larvae examinations. All individuals were examined for Trichinella, using routine digestion methods. Parasitological examination of the internal organs of some of the foxes also identified a number of different extra-intestinal nematodes. The following prevalences were identified (number positive/number foxes examined): Trichinella larvae 19/393 (4.8%); Capillaria böhmi (C. böhmi) 88/174 (51%); Capillaria aerophila (C. aerophila) 160/181 (88%); Crenosoma vulpis (Cr. vulpis) 105/181 (58%) and Capillaria plica (C. plica) 81/154 (53%). No evidence of Angiostrongylus vasorum infection was found. The 19 different Trichinella isolates were species typed by PCR and sequence analysis; 18 isolates were identified as Trichinella nativa and one as Trichinella britovi. A wide geographical distribution of the parasites was seen. The following exceptions were recorded: C. böhmi, the prevalence of which was significantly lower in northern Norway (6%) compared to other regions (central Norway, eastern Norway and southern and western Norway; 52-57%). There was a significantly higher prevalence of Trichinella infection in eastern Norway (8.1%), when compared with the rest of the country (0.6%). Cr. vulpis prevalence was significantly higher in central Norway (83%) than in other regions (41-56%). There were no significant differences in age and sex distribution of the parasites with the exception of Cr. vulpis where juvenile foxes had a greater likelihood of infection. The data also indicated that adult foxes were more commonly infected with Trichinella larvae (5.8%) than juveniles (3.3%) (no statistical significance).

Helminth infections in small mammals from Ulu Gombak Forest Reserve and the risk to human health

A survey for small mammal parasites carried out in a secondary forest of Ulu Gombak, Selangor, Peninsula Malaysia yielded the following animals: Rattus bowersi (7), Rattus tiomanicus jalorensis (2), Maxomys rajah (12), Maxoyms whiteheadi (3), Leopoldamys sabanus(13), Sundamys muelleri(10), Lariscus insignis (1), Sundasciurus tenuis (1) and Tupaia glis (2). The following nematodes: Capillaria hepatica, Hepatojarakus malayae, Trichostrongylus sp. and Streptopharagus sp., the following cestodes: Hymenolepis sp., Raillietina sp. and Taenia taeniaformis; and trematode, Zonorchis sp. from Tupaia glis were recovered. No parasites were observed during blood examination. No endoparasite was seen in Maxomys whiteheadi, Lariscus insignis and Sundasciurus tenuis. The following parasites, Capillaria hepatica, Hymenolepis sp., Raillietina sp. and Taenia taeniaformis are considered of medical importance.

A new species of Pterothominx Freitas, 1959 (Nematoda: Capillariidae) parasitising psittacine birds (Psittaciformes)

A new species, Pterothominx (Pterothominx) moraveci n. sp. (Trichinelloidea: Capillariidae) is described from an Australian parrot, Barnardius zonarius Shaw (Psittacidae: Psittaciformes), imported from Germany and kept in captivity in the Czech Republic. Males of the new taxon differ from all other species of the subgenus Pterothominx Freitas, 1959, which mainly parasitise galliform birds, in having a shorter spicule (0.925-1.338; mean 1.050 mm), a shorter body length and a different form of armed spicular sheath and bursa. Females differ in having the smallest eggs (40-50 x 20-25; mean 48 x 23 microm) and in other morphometrical characters. From the species P. (P.) totani (Linstow, 1875), which parasitises charadriiform birds, the new species differs in its smaller number of stichocytes (females 42-46, mean 44; versus 50-54), different form of the bursa and praebursal alae, and other characters. This is the only species of Pterothominx that parasitises psittacine birds.

Cluster of Capillaria hepatica infections in non-commensal rodents from the canton of Geneva, Switzerland

We trapped 664 rodents belonging to five non-commensal species in the canton of Geneva, Switzerland, and found a significant cluster of Capillaria hepatica infections in three species in rural and urbanized areas of the northern part of the canton. C. hepatica infections were discovered in the yellow-necked mouse Apodemus flavicollis (n=99) with an overall prevalence (OP) of 7.0% and a clustered prevalence (CP) of 20%, in the bank vole Clethrionomys glareolus (n=58, OP 5.2%; CP 19%), and in the water vole Arvicola terrestris scherman (n=466; OP 0.2%; CP 4%). The estimated numbers of C. hepatica eggs isolated from infected livers ranged from 1,914 to 938,000 per animal.

Hepatic capillariasis in Maine presenting as a hepatic mass

We report the first case of hepatic capillariasis in Maine. The patient was a 54-year-old male carpenter who presented with a subacute history of severe abdominal pain, fevers, and weight loss. Initial diagnostic studies suggested a hepatic mass associated with para-aortic lymphadenopathy. The patient underwent open laparotomy for resection of the mass. He was found to have an eosinophilic granuloma in the liver; further evaluation revealed degenerating Capillaria hepatica. The exact route of infection in this case is unknown but is most likely due to accidental ingestion of soil contaminated with mature capillaria eggs. This patient had a low parasite burden and did not exhibit significant peripheral eosinophilia. After treatment with thiabendazole, he recovered uneventfully.

Parasitic Lesions of Bovine Liver Attributed to Capillaria Species

Among meat inspectors in Hokkaido, Japan, the term "bovine parasitic hepatitis" (BPH) has long been used to refer to a hepatic disorder characterized by multiple small yellowish lesions. However, the aetiology is unknown. By means of detailed histopathological examination, fragments of parasitic worms resembling Capillaria were detected in nine (2.25%) of 400 livers showing BPH lesions. Histologically, the degenerative lesions showed eosinophilic papillary endothelial hyperplasia of the interlobular veins and eosinophilic membranous structures in the eosinophilic granulomatous areas of inflammation. These characteristic findings differed from those of hepatic capillariasis of other animal species. BPH was found in 5-20% of milk cows examined throughout Hokkaido, and was also detected in cattle from another prefecture and from Australia. Possibly the same parasitic disorder, albeit undiagnosed, is more widespread.

Clinical features of human intestinal capillariasis in Taiwan

Human intestinal capillariasis is a rare parasitosis that was first recognized in the Philippines in the 1960 s. Parasitosis is a life threatening disease and has been reported from Thailand, Japan, South of Taiwan (Kaoh-Siung), Korea, Iran, Egypt, Italy and Spain. Its clinical symptoms are characterized by chronic diarrhea, abdominal pain, borborygmus, marked weight loss, protein and electrolyte loss and cachexia. Capillariasis may be fatal if early treatment is not given. We reported 14 cases living in rural areas of Taiwan. Three cases had histories of travelling to Thailand. They might have been infected in Thailand while stayed there. Two cases had the diet of raw freshwater fish before. Three cases received emergency laparotomy due to peritonitis and two cases were found of enteritis cystica profunda. According to the route of transmission, freshwater and brackish-water fish may act as the intermediate host of the parasite. The most simple and convenient method of diagnosing capillariasis is stool examination. Two cases were diagnosed by histology. Mebendazole or albendezole 200 mg orally twice a day for 20-30 d is the treatment of choice. All the patients were cured, and relapses were not observed within 12 mo.

Capillaria philippinensis: a cause of fatal diarrhea in one of two infected Egyptian sisters

Capillaria philippinensis is an emerging infection in Egypt. Reports in children are scarce. We report here two sisters with C. philippinensis infection, aged 8 and 12 years. Their father was a fisherman and they had a habit of picking small pieces of uncooked fish to eat while their mother prepared their meals. They came from El-Menia governorate, which lies in the northern part of Upper Egypt. Most reported cases from Egypt come from this governorate and nearby areas. Both sisters had persistent profuse watery diarrhea of 12 months' duration. Their weights were below the 5th percentile for age. Both were hypoalbuminemic, but only the younger had pedal edema. Both had hypokalemia and hyponatremia. During the course of their illness they were repeatedly admitted to different hospitals and received intravenous fluids, but the correct diagnosis was not reached. Diagnosis was made by stool examination at our hospital when eggs and larvae were detected in stool samples. Although a diagnosis was promptly made, the older sister who suffered from pneumonia and septic shock unfortunately died a few days after admission. The younger sister was treated successfully with albendazole 200 mg twice daily. Diarrhea abated, pedal edema disappeared, and she started to gain weight.

HEPATIC CALODIUM HEPATICUM (NEMATODA) INFECTION IN A ZOO COLONY OF BLACK-TAILED PRAIRIE DOGS (CYNOMYS LUDOVICIANUS)

Calodium hepaticum (syn. Capillaria hepatica), a nematode parasite commonly found in the liver of wild rodents, infects a wide variety of mammals, including humans. A retrospective study of black-tailed prairie dogs (Cynomys ludovicianus) at the Baltimore Zoo showed that 5 of 21 (24%) of the prairie dogs submitted for postmortem examination between 1981 and 2001 had hepatic capillariasis, with all the infections diagnosed during or after 1997. Affected livers contained multifocal granulomas containing numerous eggs and occasional adult nematodes. Asymptomatic wild rats in the zoo with a high prevalence of infection may have served as a reservoir for the disease. Wild rodent control is essential to minimize exposure of susceptible exhibition animals as well as humans to C. hepaticum.

The presence of Fasciola hepatica (liver-fluke) in humans and cattle from a 4,500 year old archaeological site in the Saale-Unstrut valley, Germany

During an excavation of a site of the corded ware culture in the Saale-Unstrut-Valley (ca. 3000 BC) in Germany, a soil sample from the pelvis of a human skeleton was studied under palaeoparasitological aspects. Eggs of the trematode Fasciola hepatica and of the nematode genus Capillaria were found. This is the first case of a direct association of a F. hepatica-infestation to both a prehistoric human skeleton and domesticated animal remains. Sheep and cattle bones were present at the same site and F. hepatica eggs were found in bovine samples. This strongly points toward an existing infection cycle, involving humans as a final host.

Parasitological aspects of Capillaria philippinensis recovered from Egyptian patients

Seven new cases of intestinal capillariasis were detected in Kasr El-Aini University Hospitals, Cairo, during the period from July 1997 to June 1998. A parasitological study concerning the morphological features of Capillaria philippinensis recovered from the stool of Egyptian cases was carried out. Eggs were separated, cultured and used to infect Oreochromis nilotica niloticus, a famous popularly consumed type of fresh water fish in Egypt in a trial for identification of the fish intermediate host for this parasite, but infection had not developed in the intestine of this species of fish.

Capillariidae eggs found in the urine of a free ranging maned wolf from Argentina

The first finding of a Capillariid in the urinary tract of a free ranging maned wolf (Chrysocyon brachyurus) is described. The individual was an adult male attacked by dogs in the locality of Cayastacito (Santa Fe, Argentina, 31 degrees 05' S, 60 degrees 34' W). Eggs found in urine measured 64.6-66.9 micrometer (mean 65.4 micrometer) x 26.9-31 micrometer (mean 29 micrometer). Further studies are needed to determine whether this finding corresponds to a new Capillariid species, related to C. brachyurus, or it is an already described species that has been introduced by domestic dogs.

Intestinal capillariass in Egypt epideiologigal background

Intestinal capillariasis has been reported in Egypt in 1989. Since that time, 44 cases have been diagnosed. Most of the detected cases were females (37), while males were only 7. Their ages ranged from 10 to 65 years, however most of them were between 20 to 40 years. Twenty-six cases were from the northern part of Upper Egypt, particularly Bani-Suif and El-Menia Governorates. Patients presented with borborygmi, chronic diarrhea, vomiting, loss of weight, lower limb edema and electrolyte imbalance for durations ranging from one month to two years. Morbidity and mortality of the disease in Egyptian cases are described. Some patients gave history of eating raw whole fish, while others gave history of eating raw parts of fish or half-cooked fish. Diagnosis was based on the clinical picture, and confirmed stool analysis. Differential diagnosis was discussed and the cost paid by patients to reach the correct diagnosis was estimated. Suggestions about the way with which the parasite was introduced and maintained in Egypt were mentioned.

Capillariid nematodes (Nematoda: Capillariidae) parasitic in the common cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo), with redescription of Baruscapillaria carbonis (Dubinin et Dubinina, 1940)

Two species of the genus Baruscapillaria Moravec, 1982 are known to parasitise the small intestine of the common cormorant, Phalacrocorax carbo (L.): Baruscapillaria carbonis (Dubinin et Dubinina, 1940) and B. rudolphii Moravec, Scholz et Nasincová, 1994. A redescription of the former species, based on specimens collected from common cormorants shot in South Bohemia, Czech Republic, is provided. Morphological features distinguishing B. carbonis and B. rudolphii are specified. B. carbonis is characterised mainly by the well-developed membranous bursa in the male, composed of five distinct lobes (four lateral and one spur-shaped dorsal); the length of the spicule is 1.9-2.3 mm; gravid females are provided with a long vulvar appendage. Males of B. rudolphii have reduced, bi-lobed membranous bursa and the spicule is 0.9-1.3 mm long; the vulvar appendage is absent in gravid females. This is the first record of B. carbon is in the Czech Republic.

Red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) in Ireland as hosts for parasites of potential zoonotic and veterinary significance

Intestinal washes, faecal flotations and serological examinations for antibodies to Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum were used to assess the prevalence of parasites in carcases of foxes killed on roads or shot in the Dublin area and surrounding counties. The ascarids Uncinaria stenocephala and Toxocara canis were prevalent, as was the trematode Alaria alata. Taenia species, eggs of Capillaria species and sporocysts of Sarcocystis species were also found. Only one fox out of 70 examined was seropositive for N. caninum, whereas 24 of 51 were seropositive for T. gondii.

Capillaria hepatica infection in wild brown rats (Rattus norvegicus) from the urban area of Milan, Italy

Forty-seven wild brown rats (Rattus norvegicus) collected from the urban area of Milan (Italy) were screened for Capillaria hepatica liver infection. The liver of each rat was grossly and histologically examined for the presence of C. hepatica adults, eggs and typical C. hepatica induced lesions. In 17 rats (36%) liver lesions consistent with C. hepatica infection were detected. Grossly, white-yellow nodules of 1-5 mm in diameter were present, either scattered on the liver surface or localized in a single lobe. Histologically, granulomatous liver lesions associated with eggs and/or worms were observed. The degree of gross liver involvement was moderate in most of the positive cases (71%). About 30 cases of C. hepatica infection in humans have been documented world-wide, most of which are reported in children from 1 to 5 years of age. Our results suggest that the potential transmission of C. hepatica to children in the study area should be considered an important health issue.

Hepatic capillariasis (Capillaria hepatica) in porcupines (Erethizon dorsatum) in Pennsylvania

Tissues of 53 adult porcupines (Erethizon dorsatum) from Pennsylvania were obtained for histopathologic examination. Hepatic capillariasis was recorded in 9% of the porcupines. An additional 11% of the liver sections showed lesions that were compatible with migration by Capillaria hepatica. Because only 1 section of the liver per animal was examined microscopically, the documented prevalence of C. hepatica in Pennsylvania is considered conservatively low. However, this condition was subclinical, because none of the infected animals showed clinical signs, and none revealed severe pathologic changes in the affected livers. This seems to be the only report of C. hepatica in porcupines.

Compostela Valley: a new endemic focus for Capillariasis philippinensis

A 20 year old female from Compostela Valley Province in the Philippines, presenting with chronic diarrhea, borborygmi, bipedal edema, anorexia and weight loss was seen at Davao Regional Hospital. Her stool specimen, suspected by a local medical technologist to have Capillaria philippinensis ova, was forwarded to the Diagnostic Parasitology Laboratory of the College of Public Health, University of the Philippines Manila. It was examined and found to contain Capillaria philippinensis adults, larvae and eggs. Twelve deaths among people coming from the same barangay, affected by a similar illness with no definite diagnosis except "gastroenteritis" were also reported. These prompted health officials to send a team that would investigate the etiology of the disease outbreak labeled as a "Mystery Disease". Seventy-two stool samples from symptomatic patients were examined. Fifty-three (73.6%) individuals were proven to harbor at least one parasite with 16 (22.2%) individuals positive for Capillaria philippinensis infection. Ocular inspection, interviews and focus group discussions revealed that the people's eating habits are not much different from the habits of those from the Ilocos provinces where capillariasis was initially described. In both areas, people are fond of eating kinilaw or raw fish. They also eat raw shrimps, crabs and snails. Furthermore, the people defecate in the field or in the same body of water where they get the fishes, shrimps, crabs and snails that they eat, thus completing the life cycle of Capillaria philippinensis. Fish-eating birds were likely to have spread this parasite to the area. This is the first report of a capillariasis outbreak in Compostela Valley Province, and this should alert health authorities to consider embarking on serious efforts for developing proficiency of laboratory and clinical diagnosis especially in government health facilities where the poor and marginalized sectors of society are likely to consult.

Capillaria hepatica: a spurious case with a brief review

A 12-year-old Bunun aboriginal school student in Sanmin District Kaohsiung County, Southern Taiwan, was found to have Capillaria hepatica eggs in the feces during a survey on intestinal parasitic infection in 1997. Moreover, this student was also infected with Trichuris trichiura and Ascaris lumbricoides. The C. hepatica eggs were light yellowish-brown in color, 54 (40-60) microns in length and 29 (25-35) microns in width with a 3 (3-4) microns thick shell and two colorless egg plugs 7 (5-9) x 6 (5-8) microns. This is the eighth case of human spurious C. hepatica infection in Taiwan. In addition to the reporting of this case, the genuine and spurious infections of C. hepatica in humans as well as its infection in rats around the world are briefly reviewed.