1
|
Raulf MK, Raue K, Rohdich N, Zschiesche E, Raue J, Merhof K, Volk HA, Schnyder M, Morelli S, Traversa D, Roepke RKA, Strube C. Efficacy of Bravecto ® Plus spot-on solution for cats (280 mg/ml fluralaner and 14 mg/ml moxidectin) in the prevention of feline Aelurostrongylus abstrusus infection evaluated in a multi-diagnostic approach. Parasit Vectors 2024; 17:193. [PMID: 38658960 PMCID: PMC11044604 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-024-06270-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aelurostrongylus abstrusus is one of the most important respiratory nematodes of felines. Infections may lead to respiratory clinical signs with varying severity or even death, emphasizing the need for preventive treatment of cats with outdoor access to circumvent patent infections. METHODS Therefore, the preventive efficacy of a spot-on formulation of 280 mg/ml fluralaner and 14 mg/ml moxidectin (Bravecto® Plus spot-on solution for cats, MSD) against A. abstrusus was evaluated in a negative controlled, randomized and partially blinded efficacy study with 28 purpose-bred cats in a non-terminal design. In three different treatment regimes, the minimum recommended dose of 40 mg fluralaner and 2.0 mg moxidectin/kg bodyweight (BW) was administered once at 12, 8 or 4 weeks (study group G1, G2 and G3, respectively) prior to experimental infection with 300 third-stage A. abstrusus larvae, while G4 served as placebo-treated control. RESULTS From 30 to 46 days post infection (dpi; SD 114 to 130), faeces were sampled to monitor first-stage larvae (L1) excretion for efficacy determination. Secondary efficacy criteria, including respiratory parameters, serological antibody levels and computed tomography (CT) findings, were assessed once before enrolment (SD -7 to -1) and before infection (SD 75 to 83). After infection, CT evaluation was performed once at 47-50 dpi (SD 131 to 134), and respiratory parameters and antibody levels were regularly assessed twice or once a week, respectively (1 up to 78 dpi, SD 85 up to 162). All animals in the control group excreted L1 by 33-37 dpi and remained positive throughout the study period from 41 to 46 dpi (SD 125 to 130). In the treatment groups, only one animal each of G1 and G2 excreted L1 at two consecutive days, and four cats of G1, two of G2 and three of G3 were positive on single occasions. While the geometric mean (GM) of the maximum number of excreted L1 per 5 g of faeces was 7380.89 in the control group (G4), GMs were significantly lower in the treatment groups with 1.63 in G1, 1.37 in G2 and 0.79 in G3. Thus, based on GMs, the reduction in excreted L1 exceeded 99.9% in all three treatment groups. Based on CT severity scores, all lungs of the animals of the control group showed severe pulmonary changes post infection, whereas lungs of the cats of the treatment groups were either unaltered (4 animals), mildly (11 animals), or moderately altered (5 animals). Moreover, seroconversion was observed in all cats of the control group, but not in those of the treatment groups. CONCLUSIONS The combination of diagnostic methods used in this non-terminal study yielded coherent and reliable results. A single administration of Bravecto® Plus spot-on solution for cats was well tolerated and effective in the prevention of aelurostrongylosis for at least 12 weeks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Kristin Raulf
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 17, 30559, Hanover, Germany
| | - Katharina Raue
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 17, 30559, Hanover, Germany
| | - Nadja Rohdich
- MSD Animal Health Innovation GmbH, Schwabenheim, Germany
| | - Eva Zschiesche
- MSD Animal Health Innovation GmbH, Schwabenheim, Germany
| | - Jonathan Raue
- Department for Small Animal Medicine and Surgery, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, 30559, Hannover, Germany
| | - Kristina Merhof
- Department for Small Animal Medicine and Surgery, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, 30559, Hannover, Germany
| | - Holger A Volk
- Department for Small Animal Medicine and Surgery, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, 30559, Hannover, Germany
| | - Manuela Schnyder
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Simone Morelli
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Donato Traversa
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | | | - Christina Strube
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 17, 30559, Hanover, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Tinoco FV, Morelli S, de Farias Brito M, Oliveira Pereira G, Correia Oliveira M, Diakou A, Colombo M, Frangipane di Regalbono A, Traversa D. Hemorrhagic Meningoencephalomyelitis Due to Ectopic Localization of Aelurostrongylus abstrusus in a Cat: First Case Report. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12020128. [PMID: 35049752 PMCID: PMC8772558 DOI: 10.3390/ani12020128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Revised: 12/24/2021] [Accepted: 01/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Aelurostrongylus abstrusus is the most important parasitic nematode affecting cat airways worldwide. The adult nematodes live in the lungs and cause pneumonia with typical respiratory clinical signs such as cough, nasal and ocular discharge, and difficulties in breathing. The localization of adult A. abstrusus in other organs than lungs is not common. This report describes, for the first time, an unusual and fatal localization of A. abstrusus within the central nervous system of a kitten displaying neurological signs. Abstract The lungworm Aelurostrongylus abstrusus is one of the main causes of respiratory diseases in cats worldwide. This report describes the unusual case of a kitten infected with A. abstrusus and presented to a veterinary clinic in Brazil with lethargy, dysphagia, non-ambulatory tetraplegia, and pelvic limbs bilateral myoclonus. The clinical picture of the kitten worsened with generalized flaccid tetraplegia and death a few days after hospitalization. At necropsy, hemorrhagic necrosis and subarachnoid hemorrhages were detected in several areas of the central nervous system. Nematode stages were found at post-mortem histological examinations in lungs, cerebellum, subarachnoid space of the brain and spinal cord. Microscopic and molecular (PCRs-coupled-sequencing protocols) examination showed the presence of A. abstrusus in histological samples. This study describes the first neurological aelurostrongylosis due to ectopic localization of adult worms in the central nervous system of a cat, causing acute hemorrhagic multifocal meningoencephalomyelitis. Further studies are necessary to elucidate whether unusual localizations and the migration of A. abstrusus are more frequent than expected.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Simone Morelli
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy; (S.M.); (M.C.)
| | - Marilene de Farias Brito
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica 23897-000, Brazil; (M.d.F.B.); (G.O.P.); (M.C.O.)
| | - Gabriela Oliveira Pereira
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica 23897-000, Brazil; (M.d.F.B.); (G.O.P.); (M.C.O.)
| | - Mariana Correia Oliveira
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica 23897-000, Brazil; (M.d.F.B.); (G.O.P.); (M.C.O.)
| | - Anastasia Diakou
- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Mariasole Colombo
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy; (S.M.); (M.C.)
| | | | - Donato Traversa
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy; (S.M.); (M.C.)
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Farago ECF, Pacheco AD, Malavazi PFNDS, Colombo M, Morelli S, Cesare AD, Souza SFD. Occurrence of Aelurostrongylus abstrusus in domestic cats in Vilhena, Rondônia, Brazil. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA = BRAZILIAN JOURNAL OF VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY : ORGAO OFICIAL DO COLEGIO BRASILEIRO DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA 2022; 31:e008622. [PMID: 36197399 PMCID: PMC9901858 DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612022053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Aelurostrongylosis, caused by the metastrongylid nematode Aelurostrongylus abstrusus, is an underestimated feline respiratory disease. Cats infected by A. abstrusus may show subclinical to severe clinical signs. Aelurostrongylus abstrusus has a worldwide distribution. Nevertheless, studies on this parasite in Brazil are scarce, and most have been conducted in the southern regions. This study investigated the occurrence of A. abstrusus in cats in Vilhena, Rondônia, Brazil, from April 2020 to February 2021. Three consecutive individual fecal samples from 101 cats were examined using Baermann and Hoffman tests. Two cats (1.98%) scored positive for A. abstrusus, one with the Baermann examination, and one with the Hoffman technique. No other lungworms were retrieved. The clinicopathological and epizootiological implications are described and discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Acácio Duarte Pacheco
- Centro de Ciências Biológicas e da Natureza, Universidade Federal do Acre, Rio Branco, AC, Brasil
| | | | - Mariasole Colombo
- Facoltà di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Teramo, Teramo, Abruzzo, Italia
| | - Simone Morelli
- Facoltà di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Teramo, Teramo, Abruzzo, Italia
| | - Angela Di Cesare
- Facoltà di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Teramo, Teramo, Abruzzo, Italia
| | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Raue K, Raue J, Hauck D, Söbbeler F, Morelli S, Traversa D, Schnyder M, Volk H, Strube C. Do All Roads Lead to Rome? The Potential of Different Approaches to Diagnose Aelurostrongylus abstrusus Infection in Cats. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10050602. [PMID: 34069100 PMCID: PMC8157210 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10050602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
An infection with the cat lungworm, Aelurostrongylus abstrusus, can be subclinical, but it can also cause severe respiratory clinical signs. Larvae excretion, antibody levels, clinical assessment findings of the respiratory system and diagnostic imaging findings were recorded and compared for six cats with experimental aelurostrongylosis. In five cats, patency started 33-47 days post infection (pi), but two cats excreted larvae only in long intervals and low numbers. Positive ELISA results were observed in four cats with patent aelurostrongylosis, starting between five days before and 85 days after onset of patency. One seropositive cat remained copromicroscopically negative. Mild respiratory signs were observed in all cats examined. A computed tomographic (CT) examination of the lungs displayed distinct alterations, even in absence of evident clinical signs or when larvae excretion was low or negative. The thoracic radiograph evaluation correlated with the CT results, but CT was more distinctive. After anthelmintic treatment in the 25th week post infection, pulmonary imaging findings improved back to normal within 6-24 weeks. This study shows that a multifaceted approach, including diagnostic imaging, can provide a clearer diagnosis and monitoring of disease progression. Furthermore, a CT examination provides an alternative to post mortem examination and worm counts in anthelmintic efficacy studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Raue
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, 30559 Hannover, Germany; (K.R.); (D.H.)
| | - Jonathan Raue
- Department for Small Animal Medicine and Surgery, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, 30559 Hannover, Germany; (J.R.); (F.S.); (H.V.)
| | - Daniela Hauck
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, 30559 Hannover, Germany; (K.R.); (D.H.)
| | - Franz Söbbeler
- Department for Small Animal Medicine and Surgery, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, 30559 Hannover, Germany; (J.R.); (F.S.); (H.V.)
| | - Simone Morelli
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy; (S.M.); (D.T.)
| | - Donato Traversa
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy; (S.M.); (D.T.)
| | - Manuela Schnyder
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, 8057 Zürich, Switzerland;
| | - Holger Volk
- Department for Small Animal Medicine and Surgery, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, 30559 Hannover, Germany; (J.R.); (F.S.); (H.V.)
| | - Christina Strube
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, 30559 Hannover, Germany; (K.R.); (D.H.)
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Morelli S, Diakou A, Colombo M, Di Cesare A, Barlaam A, Dimzas D, Traversa D. Cat Respiratory Nematodes: Current Knowledge, Novel Data and Warranted Studies on Clinical Features, Treatment and Control. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10040454. [PMID: 33920104 PMCID: PMC8069686 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10040454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2021] [Revised: 04/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The nematodes Aelurostrongylus abstrusus, Troglostrongylus brevior and Capillaria aerophila are the most important parasites inhabiting the airways of cats. They are receiving growing attention from academia, pharmaceutical companies and veterinarians, and are now considered a primary cause of respiratory diseases in feline clinical practice and parasitology. In the past few years, several studies have been conducted in both natural and experimental settings to increase knowledge, provide new insights and fill gaps on respiratory parasitoses of cats. Awareness and knowledge of clinical scenarios towards appropriate and timely diagnosis and prompt and efficacious treatment options have become a priority to investigate. At the same time, chemopreventative approaches have been evaluated to assess the geographical spreading of these parasites and the rise in the number of clinical cases in cat populations of different countries. Given the intense accumulation of novel data, this review presents and discusses the state of the art and the latest updates on the clinical features, treatment, and control of major respiratory parasitoses of cats. Moreover, food for thought is also provided with the aim of spurring on new studies in the near future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Simone Morelli
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy; (S.M.); (M.C.); (A.D.C.)
| | - Anastasia Diakou
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece; (A.D.); (D.D.)
| | - Mariasole Colombo
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy; (S.M.); (M.C.); (A.D.C.)
| | - Angela Di Cesare
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy; (S.M.); (M.C.); (A.D.C.)
| | - Alessandra Barlaam
- Department of Agriculture, Food, Natural Resources and Engineering (DAFNE), University of Foggia, Via Napoli 25, 71121 Foggia, Italy;
| | - Dimitris Dimzas
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece; (A.D.); (D.D.)
| | - Donato Traversa
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy; (S.M.); (M.C.); (A.D.C.)
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Raue K, Rohdich N, Hauck D, Zschiesche E, Morelli S, Traversa D, Di Cesare A, Roepke RKA, Strube C. Efficacy of Bravecto ® Plus spot-on solution for cats (280 mg/ml fluralaner and 14 mg/ml moxidectin) for the prevention of aelurostrongylosis in experimentally infected cats. Parasit Vectors 2021; 14:110. [PMID: 33593394 PMCID: PMC7885211 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-021-04610-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The feline lungworm Aelurostrongylus abstrusus affects the lower respiratory tract in cats worldwide. As infections may lead to chronic respiratory changes or even death, preventive treatment in cats with outdoor access is warranted. Methods The preventive efficacy of a spot-on solution (Bravecto® Plus spot-on solution for cats, MSD) against cat aelurostrongylosis was evaluated using three different preventive treatment regimes in a negative controlled, randomized and partially blinded laboratory efficacy study with 31 purposed-bred cats. The minimum recommended dose of 2.0 mg moxidectin + 40 mg fluralaner/kg bodyweight was applied once 12 (Group [G]1), 8 (G2) or 4 (G3) weeks before experimental infection with 300 third-stage larvae (L3) of A. abstrusus. Another group served as untreated control (G4). Individual faecal samples were analysed as of day 30 post infection (pi) to monitor larvae excretion. Necropsy was performed at days 47–50 pi. The lungs were examined macroscopically for pathological findings and (pre-)adult worms were counted to assess preventive efficacy. Results Beginning at day 32–40 pi, all cats of the control group were constantly shedding larvae of A. abstrusus, whereas only one animal of G1 excreted larvae at several consecutive days. In addition, two cats of G1 and G3 and three of G2 were positive on a single occasion. The geometric mean (GM) of the maximum number of excreted larvae was 7574.29 in the control group compared to 1.10 (G1), 1.19 (G2) and 0.53 (G3), resulting in a GM reduction of > 99.9% in all treatment groups. All lungs of the control animals showed severe or very severe alterations at necropsy, while in 94.44% of the treated cats lung pathology was rated as absent or mild. The GM number of (pre-)adult A. abstrusus retrieved from the lungs was 26.57 in the control group, 0.09 in G1 and 0.00 in G2 and G3. Thus, GM worm count reduction was 99.66% in G1 and 100% in G2 and G3. Conclusions A single application of Bravecto® Plus spot-on solution at a dose of 2.0 mg moxidectin + 40 mg fluralaner/kg bodyweight reliably prevents cat aelurostrongylosis for at least 12 weeks.![]()
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Raue
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hanover, Germany
| | - Nadja Rohdich
- MSD Animal Health Innovation GmbH, Schwabenheim, Germany
| | - Daniela Hauck
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hanover, Germany
| | - Eva Zschiesche
- MSD Animal Health Innovation GmbH, Schwabenheim, Germany
| | - Simone Morelli
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Donato Traversa
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Angela Di Cesare
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | | | - Christina Strube
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hanover, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Vezzosi T, Perrucci S, Parisi F, Morelli S, Maestrini M, Mennuni G, Traversa D, Poli A. Fatal Pulmonary Hypertension and Right-Sided Congestive Heart Failure in a Kitten Infected with Aelurostrongylus abstrusus. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10122263. [PMID: 33271887 PMCID: PMC7759851 DOI: 10.3390/ani10122263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Revised: 11/27/2020] [Accepted: 11/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Infections caused by lungworms are an emerging issue in feline medicine. Clinical features in cats may vary from subclinical infections to a severe disease, occasionally including fatal pneumonia, depending on different factors, e.g., lungworm species, parasitic burden, and age of the animal. A case of infection caused by Aelurostrongylus abstrusus in a domestic kitten presenting acute dyspnoea and ascites is presented here. Clinical, radiological, echocardiographic, parasitological, molecular, and pathological data are described. This is the first report of life-threatening pulmonary hypertension inducing congestive heart failure caused by A. abstrusus infection in a domestic kitten. Abstract Aelurostrongylus abstrusus is considered the most important respiratory nematode of domestic cats worldwide. This parasite inhabits the alveoli, alveolar ducts, and bronchioles and causes a subacute to chronic respiratory clinical disease. Clinical signs may occur in domestic cats of any age, though they are more often described in young animals. Physical examination, echocardiography, thoracic radiography, pulmonary and cardiac pathological findings, classical, and molecular parasitological analysis of a six-month-old kitten referred at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital of the University of Pisa (Italy) led to a diagnosis of parasitic bronchopneumonia caused by A. abstrusus, which was complicated by severe pulmonary hypertension (PH) and right-sided congestive heart failure (R-CHF) that caused the death of the animal. Cases of reversible PH associated with A. abstrusus infection have been seldom reported in cats. This is the first report of fatal PH and R-CHF in a kitten with clinical aelurostrongylosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tommaso Vezzosi
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Pisa, Viale delle Piagge n. 2, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (T.V.); (S.P.); (F.P.); (M.M.)
| | - Stefania Perrucci
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Pisa, Viale delle Piagge n. 2, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (T.V.); (S.P.); (F.P.); (M.M.)
| | - Francesca Parisi
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Pisa, Viale delle Piagge n. 2, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (T.V.); (S.P.); (F.P.); (M.M.)
| | - Simone Morelli
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Piano d’Accio, 64100 Teramo, Italy; (S.M.); (D.T.)
| | - Michela Maestrini
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Pisa, Viale delle Piagge n. 2, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (T.V.); (S.P.); (F.P.); (M.M.)
| | - Giulia Mennuni
- Studio Associato Veterinario Razzauti Daolio Anguillesi, 57100 Livorno, Italy;
| | - Donato Traversa
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Piano d’Accio, 64100 Teramo, Italy; (S.M.); (D.T.)
| | - Alessandro Poli
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Pisa, Viale delle Piagge n. 2, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (T.V.); (S.P.); (F.P.); (M.M.)
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Carruth AJ, Buch JS, Braff JC, Chandrashekar R, Bowman DD. Distribution of the feline lungworm Aelurostrongylus abstrusus in the USA based on fecal testing. JFMS Open Rep 2019; 5:2055116919869053. [PMID: 31523446 PMCID: PMC6727092 DOI: 10.1177/2055116919869053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives The aim of this study was to compile commercial reference laboratory data over a 10-year period to determine the distribution of Aelurostrongylus abstrusus, commonly known as feline lungworm, within the USA based on widespread fecal testing in cats. Methods The results of 3,610,455 feline ova and parasite (O&P) zinc sulfate centrifugation fecal flotation tests performed at IDEXX Reference Laboratories in the USA from January 2008 to December 2017 were compiled and sorted for tests positive for A abstrusus larvae. The results of 3625 Baermann tests, currently considered the gold standard diagnostic for feline lungworm, were also retrieved from the same period. Results Of the tests performed, 4721 (0.13%) feline O&P zinc sulfate centrifugation fecal flotation tests and 75 (2.07%) of the Baermann tests conducted were positive for the presence of A abstrusus larvae. The O&P data revealed a significant association between infection status and sex, while male cats in both the O&P and Baermann data sets had a higher risk of A abstrusus infection than females. Significant variation in positive rates were observed by region and most positive cases were clustered in the Northeast, Midwest and West regions of the USA. Conclusions and relevance This study highlights the distribution of feline lungworm in the USA and the limitations of using current testing to diagnose this infection. The introduction of higher throughput, less labor-intensive diagnostic methods could help increase awareness of this parasite among veterinary professionals, achieve a greater understanding of epidemiological factors, and improve the care and treatment for clinically ill feline patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Dwight D Bowman
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Kiszely S, Gyurkovszky M, Solymosi N, Farkas R. Survey of lungworm infection of domestic cats in Hungary. Acta Vet Hung 2019; 67:407-417. [PMID: 31549542 DOI: 10.1556/004.2019.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
From 61 settlements of 12 Hungarian counties, 303 domestic cats were included in this survey. Between autumn 2016 and spring 2018, fresh faecal samples were randomly collected and examined by flotation and by the Baermann-Wetzel method for the presence of lungworm infection. No eggs of Eucoleus aerophilus were detected. Morphological identification of first instar larvae (L1) was also carried out. In the faeces of 60 cats (19.8%) from 17 settlements and Budapest, L1 of Aelurostrongylus abstrusus were found. More than half of the cats were from the western part of the country. The average number of larvae per gram of faeces was 190.2 ± 304.88. These results are in line with the former findings on the prevalence of aelurostrongylosis of domestic cats in Hungary. In addition, Oslerus rostratus was also found for the first time in the faecal samples of three cats from the eastern part of the country, infected also with Ae. abstrusus. The average age (2.51 ± 1.26 years) of infected cats indicates that lungworm infection is more common among younger cats. No relationship was found between the lung-worm infection and the sex of cats. Non-neutered cats had a significantly higher proportion of lungworm infections. Two-thirds of the infected cats were apparently healthy, and only 19 individuals showed clinical signs of respiratory disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sára Kiszely
- 1Department of Parasitology and Zoology and Centre for Bioinformatics, University of Veterinary Medicine, István u. 2, H-1078 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Mónika Gyurkovszky
- 1Department of Parasitology and Zoology and Centre for Bioinformatics, University of Veterinary Medicine, István u. 2, H-1078 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Norbert Solymosi
- 2Centre for Bioinformatics, University of Veterinary Medicine, István u. 2, H-1078 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Róbert Farkas
- 1Department of Parasitology and Zoology and Centre for Bioinformatics, University of Veterinary Medicine, István u. 2, H-1078 Budapest, Hungary
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Penagos-Tabares F, Lange MK, Vélez J, Hirzmann J, Gutiérrez-Arboleda J, Taubert A, Hermosilla C, Chaparro Gutiérrez JJ. The invasive giant African snail Lissachatina fulica as natural intermediate host of Aelurostrongylus abstrusus, Angiostrongylus vasorum, Troglostrongylus brevior, and Crenosoma vulpis in Colombia. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2019; 13:e0007277. [PMID: 31002674 PMCID: PMC6493767 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0007277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2018] [Revised: 05/01/2019] [Accepted: 03/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several metastrongyloid lungworms are unreported pathogens in Colombia. Angiostrongylus vasorum and Crenosoma vulpis target the cardiopulmonary system of domestic and wild canids. Aelurostrongylus abstrusus and Troglostrongylus brevior infect felids and considering that six wild felid species exist in Colombia, knowledge of feline lungworm infections is important for their conservation. The zoonotic metastrongyloids Angiostrongylus costaricensis and Angiostrongylus cantonensis can cause severe gastrointestinal and neurological diseases. Angiostrongylus costaricensis has been reported in Colombia, while Ang. cantonensis is present in neighbouring countries. Research on the epidemiology of metastrongyloids in Colombia and South America more broadly requires evaluating the role that gastropods play as intermediate hosts in their life cycles. This study assessed the prevalence of metastrongyloid larvae in populations of the invasive giant African snail, Lissachatina fulica, in Colombia. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS A total of 609 Lissachantina fulica were collected from 6 Colombian municipalities. The snails were then cryo-euthanized, artificially digested and the sediments examined microscopically for the presence of metastrongyloid larvae. Based on morphological characteristics 53.3% (56/107) of the snails from Puerto Leguízamo (Department of Putumayo) were infected with Ael. abstrusus larvae, 8.4% (9/107) with Ang. vasorum larvae, 6.5% (7/107) with T. brevior larvae and 5.6% (6/107) with C. vulpis larvae, being the region with highest prevalences of the four species. Snails from Andes (Department of Antioquia) and Tulúa (Department of Valle del Cauca) were positive for Ang. vasorum larvae with a prevalence of 4.6 (11/238) and 6.3% (4/64), respectively. Species identifications were confirmed by PCR and sequencing. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE This epidemiological survey reports for first time the presence of Ael. abstrusus, T. brevior, C. vulpis and Ang. vasorum in L. fulica in a number of regions of Colombia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Felipe Penagos-Tabares
- CIBAV Research Group, Veterinary Medicine School, Faculty of Agrarian Sciences, University of Antioquia, Medellín, Antioquia, Colombia
- Institute of Parasitology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Hessen, Germany
| | - Malin K. Lange
- Institute of Parasitology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Hessen, Germany
| | - Juan Vélez
- CIBAV Research Group, Veterinary Medicine School, Faculty of Agrarian Sciences, University of Antioquia, Medellín, Antioquia, Colombia
- Institute of Parasitology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Hessen, Germany
| | - Jörg Hirzmann
- Institute of Parasitology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Hessen, Germany
| | - Jesed Gutiérrez-Arboleda
- CIBAV Research Group, Veterinary Medicine School, Faculty of Agrarian Sciences, University of Antioquia, Medellín, Antioquia, Colombia
| | - Anja Taubert
- Institute of Parasitology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Hessen, Germany
| | - Carlos Hermosilla
- Institute of Parasitology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Hessen, Germany
| | - Jenny J. Chaparro Gutiérrez
- CIBAV Research Group, Veterinary Medicine School, Faculty of Agrarian Sciences, University of Antioquia, Medellín, Antioquia, Colombia
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Reinero C. Interstitial lung diseases in dogs and cats part II: Known cause and other discrete forms. Vet J 2018; 243:55-64. [PMID: 30606440 DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2018.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2018] [Revised: 11/12/2018] [Accepted: 11/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
In addition to idiopathic interstitial pneumonias, interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) can occur secondary to known causes or be classified as discrete syndromes. Also known as diffuse parenchymal lung diseases, the ILDs represent a heterogenous group of non-infectious, non-neoplastic disorders characterized by varied patterns of inflammation and fibrosis. Characteristically associated with the true interstitium (i.e. the anatomic space lined by alveolar epithelial cells and capillary endothelial cells and the loose-binding connective tissue), it is important to understand ILDs are associated with pathology of the distal lung parenchyma and thus lesions can be bronchiolocentric or resemble alveolar filling disorders. Injury to the distal lung can occur via inhalation or hematogenous routes. This review will build on a proposed classification scheme adapted from human medicine to describe known cause and discrete forms of ILDs in dogs and cats.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carol Reinero
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Giannelli A, Capelli G, Joachim A, Hinney B, Losson B, Kirkova Z, René-Martellet M, Papadopoulos E, Farkas R, Napoli E, Brianti E, Tamponi C, Varcasia A, Margarida Alho A, Madeira de Carvalho L, Cardoso L, Maia C, Mircean V, Mihalca AD, Miró G, Schnyder M, Cantacessi C, Colella V, Cavalera MA, Latrofa MS, Annoscia G, Knaus M, Halos L, Beugnet F, Otranto D. Lungworms and gastrointestinal parasites of domestic cats: a European perspective. Int J Parasitol 2017; 47:517-528. [PMID: 28455237 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2017.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2016] [Revised: 02/23/2017] [Accepted: 02/24/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
With the exception of Aelurostrongylus abstrusus, feline lungworms have been poorly studied. Information on their distribution is patchy and mostly limited to case reports. In this study, the occurrence of feline lungworms and co-infecting gastrointestinal parasites has been investigated in 12 European countries (i.e. Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, France, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Portugal, Romania, Spain, Switzerland and the United Kingdom). An average of 10 domestic cats, with regular outdoor access, was sampled each month for 12months, and freshly passed faeces were collected. Stools were processed using a McMaster assay and a quantitative Baermann-Wetzel method. Animals positive for lungworms and/or gastrointestinal parasites were treated with a formulation containing fipronil, (S)-methoprene, eprinomectin, and praziquantel (Broadline®, Merial), and re-sampled 28days post-treatment. The association between lungworm infection and risk factors was analysed using statistical medians/means and the efficacy of the treatment against each lungworm species was assessed. Of 1990 cats sampled, 613 (30.8%) were positive for at least one parasite, while 210 (10.6%) were infected by lungworms. The prevalence of lungworm infection varied between the sampled sites, with the highest recorded in Bulgaria (35.8%) and the lowest in Switzerland (0.8%). None of the cats from Austria or the United Kingdom were infected by lungworms. Aelurostrongylus abstrusus was the species most frequently detected (78.1%), followed by Troglostrongylus brevior (19.5%), Eucoleus aerophilus (14.8%) and Oslerus rostratus (3.8%). The overall efficacy of the treatment was 99% for A. abstrusus and 100% for T. brevior, O. rostratus and E. aerophilus. Data presented provide a comprehensive account of the diagnosis, epidemiology and treatment of feline lungworms in Europe, as well as of the occurrence of co-infections by gastrointestinal parasites.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Animals
- Cat Diseases/drug therapy
- Cat Diseases/epidemiology
- Cat Diseases/parasitology
- Cats
- DNA, Helminth/chemistry
- Europe/epidemiology
- Feces/parasitology
- Female
- Intestinal Diseases, Parasitic/drug therapy
- Intestinal Diseases, Parasitic/epidemiology
- Intestinal Diseases, Parasitic/parasitology
- Intestinal Diseases, Parasitic/veterinary
- Larva/anatomy & histology
- Lung Diseases, Parasitic/drug therapy
- Lung Diseases, Parasitic/epidemiology
- Lung Diseases, Parasitic/parasitology
- Lung Diseases, Parasitic/veterinary
- Male
- Metastrongyloidea/classification
- Metastrongyloidea/genetics
- Metastrongyloidea/isolation & purification
- Parasitic Diseases, Animal/drug therapy
- Parasitic Diseases, Animal/epidemiology
- Parasitic Diseases, Animal/parasitology
- Prevalence
- Risk Factors
- Strongylida Infections/drug therapy
- Strongylida Infections/epidemiology
- Strongylida Infections/parasitology
- Strongylida Infections/veterinary
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alessio Giannelli
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università di Bari, 70010 Valenzano, Bari, Italy
| | - Gioia Capelli
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, 35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - Anja Joachim
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine, A-1210 Vienna, Austria
| | - Barbara Hinney
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine, A-1210 Vienna, Austria
| | - Bertrand Losson
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liège, B-4000 Liège, Belgium
| | - Zvezdelina Kirkova
- Department of Parasitology, Trakia University, 6000 Stara Zagora, Bulgaria
| | - Magalie René-Martellet
- Laboratoirede Parasitologie et Maladies Parasitaires, VetAgro Sup campus vétérinaire de Lyon, UR 0346 EPIA, INRA, 69280 Marcy l'Etoile, France
| | - Elias Papadopoulos
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Aristotle University, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Róbert Farkas
- Department of Parasitology and Zoology, University of Veterinary Medicine, 1078 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Ettore Napoli
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie, Università di Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Emanuele Brianti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie, Università di Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Claudia Tamponi
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università di Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Antonio Varcasia
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università di Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Ana Margarida Alho
- Interdisciplinary Animal Health Research Centre (CIISA), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Luís Madeira de Carvalho
- Interdisciplinary Animal Health Research Centre (CIISA), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Luís Cardoso
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro (UTAD), 5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Carla Maia
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine, GHTM, Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical, IHMT, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, UNL, 1349-008 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Viorica Mircean
- Department of Parasitology, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Andrei Daniel Mihalca
- Department of Parasitology, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Guadalupe Miró
- Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Manuela Schnyder
- Institute of Parasitology University of Zurich, 8006 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Cinzia Cantacessi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, CB3 0ES Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Vito Colella
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università di Bari, 70010 Valenzano, Bari, Italy
| | | | | | - Giada Annoscia
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università di Bari, 70010 Valenzano, Bari, Italy
| | - Martin Knaus
- Merial GmbH, Kathrinenhof Research Center, 83101 Rohrdorf, Germany
| | - Lénaïg Halos
- Merial SAS, 29 Avenue Tony Garnier, 69007 Lyon, France
| | | | - Domenico Otranto
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università di Bari, 70010 Valenzano, Bari, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Zottler EM, Strube C, Schnyder M. Detection of specific antibodies in cats infected with the lung nematode Aelurostrongylus abstrusus. Vet Parasitol 2017; 235:75-82. [PMID: 28215872 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2017.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2016] [Revised: 01/09/2017] [Accepted: 01/14/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Feline aelurostrongylosis, caused by the metastrongylid nematode Aelurostrongylus abstrusus, is an underestimated respiratory parasitosis. Its diagnosis currently mainly relies on the isolation of first stage larvae from fresh faecal samples. The aim of our study was to develop a serological test for the detection of specific antibodies against A. abstrusus by ELISA. We used recombinant major sperm protein (MSP) of the bovine lungworm Dictyocaulus viviparus as detection antigen and evaluated two different ELISA plates (Maxisorp and Immobilizer™ Amino-plate, Nunc Roskilde, Denmark) with two different enzyme systems [alkaline phosphatase (AP) and horseradish peroxidase (HRP)]. Sera from cats experimentally (n=54) and naturally (n=17) infected with A. abstrusus and from randomly selected cats with different medical issues (n=160) were used to determine sensitivity and specificity. Furthermore, cross-reactions were evaluated using sera from cats naturally (n=71) and experimentally (n=8) infected with different nematodes. A sensitivity of 100% was obtained with sera from experimentally infected cats at 10 weeks post infection using MSP on the Immobilizer™ Amino-plate with HRP, while it ranged between 90.5 and 95.2% in the other ELISA set-ups. Using sera from naturally infected cats, a sensitivity of 88.2% (95% confidence interval: 63.6-98.5%) was achieved in all four set-ups. The specificity was 85.2-94.4% in sera from uninfected cats prior to experimental infection and 68.1-90% in randomly selected cats depending on the plate and enzyme system. The number of seropositive cats increased over time post infection. Serological follow-up showed a decrease of antibody levels within 30days after anthelmintic treatment. Seropositive reactions were observed with sera from stray cats naturally infected with Toxocara cati, Capillaria sp., hookworms and Taeniidae; however, coproscopic false negative A. abstrusus findings cannot be excluded. The serological detection of specific antibodies against A. abstrusus using ELISA requires a single serum sample and therefore represents a valid alternative for reliable individual diagnosis of A. abstrusus in cats and facilitates mass screening, overcoming the usually difficult collection of cat faeces.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eva-Maria Zottler
- University of Zurich, Vetsuisse Faculty, Institute of Parasitology, Winterthurerstrasse 266a, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Christina Strube
- University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, Buenteweg 17, 30559 Hannover, Germany
| | - Manuela Schnyder
- University of Zurich, Vetsuisse Faculty, Institute of Parasitology, Winterthurerstrasse 266a, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Hansen AP, Skarbye LK, Vinther LM, Willesen JL, Pipper CB, Olsen CS, Mejer H. Occurrence and clinical significance of Aelurostrongylus abstrusus and other endoparasites in Danish cats. Vet Parasitol 2017; 234:31-39. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2016.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2016] [Revised: 12/18/2016] [Accepted: 12/20/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
|
15
|
Hawley MM, Johnson LR, Traversa D, Bucy D, Vernau KM, Vernau W. Respiratory distress associated with lungworm infection in a kitten. JFMS Open Rep 2016; 2:2055116916675801. [PMID: 28491442 PMCID: PMC5362839 DOI: 10.1177/2055116916675801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/16/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
CASE SUMMARY A 5-month-old feral kitten developed worsening respiratory signs, including tachypnea, coughing and wheezing after standard anthelmintic treatment with fenbendazole at a local shelter. The kitten was referred to the University of California, Davis, William R Pritchard Veterinary Medicine Teaching Hospital for further evaluation. Thoracic radiographs revealed a severe diffuse bronchointerstitial pattern with bronchial cuffing, ill-defined nodules and lymphadenomegaly. Differentials included infectious etiologies such as toxoplasmosis, feline infectious peritonitis and cryptococcosis. Parasitic infection was considered less likely, owing to previous anthelmintic treatment. Bronchoalveolar lavage revealed marked neutrophilic and eosinophilic inflammation, and parasitic larvae were observed in a swab of trachea mucus. PCR confirmed the larvae as Aelurostrongylus abstrusus. The kitten recovered with two more rounds of anthelmintic treatment. RELEVANCE AND NOVEL INFORMATION Parasitic pneumonia should be considered as a cause of respiratory distress in kittens and cats. Lungworm infections have been more commonly reported in free-roaming young and adult cats, but cannot be excluded as a differential diagnosis in cats from varied environments and in kittens. Kittens appear to be especially sensitive to lungworm infections, manifested by the development of more severe clinical signs; thus lungworm infection should always be considered when presented with a kitten in respiratory distress. In the absence of cytologic confirmation of infection via bronchoalveolar lavage or oropharyngeal swab, PCR provides a valuable means for identification of lungworms, such as A abstrusus and Troglostrongylus brevior.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melissa M Hawley
- William R Pritchard Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Lynelle R Johnson
- Department of Medicine and Epidemiology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Donato Traversa
- University Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Dan Bucy
- William R Pritchard Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Karen M Vernau
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - William Vernau
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Elsheikha HM, Schnyder M, Traversa D, Di Cesare A, Wright I, Lacher DW. Updates on feline aelurostrongylosis and research priorities for the next decade. Parasit Vectors 2016; 9:389. [PMID: 27387914 PMCID: PMC4936016 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-016-1671-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2016] [Accepted: 06/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Feline aelurostrongylosis, caused by the metastrongyloid nematode Aelurostrongylus abstrusus, is an important gastropod-borne parasitic lung disease in cats. Infection with A. abstrusus is widespread globally, but the increasing awareness of this parasite and the advent of more sensitive diagnostics have contributed to the apparent increase in its prevalence and geographic expansion. Clinical features may range in severity from subclinical to life-threatening respiratory disease. Parasitological standard techniques, such as visualization of the nematode first larval stage in faecal and respiratory (bronchial mucus or pleural fluid) samples, remain the mainstays of diagnosis. However, diagnosis is evolving with recent advances in serological and molecular testing, which can improve the time to initiation of effective anthelmintic therapy. Despite numerous anthelmintics that are now available as treatment options, the role of host immunity and lifestyle factors in selecting cats that may benefit from more targeted anthelmintic prophylaxis or treatment practice remains unclear and is likely to guide therapeutic choices as newer data become available. This review summarizes the biology, epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis and treatment options currently available for feline aelurostrongylosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hany M. Elsheikha
- />School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Leicestershire, LE12 5RD UK
| | - Manuela Schnyder
- />Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 266a, Zürich, 8057 Switzerland
| | - Donato Traversa
- />Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Angela Di Cesare
- />Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Ian Wright
- />Withy Grove Veterinary Surgery, 39 Station Rd, Bamber Bridge, Preston, PR5 6QR UK
| | - David W. Lacher
- />Division of Molecular Biology, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, United States Food and Drug Administration, Laurel, MD USA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Pennisi MG, Hartmann K, Addie DD, Boucraut-Baralon C, Egberink H, Frymus T, Gruffydd-Jones T, Horzinek MC, Hosie MJ, Lloret A, Lutz H, Marsilio F, Radford AD, Thiry E, Truyen U, Möstl K. Lungworm disease in cats: ABCD guidelines on prevention and management. J Feline Med Surg 2015; 17:626-36. [PMID: 26101316 DOI: 10.1177/1098612x15588455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
OVERVIEW Cardiopulmonary nematodes are emerging parasites of cats in Europe. A number of helminth parasites may be involved. The most prevalent lungworm in domestic cats is Aelurostrongylus abstrusus. Oslerus rostratus and Troglostrongylus species are found mainly in wild cats. The trichurid Capillaria aerophila has a low host specificity and is not uncommon in cats. Additionally the lung flukes Paragonimus species are reported in many species outside of Europe, including cats. CLINICAL SIGNS Lungworm infections may be asymptomatic, or cause mild to severe respiratory signs, dependent on the worm species and burden; mixed infections are observed. Kittens can be vertically infected and may develop a more severe disease. Affected cats show a productive cough, mucopurulent nasal discharge, tachypnoea, dyspnoea and, in severe cases, respiratory failure and death. MANAGEMENT Early diagnosis and treatment greatly improves the prognosis. First-stage larvae can be easily detected in fresh faecal samples; the Baermann migration method is the enrichment technique of choice, but takes 24 h. Lungworm larvae can be found in tracheal swabs and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, but with less sensitivity than in faeces. Molecular methods have been developed that exhibit high specificity and sensitivity, and allow diagnosis in the prepatent phase. Treatment options include fenbendazole paste, milbemycin oxime/praziquantel and various spot-on formulations. Severe cases should receive prompt medical care in an intensive care unit. PREVENTION Avoiding predation is at present the only preventive measure for pulmonary worms with indirect life cycles. ZOONOTIC RISK C aerophila has zoonotic potential, causing severe pulmonary disease in humans. Some Paragonimus species are also of zoonotic concern.
Collapse
|
18
|
Di Cesare A, Veronesi F, Traversa D. Felid Lungworms and Heartworms in Italy: More Questions than Answers? Trends Parasitol 2015; 31:665-675. [PMID: 26507151 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2015.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2015] [Revised: 06/26/2015] [Accepted: 07/02/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Nematodes infecting the cardiorespiratory system of cats have recently stimulated high scientific interest. Over the past few years, different aspects of these parasites have been clarified and various issues elucidated. This increased knowledge has improved awareness on this topic but, at the same time, some dilemmas have not been solved and new questions have been raised. In this review, we underline and discuss current knowledge of, and new doubts relating to, feline lungworms and heartworms, with the aim of stimulating new studies to fill gaps of basic (i.e., epidemiology and biology) and applied (i.e., clinical aspects) knowledge of the old and new parasites affecting the cardiorespiratory system of cats.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Angela Di Cesare
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Fabrizia Veronesi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, 06126, Italy
| | - Donato Traversa
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|