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Nascimento LFDJ, Amado-Gomes AC, Dantas-Torres F, Santos FLN, Neres WDS, Filho PEDS, Santos MT, Silva JRS, Resende CF, Dos Reis JKP, Jain S, Cunha JLR, Fujiwara RT, Dolabella SS. Feline leishmaniasis in an animal shelter in northeastern Brazil: Clinical aspects, coinfections, molecular detection, and serological study of a new recombinant protein. Res Vet Sci 2024; 172:105256. [PMID: 38613921 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2024.105256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2024]
Abstract
Infection and clinical cases of leishmaniasis caused by Leishmania infantum in cats have been increasingly reported in several countries, including Brazil. In this study, we used an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and an immunochromatographic test (ICT) based on a recombinant antigen (rKDDR-plus) to detect anti-Leishmania antibodies in cats from an animal shelter in northeastern Brazil. We compared the results with an ELISA using L. infantum crude antigen (ELISA-CA). We also investigated the presence of Leishmania DNA in blood or ocular conjunctival samples as well as the association between Leishmania PCR positivity and serological positivity to feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), feline leukemia virus (FeLV) and Toxoplasma gondii. Concerning serological assays, a higher positivity was detected using the ICT-rKDDR-plus (7.5%; 7/93) as compared to ELISA-rKDDR-plus (5.4%; 5/93) and ELISA-CA (4.3%; 4/93). Upon PCR testing, 52.7% (49/93) of the ocular conjunctival swabs and 48.3% (44/91) of the blood samples were positive. Together, PCR and serological testing revealed overall positivities of 73.1% (68/93) and 12.9% (12/93), respectively. Among PCR-positive samples, 45.5% (31/68) showed co-infection with FIV, 17.6% (12/68) with FeLV, and 82.3% (56/68) with T. gondii. More than half of the PCR-positive cats showed at least one clinical sign suggestive of leishmaniasis (58.8%; 40/68) and dermatological signs were the most frequent ones (45.5%; 31/68). Both tests employing the recombinant antigen rKDDR-plus (i.e., ICT-rKDDR-plus and ELISA-rKDDR-plus) detected more positive cats than the ELISA-CA but presented low overall accuracy. PCR testing using either blood or ocular conjunctival samples detected much more positive cats than serological tests.
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MESH Headings
- Cats
- Animals
- Cat Diseases/diagnosis
- Cat Diseases/parasitology
- Cat Diseases/virology
- Cat Diseases/blood
- Cat Diseases/epidemiology
- Brazil/epidemiology
- Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay/veterinary
- Immunodeficiency Virus, Feline/isolation & purification
- Coinfection/veterinary
- Coinfection/parasitology
- Coinfection/epidemiology
- Coinfection/virology
- Leishmania infantum/isolation & purification
- Leukemia Virus, Feline/genetics
- Leukemia Virus, Feline/immunology
- Recombinant Proteins
- Male
- Female
- Toxoplasma
- Antibodies, Protozoan/blood
- Leishmaniasis, Visceral/veterinary
- Leishmaniasis, Visceral/diagnosis
- Leishmaniasis, Visceral/epidemiology
- Leishmaniasis, Visceral/blood
- Polymerase Chain Reaction/veterinary
- Toxoplasmosis, Animal/diagnosis
- Toxoplasmosis, Animal/epidemiology
- Toxoplasmosis, Animal/blood
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Fred Luciano Neves Santos
- Integrated Translational Program in Chagas Disease from Fiocruz (Fio-Chagas), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz-RJ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Advanced Public Health Laboratory, Gonçalo Moniz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Salvador, Brazil
| | - Wemerson de Santana Neres
- Graduate Program in Physiological Sciences, Federal University of Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, Brazil
| | | | - Mariana Tibúrcio Santos
- Graduate Program in Parasite Biology, Federal University of Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, Brazil
| | | | - Cláudia Fideles Resende
- Department of Veterinary Preventive Medicine, Veterinary School, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | | | - Sona Jain
- Graduate Program in Parasite Biology, Federal University of Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, Brazil; Graduate Program in Industrial Biotechnology, Tiradentes University, SE, Brazil
| | - João Luís Reis Cunha
- York Biomedical Research Institute and Department of Biology, University of York, York, United Kingdom
| | - Ricardo Toshio Fujiwara
- Graduate Program in Parasite Biology, Federal University of Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, Brazil; Department of Parasitology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.
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Veras PST, de Santana MBR, Brodskyn CI, Fraga DBM, Solcà MS, De Menezes JPB, Leite BMM, Teixeira HMP. Elucidating the role played by bone marrow in visceral leishmaniasis. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1261074. [PMID: 37860064 PMCID: PMC10582953 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1261074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Leishmaniasis is a widespread group of infectious diseases that significantly impact global health. Despite high prevalence, leishmaniasis often receives inadequate attention in the prioritization of measures targeting tropical diseases. The causative agents of leishmaniasis are protozoan parasites of the Leishmania genus, which give rise to a diverse range of clinical manifestations, including cutaneous and visceral forms. Visceral leishmaniasis (VL), the most severe form, can be life-threatening if left untreated. Parasites can spread systemically within the body, infecting a range of organs, such as the liver, spleen, bone marrow and lymph nodes. Natural reservoirs for these protozoa include rodents, dogs, foxes, jackals, and wolves, with dogs serving as the primary urban reservoir for Leishmania infantum. Dogs exhibit clinical and pathological similarities to human VL and are valuable models for studying disease progression. Both human and canine VL provoke clinical symptoms, such as organ enlargement, fever, weight loss and abnormal gamma globulin levels. Hematologic abnormalities have also been observed, including anemia, leukopenia with lymphocytosis, neutropenia, and thrombocytopenia. Studies in dogs have linked these hematologic changes in peripheral blood to alterations in the bone marrow. Mouse models of VL have also contributed significantly to our understanding of the mechanisms underlying these hematologic and bone marrow abnormalities. This review consolidates information on hematological and immunological changes in the bone marrow of humans, dogs, and mice infected with Leishmania species causing VL. It includes findings on the role of bone marrow as a source of parasite persistence in internal organs and VL development. Highlighting gaps in current knowledge, the review emphasizes the need for future research to enhance our understanding of VL and identify potential targets for novel diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Sampaio Tavares Veras
- Laboratory of Parasite - Host Interaction and Epidemiology, Gonçalo Moniz Institute-Fiocruz Bahia, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
- National Institute of Science and Technology of Tropical Diseases, National Council for Scientific Research and Development (CNPq), Salvador, Brazil
| | - Maria Borges Rabêlo de Santana
- Laboratory of Parasite - Host Interaction and Epidemiology, Gonçalo Moniz Institute-Fiocruz Bahia, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Claudia Ida Brodskyn
- Laboratory of Parasite - Host Interaction and Epidemiology, Gonçalo Moniz Institute-Fiocruz Bahia, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Deborah Bittencourt Mothé Fraga
- Laboratory of Parasite - Host Interaction and Epidemiology, Gonçalo Moniz Institute-Fiocruz Bahia, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Brazil
| | - Manuela Silva Solcà
- Laboratory of Parasite - Host Interaction and Epidemiology, Gonçalo Moniz Institute-Fiocruz Bahia, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Brazil
| | | | - Bruna Martins Macedo Leite
- Laboratory of Parasite - Host Interaction and Epidemiology, Gonçalo Moniz Institute-Fiocruz Bahia, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
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Batista JF, Magalhães Neto FDCR, Lopes KSPDP, Sousa CMG, Alcântara DS, Baêta SDAF, Alves MMDM, Mendonça ILD. Clinical, hematological, biochemical, and histopathological evaluations in domestic cats (Felis catus) infected by Leishmania infantum. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA = BRAZILIAN JOURNAL OF VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY : ORGAO OFICIAL DO COLEGIO BRASILEIRO DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA 2023; 32:e004723. [PMID: 37436206 PMCID: PMC10399555 DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612023037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023]
Abstract
A high frequency of feline leishmaniasis has been reported in several countries. However, much information about disease progression in cats still needs to be clarified. This study aimed to verify the occurrence of clinicopathological changes in cats infected with Leishmania infantum. A total of 60 cats were divided into three groups of 20 animals each: control, suspects, and infected. All 60 cats underwent blood count and biochemical analyses. Serum samples from 20 animals with leishmaniasis were also used to diagnose feline immunodeficiency virus and feline leukemia virus. A total of five of the infected animals underwent necropsy for a histopathological study. The main clinical findings in cats with leishmaniasis were lymphadenomegaly (65%), alopecia (55%), ulcerative skin lesions and weight loss (40%), skin nodules (25%), a significant reduction in red blood cells (p=0.0005) and hematocrit (p=0.0007), hyperplasia in spleen 4/5(80%), presence of Leishmania in the spleen 2/5(40%), hepatitis 3/5(60%), liver degeneration 4/5(80%) and inflammatory nephropathy 3/5(60%). It was concluded that cats with leishmaniasis presented significant clinical, hematological, and histopathological alterations compatible with L. infantum infection. The observation of lymphadenomegaly, weight loss, skin lesions and low concentration of red blood cells, contributes significantly to the diagnosis and analysis of progression of feline leishmaniasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joilson Ferreira Batista
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciência Animal, Universidade Federal do Piauí - UFPI, Teresina, PI, Brasil
| | | | | | | | - Diana Sousa Alcântara
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciência Animal, Universidade Federal do Piauí - UFPI, Teresina, PI, Brasil
| | | | | | - Ivete Lopes de Mendonça
- Departamento de Clínica e Cirurgia Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Piauí - UFPI, Teresina, PI, Brasil
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Aguiar DCF, Nascimento DDNDS, Penner DF, de Castro BDSL, Virgolino RR, Neves AMP, Siqueira ADS, Gonçalves EC. First molecular detection of Leishmania (Leishmania) infantum chagasi in a domestic cat ( Felis catus) from an urban area in eastern Amazon. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2023; 29:e20220048. [PMID: 37223440 PMCID: PMC10202461 DOI: 10.1590/1678-9199-jvatitd-2022-0048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Domestic cats have been implicated as accidental hosts of Leishmania sp. However, in recent years, the recurrent description of new cases in endemic and nonendemic areas draw attention to the potential epidemiological role of cats as reservoir hosts. Although dogs are considered urban reservoirs, cats could act as a secondary natural reservoirs in these areas. Thus, feline leishmaniasis has become an emerging disease in several countries worldwide. Case presentation This study aimed to describe the first case of feline leishmaniasis in a stray animal that presented lesions compatible with the disease in Belém, Pará, Brazil, an important urban area in eastern Amazon. Serological tests for Leishmania infantum (ELISA and IFA) were nonreactive, whereas histopathological examination indicated infectious dermatitis caused by Leishmania spp. or Toxoplasma gondii. Cytopathological study of lesion aspirate confirmed the presence of Leishmania sp. amastigotes within macrophages. Finally, molecular analyses revealed that the feline infection was caused by Leishmania (Leishmania) infantum chagasi. Conclusion To the best of the authors' knowledge, this study reports the first case of natural infection by Leishmania (Leishmania) infantum chagasi in a feline from eastern Amazon. These findings suggest domestic cats as potential secondary reservoir hosts of Leishmania spp. in Belém, which reinforces the importance of further epidemiological investigation of feline leishmaniasis, especially in urban areas with human cases.
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Garcia-Torres M, López MC, Tasker S, Lappin MR, Blasi-Brugué C, Roura X. Review and statistical analysis of clinical management of feline leishmaniosis caused by Leishmania infantum. Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:253. [PMID: 35818075 PMCID: PMC9272864 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05369-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background There is limited information about feline leishmaniosis (FeL) management in clinical practice. Leishmania infantum is the species of Leishmania most frequently reported in both dogs and cats in countries of the Mediterranean region (henceforth ‘Mediterranean countries’), Central and South America, and Iran. This study was conducted to provide veterinary clinicians with an updated overview of evidence-based information on leishmaniosis in cats. Methods A review was performed using PubMed, Science Direct, Google Scholar and Web of Science. Case reports of FeL caused by L. infantum were sought for the period 1912 to 1 June 2021. Results Sixty-three case reports are included in this review. Fifty-nine out of the 63 cats were from Europe, mostly from Mediterranean countries (88.9%). Most of them were domestic short-haired cats (90%) with a mean age of 7.9 years, and had access to the outdoors (77.3%). Sixty-six percent of the cats had comorbidities, of which feline immunodeficiency virus infection was the most frequent (37.7%). Dermatological lesions (69.8%) was the most frequent clinical sign, and hyperproteinemia (46.3%) the most frequent clinicopathological abnormality. Serology was the most performed diagnostic method (76.2%) and was positive for 93.7% of cats. Medical treatment was applied in 71.4% of cats, and allopurinol was the most used drug (74.4%). Survival time was greater for treated cats (520 days; 71.4% of cats) than non-treated cats (210 days; 25.4%). Conclusions The majority of the cats had comorbidities, of which feline immunodeficiency virus was the most frequent. Dermatological lesions were frequently reported, and systemic clinical signs and clinicopathological abnormalities were also common. Serology may be useful for the diagnosis of FeL in clinical practice, and a positive titer of ≥ 1/40 may be a useful cut-off for sick cats. The reported treatments and dosages varied, but there was a good clinical response and longer survival in most of the cats treated with allopurinol monotherapy. Graphical abstract ![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Garcia-Torres
- Hospital Clínic Veterinari, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Séverine Tasker
- Bristol Veterinary School, University of Bristol, Langford, Bristol, UK.,Linnaeus Veterinary Limited, Shirley, Solihull, UK
| | - Michael Rex Lappin
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, USA
| | - Carles Blasi-Brugué
- Hospital Clínic Veterinari, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Xavier Roura
- Hospital Clínic Veterinari, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
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Nascimento LFJ, Cirilo TM, Gomes DS, Gomes ACA, Lima VFS, Scher R, Jain S, Fujiwara RT, Dolabella SS. Epidemiological and diagnostic aspects of feline leishmaniasis with emphasis on Brazil: a narrative review. Parasitol Res 2021; 121:21-34. [PMID: 34761278 PMCID: PMC8580739 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-021-07372-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The leishmaniases are a group of diseases caused by the protozoan parasite belonging to the genus Leishmania. In the New World, although dogs are considered the main parasite reservoir, in the last two decades, several studies have confirmed the role of cats (Felis catus) in the epidemiology of the disease and feline leishmaniasis (FeL) is now considered to be an emerging disease. The present review summarizes the current knowledge about FeL, focusing on important immunopathological aspects, epidemiology, and diagnostic methods applied for felines in Brazil. Cats are infected with the same species of Leishmania found in dogs (i.e., Leishmania infantum). Like dogs, skin lesions are the most common in cats with clinical FeL, mainly affecting the cephalic region and less frequently the legs which may be accompanied by generalized signs or visceral involvement. Information on the immune response of cats to Leishmania infection is scarce; however, efficient infection control is seen in most cases. For diagnosis, generally, the same methods as those in dogs are used, mainly serological tools. But there is a lack of studies focusing the performance of these methods for diagnosing FeL. The estimated overall prevalence of FeL in Brazil is 8%, with L. infantum being the most prevalent species. However, infections with Leishmania braziliensis and Leishmania amazonensis have also been reported. In conclusion, although there has been an increase in the publication related to FeL in Brazil in recent years, there is a lack of research relating immune response and diagnosis of these animals. Cats have been shown to be competent hosts for Leishmania parasites, and their role in the epidemiology of the disease cannot be underestimated, especially in areas of Brazil where the disease is historically endemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luiz F J Nascimento
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia Parasitária, Universidade Federal de Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, 49100-000, Brazil
| | - Tatyane M Cirilo
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia Parasitária, Universidade Federal de Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, 49100-000, Brazil
| | - Dharliton S Gomes
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia Parasitária, Universidade Federal de Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, 49100-000, Brazil
| | - Ana Carolina A Gomes
- Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Victor F S Lima
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia Parasitária, Universidade Federal de Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, 49100-000, Brazil
| | - R Scher
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia Parasitária, Universidade Federal de Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, 49100-000, Brazil
- Departamento de Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde, Universidade Federal de Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, 49100-000, Brazil
| | - S Jain
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia Industrial, Universidade Tiradentes, Aracaju, SE, 49032-490, Brazil
| | - Ricardo T Fujiwara
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia Parasitária, Universidade Federal de Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, 49100-000, Brazil.
- Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, 31270-901, Brazil.
| | - Silvio S Dolabella
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia Parasitária, Universidade Federal de Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, 49100-000, Brazil.
- Departamento de Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde, Universidade Federal de Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, 49100-000, Brazil.
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Villanueva-Saz S, Giner J, Verde M, Yzuel A, Ruiz H, Lacasta D, Riera C, Fisa R, Alcover MM, Fernández A. Antibodies to Leishmania in naturally exposed domestic ferrets (Mustela putorius furo) in Spain. Vet Parasitol 2021; 296:109492. [PMID: 34144379 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2021.109492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2021] [Revised: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Zoonotic leishmaniosis due to Leishmania infantum is a vector-borne disease endemic in southern Europe and dogs are the main reservoir for this infection. Seasonal variations in antibody titers in this species in areas where phlebotomine vectors have seasonal patterns of activity are important for epidemiological, preventive and clinical studies related with canine leishmaniosis. It has been suggested that cats, rabbits and ferrets may act as peridomestic reservoirs and not only as accidental hosts. The aim of this study was to determine if seropositive ferrets (Mustela putorius furo) to Leishmania could be affected by seasonal variations of anti-Leishmania antibodies. A group of seropositive clinically healthy ferrets (n = 21) were included in this study. A significant reduction in anti-Leishmania infantum antibodies was detected during non-transmission period (December 2020-February 2021) in comparison to transmission period (April-October 2020). This study describes for the first time a seasonal variation in the anti-Leishmania antibodies detected in domestic ferrets following natural exposure during sand fly transmission period and the following non-sand fly transmission period in a Mediterranean area considered as an area where L. infantum is endemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Villanueva-Saz
- Animal Pathology Department, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain; Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain; Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón-IA2 (Universidad de Zaragoza-CITA), Spain.
| | - Jacobo Giner
- Animal Pathology Department, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain; Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain; Menescalia Veterinary Clinic, Ismael Merlo Actor, 5, 46020, Valencia, Spain
| | - Maite Verde
- Animal Pathology Department, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain; Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain; Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón-IA2 (Universidad de Zaragoza-CITA), Spain
| | - Andrés Yzuel
- Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Héctor Ruiz
- Animal Pathology Department, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Delia Lacasta
- Animal Pathology Department, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain; Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón-IA2 (Universidad de Zaragoza-CITA), Spain
| | - Cristina Riera
- Departament de Biologia, Salut i Medi Ambient, Facultat de Farmacia, Universitat de Barcelona, Spain
| | - Roser Fisa
- Departament de Biologia, Salut i Medi Ambient, Facultat de Farmacia, Universitat de Barcelona, Spain
| | - María Magdalena Alcover
- Departament de Biologia, Salut i Medi Ambient, Facultat de Farmacia, Universitat de Barcelona, Spain
| | - Antonio Fernández
- Animal Pathology Department, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain; Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain; Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón-IA2 (Universidad de Zaragoza-CITA), Spain
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Berenguer LKAR, Gomes CFCDA, Nascimento JDO, Bernardi JCM, Lima VFS, de Oliveira JB, Ramos CADN, Ramos RAN, Alves LC. Leishmania infantum Infection in a Domestic Cat: A Real Threat or an Occasional Finding? Acta Parasitol 2021; 66:673-676. [PMID: 33044603 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-020-00294-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Visceral Leishmaniasis (VL) has been considered one of the most important neglected zoonosis in the world. In Brazil, this disease passed for an urbanization process and currently pets (dogs and cats) animals have acquired a great importance on its epidemiology. Studies on dogs have been extensively performed throughout the country, but information about infection in cats has been concentrated in few areas. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the occurrence of infection by Leishmania infantum in domestic cats living in endemic areas for Canine Visceral Leishmaniasis (CVL) in the state of Pernambuco, Northeastern Brazil. METHODS Domiciled cats (n = 128) were sampled for different biological samples (i.e., blood, conjunctival swab and fine needle aspiration of lymph nodes) that were microscopically and molecularly analyzed through PCR and sequencing. RESULTS Amastigote forms of Leishmania sp. were detected in a single animal (fine needle aspiration of lymph node). This same animal scored positive at molecular examination (blood and lymph node) and the sequence analysis revealed an identity higher than 99% with L. infantum sequences DNA available in Genbank database. CONCLUSION This is the first molecular characterization of L. infantum infecting domestic cats in Pernambuco. Therefore, veterinary practitioners should consider this putative infection in cats living in areas where canine and human Leishmaniasis has been reported.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Leucio Câmara Alves
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal Rural University of Pernambuco, Recife, Pernambuco, CEP: 52171-900, Brazil
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Aksulu A, Bilgiç HB, Karagenç T, Bakırcı S. Seroprevalence and molecular detection of Leishmania spp. in cats of West Aegean Region, Turkey. Vet Parasitol Reg Stud Reports 2021; 24:100573. [PMID: 34024389 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2021.100573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Revised: 04/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Zoonotic visceral leishmaniasis is caused by protozoa of the genus Leishmania. Although dogs are considered to be primary reservoir hosts of Leishmania spp., several mammals, such as foxes, jackals and small rodents may also be hosts of different Leishmania spp. Previously, cats were considered as asymptomatic hosts of the parasite without acting as a reservoir. In recent years, there has been an increasing number of leishmaniasis cases in cats, especially in regions where the infection endemically occurs. This data indicate that cats are more likely to be one of the main reservoirs of Leishmania spp. rather than being a non-reservoir host. The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence of Leishmania spp. by molecular and serological techniques among owned and stray cats in four different cities located in western part of Turkey. A total of 386 blood and 301 serum samples were collected from cats in Western Turkey where leishmaniasis is endemic. Feline serum samples were tested by IFAT to detect IgG antibodies against Leishmania spp. antigens. Blood samples collected from 386 cats were examined by PCR for the presence of Leishmania spp. According to PCR results using RV1/RV2 primers, nine (2.3%) out of 386 samples were positive for Leishmania spp. Further PCR analysis using MC1/MC2 primers showed that one cat in Izmir was found to be infected with L. infantum/donovani complex. Sequence analysis revealed the presence of L. infantum, L. major and L. tropica among sampled cats in western part of Turkey. On the other hand, IFAT results indicated that an overall of 47 out of 301 (15.6%) cats that examined by PCR were found to have anti-Leishmania antibodies. Also, six of the seropositive cats were owned animals. The present study demonstrated that both owned and stray cats can be infected with Leishmania spp. and might be potential reservoirs for other animals and humans. Therefore, all communities living in or nearby endemic regions should be made aware of the role of cats as potential reservoirs of infection. In endemic regions, all animals should be protected against infection with insecticides and monitored routinely to control the spread of zoonotic visceral leishmaniasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayça Aksulu
- Aydın Adnan Menderes University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Parasitology, Isıklı-Efeler, Aydın, Turkey
| | - Hüseyin Bilgin Bilgiç
- Aydın Adnan Menderes University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Parasitology, Isıklı-Efeler, Aydın, Turkey
| | - Tülin Karagenç
- Aydın Adnan Menderes University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Parasitology, Isıklı-Efeler, Aydın, Turkey
| | - Serkan Bakırcı
- Aydın Adnan Menderes University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Parasitology, Isıklı-Efeler, Aydın, Turkey.
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10
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Fernandez-Gallego A, Feo Bernabe L, Dalmau A, Esteban-Saltiveri D, Font A, Leiva M, Ortuñez-Navarro A, Peña MT, Tabar MD, Real-Sampietro L, Saló F, Lloret A, Bardagí M. Feline leishmaniosis: diagnosis, treatment and outcome in 16 cats. J Feline Med Surg 2020; 22:993-1007. [PMID: 32053024 PMCID: PMC10814407 DOI: 10.1177/1098612x20902865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Leishmaniosis is a vector-borne disease and in European countries is caused by Leishmania infantum. Cats are considered secondary reservoirs of the infection in endemic areas. The objective of this retrospective study is to describe the clinical findings, diagnosis, treatment and outcome of feline leishmaniosis (FeL) in 16 cats in Spain. METHODS Medical records of cats diagnosed with leishmaniosis were retrospectively reviewed for cases that met the following inclusion criteria: identification of Leishmania organisms and/or DNA on cytological and/or histological specimens and/or a high anti-Leishmania antibody titre, compatible clinical findings and pathological abnormalities. RESULTS Sixteen cats met the inclusion criteria, all of which were living in areas endemic for canine leishmaniosis. Systemic signs were present in 11 cases (68.8%). The most common clinical signs on presentation included cutaneous lesions in 12 cats (75%), ocular disease in six cats (37.5%) and anorexia in six cats (37.5%). A polyclonal gammopathy was noted in 12 cats (85.7%). Non-regenerative anaemia and renal abnormalities were present in six (37.5%) and five patients (31.3%), respectively. In nine cats (56.3%), immunosuppressive conditions/comorbidities were identified. The diagnosis was made in eight of the cats (50%) by cytology, but a combination of diagnostic tests was needed for definitive diagnosis in the remaining patients. Twelve cats (75%) were treated specifically for leishmaniosis. Five of the 12 cats (41.7%) did not improve with treatment. The median survival time in the group of patients treated specifically for leishmaniosis was 17 months. Median survival of patients treated with concomitant diseases was 13 months vs 41 months in those without, although this was not statistically significant (P = 0.557). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE Presentation of FeL appears to be similar to canine leishmaniosis but with some specific features: ulcerative and nodular skin lesions are the predominant cutaneous signs; cats with immunosuppressive conditions or coexisting diseases were more commonly present than typically seen in dogs (mainly feline immunodeficiency virus). A combination of diagnostic tests may be needed for definitive diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Artur Font
- Hospital Ars Veterinaria, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marta Leiva
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animal, Facultat de Veterinaria, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Servei d’Oftalmologia de la Fundació Hospital Clínic Veterinari, Facultat de Veterinaria, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Maria-Teresa Peña
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animal, Facultat de Veterinaria, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Servei d’Oftalmologia de la Fundació Hospital Clínic Veterinari, Facultat de Veterinaria, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | - Ferran Saló
- Dispensari Veterinari del Vallès, Rubí, Spain
| | - Albert Lloret
- Servei de Medicina Interna de la Fundació Hospital Clínic Veterinari, Facultat de Veterinaria, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mar Bardagí
- Hospital Ars Veterinaria, Barcelona, Spain
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animal, Facultat de Veterinaria, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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11
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Costa-Val APD, Coura FM, Barbieri JDM, Diniz L, Sampaio A, Reis JKPD, Bueno BL, Gontijo CMF. Serological study of feline leishmaniasis and molecular detection of Leishmania infantum and Leishmania braziliensis in cats (Felis catus). ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 29:e003520. [PMID: 32520088 DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612020023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Blood samples and swabs from ocular conjunctiva and mouth were obtained from 64 cats. Of 64 serum samples, 19 were positive for Leishmania antibodies by ELISA (29.80%). Eight cats were positive by PCR (12.5%) in swab samples from mouth and/or ocular mucosa. Poor kappa agreement between serological and molecular results (k = 0.16) was obtained. From five positive PCR samples one was L. braziliensis and four were L. infantum. Phylogenetic analysis performed with the five isolates of Leishmania, showed that samples of L. infantum isolated from the cats were phylogenetically close to those isolated from domestic dogs in Brazil, while the L. braziliensis is very similar to the one described in humans in Venezuela. The study demonstrated that, despite high seropositivity for Leishmania in cats living in the study region, poor agreement between serological and molecular results indicate that positive serology is not indicative of Leishmania infection in cats. Parasite DNA can be detected in ocular conjunctiva and oral swabs from cats, indicating that such samples could be used for diagnosis. Results of phylogenetic analyzes show that L. infantum circulating in Brazil is capable of infecting different hosts, demonstrating the parasite's ability to overcome the interspecies barrier.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriane Pimenta da Costa-Val
- Departamento de Clínica e Cirurgia Veterinárias, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais - UFMG, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brasil
| | - Fernanda Morcatti Coura
- Departamento de Ciências Agrárias, Instituto Federal de Minas Gerais - IFMG, Campus Bambuí, Bambuí, MG, Brasil
| | - Jonata de Melo Barbieri
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais - UFMG, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brasil
| | - Luiza Diniz
- Departamento de Clínica e Cirurgia Veterinárias, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais - UFMG, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brasil
| | - Agnes Sampaio
- Instituto Rene Rachou, Instituto René Rachou - Fiocruz Minas, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brasil
| | - Jenner Karlisson Pimenta Dos Reis
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais - UFMG, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brasil
| | - Bruna Lopes Bueno
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais - UFMG, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brasil
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12
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Pennisi MG. Leishmaniosis. FELINE DERMATOLOGY 2020. [PMCID: PMC7294574 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-29836-4_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Leishmania spp. affecting cats include L. infantum, L. mexicana, L. venezuelensis, L. amazonensis, and L. braziliensis. Leishmania infantum is the species most frequently reported in cats and causes feline leishmaniosis (FeL). Cats exposed to L. infantum are able to mount a cell-mediated immune response that does not parallel antibody production. Cats with L. infantum-associated clinical disease have positive blood PCR and low to very high antibody levels. About half of the clinical cases of FeL are diagnosed in cats with impaired immunocompetence. Skin or mucocutaneous lesions are the most common clinical findings; however, FeL is a systemic disease. Skin or mucocutaneous lesions and lymph node enlargement are seen in at least half of cases, ocular or oral lesions and some aspecific signs (weight loss, anorexia, lethargy) in about 20–30% of cases, and many other clinical signs (e.g., respiratory, gastrointestinal) are sporadically observed. Ulcerative and nodular lesions due to diffuse granulomatous dermatitis are the most frequent skin manifestations, mainly distributed on the head or symmetrically on the distal limbs. Diagnosis can be obtained by cytology and histology, and immunohistochemistry is useful to confirm the causative role of Leishmania infection in the dermopathological manifestations; however, other skin diseases may coexist with FeL. Polymerase chain reaction is used in case of suggestive lesions with lack of parasites and for Leishmania speciation. Comorbidities, coinfections, and chronic renal disease influence the prognosis and should be investigated. Treatment is currently based on the same drugs used for canine leishmaniosis, and generally clinical cure is obtained; however recurrence is possible.
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13
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Camprigher V, Matos A, Ferreira F, Batina P, Costa S, Navarro I, Zanutto M. Ocorrência de anticorpos anti-Leishmania spp. em felinos em área endêmica do estado de São Paulo. ARQ BRAS MED VET ZOO 2019. [DOI: 10.1590/1678-4162-10291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
RESUMO A leishmaniose visceral (LV) é uma zoonose de grande impacto em saúde pública. A infecção nos gatos tem sido relatada nos países onde a doença é endêmica. Seu papel como reservatório não está satisfatoriamente elucidado, embora a transmissão do parasito de um felino infectado para vetor tenha sido reportada por xenodiagnóstico. O objetivo do trabalho foi avaliar a presença de anticorpos anti-Leishmania spp. em animais da espécie felina em área endêmica para LV (Bauru-SP), por meio dos testes sorológicos de reação de imunofluorescência indireta (RIFI) e ensaio imunoenzimático (ELISA), e associá-los às variáveis: gênero, idade, raça e forma de criação. Foram testados soros de 276 felinos, dos quais 82 foram reagentes pelo método ELISA (29,71%), 17 pelo RIFI (6,15%) e 10 em ambos os testes (3,6%). Houve associação estatística significativa para a variável forma de criação, em que 100% dos animais errantes foram soropositivos a pelo menos um dos testes (P<0,005). Tal associação não foi encontrada para as demais variáveis analisadas (P>0,05). Não houve concordância entre o resultado dos testes, pois o método ELISA é mais sensível que o método RIFI.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - S.C. Costa
- Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Brazil
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14
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Coura FM, Passos SKP, Pelegrino MDOF, Leme FDOP, Paz GF, Gontijo CMF, Costa-Val APD. Serological, molecular, and microscopic detection of Leishmania in cats (Felis catus) in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais State, Brazil. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 27:570-574. [PMID: 30183999 DOI: 10.1590/s1984-296120180052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2018] [Accepted: 06/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The role of cats in the epidemiological cycle of leishmaniasis remains unclear. To better understand the occurrence of leishmaniasis in cats, we studied the frequency of Leishmania in serum samples of 100 cats living in an endemic region for canine and human leishmaniasis by serological, parasitological, and molecular methods. Of the 100 cats, 54 were seropositive for Leishmania antibodies by immunofluorescence antibody test. None of the bone marrow aspirates collected from these cats tested positive for the parasite in culture or upon polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis. Biopsy samples of the ears also tested negative for Leishmania upon PCR analysis. These findings may indicate that the region is endemic for canine leishmaniasis and cats are infected by Leishmania; or that cross-reaction with antibodies against other parasites increases the frequency of seropositivity; or that cats respond to Leishmania infection by producing antibodies when few or no parasites are present in bone marrow and tissue samples. Overall, our results suggest that cats can be infected by Leishmania ; however, we failed to demonstrate feline parasitosis. These findings highlight the need to study leishmaniasis in cats, since sandflies feed on cats, these animals may act as a reservoir for the parasite.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda Morcatti Coura
- Departamento de Ciências Agrárias, Instituto Federal de Minas Gerais, Campus Bambuí, Fazenda Varginha, Bambuí, MG, Brasil
| | | | | | - Fabiola de Oliveira Paes Leme
- Departamento de Clinica e Cirurgia Veterinárias, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais - UFMG, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brasil
| | | | | | - Adriane Pimenta da Costa-Val
- Departamento de Clinica e Cirurgia Veterinárias, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais - UFMG, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brasil
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15
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Rivas AK, Alcover M, Martínez-Orellana P, Montserrat-Sangrà S, Nachum-Biala Y, Bardagí M, Fisa R, Riera C, Baneth G, Solano-Gallego L. Clinical and diagnostic aspects of feline cutaneous leishmaniosis in Venezuela. Parasit Vectors 2018; 11:141. [PMID: 29554979 PMCID: PMC5859506 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-018-2747-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2018] [Accepted: 02/26/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Aruanai Kalú Rivas
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Veterinary School, University Centroccidental Lisandro Alvarado, Barquisimeto, Venezuela.,Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Magdalena Alcover
- Laboratori de Parasitologia, Departament de Biologia, Salut i Medi Ambient, Facultat de Farmàcia i Ciències de l'Alimentació, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Pamela Martínez-Orellana
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Sara Montserrat-Sangrà
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | | | - Mar Bardagí
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Roser Fisa
- Laboratori de Parasitologia, Departament de Biologia, Salut i Medi Ambient, Facultat de Farmàcia i Ciències de l'Alimentació, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Cristina Riera
- Laboratori de Parasitologia, Departament de Biologia, Salut i Medi Ambient, Facultat de Farmàcia i Ciències de l'Alimentació, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gad Baneth
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Hebrew University, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Laia Solano-Gallego
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain.
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16
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Pennisi MG, Persichetti MF. Feline leishmaniosis: Is the cat a small dog? Vet Parasitol 2018; 251:131-137. [PMID: 29426470 PMCID: PMC7130840 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2018.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2017] [Accepted: 01/12/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Leishmania infantum is a vector-borne zoonotic disease transmitted by phlebotomine sand flies and dogs are considered the main reservoir of the parasite. Feline leishmaniosis (FeL) caused by L. infantum is an emergent feline disease more and more frequently reported in endemic areas. This review summarizes current knowledge focusing similarities and differences with canine leishmaniosis (CanL). Cats are infected by the same Leishmania species than dogs but prevalence of the infection is lower and cases of disease are less frequently reported. Scarce information is available on adaptive immune response of cats naturally exposed to L. infantum infection and mechanisms responsible for susceptibility or resistance of feline hosts. However, about half of clinical cases of FeL are reported in cats with possible impaired immunocompetence. Coinfections or comorbidities are frequently detected in sick cats and they can contribute to a misrepresentation of clinical FeL albeit lesions associated with the presence of the parasite have been detected in skin, lymph nodes, spleen, bone marrow, liver, oral mucosa, stomach, large bowel, kidney, nasal exudate, lung, eye. As for dogs, skin or mucocutaneous lesions are the most common reason for veterinary consultation and finding on physical examination in cats with leishmaniosis. Molecular investigations of Leishmania DNA and anti- Leishmania antibody detection are largely used with the same methodologies for both CanL and FeL, however few information is available about their diagnostic performance in feline hosts. Treatment of cats with clinical FeL is still empirically based and off label by using the most common drugs prescribed to dogs. Life expectancy of cats with clinical FeL is usually good unless concurrent conditions or complications occur and prognosis does not seem significantly influenced by therapy or retroviral coinfection. According to current knowledge, cats can play a role as additional reservoir host of L. infantum and, in a « One Health » perspective, preventative measures should be taken. In conclusion, albeit feline infection and the associated cat disease caused by L. infantum is increasingly reported in endemic areas and have many similarities with CanL, consolidated evidence-based knowledge is not available and we cannot exclude that important differences between dogs and cats exist about transmission, immunopathogenesis and best practice for management and prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Grazia Pennisi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie, Università di Messina - Polo Universitario Annunziata, 98168 Messina, Italy.
| | - Maria Flaminia Persichetti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie, Università di Messina - Polo Universitario Annunziata, 98168 Messina, Italy; Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia "A. Mirri" - Via Gino Marinuzzi 3, 90129 Palermo, Italy
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17
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Fernandes ARDF, Pimenta CLRM, Vidal IF, Oliveira GC, Sartori RS, Araújo RB, Melo MA, Langoni H, Azevedo SS. Risk factors associated with seropositivity for Leishmania spp. and Trypanosoma cruzi in dogs in the state of Paraiba, Brazil. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA 2016; 25:90-8. [DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612016010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2016] [Accepted: 02/16/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Abstract The aim of this survey was to determine the seropositivity and risk factors forLeishmania spp. and Trypanosoma cruzi in dogs in the State of Paraíba, Northeastern Brazil. A total of 1,043 dogs were tested, and the serological diagnoses of Chagas disease (CD) and canine visceral leishmaniasis (CVL) was performed by the indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT). Animals that tested seropositive for both diseases (by IFAT) were further subjected to ELISA. Of the 1,043 dogs 81 (7.8%; 95% CI = 6.1-9.4%) tested seropositive for Leishmania spp., while 83 were seropositive for T. cruzi (7.9%; 95% CI = 6.3-9.6%). Simultaneous serological reactions were detected in 49 animals (4.6%; 95% CI= 3.6-6.2%). Semi-domiciled housing (OR = 2.044), free housing (OR = 4.151), and soil (OR = 3.425) and soil/cement (OR = 3.065) environmental conditions were identified as risk factors for CVL seropositivity. The risk factors identified for CD seropositivity were semi-domiciled (OR = 2.353) or free housing (OR = 3.454), and contact with bovine (OR = 2.015). This study revealed the presence of dogs in the Paraíba State seropositive for CVL and CD, suggesting the need for revisiting and intensification of disease control measures through constant monitoring of the canine population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Hélio Langoni
- Universidade Estadual Paulista “Júlio de Mesquita Filho”, Brasil
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18
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Oliveira GC, Paiz LM, Menozzi BD, Lima MDS, Moraes CCGD, Langoni H. Antibodies to Leishmania spp. in domestic felines. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA 2015; 24:464-70. [DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612015071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2015] [Accepted: 05/21/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Abstract Leishmaniasis is a vector-borne zoonotic disease caused by protozoa in the genus Leishmania, typical of rural and peri-urban environments. The causative agent of American visceral leishmaniasis is Leishmania (Leishmania) infantum chagasi and the main insect vector in Brazil is Lutzomyia longipalpis. Dogs (Canis familiaris) are important in the transmission of the disease, as a reservoir closely related to humans and an infection source for phlebotomine vectors. Since 1990, an increasing number of feline leishmaniasis cases have been reported, suggesting that domestic cats (Felis catus) might be involved in the epidemiology of the disease. The present study analyzed the prevalence of anti-Leishmania spp. antibodies in naturally infected domestic cats from various neighborhoods in the municipality of Belém, Pará, Brazil, using the indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA) and the direct agglutination test (DAT). Among the 443 samples tested, 18 (4.06%) presented positive reactions in the IFA. The observed titers were 40 IU in 4.97% of the samples and 80 IU in 0.90%. In the DAT test, positive results were found in 25 (5.64%) of the samples. The observed titers were also 40 IU (4.97%) and 80 IU (0.68%). The agreement rate between the two tests was considered low (Kappa coefficient = 0.10).
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Helio Langoni
- Universidade Estadual Paulista “Júlio de Mesquita Filho”, Brasil
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19
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Rohousova I, Talmi-Frank D, Kostalova T, Polanska N, Lestinova T, Kassahun A, Yasur-Landau D, Maia C, King R, Votypka J, Jaffe CL, Warburg A, Hailu A, Volf P, Baneth G. Exposure to Leishmania spp. and sand flies in domestic animals in northwestern Ethiopia. Parasit Vectors 2015; 8:360. [PMID: 26152578 PMCID: PMC4495613 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-015-0976-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2015] [Accepted: 06/30/2015] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Human visceral leishmaniasis caused by Leishmania donovani is considered an anthroponosis; however, Leishmania-infected animals have been increasingly reported in L. donovani foci, and the role of these animals as reservoirs for human L. donovani infection remains unclear. Methods We conducted a study of domestic animals (goats, sheep, cows, dogs, and donkeys) in three L. donovani foci in northwestern Ethiopia. Domestic animals were screened for Leishmania DNA and for anti-L. donovani IgG. Serum anti-sand fly saliva antibodies were used as a marker of exposure to the vector sand fly, Phlebotomus orientalis. Results Of 546 animals tested, 32 (5.9 %) were positive for Leishmania DNA, with positive animals identified among all species studied. Sequencing indicated that the animals were infected with parasites of the L. donovani complex but could not distinguish between L. infantum and L. donovani. A total of 18.9 % of the animals were seropositive for anti-L. donovani IgG, and 23.1 % of the animals were seropositive for anti-P. orientalis saliva IgG, with the highest seroprevalence observed in dogs and sheep. A positive correlation was found between anti-P. orientalis saliva and anti-L. donovani IgGs in cows, goats, and sheep. Conclusions The detection of L. donovani complex DNA in the blood of domestic animals, the reported seroprevalence to the L. donovani antigen, and the widespread exposure to sand fly saliva among domestic animals indicate that they are frequently exposed to Leishmania infection and are likely to participate in the epidemiology of Leishmania infection, either as potential blood sources for sand flies or possibly as parasite hosts. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13071-015-0976-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iva Rohousova
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University in Prague, Vinicna 7, 128 44, Prague 2, Czech Republic.
| | - Dalit Talmi-Frank
- School of Veterinary Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, P.O. Box 12, Rehovot, 76100, Israel.
| | - Tatiana Kostalova
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University in Prague, Vinicna 7, 128 44, Prague 2, Czech Republic.
| | - Nikola Polanska
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University in Prague, Vinicna 7, 128 44, Prague 2, Czech Republic.
| | - Tereza Lestinova
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University in Prague, Vinicna 7, 128 44, Prague 2, Czech Republic.
| | - Aysheshm Kassahun
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University in Prague, Vinicna 7, 128 44, Prague 2, Czech Republic.
| | - Daniel Yasur-Landau
- School of Veterinary Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, P.O. Box 12, Rehovot, 76100, Israel.
| | - Carla Maia
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University in Prague, Vinicna 7, 128 44, Prague 2, Czech Republic. .,Medical Parasitology Unit, Global Health and Tropical Medicine, Institute of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Rua da Junqueira 100, 1349-008, Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Roni King
- Israel Nature and Parks Authority, 3 Am Ve'Olamo Street, Jerusalem, 95463, Israel.
| | - Jan Votypka
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University in Prague, Vinicna 7, 128 44, Prague 2, Czech Republic.
| | - Charles L Jaffe
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, The Institute for Medical Research Israel-Canada, The Kuvin Centre for the Study of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, The Hebrew University - Hadassah Medical School, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, 91120, Israel.
| | - Alon Warburg
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, The Institute for Medical Research Israel-Canada, The Kuvin Centre for the Study of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, The Hebrew University - Hadassah Medical School, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, 91120, Israel.
| | - Asrat Hailu
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Addis Ababa University, P.O. Box 9086, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
| | - Petr Volf
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University in Prague, Vinicna 7, 128 44, Prague 2, Czech Republic.
| | - Gad Baneth
- School of Veterinary Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, P.O. Box 12, Rehovot, 76100, Israel.
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Abstract
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), endemic areas of leishmaniosis have spread and the number of reported cases has increased. Europe is one of the continents with greatest risk of the re-emergence of this zoonosis. The significance of the cat as a reservoir of Leishmania species and not simply an accidental host seems to be gaining ground, mainly because: (i) cats can present increased seropositivity between serological analyses, but the pattern of seropositivity is not consistent between cats; (ii) cats can be infected for some months and thus are available for sandflies; and (iii) cats transmit the Leishmania species agent in a competent form. Furthermore, cats have behavioural characteristics that contribute to infection by Leishmania infantum and, as such, feline leishmaniosis (FeL) has been reported worldwide. When clinical signs of FeL are present, they are non-specific and frequently occur in other feline diseases. If they go undiagnosed, they can contribute to an underestimation of the actual occurrence of the disease in cats. The low seroprevalence titres, along with the commonly asymptomatic infection in cats, can further contribute to the underestimation of FeL occurrence. This work aims to raise awareness about FeL among veterinarians by providing a review of the current status of FeL infection caused by L infantum worldwide, the major clinicopathological features of infection, along with recent developments on FeL diagnosis, treatment and prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sofia Cancela Duarte
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Escola Universitária Vasco da Gama, Coimbra, Portugal
- Group of Health Surveillance, Center of Pharmaceutical Studies, Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade de Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Sérgio Ramalho Sousa
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Escola Universitária Vasco da Gama, Coimbra, Portugal
- CIISA, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
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Pennisi MG, Cardoso L, Baneth G, Bourdeau P, Koutinas A, Miró G, Oliva G, Solano-Gallego L. LeishVet update and recommendations on feline leishmaniosis. Parasit Vectors 2015; 8:302. [PMID: 26041555 PMCID: PMC4462189 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-015-0909-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2015] [Accepted: 05/20/2015] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Limited data is available on feline leishmaniosis (FeL) caused by Leishmania infantum worldwide. The LeishVet group presents in this report a review of the current knowledge on FeL, the epidemiological role of the cat in L. infantum infection, clinical manifestations, and recommendations on diagnosis, treatment and monitoring, prognosis and prevention of infection, in order to standardize the management of this disease in cats. The consensus of opinions and recommendations was formulated by combining a comprehensive review of evidence-based studies and case reports, clinical experience and critical consensus discussions. While subclinical feline infections are common in areas endemic for canine leishmaniosis, clinical illness due to L. infantum in cats is rare. The prevalence rates of feline infection with L. infantum in serological or molecular-based surveys range from 0% to more than 60%. Cats are able to infect sand flies and, therefore, they may act as a secondary reservoir, with dogs being the primary natural reservoir. The most common clinical signs and clinicopathological abnormalities compatible with FeL include lymph node enlargement and skin lesions such as ulcerative, exfoliative, crusting or nodular dermatitis (mainly on the head or distal limbs), ocular lesions (mainly uveitis), feline chronic gingivostomatitis syndrome, mucocutaneous ulcerative or nodular lesions, hypergammaglobulinaemia and mild normocytic normochromic anaemia. Clinical illness is frequently associated with impaired immunocompetence, as in case of retroviral coinfections or immunosuppressive therapy. Diagnosis is based on serology, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), cytology, histology, immunohistochemistry (IHC) or culture. If serological testing is negative or low positive in a cat with clinical signs compatible with FeL, the diagnosis of leishmaniosis should not be excluded and additional diagnostic methods (cytology, histology with IHC, PCR, culture) should be employed. The most common treatment used is allopurinol. Meglumine antimoniate has been administered in very few reported cases. Both drugs are administered alone and most cats recover clinically after therapy. Follow-up of treated cats with routine laboratory tests, serology and PCR is essential for prevention of clinical relapses. Specific preventative measures for this infection in cats are currently not available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria-Grazia Pennisi
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario Annunziata, Messina, 98168, Italy.
| | - Luís Cardoso
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, School of Agrarian and Veterinary Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro (UTAD), Vila Real, 5000-801, Portugal.
| | - Gad Baneth
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, P.O. Box 12, Rehovot, 76100, Israel.
| | - Patrick Bourdeau
- Veterinary School of Nantes ONIRIS, University of Nantes, LUNAM, Nantes, 44307, France.
| | | | - Guadalupe Miró
- Department of Animal Health, Veterinary Faculty, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Gaetano Oliva
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Food Production, University of Naples "Federico II", Via Delpino 1, Naples, 80137, Italy.
| | - Laia Solano-Gallego
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animal, Facultat de Veterinaria, Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, 08193, Spain.
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Braga ARC, Langoni H, Lucheis SB. Evaluation of canine and feline leishmaniasis by the association of blood culture, immunofluorescent antibody test and polymerase chain reaction. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2014; 20:5. [PMID: 24565284 PMCID: PMC3940002 DOI: 10.1186/1678-9199-20-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2013] [Accepted: 02/17/2014] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background This study aimed to evaluate the occurrence of Leishmania spp. in dogs and cats from Botucatu, São Paulo state, and Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul state, Brazil, by the association of three diagnostic tests: blood culture in liver infusion tryptose medium, immunofluorescent antibody test and polymerase chain reaction. Fifty blood samples of dogs and cats from the Center for Zoonosis Control in Campo Grande, an area endemic for canine visceral leishmaniasis, were collected randomly, as well as canine and feline blood samples from the Municipal Kennel and Animal Protection Association in Botucatu, currently considered a transmission-free, non-endemic area. Results Of the 50 dog blood cultures from Botucatu, three (6%) were positive and of the 50 cats, two (4%) were positive. In Campo Grande, 29 dog blood cultures (58%) were positive and all (100%) cats negative by this test. Polymerase chain reaction detected Leishmania spp. in 100% of dog and cat samples from Botucatu but found all the cats from Campo Grande to be negative. On the other hand, 36 dogs from Campo Grande were positive (72%) by the same technique. Immunofluorescent antibody test in Botucatu found 100% of dogs and cats non-reactive, while in Campo Grande, it detected positivity in 32 dogs (64%) and 15 cats (30%). Conclusions The results show the importance of not only continuous epidemiological surveillance in areas not endemic for leishmaniasis, but also research for accurate diagnosis of this zoonosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Simone Baldini Lucheis
- Agência Paulista de Tecnologia dos Agronegócios (APTA/SAA), Polo Regional Centro-Oeste, Av, Rodrigues Alves, 40-40, Bauru SP CEP 17030-000, Brazil.
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Pennisi MG, Hartmann K, Lloret A, Addie D, Belák S, Boucraut-Baralon C, Egberink H, Frymus T, Gruffydd-Jones T, Hosie MJ, Lutz H, Marsilio F, Möstl K, Radford AD, Thiry E, Truyen U, Horzinek MC. Leishmaniosis in cats: ABCD guidelines on prevention and management. J Feline Med Surg 2014; 15:638-42. [PMID: 23813831 DOI: 10.1177/1098612x13489229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OVERVIEW Leishmania infection is less known in cats than in dogs and humans; felids were traditionally considered a resistant species, and canids as the main reservoir. Only sporadic cases of feline disease have been reported worldwide, mainly caused by L infantum. Epidemiological investigations have confirmed, however, that feline infections are not rare and that disease occurrence might be underestimated in endemic areas. INFECTION Cats are infected by the same Leishmania species that infect dogs and humans in tropical and subtropical areas worldwide. Sand fly vectors take blood meals from cats and are competent vectors for L infantum, as shown experimentally. DISEASE SIGNS Skin lesions (ulcerative, crusty, nodular or scaly dermatitis) are the most frequent clinical manifestations and sometimes the only findings on physical examination. Lymph node enlargement, weight loss, ocular involvement (nodular blepharitis, uveitis, panophthalmitis), decreased appetite, chronic gingivostomatitis and lethargy are the most frequent non-cutaneous findings, alone or in combination. DIAGNOSIS Direct confirmation can be obtained by cytology, histology, isolation or polymerase chain reaction (PCR) on samples of skin, lymph nodes, blood or any affected tissue. Serology using a validated immunofluorescence test, ELISA, direct agglutination or Western blot has been used to assess infection frequencies. DISEASE MANAGEMENT Little information is available about treatment with follow-up reports. Long-term administration of allopurinol (10-20 mg/kg q12h or q24h) is usually clinical effective. Vaccines are licensed for dogs only.
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The Risk Factors for and Effects of Visceral Leishmaniasis in Graft and Renal Transplant Recipients. Transplantation 2013; 95:721-7. [DOI: 10.1097/tp.0b013e31827c16e2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Public Knowledge about and Detection of Canine Visceral Leishmaniasis in Urban Divinópolis, Brazil. J Trop Med 2012; 2012:429586. [PMID: 22991521 PMCID: PMC3443989 DOI: 10.1155/2012/429586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2012] [Revised: 07/11/2012] [Accepted: 07/27/2012] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background. Leishmaniases are diseases with a wide spectrum of clinical manifestations including cutaneous (CL) and visceral (VL) forms. Many factors may affect their occurrence and expansion including environmental, geographic, and social conditions. In the past two decades, Divinópolis, Minas Gerais State, Brazil, has exhibited the potential for a disease outbreak, with the appearance of CL, and VL cases (human and canine). Hence, this study was initiated to monitor public knowledge of the disease. Questionnaires were administered in four neighborhoods (Jardim Belvedere, Esplanada, Danilo Passos I and II) where most of the human and canine cases have been reported. The analyses demonstrated that public knowledge of the disease is sparse and fragmented. A strong perception of the dog as the main reservoir was observed. Five veterinary clinics were evaluated for the presence of canine VL using serological (RIFI and ELISA) and molecular (PCR-RFLP) techniques. This is the first study demonstrating the occurrence of Leishmania infantum in Divinópolis, suggesting a possible urbanization of VL.
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Sherry K, Miró G, Trotta M, Miranda C, Montoya A, Espinosa C, Ribas F, Furlanello T, Solano-Gallego L. A serological and molecular study of Leishmania infantum infection in cats from the Island of Ibiza (Spain). Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2010; 11:239-45. [PMID: 20804432 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2009.0251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of Leishmania infantum infection within a feline population by serologic and molecular methods and to identify associated risk factors. One hundred five cats living outdoors were studied. Sera were tested for IgG antibodies against L. infantum, Toxoplasma gondii, and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and for the detection of feline leukemia virus (FeLV) p27 antigen by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). L. infantum real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed on DNA extracted from blood. L. infantum and T. gondii seroprevalence rates were 13.2% and 55.2%, respectively. The prevalence of L. infantum by PCR was 8.7%. The total rate of L. infantum infection derived from seroreactivity and/or positive PCR was 15.4%. Serology and PCR results were positively associated, and moderate agreement (kappa = 0.489) was found between Leishmania ELISA and PCR. No statistical association was found between positive Leishmania PCR results and gender, clinical status, or T. gondii seropositivity. Six of the 105 cats (5.7%) displayed clinical signs compatible with feline cutaneous leishmaniosis, and 4 out of these 6 cats (66.7%) were found to have Leishmania infection by means of serology and/or PCR. Leishmania seropositivity was associated with clinical signs of feline cutaneous leishmaniosis (p = 0.029). The prevalence of FeLV p27 antigen was 16.2% (17/105) and of FIV antibody was 20.9% (22/105), with coinfection found in 9.5% (10/105) of the cats. Leishmania ELISA seroreactivity and positive PCR results were statistically associated with FeLV infection and with coinfection of both retroviruses but not with a positive FIV status. The high seroprevalence and molecular rates of Leishmania infection observed indicate that cats are frequently infected with L. infantum, and the association with FeLV suggests a potential role for this retrovirus in feline Leishmania infection in endemic areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate Sherry
- Department of Pathology and Infectious Diseases, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, London, United Kingdom
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Navarro JA, Sánchez J, Peñafiel-Verdú C, Buendía AJ, Altimira J, Vilafranca M. Histopathological lesions in 15 cats with leishmaniosis. J Comp Pathol 2010; 143:297-302. [PMID: 20466387 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcpa.2010.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2009] [Revised: 02/06/2010] [Accepted: 03/12/2010] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Recent research into the prevalence of Leishmania infantum infection in the Mediterranean basin points to the involvement of cats as a reservoir host, but only sporadic cases of feline leishmaniosis have been reported. Feline leishmaniosis presents primarily as cutaneous disease and diagnosis is based on the demonstration of the parasite by skin biopsy. The present report describes the microscopical changes in tissue biopsies from 15 cats with leishmaniosis. The biopsies were derived from the skin, ocular tissue and mucocutaneous junctions. The most common histopathological feature was diffuse granulomatous inflammation with macrophages containing numerous amastigotes. Other patterns included granulomatous perifolliculitis and lichenoid interface dermatitis, where there were fewer parasitized macrophages. The presence of amastigotes was confirmed by immunohistochemistry in each case. The results of the study confirm the value of histopathological and immunohistochemical techniques for the diagnosis of feline leishmaniosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- J A Navarro
- Departamento de Anatomía y Anatomía Patológica Comparadas, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Murcia, Campus de Espinardo, 30100 Murcia, Spain.
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