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Hemostatic Dysfunction in Dogs Naturally Infected with Angiostrongylus vasorum—A Narrative Review. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11020249. [PMID: 35215192 PMCID: PMC8878016 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11020249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 02/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
This narrative review aims to describe Angiostrongylus vasorum-induced hemostatic dysfunction of dogs with emphasis on clinical and laboratory findings as well as potential therapeutic strategies for the bleeding patient. Canine angiostrongylosis (CA) is a disease with potentially high morbidity and mortality in endemic areas and with fatal outcome often associated with either severe respiratory compromise, pulmonary hypertension and right-sided heart failure, or hemostatic dysfunction with severe bleeding. The most common signs of hemorrhage are hematomas, petecchiation, ecchymoses, oral mucosal membrane bleeding and scleral bleeding, while intracranial and pulmonary hemorrhage are among the most severe. The pathophysiological mechanisms underlying hemostatic dysfunction in these patients are presently researched. While the larval effect on platelets remains unknown, the parasite appears to induce dysregulation of hemostatic proteins, with studies suggesting a mixture of pro-coagulant protein consumption and hyperfibrinolysis. Importantly, not all dogs display the same hemostatic abnormalities. Consequently, characterizing the hemostatic state of the individual patient is necessary, but has proven difficult with traditional coagulation tests. Global viscoelastic testing shows promise, but has limited availability in general practice. Treatment of A. vasorum-infected dogs with hemostatic dysfunction relies on anthelmintic treatment as well as therapy directed at the individual dog’s specific hemostatic alterations.
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Penagos-Tabares F, Lange MK, Chaparro-Gutiérrez JJ, Taubert A, Hermosilla C. Angiostrongylus vasorum and Aelurostrongylus abstrusus: Neglected and underestimated parasites in South America. Parasit Vectors 2018; 11:208. [PMID: 29587811 PMCID: PMC5870519 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-018-2765-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2017] [Accepted: 03/04/2018] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The gastropod-borne nematodes Angiostrongylus vasorum and Aelurostrongylus abstrusus are global causes of cardio/pulmonary diseases in dogs and cats. In the last decade, the number of reports on canine and feline lungworms has increased in several areas of Europe and North America. The unspecific clinical signs and prolonged course of these diseases often renders diagnosis challenging. Both infections are considered as emerging and underestimated causes of disease in domestic pets. In South America, little information is available on these diseases, apart from occasional reports proving the principle presence of A. vasorum and A. abstrusus. Thus, the purpose of this review is to summarize reports on infections in both domestic and wildlife animals in South America and to increase the awareness on gastropod-borne metastrongyloid parasites, which also include important zoonotic species, such as A. cantonensis and A. costaricensis. This review highlights the usefulness of diagnostic tools, such as the Baermann funnel technique, serology and PCR, and proposes to include these routinely on cases with clinical suspicion for lungworm infections. Future national epidemiological surveys are recommended to be conducted to gain a deeper insight into the actual epidemiological situation of gastropod-borne parasitoses in South America.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felipe Penagos-Tabares
- Institute of Parasitology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392, Giessen, Germany. .,CIBAV Research Group, Veterinary Medicine School, University of Antioquia, 050034, Medellin, Colombia.
| | - Malin K Lange
- Institute of Parasitology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | | | - Anja Taubert
- Institute of Parasitology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - Carlos Hermosilla
- Institute of Parasitology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392, Giessen, Germany
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Coia ME, Hammond G, Chan D, Drees R, Walker D, Murtagh K, Stone J, Bexfield N, Reeve L, Helm J. Retrospective evaluation of thoracic computed tomography findings in dogs naturally infected by Angiostrongylus vasorum. Vet Radiol Ultrasound 2017; 58:524-534. [DOI: 10.1111/vru.12505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2016] [Revised: 01/09/2017] [Accepted: 01/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Mark E. Coia
- School of Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical; Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Bearsden; Glasgow G61 1QH
| | - Gawain Hammond
- School of Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical; Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Bearsden; Glasgow G61 1QH
| | - Daniel Chan
- Department of Clinical Science and Services; The Royal Veterinary College; Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms Hatfield Hertfordshire AL9 7TA
| | - Randi Drees
- Department of Clinical Science and Services; The Royal Veterinary College; Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms Hatfield Hertfordshire AL9 7TA
| | - David Walker
- Anderson Moores, The Granary; Bunstead Barns; Poles Lane Hursley Winchester, Hampshire SO21 2LL
| | - Kevin Murtagh
- School of Veterinary Science; University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus; Chester High Road Neston Wirral CH64 7TE
| | - Janine Stone
- Pride Veterinary Centre, Riverside Road; Pride Park Derby DE24 8HX
| | - Nicholas Bexfield
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science; University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus; Leicestershire LE12 5RD
| | - Lizzie Reeve
- Langford Veterinary Services; University of Bristol; Langford House Langford Bristol BS40 5DU
| | - Jenny Helm
- School of Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical; Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Bearsden; Glasgow G61 1QH
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Deak G, Gherman CM, Ionică AM, Daskalaki AA, Matei IA, D'Amico G, Domşa C, Pantchev N, Mihalca AD, Cozma V. Use of a commercial serologic test for Angiostrongylus vasorum for the detection of A. chabaudi in wildcats and A. daskalovi in badgers. Vet Parasitol 2016; 233:107-110. [PMID: 28043379 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2016.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2016] [Revised: 12/04/2016] [Accepted: 12/10/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Three species of the genus Angiostrongylus are known to infect European carnivores: A. vasorum (mainly in canids but also in other carnivores), A. chabaudi (in felids) and A. daskalovi (in mustelids). A. vasorum is responsible for clinically severe disease in domestic dogs, most commonly diagnosed based on fecal examination and serological detection of circulating antigens. Considering the poorly known host range and the challenging larval differentiation in the feces between the three species of Angiostrongylus infecting European carnivores, our aim was to evaluate the cross-reactivity of A. chabaudi and A. daskalovi with A. vasorum using a commercial serologic test developed for domestic dogs. Badgers (Meles meles) (n=10) and wildcats (Felis silvestris) (n=8) were examined between 2015 and 2016 by full parasitological necropsy with subsequent morphological and molecular identification of nematodes and by serology, using IDEXX Angio Detect™ tests. Five out of the ten badgers and two out of the eight wildcats were harboring nematodes in the pulmonary arteries. All nematodes were identified morphologically as A. daskalovi in badgers and A. chabaudi in wildcats, respectively. Serological examination of the plasma samples revealed the positivity of the same animals as found in necropsy. None of the animals negative at necropsy was positive at serology. The 100% correlation between the necropsy results and the serologic positivity to IDEXX Angio Detect™ in badgers infected with A. daskalovi and wildcats infected with A. chabaudi suggest that these rapid tests are able to identify circulating antigens of all species of Angiostrongylus found in European carnivores: A. vasorum, A. daskalovi and A. chabaudi. The possibility for future in-clinic use of this test in domestic cats should be further investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgiana Deak
- University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Calea Mănăștur 3-5, Cluj-Napoca 400372, Romania
| | - Călin Mircea Gherman
- University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Calea Mănăștur 3-5, Cluj-Napoca 400372, Romania.
| | - Angela Monica Ionică
- University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Calea Mănăștur 3-5, Cluj-Napoca 400372, Romania
| | - Aikaterini Alexandra Daskalaki
- University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Calea Mănăștur 3-5, Cluj-Napoca 400372, Romania
| | - Ioana Adriana Matei
- University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Calea Mănăștur 3-5, Cluj-Napoca 400372, Romania
| | - Gianluca D'Amico
- University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Calea Mănăștur 3-5, Cluj-Napoca 400372, Romania
| | - Cristian Domşa
- University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Calea Mănăștur 3-5, Cluj-Napoca 400372, Romania
| | - Nikola Pantchev
- IDEXX Laboratories, Moerikestr. 28/3, D-71636 Ludwigsburg, Germany
| | - Andrei Daniel Mihalca
- University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Calea Mănăștur 3-5, Cluj-Napoca 400372, Romania
| | - Vasile Cozma
- University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Calea Mănăștur 3-5, Cluj-Napoca 400372, Romania
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Detection of Angiostrongylus vasorum in Red Foxes (Vulpes vulpes) from Brandenburg, Germany. Parasitol Res 2016; 114 Suppl 1:S185-92. [PMID: 26152419 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-015-4524-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Angiostrongylus (A.) vasorum is a nematode that causes angiostrongylosis in domestic and wild canids. Red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) and raccoon dogs (Nyctereutes procyonoides) are suspected of providing a wildlife reservoir for A. vasorum infections in pet dogs. To obtain data on the occurrence of A. vasorum in wildlife, red fox and raccoon dog carcasses (hunted or found dead) were collected from January to September 2009 in the Federal State of Brandenburg, Germany. Lung tissue samples were subjected to DNA extraction and examined for the presence of A. vasorum DNA by means of real-time PCR. A. vasorum DNA was detected in 11 out of 122 (9.0 %) lungs of red foxes and in none of the lung samples of raccoon dogs. These data suggest that red foxes are a reservoir of A. vasorum infections for pet dogs in this area.
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Di Cesare A, Traversa D. Canine angiostrongylosis: recent advances in diagnosis, prevention, and treatment. VETERINARY MEDICINE-RESEARCH AND REPORTS 2014; 5:181-192. [PMID: 32670858 PMCID: PMC7337173 DOI: 10.2147/vmrr.s53641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2014] [Accepted: 04/23/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Angiostrongylus vasorum is a parasitic nematode affecting the heart and pulmonary arteries of wild (eg, foxes) and domestic canids. The parasite has an indirect life cycle in which slugs and snails act as intermediate hosts. In the last few years the parasite has spread outside the traditional endemic foci, and there is a rise of documented cases of canine angiostrongylosis across Europe. Angiostrongylus vasorum causes cardiopulmonary disorders and coagulopathies, along with different nonspecific clinical signs. Fatal infections are frequently reported. Given the severity of the infection and the recent geographic spreading of the parasite, this article reviews and discusses the current knowledge of A. vasorum, with a special focus on recent insights on diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dog angiostrongylosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Di Cesare
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Donato Traversa
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
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Elsheikha HM, Holmes SA, Wright I, Morgan ER, Lacher DW. Recent advances in the epidemiology, clinical and diagnostic features, and control of canine cardio-pulmonary angiostrongylosis. Vet Res 2014; 45:92. [PMID: 25283220 PMCID: PMC4189173 DOI: 10.1186/s13567-014-0092-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2014] [Accepted: 08/21/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this review is to provide a comprehensive update on the biology, epidemiology, clinical features, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of canine cardio-pulmonary angiostrongylosis. This cardiopulmonary disease is caused by infection by the metastrongyloid nematode Angiostrongylus vasorum. The parasite has an indirect life cycle that involves at least two different hosts, gastropod molluscs (intermediate host) and canids (definitive host). A. vasorum represents a common and serious problem for dogs in areas of endemicity, and because of the expansion of its geographical boundaries to many areas where it was absent or uncommon; its global burden is escalating. A. vasorum infection in dogs can result in serious disorders with potentially fatal consequences. Diagnosis in the live patient depends on faecal analysis, PCR or blood testing for parasite antigens or anti-parasite antibodies. Identification of parasites in fluids and tissues is rarely possible except post mortem, while diagnostic imaging and clinical examinations do not lead to a definitive diagnosis. Treatment normally requires the administration of anthelmintic drugs, and sometimes supportive therapy for complications resulting from infection.
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Schnyder M, Stebler K, Naucke TJ, Lorentz S, Deplazes P. Evaluation of a rapid device for serological in-clinic diagnosis of canine angiostrongylosis. Parasit Vectors 2014; 7:72. [PMID: 24548539 PMCID: PMC3936995 DOI: 10.1186/1756-3305-7-72] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2013] [Accepted: 02/05/2014] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Angiostrongylus vasorum is a potentially fatal canine nematode. Due to the high variability of clinical signs and the often chronic and subtle course of the infections, the diagnosis is particularly challenging. A rapid in-clinic assay (Angio Detect™ Test, IDEXX Laboratories, Westbrook, Maine, USA) for the serological detection of circulating antigen and intended for routine in-clinic diagnosis has been evaluated. Methods Sensitivity was calculated with sera from 39 naturally infected dogs confirmed by Baermann-Wetzel analysis, while sera of 38 experimentally infected dogs were used for follow-up analyses, of which 10 were treated with imidacloprid/moxidectin. Cross-reactivity was tested with a total of 123 samples from dogs with proven parasitic infections with Toxocara canis (n = 21), Ancylostoma caninum (n = 4), Crenosoma vulpis (n = 18), Oslerus osleri (n = 3), Eucoleus aerophilus, (n = 6), Dirofilaria immitis (n = 28), Dirofilaria repens (n = 20), Acantocheilonema reconditum (n = 10) or Dipetalonema dracunculoides (n = 10) or multiple infections (n = 3). All sera were tested with the Angio Detect™ Test and with an ELISA for detection of circulating antigen of A. vasorum. Results The sensitivity of the Angio Detect™ Test was 84.6% (95% C.I. 69.5 - 94.1%), while specificity was 100% (95% C.I. 97.6 - 100%). The sensitivity of the ELISA (94.9%, 95% C.I. 82.7 – 99.3%) was comparable with previous evaluations. In experimentally infected dogs, earliest positive results with the Angio Detect™ Test were observed 9 weeks post inoculation and 5 weeks later all sera were Angio Detect™ Test positive. After anthelmintic treatment, seropositive dogs turned negative again within 3 to 7 weeks after treatment. The evaluation of the colour intensity of the test strips confirmed the delay of approximately 3-4 weeks for antigen detection by the Angio Detect™ Test compared to the ELISA and its correlation with the time after infection. Conclusions This study provided evidence of a good sensitivity and a very high specificity of the rapid device Angio Detect™ Test for detection of circulating A. vasorum antigen in dogs with suspected canine angiostrongylosis, representing a very simple and useful tool to be broadly applied in veterinary practices. The rapid detection of infected dogs is a key point for initiating an indispensable and urgent therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Schnyder
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty, Winterthurerstrasse 266a, Zürich 8057, Switzerland.
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Lowrie M, De Risio L, Dennis R, Llabrés-Díaz F, Garosi L. CONCURRENT MEDICAL CONDITIONS AND LONG-TERM OUTCOME IN DOGS WITH NONTRAUMATIC INTRACRANIAL HEMORRHAGE. Vet Radiol Ultrasound 2012; 53:381-8. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1740-8261.2012.01934.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2011] [Accepted: 02/07/2012] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Mark Lowrie
- From the Davies Veterinary Specialists; Manor Farm Business Park; Higham Gobion; Hitchin; SG5 3HR; England
| | - Luisa De Risio
- Animal Health Trust; Centre for Small Animal Studies; Newmarket; Suffolk; CB8 7UU,; England
| | - Ruth Dennis
- Animal Health Trust; Centre for Small Animal Studies; Newmarket; Suffolk; CB8 7UU,; England
| | - Francisco Llabrés-Díaz
- From the Davies Veterinary Specialists; Manor Farm Business Park; Higham Gobion; Hitchin; SG5 3HR; England
| | - Laurent Garosi
- From the Davies Veterinary Specialists; Manor Farm Business Park; Higham Gobion; Hitchin; SG5 3HR; England
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Schucan A, Schnyder M, Tanner I, Barutzki D, Traversa D, Deplazes P. Detection of specific antibodies in dogs infected with Angiostrongylus vasorum. Vet Parasitol 2012; 185:216-24. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2011.09.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2011] [Revised: 09/27/2011] [Accepted: 09/30/2011] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Jefferies R, Morgan ER, Shaw S, Heesom K. Identification of immuno-reactive adult Angiostrongylus vasorum proteins using mass spectrometry. Mol Biochem Parasitol 2011; 180:56-61. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molbiopara.2011.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2011] [Revised: 07/25/2011] [Accepted: 07/26/2011] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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Jefferies R, Morgan ER, Helm J, Robinson M, Shaw SE. Improved detection of canine Angiostrongylus vasorum infection using real-time PCR and indirect ELISA. Parasitol Res 2011; 109:1577-83. [PMID: 21537986 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-011-2414-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2011] [Accepted: 04/14/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
This study reports the development of a real-time PCR assay and an indirect ELISA to improve on current detection of canine Angiostrongylus vasorum infection. A highly specific fluorescent probe-based, real-time PCR assay was developed to target the A. vasorum second internal transcribed spacer region and detected DNA in EDTA blood, lung tissue, broncho-alveolar larvage fluid, endotracheal mucus, pharyngeal swabs and faecal samples. PCR was fast (∼1 h), highly efficient when using EDTA blood samples, consistently detected a single molecule of parasite DNA and did not amplify DNA from other parasitic nematodes or definitive host species. An indirect ELISA was also developed using the soluble protein fraction from adult A. vasorum worms. Some cross-reactive antigen recognition was observed when tested against sera from dogs infected with Crenosoma vulpis (n = 8), Toxocara canis (n = 5) and Dirofilaria immitis (n = 5). This was largely overcome by setting the cut-off for a positive result at an appropriately high level. Field evaluation of the real-time PCR and ELISA was conducted by testing sera and EDTA blood from dogs with suspected A. vasorum infection (n = 148) and compared with the Baermann's larval migration test in faeces. Thirty-one dogs were positive by at least one test. Of these, 20 (65%) were detected by the Baermann method, 18 (58%) by blood PCR, 24 (77%) by ELISA and 28 (90%) by blood PCR and ELISA together. Combined testing using real-time PCR and ELISA therefore improved the detection rate of A. vasorum infection and holds promise for improved clinical diagnosis and epidemiological investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan Jefferies
- School of Clinical Veterinary Sciences, University of Bristol, Langford, Bristol, BS40 5DU, UK
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Schnyder M, Tanner I, Webster P, Barutzki D, Deplazes P. An ELISA for sensitive and specific detection of circulating antigen of Angiostrongylus vasorum in serum samples of naturally and experimentally infected dogs. Vet Parasitol 2011; 179:152-8. [PMID: 21333451 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2011.01.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2010] [Revised: 01/24/2011] [Accepted: 01/27/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Canine angiostrongylosis is an emerging cardiopulmonary disease in Europe which can be fatal if left untreated. We developed a sandwich-ELISA based on a monoclonal antibody (mAb Av 56/1/2) and on polyclonal rabbit antibodies directed against Angiostrongylus vasorum adult excretory/secretory - antigen for the detection of circulating serum antigen of A. vasorum. The sensitivity of the test was 95.7% (78.1-99.9, 95% CI) as determined with sera of 23 dogs naturally infected with A. vasorum. The specificity was 94.0% (83.5-98.7, 95% CI) using 50 dog sera (control group) submitted for reasons other than parasitic infections. Potential cross-reactions were investigated with sera of a group of totally 61 dogs with proven infections with Dirofilaria immitis (n=23), Crenosoma vulpis (n=14), Ancylostoma caninum (n=4) or Toxocara canis (n=20). No significant difference was observed concerning the proportion of positive reactions between the control group and the group with proven helminth infections other than A. vasorum. In experimentally inoculated dogs with proven worm burdens of A. vasorum, the proportion of seropositive dogs increased over the first 3 months of infection, starting from 35 days post inoculation (dpi) which was before the onset of larval excretion. Ten weeks post inoculation, 98.6% of the dogs were seropositive, and circulating antigen persisted in two dogs with long-term follow-up over 286 and 356 days, respectively. In contrast, in dogs with a single treatment with imidacloprid/moxidectin at four or 32 dpi, no circulating antigen was observed, while in dogs treated at 88-92 dpi, OD values decreased within 13-34 days. The specific detection of circulating A. vasorum antigen by ELISA represents a valid alternative for reliable diagnosis and for follow-up investigations after anthelmintic treatment. Moreover, the test can be used for mass screening in large epidemiological investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Schnyder
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 266a, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland.
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Humm K, Adamantos S. Is evaluation of a faecal smear a useful technique in the diagnosis of canine pulmonary angiostrongylosis? J Small Anim Pract 2010; 51:200-3. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1748-5827.2009.00905.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Helm JR, Morgan ER, Jackson MW, Wotton P, Bell R. Canine angiostrongylosis: an emerging disease in Europe. J Vet Emerg Crit Care (San Antonio) 2010; 20:98-109. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-4431.2009.00494.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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A SYBR green real-time PCR assay for the detection of the nematode Angiostrongylus vasorum in definitive and intermediate hosts. Vet Parasitol 2009; 166:112-8. [PMID: 19717239 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2009.07.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2009] [Revised: 07/20/2009] [Accepted: 07/23/2009] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Bourque AC, Conboy G, Miller LM, Whitney H. Pathological findings in dogs naturally infected with Angiostrongylus vasorum in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada. J Vet Diagn Invest 2008; 20:11-20. [PMID: 18182502 DOI: 10.1177/104063870802000103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Fifty-six dogs from St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada, were evaluated for Angiostrongylus vasorum infection. Small numbers of nematodes were found within pulmonary arteries of 6 dogs. Larvae were identified in fecal samples in 2 of 6 dogs. All 6 dogs had multifocal granulomatous pneumonia and sometimes foci of chronic thrombosis, which varied from very mild to severe. One dog had extensive pulmonary lesions resulting in cor pulmonale. Right heart failure was characterized by right ventricular hypertrophy, hepatic congestion, ascites, and hydrothorax. Microscopically, in most cases, eggs, larvae, and sometimes intravascular adults, were present within lung tissue sections. Small foci of granulomatous inflammation with and without larvae were present in kidney and brain in 4 dogs. An additional dog, diagnosed antemortem with angiostrongylosis via fecal examination, was also examined. Pathological findings consisted of severe pyogranulomatous interstitial pneumonia with myriad eggs, larvae, and numerous intravascular pulmonary adult nematodes with extensive arterial thrombosis. Five hundred and seventy-two adult worms were removed from pulmonary arteries. Foci of granulomatous inflammation, often associated with larvae and/or eggs, were present in tracheobronchial lymph nodes, adrenal gland, brain, and kidneys. Severe seizuring noted antemortem was attributed to several large, discrete areas of acute hemorrhagic infarction within the cerebrum and cerebellum. Natural A. vasorum infection in domestic dogs in eastern Newfoundland causes lung pathology of variable severity, which in some cases, may progress to cor pulmonale and which may be associated with extrapulmonary lesions and clinical signs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea C Bourque
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, Atlantic Veterinary College, University of Prince Edward Island, 550 University Avenue, Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Canada C1A 4P3.
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Traversa D, Guglielmini C. Feline aelurostrongylosis and canine angiostrongylosis: a challenging diagnosis for two emerging verminous pneumonia infections. Vet Parasitol 2008; 157:163-74. [PMID: 18775603 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2008.07.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2008] [Revised: 06/26/2008] [Accepted: 07/15/2008] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Aelurostrongylus abstrusus and Angiostrongylus vasorum (Nematoda, Metastrongyloidea) are causative agents of verminous feline and canine pneumonia. Both are presently emerging in several geographical areas and are of major clinical importance. Given the range of parasitic and non-parasitic pathogens which may cause cardio-respiratory distress in dogs and cats, the unequivocal specific diagnosis of both diseases is pivotal for unravelling their epidemiology and central to therapy and control. Several conventional clinico-pathologic, diagnostic imaging and parasitological approaches are currently used in practice, but all have major limitations in the specific diagnosis of these diseases. Serological methods have shown promise in the diagnosis of A. abstrusus and A. vasorum infections, but no clinically useful tests are currently available. Additionally, there have been major advances in the development of novel molecular diagnostic tools for feline aelurostrongylosis, but efforts to develop molecular diagnostic tests are still preliminary for angiostrongylosis. This article provides a review of A. abstrusus and A. vasorum infections in cats and dogs, focusing on the advantages and shortcomings of classical diagnostic methodologies and on present diagnostic advances as well as future perspectives instrumental to epidemiological and clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donato Traversa
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, University of Teramo, Piazza Aldo Moro 45, Teramo 64100, Italy.
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Koch J, Willesen JL. Canine pulmonary angiostrongylosis: an update. Vet J 2008; 179:348-59. [PMID: 18180185 DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2007.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 154] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2007] [Revised: 11/06/2007] [Accepted: 11/11/2007] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Canine pulmonary angiostrongylosis is an emerging snail-borne disease causing verminous pneumonia and coagulopathy in dogs. The parasite is found in Europe, North and South America and Africa, covering tropical, subtropical and temperate regions. Its distribution has been characterised by isolated endemic foci, with only sporadic occurrences outside these areas. In the last two decades, the literature has been dominated by several case reports and small case series describing sporadic disease in old or new endemic areas. Case reports and experimental studies with high doses of infective third stage larvae may not reflect what happens under field conditions. There is insufficient understanding of the spread of infection and the dynamic consequences of this parasite in the canine population. This review discusses the biology, epidemiology, clinical aspects and management of canine pulmonary angiostrongylosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Koch
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg C, Denmark.
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De Oliveira Vasconcelos V, De Almeida Vitor RW, Dos Santos Lima W. Identification of stage-specific proteins of Angiostrongylus vasorum (Baillet, 1866) Kamensky. Parasitol Res 2007; 102:389-95. [DOI: 10.1007/s00436-007-0774-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2007] [Accepted: 10/23/2007] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Whitley NT, Corzo-Menendez N, Carmichael NG, McGarry JW. Cerebral and conjunctival haemorrhages associated with von Willebrand factor deficiency and canine angiostrongylosis. J Small Anim Pract 2005; 46:75-8. [PMID: 15736813 DOI: 10.1111/j.1748-5827.2005.tb00296.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
A case of angiostrongylosis is described in a 14-month-old golden retriever bitch. Conjunctival haemorrhage and neurological signs, referable to a space-occupying cerebral lesion, were associated with defective primary haemostasis caused by low levels of von Willebrand factor. Full clinical recovery followed treatment with desmopressin, fresh whole blood transfusion, fenbendazole and supportive care. The magnetic resonance image of the suspected organising haematoma is described. Similarities to the human condition, acquired von Willebrand syndrome, and a possible role for aberrant larval migration in haematoma formation are suggested.
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Affiliation(s)
- N T Whitley
- Davies Veterinary Specialists, Manor Farm Business Park, Higham Gobion, Hitchin, Hertfordshire
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Morgan ER, Shaw SE, Brennan SF, De Waal TD, Jones BR, Mulcahy G. Angiostrongylus vasorum: a real heartbreaker. Trends Parasitol 2005; 21:49-51. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2004.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Oliveira-Júnior SD, Barçante JMP, Barçante TA, Ribeiro VM, Lima WS. Ectopic location of adult worms and first-stage larvae of Angiostrongylus vasorum in an infected dog. Vet Parasitol 2004; 121:293-6. [PMID: 15135869 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2004.02.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2003] [Revised: 02/04/2004] [Accepted: 02/22/2004] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
A mongrel dog with angiostrongylosis died suddenly and was submitted to necropsy. Post-mortem findings showed adult worms in ectopic locations. This is the first report of Angiostrongylus vasorum adult worms being found within the pericardial sac and in the lumen of the bladder of an infected dog. A total of 587 A. vasorum first-stage larvae were recovered from different organs and tissues after concentration using Baermann apparatus.
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Affiliation(s)
- S D Oliveira-Júnior
- Laboratório de Helmintologia Veterinária, Departamento de Parasitologia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, ICB, Caixa Postal: 486, CEP 31270-901, Minas Gerias, Brazil
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