1
|
Korycińska J, Bulantová J, Horák P, Dzika E. Molecular identification of Trichobilharzia species in recreational waters in North-Eastern Poland. PeerJ 2024; 12:e17598. [PMID: 39011383 PMCID: PMC11249002 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.17598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Background In Europe, avian schistosomes of the genus Trichobilharzia are the most common etiological agents involved in human cercarial dermatitis (swimmer's itch). Manifested by a skin rash, the condition is caused by an allergic reaction to cercariae of nonhuman schistosomes. Humans are an accidental host in this parasite's life cycle, while water snails are the intermediate, and waterfowl are the final hosts. The study aimed to conduct a molecular and phylogenetic analysis of Trichobilharzia species occurring in recreational waters in North-Eastern Poland. Methodology The study area covered three water bodies (Lake Skanda, Lake Ukiel, and Lake Tyrsko) over the summer of 2021. In total, 747 pulmonate freshwater snails (Radix spp., Lymnaea stagnalis) were collected. Each snail was subjected to 1-2 h of light stimulation to induce cercarial expulsion. The phylogenetic analyses of furcocercariae were based on the partial sequence of the ITS region (ITS1, 5.8S rDNA, ITS2 and 28SrDNA). For Radix spp. phylogenetic analyses were based on the ITS-2 region. Results The prevalence of the Trichobilharzia species infection in snails was 0.5%. Two out of 478 (0.4%) L. stagnaliswere found to be infected with Trichobilharzia szidati. Moreover, two out of 269 (0.7%) snails of the genus Radix were positive for schistosome cercariae. Both snails were identified as Radix auricularia. One of them was infected with Trichobilharzia franki and the other with Trichobilharzia sp. Conclusions Molecular identification of avian schistosome species, both at the intermediate and definitive hosts level, constitutes an important source of information on a potential threat and prognosis of local swimmer's itch occurrence, and helps to determine species diversity in a particular area.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Korycińska
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Public Health, Collegium Medicum, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Jana Bulantová
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Horák
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Ewa Dzika
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Public Health, Collegium Medicum, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Oyarzún-Ruiz P, Thomas R, Santodomingo A, Zamorano-Uribe M, Moroni M, Moreno L, Muñoz-Leal S, Flores V, Brant S. Systematics and life cycles of four avian schistosomatids from Southern Cone of South America. J Helminthol 2024; 98:e47. [PMID: 38828707 DOI: 10.1017/s0022149x2400035x] [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] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
Relative to the numerous studies focused on mammalian schistosomes, fewer include avian schistosomatids particularly in the southern hemisphere. This is changing and current research emerging from the Neotropics shows a remarkable diversity of endemic taxa. To contribute to this effort, nine ducks (Spatula cyanoptera, S.versicolor, Netta peposaca), 12 swans (Cygnus melancoryphus) and 1,400 Physa spp. snails from Chile and Argentina were collected for adults and larval schistosomatids, respectively. Isolated schistosomatids were preserved for morphological and molecular analyses (28S and COI genes). Four different schistosomatid taxa were retrieved from birds: Trichobilharzia sp. in N. peposaca and S. cyanoptera that formed a clade; S.cyanoptera and S. versicolor hosted Trichobilharzia querquedulae; Cygnus melancoryphus hosted the nasal schistosomatid, Nasusbilharzia melancorhypha; and one visceral, Schistosomatidae gen. sp., which formed a clade with furcocercariae from Argentina and Chile from previous work. Of the physid snails, only one from Argentina had schistosomatid furcocercariae that based on molecular analyses grouped with T. querquedulae. This study represents the first description of adult schistosomatids from Chile as well as the elucidation of the life cycles of N.melancorhypha and T. querquedulae in Chile and Neotropics, respectively. Without well-preserved adults, the putative new genus Schistosomatidae gen. sp. could not be described, but its life cycle involves Chilina spp. and C. melancoryphus. Scanning electron microscopy of T. querquedulae revealed additional, undescribed morphological traits, highlighting its diagnostic importance. Authors stress the need for additional surveys of avian schistosomatids from the Neotropics to better understand their evolutionary history.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- P Oyarzún-Ruiz
- Departamento de Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción4030000, Chile
| | - R Thomas
- Departamento de Ciencia Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad de Concepción, Chillán3780000, Chile
| | - A Santodomingo
- Departamento de Ciencia Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad de Concepción, Chillán3780000, Chile
| | - M Zamorano-Uribe
- Departamento de Ciencia Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad de Concepción, Chillán3780000, Chile
| | - M Moroni
- Instituto de Patología Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia5090000, Chile
| | - L Moreno
- Departamento de Zoología, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales y Oceanográficas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción4030000, Chile
| | - S Muñoz-Leal
- Departamento de Ciencia Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad de Concepción, Chillán3780000, Chile
| | - V Flores
- Laboratorio de Parasitología, INIBIOMA (CONICET-Universidad Nacional del Comahue), San Carlos de Bariloche, Río Negro, Argentina
| | - S Brant
- Museum of Southwestern Biology Parasite Division, University of New Mexico, 167 Castetter MSCO3 2020, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Bispo MT, Calado M, Maurício IL, Ferreira PM, Belo S. Zoonotic Threats: The (Re)emergence of Cercarial Dermatitis, Its Dynamics, and Impact in Europe. Pathogens 2024; 13:282. [PMID: 38668237 PMCID: PMC11053805 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens13040282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Cercarial dermatitis (CD), or "Swimmer's itch" as it is also known, is a waterborne illness caused by a blood fluke from the family Schistosomatidae. It occurs when cercariae of trematode species that do not have humans as their definitive host accidentally penetrate human skin (in an aquatic environment) and trigger allergic symptoms at the site of contact. It is an emerging zoonosis that occurs through water and is often overlooked during differential diagnosis. Some of the factors contributing to the emergence of diseases like CD are related to global warming, which brings about climate change, water eutrophication, the colonization of ponds by snails susceptible to the parasite, and sunlight exposure in the summer, associated with migratory bird routes. Therefore, with the increase in tourism, especially at fluvial beaches, it is relevant to analyze the current epidemiological scenario of CD in European countries and the potential regions at risk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Teresa Bispo
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Associate Laboratory in Translation and Innovation Towards Global Health, LA-REAL, Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical, Universidade Nova de Lisboa (UNL), Rua da Junqueira 100, 1349-008 Lisboa, Portugal; (M.C.); (I.L.M.); (P.M.F.)
| | | | | | | | - Silvana Belo
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Associate Laboratory in Translation and Innovation Towards Global Health, LA-REAL, Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical, Universidade Nova de Lisboa (UNL), Rua da Junqueira 100, 1349-008 Lisboa, Portugal; (M.C.); (I.L.M.); (P.M.F.)
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Kerr O, Juhász A, Jones S, Stothard JR. Human cercarial dermatitis (HCD) in the UK: an overlooked and under-reported nuisance? Parasit Vectors 2024; 17:83. [PMID: 38388442 PMCID: PMC10885386 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-024-06176-x] [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: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human cercarial dermatitis (HCD) is a clinical disease typically caused by skin-penetrative larvae of avian schistosomes. Its geographical epidemiology is firmly tied with that of infected freshwater intermediate snail hosts. To better understand the current distribution of HCD and its level of nuisance in the UK, we undertook a systematic literature review. METHODS Following PRIMSA guidelines, PubMed and Scopus databases were searched with keywords "human cercarial dermatitis" OR "swimmer's itch" AND "United Kingdom". Articles about imported cases of HCD, or HCD outside the UK, were not formally included. RESULTS A total of 30 articles were initially identified. A further two were gained by inspection of all citations. After screening, eight publications were analysed where the location, number of cases and putative avian schistosome species incriminated were tabulated. HCD is mainly found in the south of England, though gaps in evidence and reporting remain across the UK. CONCLUSIONS Despite its noted recent rise in open water swimmers, published literature on HCD across the UK is sparse; this condition is both overlooked and under-reported. We therefore recommend establishing a national database that raises awareness and encourages self-reporting of this nuisance disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Orla Kerr
- Department of Tropical Disease Biology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | - Alexandra Juhász
- Department of Tropical Disease Biology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK.
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, 1089, Hungary.
| | - Sam Jones
- Department of Tropical Disease Biology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | - J Russell Stothard
- Department of Tropical Disease Biology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Blankespoor CL, Blankespoor HD, DeJong RJ. Swimmer's itch control: Timely waterfowl brood relocation significantly reduces an avian schistosome population and human cases on recreational lakes. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0288948. [PMID: 38359003 PMCID: PMC10868848 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0288948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Swimmer's itch (SI) is a dermatitis in humans caused by cercariae of avian and mammalian schistosomes which emerge from infected snails on a daily basis. Mitigation methods for SI have long been sought with little success. Copper sulfate application to the water to kill the snail hosts is the historically employed method, but is localized, temporary, and harmful to many aquatic species. Here, we test an alternative method to control Trichobilharzia stagnicolae, a species well-known to cause SI in northern Michigan and elsewhere in North America. Summer relocation of broods of the only known vertebrate host, common merganser (Mergus merganser), greatly reduced snail infection prevalence the following year on two large, geographically separated lakes in northern Michigan. Subsequent years of host relocation achieved and maintained snail infection prevalence at ~0.05%, more than an order of magnitude lower than pre-intervention. A Before-After-Control-Intervention (BACI) study design using multiple-year snail infection data from two intervention lakes and three control lakes demonstrates that dramatic lake-wide reduction of an avian schistosome can be achieved and is not due to natural fluctuations in the parasite populations. The relevance of reducing snail infection prevalence is demonstrated by a large seven-year data set of SI incidence in swimmers at a high-use beach, which showed a substantial reduction in SI cases in two successive years after relocation began. In addition, data from another Michigan lake where vertebrate-host based intervention occurred in the 1980's are analyzed statistically and show a remarkably similar pattern of reduction in snail infection prevalence. Together, these results demonstrate a highly effective SI mitigation strategy that avoids the use of environmentally suspect chemicals and removes incentive for lethal host removal. Biologically, the results strongly suggest that T. stagnicolae is reliant on the yearly hatch of ducklings to maintain populations at high levels on a lake and that the role of migratory hosts in the spring and fall is much less significant.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Curtis L. Blankespoor
- Science Department, Jackson College, Jackson, Michigan, United States of America
- University of Michigan Biological Station, Pellston, Michigan, United States of America
- Swimmer’s Itch Solutions, LLC, Adrian, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Harvey D. Blankespoor
- University of Michigan Biological Station, Pellston, Michigan, United States of America
- Swimmer’s Itch Solutions, LLC, Adrian, Michigan, United States of America
- Department of Biology, Hope College, Holland, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Randall J. DeJong
- University of Michigan Biological Station, Pellston, Michigan, United States of America
- Swimmer’s Itch Solutions, LLC, Adrian, Michigan, United States of America
- Department of Biology, Calvin University, Grand Rapids, Michigan, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Kia Lashaki E, Bozorgomid A, Gholami S, Karamian M, Fakhar M, Dodangeh S. Phylogenetic analysis of avian schistosome Trichobilharzia regenti (Schistosomatidae, Digenea) from naturally infected hosts in northern Iran. Vet Med Sci 2023; 9:2359-2367. [PMID: 37491009 PMCID: PMC10508495 DOI: 10.1002/vms3.1225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Trichobilharzia regenti (T. regenti) is an avian schistosomatid fluke species that causes human cercarial dermatitis (HCD) in areas of aquaculture in northern Iran. Understanding the phylogenetic relationships and genetic diversity of this thread-like fluke will deepen our thoughtful of avian schistosomiasis epidemiology and lead to more effective HCD control in the region. OBJECTIVES To determine the life cycle of nasal Trichobilharzia in aquatic birds as well as aquatic snails and also identify the haplotype diversity of the isolates in Mazandaran Province, northern Iran. METHODS In the present study, adult or egg of Trichobilharzia isolated from aquatic birds as well as schistosomes cercariae isolated from aquatic snails in Mazandaran Province, northern Iran, belonged to the authors' previous research, were examined. Molecular studies and phylogenetic analysis were carried out on these schistosomes samples. RESULTS The phylogenetic analysis of the ITS1 and COX1 genes in isolated schistosomes revealed that all samples belong to the T. regenti clade. Remarkably, based on phylogenetic results, these schistosomes samples from Anas platyrhynchos domesticus, A. platyrhynchos, Spatula clypeata and Lymnaea stagnalis grouped together with previously sequenced samples from Iran (Trichobilharzia cf. regenti). Unlike the phylogenetic tree and haplotype network of COX1 gene, ITS1 did not show distinct clusters. CONCLUSION This study completed the puzzle of the disease in Mazandaran Province by isolating and genotyping furkocercariae from L. stagnalis that was consistent with the isolated new genotype from ducks. For the first time in Iran, this confirmed the potential role of L. stagnalis snails in the transmission of the disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elham Kia Lashaki
- Department of Parasitology and MycologySchool of Medicine, Tonekabon Branch, Islamic Azad UniversityTonekabonIran
| | - Arezoo Bozorgomid
- Infectious Diseases Research CenterHealth InstituteKermanshah University of Medical SciencesKermanshahIran
| | - Shirzad Gholami
- Toxoplasmosis Research CenterIranian National Registry Center for Lophomoniasis and ToxoplasmosisSchool of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical SciencesSariIran
| | - Mehdi Karamian
- Department of Parasitology and MycologySchool of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical SciencesZanjanIran
| | - Mahdi Fakhar
- Toxoplasmosis Research CenterIranian National Registry Center for Lophomoniasis and ToxoplasmosisSchool of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical SciencesSariIran
| | - Samira Dodangeh
- Children Growth Research CenterResearch Institute for Prevention of Non‐Communicable Diseases, Qazvin University of Medical SciencesQazvinIran
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Eslahi AV, Aligolzadeh A, Pirestani M, Gharibi Z, Abdoli A, Hatam-Nahavandi K, Bijani B, Badri M, Ketzis JK. Trematode Cercariae from Lymnaea gedrosiana in the Caspian Sea Littoral in Iran: a one health concern. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1222599. [PMID: 37520358 PMCID: PMC10375488 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1222599] [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: 05/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Lymnaea gedrosiana snails are hosts to a variety of trematode cercaria of public and veterinary health importance. In Guilan Province, Iran, a region with a high level of fish and bird farming and wetlands important for migratory birds, little is known about the trematode cercaria from L. gedrosiana. Methods From April 2020 to October 2021, six freshwater sites in Guilan Province were sampled for Lymnaeidae snails three times per season (spring, summer, autumn and winter). Snails were exposed to light and heat to induce cercaria shedding and shredded cercaria were identified morphologically and molecularly. Results In total, 5,712 Lymnaeidae snails were collected of which 3,288 (57.6%) were identified to be L. gedrosiana with 54.3% containing trematode cercaria. Snail and cercaria recovery were highest in the spring and summer. Trematode cercaria identified included Telorchis assula, Hypoderaeum conoideum, Apharyngostrigea pipientis, Sanguinicola cf. inermis, Opisthioglyphe ranae, Diplostomum pseudospathaceum, and Australapatemon burti. Discussion The four trematodes D. pseudospathaceum, S. inermis, A. burti, and A. pipientis have not been previously reported in Iran; all four of these can infect migratory birds. The most common cercaria found, H. conoideum (18.3% of the snails) is of zoonotic importance. The third most common cercaria found, S. inermis (10.0% of the snails) is detrimental to fish production. Given the importance of the wetlands in the region for wildlife and migratory birds as well as the number of fish and bird farms in the area, efforts to control L. gedrosiana snails are needed to protect wildlife and human health. In addition, monitoring programs should be implemented to identify and prevent introductions of new trematode species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aida Vafae Eslahi
- Medical Microbiology Research Center, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Armin Aligolzadeh
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran
| | - Majid Pirestani
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Gharibi
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Hormozgan Health Institute, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran
| | - Amir Abdoli
- Zoonoses Research Center, Jahrom University of Medical Sciences, Jahrom, Iran
| | - Kareem Hatam-Nahavandi
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Iranshahr University of Medical Sciences, Iranshahr, Iran
| | - Behzad Bijani
- Medical Microbiology Research Center, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Milad Badri
- Medical Microbiology Research Center, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Jennifer K. Ketzis
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Ross University, Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Petherbridge G, Gadzhiev AA, Shestopalov АМ, Alekseev AY, Sharshov KA, Daudova MG. An early warning system for highly pathogenic viruses borne by waterbird species and related dynamics of climate change in the Caspian Sea region: Outlines of a concept. SOUTH OF RUSSIA: ECOLOGY, DEVELOPMENT 2022. [DOI: 10.18470/1992-1098-2022-2-233-263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Aim. Formulation of the outlines of the concept of ViEW (Viral Early Warning) which is intended as a long term system of multidisciplinary transboundary cooperation between specialist institutions of all five Caspian region states to research, regularly monitor and share data about the generation, transmission and epidemiology of avian‐borne pathogens and their vectors in the region, and the ways climate change may affect these processes.Material and Methods. The concept is based on the multidisciplinary experience of the authors in researching the processes incorporated in the ViEW concept and on an in‐depth survey of the literature involved.Results. The outlines of the ViEW concept are presented in this study for review and comment by interested parties and stakeholders.Conclusion. Review of activities and opinions of specialists and organizations with remits relating to the development, establishment and maintenance of ViEW, indicates that such a system is a necessity for global animal and human health because of the role that the Caspian region plays in the mass migration of species of waterbird known as vectors for avian influenza and the already evident impacts of climate change on their phenologies. Waterbirds frequenting the Caspian Sea littorals and their habitats together constitute a major potential global hotspot or High Risk region for the generation and transmission of highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses and other dangerous zoonotic diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - А. М. Shestopalov
- Research Institute of Virology, Federal Research Centre of Fundamental and Translational Medicine, Siberian Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences
| | - A. Yu. Alekseev
- Research Institute of Virology, Federal Research Centre of Fundamental and Translational Medicine, Siberian Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences
| | - K. A. Sharshov
- Research Institute of Virology, Federal Research Centre of Fundamental and Translational Medicine, Siberian Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences
| | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
Pinto HA, Tenório Mati VL, Melo AL, Brant SV. A putative new genus of avian schistosome transmitted by Biomphalaria straminea (Gastropoda: Planorbidae) in Brazil, with a discussion on the potential involvement in human cercarial dermatitis. Parasitol Int 2022; 90:102607. [PMID: 35659634 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2022.102607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2022] [Revised: 05/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Human cercarial dermatitis (HCD) caused by avian schistosomes is an emerging health issue in different parts of the world. Nevertheless, parasite diversity, life cycle, and involvement in HCD remain poorly known or neglected in South America. Herein, we reported data obtained during a long-term malacological survey carried out in Pampulha Reservoir, an urban eutrophic waterbody from Brazil between 2009 and 2012. An ocellate brevifurcate cercaria emerged from 55 of 16,235 (0.34%) specimens of Biomphalaria straminea. Samples of the cercariae were subjected to morphological, experimental, and molecular study (analysis of partial sequences of nuclear 28S and mitochondrial cox1 genes). The molecular analysis revealed that the larva corresponds to an avian schistosome; however, it does not correspond to any named genus. A close related isolate was previously reported in Biomphalaria sudanica from Kenya (molecular divergences of 0.54% and 9.62% for 28S and cox1, respectively). The morphology of this cercaria was compared with other avian schistosome larvae from Biomphalaria spp. Attempts to infect experimentally ducks (Cairina moschata) and mice revealed cutaneous manifestations after exposure to cercariae, but adult parasites were not obtained in these hosts. Phylogenetic analysis suggests this parasite is a putative new genus and species of avian schistosome. The potential involvement of the larvae herein described in cases of HCD in Brazil cannot be ruled out. Surprisingly, HCD was not reported in the country so far, which can be related to difficulties in its diagnosis in areas of overlap with human schistosomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hudson A Pinto
- Laboratório de Biologia de Trematoda, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Science, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Brazil.
| | - Vitor L Tenório Mati
- Department of Medicine, Universidade Federal de Lavras, Lavras, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Alan L Melo
- Laboratório de Biologia de Trematoda, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Science, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Sara V Brant
- Museum of Southwestern Biology Division of Parasites, Department of Biology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Loker ES, DeJong RJ, Brant SV. Scratching the Itch: Updated Perspectives on the Schistosomes Responsible for Swimmer's Itch around the World. Pathogens 2022; 11:587. [PMID: 35631108 PMCID: PMC9144223 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11050587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Although most studies of digenetic trematodes of the family Schistosomatidae dwell on representatives causing human schistosomiasis, the majority of the 130 identified species of schistosomes infect birds or non-human mammals. The cercariae of many of these species can cause swimmer's itch when they penetrate human skin. Recent years have witnessed a dramatic increase in our understanding of schistosome diversity, now encompassing 17 genera with eight more lineages awaiting description. Collectively, schistosomes exploit 16 families of caenogastropod or heterobranch gastropod intermediate hosts. Basal lineages today are found in marine gastropods and birds, but subsequent diversification has largely taken place in freshwater, with some reversions to marine habitats. It seems increasingly likely that schistosomes have on two separate occasions colonized mammals. Swimmer's itch is a complex zoonotic disease manifested through several different routes of transmission involving a diversity of different host species. Swimmer's itch also exemplifies the value of adopting the One Health perspective in understanding disease transmission and abundance because the schistosomes involved have complex life cycles that interface with numerous species and abiotic components of their aquatic environments. Given the progress made in revealing their diversity and biology, and the wealth of questions posed by itch-causing schistosomes, they provide excellent models for implementation of long-term interdisciplinary studies focused on issues pertinent to disease ecology, the One Health paradigm, and the impacts of climate change, biological invasions and other environmental perturbations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eric S. Loker
- Center for Evolutionary and Theoretical Immunology, Parasites Division, Museum of Southwestern Biology, Department of Biology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA;
| | - Randall J. DeJong
- Department of Biology, Calvin University, Grand Rapids, MI 49546, USA;
| | - Sara V. Brant
- Center for Evolutionary and Theoretical Immunology, Parasites Division, Museum of Southwestern Biology, Department of Biology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA;
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Davis NE, Blair D, Brant SV. Diversity of Trichobilharzia in New Zealand with a new species and a redescription, and their likely contribution to cercarial dermatitis. Parasitology 2022; 149:380-395. [PMID: 35264267 PMCID: PMC8928001 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182021001943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Revised: 10/10/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
In response to annual outbreaks of human cercarial dermatitis (HCD) in Lake Wanaka, New Zealand, ducks and snails were collected and screened for avian schistosomes. During the survey from 2009 to 2017, four species of Trichobilharzia were recovered. Specimens were examined both morphologically and genetically. Trichobilharzia querquedulae, a species known from four continents, was found in the visceral veins of the duck Spatula rhynchotis but the snail host remains unknown. Cercaria longicauda [i.e. Trichobilharzia longicauda (Macfarlane, 1944) Davis, 2006], considered the major aetiological agent of HCD in Lake Wanaka, was discovered, and redescribed from adults in the visceral veins of the duck Aythya novaeseelandiae and cercariae from the snail Austropeplea tomentosa. Recovered from the nasal mucosa of Ay. novaeseelandiae is a new species of Trichobilharzia that was also found to cycle naturally through Au. tomentosa. Cercariae of a fourth species of Trichobilharzia were found in Au. tomentosa but the species remains unidentified.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - David Blair
- James Cook University, College of Science and Engineering, Townsville, Australia
| | - Sara V. Brant
- Department of Biology, University of New Mexico Museum of Southwestern Biology Division of Parasites, Albuquerque, New Mexico87111, USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Modirihamedan A, Aghajantabar S, King J, Graaf A, Pohlmann A, Aghaiyan L, Ziafati Kafi Z, Mahfoozi Y, Hosseini H, Beer M, Ghalyanchilangeroudi A, Harder T. Wild bird trade at live poultry markets potentiates risks of avian influenza virus introductions in Iran. Infect Ecol Epidemiol 2021; 11:1992083. [PMID: 34777715 PMCID: PMC8583743 DOI: 10.1080/20008686.2021.1992083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Wild aquatic birds are the main natural host reservoir of avian influenza viruses (AIV). Migratory aquatic birds can translocate AI viruses over wide geographic distances. AIV may be transmitted reciprocally at the wild bird–poultry interface, increasing viral variability and potentially driving the zoonotic potential of these viruses. A cross-sectional study on AIV and several further avian viral pathogens conducted in 396 trapped migratory aquatic birds traded at live bird markets (LBM) in northern Iran identified 11 AIV-positive cases. The 10 identified H9N2 viral sequences fell into wild bird H9 lineage Y439; in addition, an H10N3 virus of Eurasian lineage was detected. Ten samples contained low viral loads of avian coronavirus but could not be further characterized. Although traditional trading of live-trapped wild birds provides income for hunters, particularly during fall migration periods, it increases the risk of introducing new AIV strains from the natural reservoir to poultry kept at LBMs and, potentially, to traders and customers. Banning these birds from poultry trading lines would lower such risks considerably.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amir Modirihamedan
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.,Institute of Diagnostic Virology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Germany
| | - Shabnam Aghajantabar
- Department of Avian Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Jacqueline King
- Institute of Diagnostic Virology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Germany
| | - Annika Graaf
- Institute of Diagnostic Virology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Germany
| | - Anne Pohlmann
- Institute of Diagnostic Virology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Germany
| | - Leila Aghaiyan
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Ziafati Kafi
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Yeganeh Mahfoozi
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hossein Hosseini
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Islamic Azad University, Karaj Branch, Karaj, Iran
| | - Martin Beer
- Institute of Diagnostic Virology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Germany
| | - Arash Ghalyanchilangeroudi
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Timm Harder
- Institute of Diagnostic Virology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Germany
| |
Collapse
|