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Beckwith-Cohen B, Petersen-Jones SM. Manifestations of systemic disease in the retina and fundus of cats and dogs. Front Vet Sci 2024; 11:1337062. [PMID: 38444779 PMCID: PMC10912207 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2024.1337062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
The fundus is unique in that it is the only part of the body that allows for a noninvasive and uninterrupted view of vasculature and nervous tissue. Utilization of this can be a powerful tool in uncovering salient incidental findings which point to underlying systemic diseases, and for monitoring response to therapy. Retinal venules and arterioles allow the clinician to assess changes in vascular color, diameter, outline, and tortuosity. The retina and optic nerve may exhibit changes associated with increased or decreased thickness, inflammatory infiltrates, hemorrhages, and detachments. While some retinal manifestations of systemic disease may be nonspecific, others are pathognomonic, and may be the presenting sign for a systemic illness. The examination of the fundus is an essential part of the comprehensive physical examination. Systemic diseases which may present with retinal abnormalities include a variety of disease classifications, as represented by the DAMNIT-V acronym, for Degenerative/Developmental, Anomalous, Metabolic, Neoplastic, Nutritional, Inflammatory (Infectious/Immune-mediated/ischemic), Toxic, Traumatic and Vascular. This review details systemic illnesses or syndromes that have been reported to manifest in the fundus of companion animals and discusses key aspects in differentiating their underlying cause. Normal variations in retinal anatomy and morphology are also considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Billie Beckwith-Cohen
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States
| | - Simon M. Petersen-Jones
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States
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2
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Lanave G, Pellegrini F, Palermo G, Zini E, Mercuriali E, Zagarella P, Bányai K, Camero M, Martella V. Identification of Prototheca from the Cerebrospinal Fluid of a Cat with Neurological Signs. Vet Sci 2023; 10:681. [PMID: 38133232 PMCID: PMC10747436 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci10120681] [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: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Prototheca infections are rare in cats, and they are usually associated with cutaneous or subcutaneous infections by P. wickerhamii, with no evidence of neurological signs or systemic disease. In this study, we report the identification of prototheca in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of a cat with neurological symptoms. Fourteen CSF samples were gathered from cats presented with neurological disease between 2012 and 2014. The inclusion criteria for the samples were an increase in CSF protein and cell number (pleocytosis), suggestive of an infectious inflammatory status of the central nervous system (CNS). Nine samples fulfilled the inclusion criteria (inflammatory samples), while five samples, used as control, did not (non-inflammatory samples). All the samples were screened molecularly for different pathogens associated with CNS disease in cats, including prototheca. Out of 14 CSF samples, only one inflammatory sample tested positive for prototheca. Upon sequence and phylogenetic analysis of the amplicon, the strain was characterized as P. bovis. This report is the first documented evidence of prototheca in the cerebrospinal fluid of a cat with neurological signs. Prototheca should be considered in the diagnostics procedures on the CNS of cats presented with infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gianvito Lanave
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Valenzano, 70010 Bari, Italy; (G.L.); (F.P.); (V.M.)
| | - Francesco Pellegrini
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Valenzano, 70010 Bari, Italy; (G.L.); (F.P.); (V.M.)
| | - Giuseppe Palermo
- Veterinary Orthopaedic Traumatologic Centre of Arenzano, Arenzano, 16011 Genova, Italy; (G.P.); (E.M.); (P.Z.)
| | - Eric Zini
- Veterinary Institute of Novara, Granozzo con Monticello, 20060 Novara, Italy;
- Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padova, 35020 Legnaro, Italy
- Clinic for Small Animal Internal Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Edy Mercuriali
- Veterinary Orthopaedic Traumatologic Centre of Arenzano, Arenzano, 16011 Genova, Italy; (G.P.); (E.M.); (P.Z.)
- Veterinary Institute of Novara, Granozzo con Monticello, 20060 Novara, Italy;
| | - Paolo Zagarella
- Veterinary Orthopaedic Traumatologic Centre of Arenzano, Arenzano, 16011 Genova, Italy; (G.P.); (E.M.); (P.Z.)
| | - Krisztián Bányai
- Veterinary Medical Research Institute, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, H-1143 Budapest, Hungary;
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Veterinary Medicine, H-1078 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Michele Camero
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Valenzano, 70010 Bari, Italy; (G.L.); (F.P.); (V.M.)
| | - Vito Martella
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Valenzano, 70010 Bari, Italy; (G.L.); (F.P.); (V.M.)
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Price P, Klobukowska HJ, Castillo-Alcala F, Foxwell JA, Orbell G, Brown S, Irving AC. Protothecosis in four dogs in New Zealand. N Z Vet J 2023; 71:321-328. [PMID: 37584100 DOI: 10.1080/00480169.2023.2248066] [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: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/17/2023]
Abstract
CASE HISTORIES Medical records of four dogs diagnosed with protothecosis in New Zealand were reviewed. The dogs were aged between 4 and 9 years and three of the four dogs were female. Breeds were one Labrador, one Miniature Schnauzer and two crossbreeds. The reasons for initial veterinary evaluation were a cough and opaque appearance of the right eye (Case 1), diarrhoea (Cases 2 and 3), and cutaneous disease (Case 4). CLINICAL FINDINGS The ocular signs were characterised by panuveitis, retinal detachment and secondary glaucoma. Gastrointestinal signs included chronic haemorrhagic diarrhoea due to colitis. Three cases had disseminated infection and developed both bilateral, blinding, ocular disease and chronic gastrointestinal disease. Cutaneous signs consisted of draining fistulae over the olecranon, multifocal cutaneous nodules, and ulceration and tracts of the foot pads. Disseminated protothecosis was confirmed by histopathology of biopsied ocular tissues in Cases 1 and 2 and by gastrointestinal biopsies in Case 3. Prototheca spp. were also identified in cytological specimens from Cases 1 and 4 and recovered by culture in Cases 2 and 4. Cutaneous protothecosis was diagnosed in Case 4 initially by cytology and histopathology of skin lesions, and Prototheca zopfii was confirmed by PCR of cultured organisms. TREATMENT AND OUTCOME Prior to diagnosis of protothecosis, a variety of treatments were prescribed to treat the gastrointestinal and ocular signs. After diagnosis, only Cases 2 and 4 received medication aimed at treating the protothecal infection, which was itraconazole in both cases. Following the progression of clinical signs and concerns about quality of life, all four dogs were euthanised. DIAGNOSIS Disseminated protothecosis in three dogs, cutaneous protothecosis in one dog. CLINICAL RELEVANCE Canine protothecosis is rarely reported, despite the ubiquity of the causal algae, and the disease usually carries an extremely grave prognosis when infection is generalised. In New Zealand, protothecosis should be considered as a differential diagnosis in dogs with panuveitis, chorioretinitis or retinal detachment, colitis, or nodular, ulcerative or fistulating cutaneous lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Psa Price
- Eyevet Services Ltd., Feilding, New Zealand
| | - H J Klobukowska
- New Zealand Veterinary Pathology, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - F Castillo-Alcala
- Tāwharau Ora - School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - J A Foxwell
- Animal Health Laboratory, Ministry for Primary Industries, Upper Hutt, New Zealand
| | - Gmb Orbell
- New Zealand Veterinary Pathology, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - S Brown
- Tāwharau Ora - School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - A C Irving
- Eyevet Services Ltd., Feilding, New Zealand
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4
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Seigner S, Weber K, Dorsch R. [Urinalysis in dogs and cats, part 2: Urine sediment analysis]. TIERARZTLICHE PRAXIS. AUSGABE K, KLEINTIERE/HEIMTIERE 2023; 51:336-350. [PMID: 37956665 DOI: 10.1055/a-2122-5324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
Examination of the urine sediment is part of a routine urinalysis and is undertaken in order to identify insoluble particles in the urine. This procedure is mainly used in the context of diagnostic evaluation of urinary tract diseases, but may also be useful for the diagnosis of systemic diseases and intoxications. Analysis of fresh urine is recommended as changes in cell morphology, cell lysis and in vitro crystal formation may occur in the course of its storage. Manual urine sediment analysis is still performed in many veterinary practices. Native wet-mount preparations are suitable for the identification and quantification of urine sediment particles. The examination of stained wet-mount preparations or air-dried smears may be necessary to further differentiate cells and to identify bacteria. For several years, automatic urine sediment analyzers have been available in veterinary medicine. These save considerable time and staff resources, however verification of the automatically generated results by an experienced observer remains necessary. Urine sediment particles that are frequently identified and clinically relevant include red blood cells, white blood cells, different types of epithelial cells, crystals, and casts as well as bacteria. Furthermore, parasite eggs, fungal hyphae, lipid droplets, spermatozoa, fibres, hair, mucus, plant parts or environmental contaminations may be found in the urine sediment and result in a complication of the result interpretation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Seigner
- Medizinische Kleintierklinik, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, München
| | - Karin Weber
- Medizinische Kleintierklinik, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, München
| | - Roswitha Dorsch
- Medizinische Kleintierklinik, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, München
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Gmyterco VC, Jagielski T, Baldasso G, Bacher LH, Ribeiro MG, de Farias MR. Cutaneous protothecosis in a dog successfully treated with oral itraconazole in pulse dosing. Acta Vet Scand 2023; 65:7. [PMID: 36810141 PMCID: PMC9945405 DOI: 10.1186/s13028-022-00662-x] [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: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Protothecosis is a rare infectious disease caused by unicellular, achlorophyllous, microalgae of the genus Prototheca, ubiquitously distributed in nature. The algae are emerging pathogens, whose incidence is increasing in both human and animal populations and serious systemic infections related to this pathogen have been increasingly described in humans in recent years. After mastitis in dairy cows, canine protothecosis is the second most prevalent form of the protothecal disease in animals. Here, we report the first case of chronic cutaneous protothecosis due to P. wickerhamii in a dog in Brazil, successfully treated with a long-term therapy with itraconazole in pulse. CASE PRESENTATION Upon clinical examination, exudative nasolabial plaque, ulcered, and painful lesions in central and digital pads and lymphadenitis were observed in a 2-year-old mixed-breed dog, with a 4-month history of cutaneous lesions and contact with sewage water. Histopathological examination revealed intense inflammatory reaction, with numerous spherical to oval, encapsulated structures stained with Periodic Acid Schiff, compatible with Prototheca morphology. Tissue culture on Sabouraud agar revealed yeast-like, greyish-white colonies after 48 h of incubation. The isolate was subjected to mass spectrometry profiling and PCR-sequencing of the mitochondrial cytochrome b (CYTB) gene marker, leading to identification of the pathogen as P. wickerhamii. The dog was initially treated with oral itraconazole at a dosage of 10 mg/kg once daily. After six months, the lesions resolved completely, yet recurred shortly after cessation of therapy. The dog was then treated with terbinafine at a dose of 30 mg/kg, once daily for 3 months, with no success. The resolution of clinical signs, with no recurrence over a 36-months follow-up period, was achieved after 3 months of treatment with itraconazole (20 mg/kg) in pulse intermittently on two consecutive days a week. CONCLUSIONS This report highlights the refractoriness of skin infections by Prototheca wickerhamii with therapies proposed in the literature and suggests a new treatment option with oral itraconazole in pulse dosing for long-term disease control successfully performed in a dog with skin lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Cunningham Gmyterco
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Life and Sciences, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Paraná, 1155 Imaculada Conceição Street, Curitiba, PR, 80215-901, Brazil.
| | - Tomasz Jagielski
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Institute of Microbiology, Faculty of Biology, University of Warsaw, I. Miecznikowa 1, 00-927, Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Gustavo Baldasso
- grid.412522.20000 0000 8601 0541Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Life and Sciences, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Paraná, 1155 Imaculada Conceição Street, Curitiba, PR 80215-901 Brazil
| | - Louise Helene Bacher
- grid.412522.20000 0000 8601 0541Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Life and Sciences, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Paraná, 1155 Imaculada Conceição Street, Curitiba, PR 80215-901 Brazil
| | - Márcio Garcia Ribeiro
- grid.410543.70000 0001 2188 478XDepartment of Animal Production and Preventive Veterinary Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Sao Paulo State University-UNESP, Botucatu, SP 18618-681 Brazil
| | - Marconi Rodrigues de Farias
- grid.412522.20000 0000 8601 0541Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Life and Sciences, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Paraná, 1155 Imaculada Conceição Street, Curitiba, PR 80215-901 Brazil
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Libisch B, Picot C, Ceballos-Garzon A, Moravkova M, Klimesová M, Telkes G, Chuang ST, Le Pape P. Prototheca Infections and Ecology from a One Health Perspective. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10050938. [PMID: 35630382 PMCID: PMC9144699 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10050938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Prototheca microalgae were only recognized as pathogens of both humans and animals in the 1960s; however, since then, these microbes have been drawing increasing interest in both human and veterinary medicine. The first human outbreak of protothecosis in a tertiary care chemotherapy ward in 2018 further highlighted the need to understand in more depth and detail their ecology, etiology, pathogenesis and routes of transmission between different hosts, environments and habitats from a One Health perspective. Protothecal infections have been reported in a growing number of cattle herds around the world in recent decades, and Prototheca has become an important bovine mastitis pathogen in certain countries and regions. The survival of Prototheca in the environment and its ability to spread in the herd pose a serious challenge to the management of infected dairy farms. Prevention of the disease is particularly important, as there is no effective and reliable treatment for it and the chances of self-healing are minimal. Therefore, the development of more effective drugs is needed for the treatment of human and animal protothecosis. The prudent use of antibiotics and their replacement by alternative or preventive measures, when possible, may further contribute to the control of protothecal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Balázs Libisch
- Institute of Genetics and Biotechnology, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, 2100 Gödöllő, Hungary
- Correspondence: (B.L.); (P.L.P.)
| | - Carine Picot
- EA 1155 IICiMed—Cibles et Médicaments des Infections et du Cancer, Université de Nantes, F-44000 Nantes, France; (C.P.); (A.C.-G.)
| | - Andrés Ceballos-Garzon
- EA 1155 IICiMed—Cibles et Médicaments des Infections et du Cancer, Université de Nantes, F-44000 Nantes, France; (C.P.); (A.C.-G.)
| | | | | | - Gábor Telkes
- Department of Surgery, Transplantation and Gastroenterology, Semmelweis University, 1082 Budapest, Hungary;
| | - Shih-Te Chuang
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung City 402, Taiwan;
| | - Patrice Le Pape
- EA 1155 IICiMed—Cibles et Médicaments des Infections et du Cancer, Université de Nantes, F-44000 Nantes, France; (C.P.); (A.C.-G.)
- Correspondence: (B.L.); (P.L.P.)
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Asiag N, Lapid R, Aizenberg Z, Baneth G, Nachum-Biala Y, Leszkowicz-Mazuz M, Yasur-Landau D, Chai O, Aroch I, Shamir MH. Spinal cord protothecosis causing paraparesis in a dog. J Vet Diagn Invest 2022; 34:684-688. [PMID: 35459409 PMCID: PMC9266501 DOI: 10.1177/10406387221093048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Protothecosis, an infectious disease caused by the green algae Prototheca zopfii and P. wickerhamii, occurs sporadically in domestic animals and humans. Diagnosis of CNS protothecosis is based on neurologic signs that indicate multifocal nervous system lesions and that follow a period of chronic diarrhea and weight loss, cytologic observation of algae in fecal culture or histopathology, and detection of the agent by PCR assay of infected tissues. Here, we report a case of a paraparetic dog with CNS protothecosis that was diagnosed definitively antemortem using CSF cytology, PCR, and DNA sequencing. A 4-y-old mixed-breed dog developed progressive paraparesis that followed weight loss and diarrhea. CSF analysis revealed marked eosinophilic pleocytosis. Prototheca organisms were detected by microscopic examination of the CSF, and speciated as P. zopfii by CSF PCR and DNA sequencing. Other possible causes of paraparesis were ruled out using computed tomography, serology, and CSF PCR. The dog's condition deteriorated despite treatment, developing forebrain and central vestibular system clinical signs, and it was euthanized at the owner's request. Postmortem examination was declined. Our findings indicate that when CNS protothecosis is suspected, antemortem diagnosis can be made using CSF analysis and a PCR assay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nimrod Asiag
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Roi Lapid
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Zahi Aizenberg
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Gad Baneth
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Yaarit Nachum-Biala
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel
| | | | | | - Orit Chai
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Itamar Aroch
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Merav H Shamir
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel
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8
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Walker A, MacEwan I, Fluen T, Hardcastle M. Disseminated protothecosis with central nervous system involvement in a dog in New Zealand. N Z Vet J 2022; 70:238-243. [PMID: 35317706 DOI: 10.1080/00480169.2022.2056539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
CASE HISTORY A 1-year-old Border Terrier presented with acute onset of neurological signs and neck pain. CLINICAL FINDINGS Severe generalised ataxia, muscle tremors and cranial nerve deficits were noted. Multifocal brain lesions were suspected based on neurological examination. Computed tomography revealed an abdominal mass and cerebellar herniation through the foramen magnum. LABORATORY AND PATHOLOGICAL FINDINGS Cytological and histopathological analysis of the abdominal mass revealed necrotising and granulomatous lymphadenitis with intralesional algal elements most consistent with Prototheca spp.. Culture of a sample from the mesenteric lymph node confirmed the presence of Prototheca spp. which was identified as P. bovis based on sequencing of a DNA fragment amplified by PCR. Following inadequate response to symptomatic therapy and poor prognosis, the dog was subjected to euthanasia. Histopathological evaluation of the central nervous system lesions, identified granulomatous meningitis and ventriculitis with the presence of intralesional algae. DIAGNOSIS Disseminated protothecosis with granulomatous meningitis and ventriculitis caused by Prototheca bovis (formerly P. zopfii gen. 2). CLINICAL RELEVANCE This is the first case report of disseminated protothecosis with central nervous system involvement in a dog in New Zealand.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Walker
- Veterinary Specialist Aotearoa, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - I MacEwan
- Veterinary Specialist Aotearoa, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - T Fluen
- Veterinary Specialist Aotearoa, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - M Hardcastle
- Gribbles Veterinary Pathology, Auckland, New Zealand
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9
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Danesi P, Petini M, Falcaro C, Bertola M, Mazzotta E, Furlanello T, Krockenberger M, Malik R. Pneumocystis Colonization in Dogs Is as in Humans. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19063192. [PMID: 35328882 PMCID: PMC8955813 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19063192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Pneumocystis is an atypical fungus that resides in the pulmonary parenchyma of many mammals, including humans and dogs. Immunocompetent human hosts are usually asymptomatically colonised or show subtle clinical signs, but some immunocompromised people can develop florid life-threatening Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP). Since much less is known concerning Pneumocystis in dogs, we posit the question: can Pneumocystis colonization be present in dogs with inflammatory airway or lung disease caused by other pathogens or disease processes? In this study, Pneumocystis DNA was detected in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) of 22/255 dogs (9%) with respiratory distress and/or chronic cough. Although young dogs (<1 year-of-age) and pedigree breeds were more often Pneumocystis-qPCR positive than older dogs and crossbreds, adult dogs with other infectious conditions and/or a history of therapy-resistant pulmonary disease could also be qPCR-positive, including two patients with suppression of the immune system. Absence of pathognomonic clinical or radiographic signs render it impossible to convincingly discriminate between overt PCP versus other lung/airway disease processes colonised by P. canis. It is possible that colonisation with P. canis might play a certain role as a co-pathogen in some canine patients with lower respiratory disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrizia Danesi
- Parasitology, Mycology and Medical Enthomology, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Legnaro, 35020 Padua, Italy; (C.F.); (M.B.); (E.M.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-049-8084902
| | - Matteo Petini
- Clinica e Laboratorio Veterinario San Marco, Veggiano, 35030 Padua, Italy; (M.P.); (T.F.)
| | - Christian Falcaro
- Parasitology, Mycology and Medical Enthomology, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Legnaro, 35020 Padua, Italy; (C.F.); (M.B.); (E.M.)
| | - Michela Bertola
- Parasitology, Mycology and Medical Enthomology, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Legnaro, 35020 Padua, Italy; (C.F.); (M.B.); (E.M.)
| | - Elisa Mazzotta
- Parasitology, Mycology and Medical Enthomology, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Legnaro, 35020 Padua, Italy; (C.F.); (M.B.); (E.M.)
| | - Tommaso Furlanello
- Clinica e Laboratorio Veterinario San Marco, Veggiano, 35030 Padua, Italy; (M.P.); (T.F.)
| | - Mark Krockenberger
- Veterinary Pathology Diagnostic Services, Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia;
| | - Richard Malik
- Centre for Veterinary Education, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia;
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10
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Wesselowski S, Janacek B, Landsgaard K, Aceino A, Porter BF. Pancarditis as the sole clinical manifestation of protothecosis in a Boxer dog. J Vet Cardiol 2022; 41:128-133. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jvc.2022.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2021] [Revised: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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11
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Jinatham V, Cantoni DM, Brown IR, Vichaslip T, Suwannahitatorn P, Popluechai S, Tsaousis AD, Gentekaki E. Prototheca bovis, a unicellular achlorophyllous trebouxiophyte green alga in the healthy human intestine. J Med Microbiol 2021; 70. [PMID: 34486973 DOI: 10.1099/jmm.0.001415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction. Prototheca species are non-photosynthetic trebouxiophyte algae ubiquitously distributed in nature and can be found in sewage and soil. This microbial eukaryote causes human protothecosis in immunocompromised individuals. Thus, Prototheca presence in the stool of individuals without gastrointestinal symptoms has been reported only rarely.Hypothesis/Gap statement. There is an absence of detailed characterization of human Prototheca isolates.Aim. The aim of this study was to perform morphological and molecular characterization of Prototheca isolates obtained from human stool.Methodology. Prototheca was isolated from faecal samples of four individuals living in a rural area in Thailand. A combination of bioimaging along with molecular and bioinformatics tools was used to characterize the four strains. The growth rate was tested using four media and three temperature conditions. Phylogenetic analysis using the small subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU rRNA) and cytochrome b (cytb) was also performed.Results. Static and live microscopy demonstrated the various life stages of Prototheca and its major defining cellular characteristics. An optimized DNA extraction methodology that improves DNA yield is provided. Partial fragments of the SSU rRNA and cytb genes were obtained. Phylogenetic analysis placed all four strains in the clade with Prototheca bovis. More broadly, Prototheca was not monophyletic but split into at least two distinct clades instead.Conclusion. The results represent the first molecular characterization of Prototheca in Thailand. The study provides insight into transmission dynamics of the organism and potential caveats in estimating the global prevalence of Prototheca. These will spearhead further investigations on Prototheca occurrence in rural areas of both industrialized and developing nations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasana Jinatham
- School of Science, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai 57100, Thailand
| | - Diego M Cantoni
- Laboratory of Molecular and Evolutionary Parasitology, RAPID group, School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, UK
| | - Ian R Brown
- Bioimaging Facility, School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, UK
| | | | | | - Siam Popluechai
- School of Science, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai 57100, Thailand.,Gut Microbiome Research Group, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai 57100, Thailand
| | - Anastasios D Tsaousis
- Laboratory of Molecular and Evolutionary Parasitology, RAPID group, School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, UK
| | - Eleni Gentekaki
- School of Science, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai 57100, Thailand.,Gut Microbiome Research Group, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai 57100, Thailand
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Herold S, Klodt T, Toelle D, Dennebaum M, Lippe E, Walz C, Kaes J, Kreft A, Siegel E, Munder M, Teschner D. Lethal systemic and brain infection caused by Prototheca zopfii algae in a patient with acute myeloid leukemia. Med Mycol Case Rep 2021; 32:17-20. [PMID: 33604236 PMCID: PMC7873573 DOI: 10.1016/j.mmcr.2021.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2020] [Revised: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic protothecosis is an exceptionally rare cause of sepsis with few available therapeutic options. Here, we report on a female patient with newly diagnosed acute myeloid leukemia who died after start of chemotherapy due to a severe septic shock caused by a disseminated systemic infection with Prototheca zopfii including encephalitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Herold
- Department of Hematology, Medical Oncology, and Pneumology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, Langenbeckstr. 1, 55131, Mainz, Germany
| | - Tristan Klodt
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, Langenbeckstr. 1, 55131, Mainz, Germany
| | - Daniela Toelle
- Department of Hematology, Medical Oncology, and Pneumology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, Langenbeckstr. 1, 55131, Mainz, Germany
| | - Martin Dennebaum
- Institute of Clinical Microbiology and Hygiene, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, Langenbeckstr. 1, 55131, Mainz, Germany
| | - Elena Lippe
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, Langenbeckstr. 1, 55131, Mainz, Germany
| | - Cleo Walz
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, Langenbeckstr. 1, 55131, Mainz, Germany
| | - Joachim Kaes
- Department of Cardiology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, Langenbeckstr. 1, 55131, Mainz, Germany
| | - Andreas Kreft
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, Langenbeckstr. 1, 55131, Mainz, Germany
| | - Ekkehard Siegel
- Institute of Clinical Microbiology and Hygiene, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, Langenbeckstr. 1, 55131, Mainz, Germany
| | - Markus Munder
- Department of Hematology, Medical Oncology, and Pneumology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, Langenbeckstr. 1, 55131, Mainz, Germany
| | - Daniel Teschner
- Department of Hematology, Medical Oncology, and Pneumology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, Langenbeckstr. 1, 55131, Mainz, Germany
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14
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Manchester AC, Dogan B, Guo Y, Simpson KW. Escherichia coli-associated granulomatous colitis in dogs treated according to antimicrobial susceptibility profiling. J Vet Intern Med 2020; 35:150-161. [PMID: 33321554 PMCID: PMC7848323 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.15995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Revised: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Eradication of intramucosal Escherichia coli correlates with remission of periodic acid‐Schiff‐positive E coli‐associated granulomatous colitis (GC). Treatment failures attributed to multidrug resistant (MDR) bacteria necessitate alternative approaches. Hypothesis/objectives Determine clinical outcome of E coli‐associated GC in dogs treated based on antimicrobial susceptibility profiling and characterize E coli phylogeny and resistance mechanisms. Animals Twenty Boxers and 4 French Bulldogs with E coli‐associated GC. Methods Culture, antimicrobial susceptibility profiling, and molecular characterization of E coli were performed and response to treatment was evaluated. Results Initial biopsy sample culture yielded fluoroquinolone‐sensitive (FQ‐S) E coli from 9/24 dogs and fluoroquinolone‐resistant (FQ‐R) E coli from 15/24. All but 1 FQ‐R E coli were MDR with susceptibility to macrophage‐penetrating antimicrobials restricted to carbapenems in 13/15 dogs. Of 22/24 treated based on susceptibility profiling, 8/9 FQ‐S dogs had complete initial clinical response (CR) during fluoroquinolone (FQ) treatment, whereas 9/13 FQ‐R dogs had complete or partial response (PR) during meropenem or doxycycline treatment. In 5/9 FQ‐S and 12/13 FQ‐R dogs with follow‐up ≥3 months, CR was sustained in 5/5 FQ‐S (median, 25 months; range, 4‐46) whereas 6/12 FQ‐R had long‐term CR (median, 59 months; range 15‐102), 4/12 PR (median, 19 months; range, 5‐65), and 2/12 had no response (NR). Four dogs with long‐term follow‐up died within 4 years of diagnosis, including 2 euthanized for refractory colitis. Escherichia coli were genetically diverse. Fluoroquinolone resistance was associated with mutations in gyrA and parC, with plasmid‐mediated resistance less common. Conclusions and Clinical Importance Antimicrobial treatment guided by susceptibility profiling was associated with positive long‐term outcomes in >80% of cases. Fluoroquinolone‐resistance was widespread and not clonal. Further study is required to optimize treatment for dogs with MDR E coli‐associated GC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Belgin Dogan
- Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Yongli Guo
- Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Kenneth W Simpson
- Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, New York, USA
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15
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Falcaro C, Furlanello T, Binanti D, Fondati A, Bonfanti U, Krockenberger M, Malik R, Danesi P. Molecular characterization of Prototheca in 11 symptomatic dogs. J Vet Diagn Invest 2020; 33:156-161. [PMID: 33272142 DOI: 10.1177/1040638720976423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Protothecosis is an uncommon disease caused by algae of the genus Prototheca. In dogs, the infection is usually first localized to the colon but has the propensity to later disseminate hematogenously to many other organs, with marked tropism for the eyes and central nervous system. Diagnosis is established by culture and/or evidence of Prototheca organisms in cytologic or histologic preparations. Species characterization, however, requires molecular investigations. Our laboratory set up a real-time PCR targeting portion D1/D2 of the 28S rRNA for identification of Prototheca species from both positive cultures (of rectal swabs and urine) and formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue. Prototheca bovis, P. ciferrii, and P. wickerhamii were characterized in 11 dogs with systemic or cutaneous protothecosis. Prototheca identifications were phylogenetically consistent with the new taxonomy proposed for this genus based on the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene. As a pilot study, we screened feces and rectal scrapes from 200 asymptomatic dogs, using 2 cohorts of stray and owned animals, to determine the prevalence of intestinal carriage of Prototheca spp. The Prototheca-negative results from both cohorts of healthy dogs suggest that predisposing factors related to the host probably contribute more to the acquisition of clinical disease than exposure to contaminated environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Falcaro
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Legnaro, Padua, Italy
| | | | - Diana Binanti
- Laboratorio Analisi Veterinarie AbLab, Sarzana, La Spezia, Italy
| | | | - Ugo Bonfanti
- Laboratorio di Analisi Veterinarie La Vallonea, Passirana di Rho, Milan, Italy
| | - Mark Krockenberger
- Veterinary Pathology Diagnostic Services, Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Richard Malik
- Centre for Veterinary Education, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Patrizia Danesi
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Legnaro, Padua, Italy
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16
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Masuda M, Jagielski T, Danesi P, Falcaro C, Bertola M, Krockenberger M, Malik R, Kano R. Protothecosis in Dogs and Cats-New Research Directions. Mycopathologia 2020; 186:143-152. [PMID: 33206310 DOI: 10.1007/s11046-020-00508-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Protothecosis refers to disease of humans and animals caused by infection with fungus-like, colourless microalgae of the genus Prototheca. Although protothecosis remains an uncommon infection, increasing numbers of human and animal cases are being diagnosed worldwide. This review summarises major new findings in basic science (sequencing analyses of sterol 14α-demethylase (CYP51/ERG11) genes and organelle genomes of Prototheca wickerhamii) to elucidate taxonomic features of this pathogen. Furthermore, this review updates and summarises the clinical features, diagnosis and treatment of protothecosis in dogs and cats. This content of this review is based on information presented at the medical phycology symposium held in the 20th Congress of the International Society for Human and Animal Mycology ( https://www.isham.org/ ).
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Affiliation(s)
- Michiaki Masuda
- Department of Microbiology, Dokkyo Medical University School of Medicine, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Tomasz Jagielski
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Institute of Microbiology, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Patrizia Danesi
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale Delle Venezie, Legnaro, PD, Italy
| | - Christian Falcaro
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale Delle Venezie, Legnaro, PD, Italy
| | - Michela Bertola
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale Delle Venezie, Legnaro, PD, Italy
| | - Mark Krockenberger
- Veterinary Pathology Diagnostic Services (VPDS), Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, B14, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Richard Malik
- Centre for Veterinary Education, The University of Sydney, B22, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Rui Kano
- Department of Veterinary Dermatology, Nihon University School of Veterinary Medicine, 1866, Kameino, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, 252-0880, Japan.
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17
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Geisen V, Mayer C, Harrer J, Hartmann K, Ulrich S, Unterer S. [Disseminated protothecosis with ulcerative granulomatous colitis in a Rhodesian Ridgeback from Germany]. TIERAERZTLICHE PRAXIS AUSGABE KLEINTIERE HEIMTIERE 2020; 48:369-375. [PMID: 33086414 DOI: 10.1055/a-1238-1554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
A 10-month-old male Rhodesian Ridgeback was presented to the Clinic of Small Animal Medicine, LMU, Germany, with a 6-month history of chronic diarrhea and hematochezia. The dog lived in Germany and had never traveled abroad. Complete blood count and serum biochemistry performed by the referring veterinarian revealed neutrophilia, hyperkalemia, and hyponatremia, with a basal cortisol of 4.3 µg/dl, which excluded hypoadrenocorticism. Since antibiotic treatment had not resulted in any improvement, a 2 week course of prednisolone administration had been initiated, leading to a marked deterioration of intestinal signs and a significant weight loss of 6 kg. At the time of referral, the patient was markedly emaciated, dehydrated, hypovolemic and had a rectal temperature of 39.6 °C. Abdominal ultrasound showed a thickened and irregular colonic wall. On colonoscopy, an irregular colonic mucosa with ulcerations was observed. Histopathologic examination revealed an ulcerative granulomatous colitis, and on Periodic acid-Schiff reaction (PAS) numerous organisms consistent with Prototheca spp. were identified. Prototheca zopfii infection was confirmed by culture and MALDI-TOF MS. In order to test for an underlying immunodeficiency, immunoglobulin levels in serum were determined. IgM was decreased, while IgG and IgA levels were within the reference interval. Due to deterioration of general condition, grave prognosis and costs of a treatment trial, the patient was euthanized one week later, and necropsy was performed. Prototheca spp. were detected on histopathologic examination in the lymphnodes, however not in the eyes or the central nervous system. Protothecosis should be considered an differential diagnosis in dogs with chronic diarrhea and ulcerative granulomatous colitis even in dogs living in Germany. Histopathologic examination of colonic biopsies with special stains such as PAS is recommended in every dog with signs of chronic large bowel disease in order to avoid missing this rare infectious disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vera Geisen
- Medizinische Kleintierklinik, Zentrum für Klinische Tiermedizin, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München
| | - Christian Mayer
- Institut für Tierpathologie, Zentrum für Klinische Tiermedizin, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München
| | - Julia Harrer
- Medizinische Kleintierklinik, Zentrum für Klinische Tiermedizin, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München
| | - Katrin Hartmann
- Medizinische Kleintierklinik, Zentrum für Klinische Tiermedizin, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München
| | - Sebastian Ulrich
- Institut für Infektionsmedizin und Zoonosen, Veterinärwissenschaftliches Department, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München
| | - Stefan Unterer
- Medizinische Kleintierklinik, Zentrum für Klinische Tiermedizin, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München
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18
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Cocchetto A, Briola C, Furlanello T, Danesi P, Cirla A, Menchetti M. 3‐T MRI of protothecosis encephalic lesions in a Scottish shepherd dog. VETERINARY RECORD CASE REPORTS 2020. [DOI: 10.1136/vetreccr-2020-001145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Aurora Cocchetto
- Neurology and Neurosurgery DivisionSan Marco Veterinary ClinicVeggiano (Padova)Italy
| | - Chiara Briola
- Cambridge UniversityCambridgeUK
- Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology DivisionSan Marco Veterinary ClinicVeggiano (Padova)Italy
| | | | - Patrizia Danesi
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie (IZSVE)LegnaroItaly
| | - Alessandro Cirla
- Ophtalmology DivisionSan Marco Veterinary ClinicVeggiano (Padova)Italy
| | - Marika Menchetti
- Neurology and Neurosurgery DivisionSan Marco Veterinary ClinicVeggiano (Padova)Italy
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19
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Whipple KM, Wellehan JF, Jeon AB, Sabatino BR, Frasca S, Popov VL, Ossiboff R, Leissinger MK. Cytologic, histologic, microbiologic, and electron microscopic characterization of a canine Prototheca wickerhamii infection. Vet Clin Pathol 2020; 49:326-332. [PMID: 32468599 DOI: 10.1111/vcp.12864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2019] [Revised: 10/16/2019] [Accepted: 10/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
An adult dog was presented for chronic cough and a recent development of ulcerated, erythematous nares with nasal discharge. Cytology of enlarged peripheral lymph nodes revealed many intracellular and extracellular organisms. These round or rarely oval organisms measured approximately 5-9 µm in diameter and frequently contained several globular structures, ranging from deeply basophilic to magenta. A thin, clear halo was present. Smaller 1-2 µm, magenta forms were also observed. Fungal culture yielded small, wet, raised, irregularly shaped, white to pale tan colonies. Microbiologic staining of cultured material revealed features suggestive of algae. Histopathology of the lymph nodes revealed marked granulomatous inflammation with intralesional algal organisms suggestive of Prototheca. Electron microscopic findings were also consistent with protothecosis. Polymerase chain reaction, followed by direct DNA sequencing, identified the organism as Prototheca wickerhamii. A brief literature review discussing protothecosis in veterinary medicine is included.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kellie M Whipple
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - James F Wellehan
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Albert B Jeon
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Bethany R Sabatino
- Blue Pearl Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Gainesville, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Salvatore Frasca
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Vsevolod L Popov
- Department of Pathology, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Robert Ossiboff
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Mary K Leissinger
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
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20
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Jagielski T, Bakuła Z, Gawor J, Maciszewski K, Kusber WH, Dyląg M, Nowakowska J, Gromadka R, Karnkowska A. The genus Prototheca (Trebouxiophyceae, Chlorophyta) revisited: Implications from molecular taxonomic studies. ALGAL RES 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.algal.2019.101639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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21
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Molesan A, Goodman L, Ford J, Lovering SJ, Kelly K. The Causes of Canine Myocarditis and Myocardial Fibrosis Are Elusive by Targeted Molecular Testing: Retrospective Analysis and Literature Review. Vet Pathol 2019; 56:761-777. [PMID: 31106678 PMCID: PMC10957289 DOI: 10.1177/0300985819839241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Myocarditis can cause death or permanent heart damage. As epidemiologic and etiopathologic data for canine myocarditis are lacking, we performed a retrospective study using nucleic acid extracted from archived (2007 to 2015) tissues from myocarditis cases and control dogs without myocardial lesions. Heart tissue from pediatric/juvenile and adult dogs was tested with a comprehensive panel of conventional and real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays targeting recognized agents of canine myocarditis based on a literature review and informed by the comparative epidemiology of human myocarditis. The PCR screen, which included canine parvovirus 2 (CPV-2), canine distemper virus, canine herpesvirus, Borrelia spp, West Nile virus, adenovirus, parainfluenza virus, pneumovirus, respiratory coronavirus, influenza virus, Bartonella spp, Rickettsia spp, Mycoplasma spp, and Neospora caninum, did not detect agents in 35 of 66 cases (53%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 41%-65%) and was frequently negative in adults (21/26); by comparison, agents were not detected in 27 of 57 controls (47%; 95% CI, 35%-60%). Canine distemper virus, herpesvirus, adenovirus, coronavirus, parainfluenza virus, Mycoplasma haemocanis, and N. caninum were occasionally detected in both cases and controls; thus, PCR detection was not considered to indicate causation. We previously reported that CPV-2 continues to be associated with myocarditis in young dogs despite widespread vaccination; in adults, CPV-2 was detected in 2 of 26 cases and 4 of 22 controls. As several agents were similarly detected in cases and controls, it is unclear if these are cardiopathogenic, incidental, or latent. West Nile virus was detected at the analytic limit in 1 adult case. We did not detect Borrelia spp, Bartonella spp, Rickettsia spp, or influenza A virus in the myocarditis cases. These data demonstrate the limitations of current targeted diagnostic tests and the need for additional research to identify unknown agents and develop testing strategies for canine myocarditis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex Molesan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Laura Goodman
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Services, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Jordan Ford
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Samantha J. Lovering
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Kathleen Kelly
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
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22
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Severgnini M, Lazzari B, Capra E, Chessa S, Luini M, Bordoni R, Castiglioni B, Ricchi M, Cremonesi P. Genome sequencing of Prototheca zopfii genotypes 1 and 2 provides evidence of a severe reduction in organellar genomes. Sci Rep 2018; 8:14637. [PMID: 30279542 PMCID: PMC6168571 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-32992-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2018] [Accepted: 09/12/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Prototheca zopfii (P. zopfii, class Trebouxiophyceae, order Chlorellales, family Chlorellaceae), a non-photosynthetic predominantly free-living unicellular alga, is one of the few pathogens belonging to the plant kingdom. This alga can affect many vertebrate hosts, sustaining systemic infections and diseases such as mastitis in cows. The aim of our work was to sequence and assemble the P. zopfii genotype 1 and genotype 2 mitochondrial and plastid genomes. Remarkably, the P. zopfii mitochondrial (38 Kb) and plastid (28 Kb) genomes are models of compaction and the smallest known in the Trebouxiophyceae. As expected, the P. zopfii genotype 1 and 2 plastid genomes lack all the genes involved in photosynthesis, but, surprisingly, they also lack those coding for RNA polymerases. Our results showed that plastid genes are actively transcribed in P. zopfii, which suggests that the missing RNA polymerases are substituted by nuclear-encoded paralogs. The simplified architecture and highly-reduced gene complement of the P. zopfii mitochondrial and plastid genomes are closer to those of P. stagnora and the achlorophyllous obligate parasite Helicosporidium than to those of P. wickerhamii or P. cutis. This similarity is also supported by maximum likelihood phylogenetic analyses inferences. Overall, the P. zopfii sequences reported here, which include nuclear genome drafts for both genotypes, will help provide both a deeper understanding of the evolution of Prototheca spp. and insights into the corresponding host/pathogen interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Severgnini
- Institute of Biomedical Technologies, National Research Council (ITB-CNR), Segrate, Milan, Italy
| | - Barbara Lazzari
- PTP-Science Park, Lodi, Italy.,Institute of Agricultural Biology and Biotechnology, National Research Council (IBBA-CNR), Lodi, Italy
| | - Emanuele Capra
- Institute of Agricultural Biology and Biotechnology, National Research Council (IBBA-CNR), Lodi, Italy
| | - Stefania Chessa
- Institute of Agricultural Biology and Biotechnology, National Research Council (IBBA-CNR), Lodi, Italy
| | - Mario Luini
- Lombardy and Emilia Romagna Experimental Zootechnic Institute (IZSLER), Lodi, Italy
| | - Roberta Bordoni
- Institute of Biomedical Technologies, National Research Council (ITB-CNR), Segrate, Milan, Italy
| | - Bianca Castiglioni
- Institute of Agricultural Biology and Biotechnology, National Research Council (IBBA-CNR), Lodi, Italy
| | - Matteo Ricchi
- Lombardy and Emilia Romagna Experimental Zootechnic Institute (IZSLER), Piacenza, Italy.
| | - Paola Cremonesi
- Institute of Agricultural Biology and Biotechnology, National Research Council (IBBA-CNR), Lodi, Italy
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23
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Silveira CS, Cesar D, Keating MK, DeLeon-Carnes M, Armién AG, Luhers M, Riet-Correa F, Giannitti F. A Case of Prototheca zopfii Genotype 1 Infection in a Dog (Canis lupus familiaris). Mycopathologia 2018; 183:853-858. [PMID: 29872935 DOI: 10.1007/s11046-018-0274-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2018] [Accepted: 05/28/2018] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Protothecosis is a rare disease caused by environmental algae of the genus Prototheca. These are saprophytic, non-photosynthetic, aerobic, colorless algae that belong to the Chlorellaceae family. Seven different species have been described. Prototheca zopfii genotype 2 and P. wickerhamii are most commonly involved in pathogenic infections in humans and animals. The objective of this work is to describe, for the first time, a case of protothecosis caused by P. zopfii genotype 1 in a dog. The dog, a 4-year-old mix bred male, was presented to a veterinary clinic in Montevideo, Uruguay, with multiple skin nodules, one of which was excised by surgical biopsy. The sample was examined histologically and processed by PCR, DNA sequencing, and restriction fragments length polymorphisms for the detection and genotyping of P. zopfii. In addition, transmission electron microscopy and scanning electron microscopy were performed. Histology showed severe ulcerative granulomatous dermatitis and panniculitis with myriads of pleomorphic algae. Algal cells were 4-17 µm in size, with an amphophilic, 2-4-µm-thick wall frequently surrounded by a clear halo, contained flocculant material and a deeply basophilic nucleus, and internal septae with daughter cells (endospores) consistent with endosporulation. Ultrastructurally, algal cells/endospores at different stages of development were found within parasitophorous vacuoles in macrophages. Prototheca zopfii genotype 1 was identified by molecular testing, confirming the etiologic diagnosis of protothecosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline S Silveira
- Instituto Nacional de Investigación Agropecuaria (INIA), Ruta No. 50, km 11, La Estanzuela, Colonia, 70006, Uruguay
| | | | - M Kelly Keating
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | - Aníbal G Armién
- Veterinary Population Medicine Department, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, MN, USA
| | | | - Franklin Riet-Correa
- Instituto Nacional de Investigación Agropecuaria (INIA), Ruta No. 50, km 11, La Estanzuela, Colonia, 70006, Uruguay
| | - Federico Giannitti
- Instituto Nacional de Investigación Agropecuaria (INIA), Ruta No. 50, km 11, La Estanzuela, Colonia, 70006, Uruguay. .,Veterinary Population Medicine Department, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, MN, USA.
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24
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DISSEMINATED PROTOTHECOSIS IN A RUWENZORI LONG-HAIRED FRUIT BAT ( ROUSETTUS LANOSUS). J Zoo Wildl Med 2018; 48:1260-1263. [PMID: 29297807 DOI: 10.1638/2017-0070r.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
An adult male Ruwenzori long-haired fruit bat ( Rousettus lanosus) presented for lethargy and unthriftiness. Physical examination revealed cranial alopecia, mandibular ulceration, and dehydration. Supportive care and antibiotic therapy were initiated. The bat was found dead 3 days after presentation. Necropsy revealed alopecia on the head and body, exposed dried bone on the rostral tip of the mandible, and excessive clear pleural fluid. Lungs were congested and contained miliary white foci disseminated randomly throughout the parenchyma. Subcutaneous, intra-thoracic, and intra-abdominal adipose depots were minimal. Histologic examination of skin and lung revealed the presence of algal-like organisms morphologically consistent with Prototheca spp. Polymerase chain reaction amplification revealed >99% sequence identity match with Prototheca zopfii. Protothecosis has been previously reported in a single bat, Lyle's flying fox ( Pteropus lylei), in Switzerland, but definitive protothecal speciation was not possible.
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Jagielski T, Dyląg M, Roesler U, Murugaiyan J. Isolation of infectious microalga Prototheca wickerhamii from a carp (Cyprinus carpio) - a first confirmed case report of protothecosis in a fish. JOURNAL OF FISH DISEASES 2017; 40:1417-1421. [PMID: 28300290 DOI: 10.1111/jfd.12614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2016] [Accepted: 01/06/2017] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Protothecosis is a rare infection caused by environmentally ubiquitous achlorophyllic microalgae of the genus Prototheca. Here, we describe a first case of protothecosis in a carp (Cyprinus carpio), which is at the same time the first case of protothecosis in a fish, confirmed by phenotype- and molecular-based methods, including PCR sequencing of the rDNA cluster and protein profiling using matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Jagielski
- Department of Applied Microbiology, Institute of Microbiology, Faculty of Biology, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - M Dyląg
- Department of Genetics, Institute of Genetics and Microbiology, University of Wrocław, Wrocław, Poland
| | - U Roesler
- Institute of Animal Hygiene and Environmental Health, Centre for Infectious Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - J Murugaiyan
- Institute of Animal Hygiene and Environmental Health, Centre for Infectious Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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Jagielski T, Bakuła Z, Di Mauro S, Casciari C, Cambiotti V, Krukowski H, Turchetti B, Ricchi M, Manuali E, Buzzini P. A comparative study of the in vitro activity of iodopropynyl butylcarbamate and amphotericin B against Prototheca spp. isolates from European dairy herds. J Dairy Sci 2017; 100:7435-7445. [DOI: 10.3168/jds.2017-12597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2017] [Accepted: 05/24/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Abstract
Human protothecosis is mainly a cutaneous infection caused by the Prototheca species. Prototheca wickerhamii is an established pathogen of eosinophilic meningoencephalitis in dogs, but no eosinophilic pleocytosis of the cerebrospinal fluid has been reported in human cases of meningitis. Herein, we report a case of chronic protothecosis manifesting eosinophilic meningoencephalitis in an immunocompetent boy.
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An Intractable Case of Prototheca Keratitis and Chronic Endophthalmitis in Stevens-Johnson Syndrome With Boston Type 1 Keratoprosthesis. Cornea 2017; 35:1257-60. [PMID: 27442317 DOI: 10.1097/ico.0000000000000949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To report a case of recalcitrant Prototheca spp. keratitis and endophthalmitis in a patient with Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and Boston type 1 keratoprosthesis (B1 KPro). METHODS Case report. RESULTS A 67-year-old female with a history of SJS with chronic severe ocular surface disease in her monocular left eye underwent placement of a B1 KPro. Her course was subsequently complicated by persistent Prototheca spp. keratitis and endophthalmitis requiring ongoing treatment with triazole and polyene antifungal agents and multiple surgical revisions of her keratoprosthesis. CONCLUSIONS Protothecosis is an algal infection that is rarely pathologic in humans, but when present can be difficult to manage. We present the second known case of persistent chronic Prototheca spp. keratitis and endophthalmitis in a patient with long-standing SJS and B1 KPro.
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Enders B, Olby N, Mariani CL. Use of posaconazole for treatment of disseminated protothecosis in a dog. VETERINARY RECORD CASE REPORTS 2017. [DOI: 10.1136/vetreccr-2016-000350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Brittany Enders
- Department of Clinical SciencesNCSU College of Veterinary MedicineRaleighNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Natasha Olby
- Department of Clinical SciencesNCSU College of Veterinary MedicineRaleighNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Christopher L Mariani
- Department of Clinical SciencesNCSU College of Veterinary MedicineRaleighNorth CarolinaUSA
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Kessell AE, McNair D, Munday JS, Savory R, Halliday C, Malik R. Successful treatment of multifocal pedal Prototheca wickerhamii infection in a feline immunodeficiency virus-positive cat with multiple Bowenoid in situ carcinomas containing papillomaviral DNA sequences. JFMS Open Rep 2017; 3:2055116916688590. [PMID: 28491447 PMCID: PMC5415299 DOI: 10.1177/2055116916688590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
CASE SUMMARY A 16-year-old, castrated male, feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV)-positive, domestic shorthair cat developed multiple skin lesions. Most of these were Bowenoid carcinoma in situ and contained DNA sequences consistent with Felis catus papillomavirus type 2. Two additional lesions that developed in the skin and subcutaneous tissues between the digital and carpal pads on the left forelimb and right hindlimb were shown by cytology, histology and culture to be caused by Prototheca wickerhamii. These lesions failed to improve in response to systemic therapy treatment with itraconazole, but excision by sharp en bloc resection with follow-up oral itraconazole therapy proved curative for one lesion, although the other lesion recurred, necessitating a second surgery. RELEVANCE AND NOVEL INFORMATION This is only the second reported case of feline protothecosis from Australia and the first case that has been cultured and identified to the species level. Also of great interest was the presence of multiple papillomavirus-associated neoplastic lesions, which may have afforded a portal of entry for the algal pathogen and the cat's positive FIV status; the latter might have impacted on both viral and algal pathogenesis by effects on immunocompetence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allan E Kessell
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Australia
| | - Derek McNair
- The Parade Norwood Veterinary Clinic, Norwood, Australia
| | - John S Munday
- Institute of Veterinary, Animal and Biomedical Sciences, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand, Australia
| | - Richard Savory
- Adelaide Veterinary Surgical Services, Lower Mitcham, Australia
| | - Catriona Halliday
- Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Laboratory Services, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, Australia
| | - Richard Malik
- Centre for Veterinary Education, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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Label-Free Quantitative Proteomic Analysis of Harmless and Pathogenic Strains of Infectious Microalgae, Prototheca spp. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 18:ijms18010059. [PMID: 28036087 PMCID: PMC5297694 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18010059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2016] [Revised: 12/16/2016] [Accepted: 12/23/2016] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Microalgae of the genus Prototheca (P.) spp are associated with rare algal infections of invertebrates termed protothecosis. Among the seven generally accepted species, P. zopfii genotype 2 (GT2) is associated with a severe form of bovine mastitis while P. blaschkeae causes the mild and sub-clinical form of mastitis. The reason behind the infectious nature of P. zopfii GT2, while genotype 1 (GT1) remains non-infectious, is not known. Therefore, in the present study we investigated the protein expression level difference between the genotypes of P. zopfii and P. blaschkeae. Cells were cultured to the mid-exponential phase, harvested, and processed for LC-MS analysis. Peptide data was acquired on an LTQ Orbitrap Velos, raw spectra were quantitatively analyzed with MaxQuant software and matching with the reference database of Chlorella variabilis and Auxenochlorella protothecoides resulted in the identification of 226 proteins. Comparison of an environmental strain with infectious strains resulted in the identification of 51 differentially expressed proteins related to carbohydrate metabolism, energy production and protein translation. The expression level of Hsp70 proteins and their role in the infectious process is worth further investigation. All mass spectrometry data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD005305.
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Evidence of a Prototheca Zopfii Genotype 2 Disseminated Infection in a Dog with Cutaneous Lesions. Mycopathologia 2016; 182:603-608. [PMID: 28025757 DOI: 10.1007/s11046-016-0108-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2016] [Accepted: 12/20/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Protothecosis is a disease caused by saprophyte aerobic unicellular algae belonging to the genus Prototheca. In dogs, it mainly occurs as a disseminated form, with initial clinical manifestations often referable to the gastrointestinal tract, followed by typical ocular and neurological signs. So far, Prototheca zopfii genotype 2 infection has been reported in severe forms of disseminated protothecosis, while in dogs has never been associated with cutaneous forms. In this study, we describe a case of Prototheca zopfii genotype 2 infection in a dog characterized by nodular and ulcerative dermatitis and with evidence of dissemination. In December 2015, a 5-year-old unneutered male English Setter dog was presented with a 4-month history of footpads ulcerations and multifocal nodular lesions (3-5 cm diameter) on both front limbs. Cytological examination of the aspirated fluid collected from all nodules revealed the presence of sporangic forms compatible with Prototheca spp. organisms. Suspected Prototheca spp. colonies were isolated from the aspirated fluid and identified as Prototheca zopfii genotype 2 by molecular methods. Few days after the visit, the patient developed serious neurological and ocular signs, and the owners elected humane euthanasia. To the authors' knowledge, this case could represent the first report of a disseminated Prototheca zopfii genotype 2 infection associated with cutaneous lesions in a dog. This study underlines the importance of considering Prototheca zopfii genotype 2 infection in the differential etiological diagnosis of nodular and ulcerative dermatitis in dogs.
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Masuda M, Hirose N, Ishikawa T, Ikawa Y, Nishimura K. Prototheca miyajii sp. nov., isolated from a patient with systemic protothecosis. Int J Syst Evol Microbiol 2016; 66:1510-1520. [DOI: 10.1099/ijsem.0.000911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Michiaki Masuda
- Department of Microbiology, Dokkyo Medical University School of Medicine, Tochigi 321-0293, Japan
| | - Noriyuki Hirose
- Department of Microbiology, Dokkyo Medical University School of Medicine, Tochigi 321-0293, Japan
- BD Japan, Co., Ltd, Tokyo 107-0052, Japan
| | - Tomohiro Ishikawa
- Department of Microbiology, Dokkyo Medical University School of Medicine, Tochigi 321-0293, Japan
| | - Yoshiya Ikawa
- Laboratory of Biofunctional Chemistry, Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science and Engineering, University of Toyama, Toyama 930-8555, Japan
| | - Kazuko Nishimura
- Department of Microbiology, Dokkyo Medical University School of Medicine, Tochigi 321-0293, Japan
- First Laboratories, Co. Ltd, Kanagawa 211-0013, Japan
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Cutaneous Disease as Sole Clinical Manifestation of Protothecosis in a Boxer Dog. Case Rep Vet Med 2016; 2016:2878751. [PMID: 29955414 PMCID: PMC6005278 DOI: 10.1155/2016/2878751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2015] [Revised: 01/31/2016] [Accepted: 02/02/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Prototheca wickerhamii is ubiquitous, saprophytic achlorophyllous algae that cause opportunistic infections in the dog and cat and disseminated disease usually in immunocompromised animals. In this report an uncommon case of canine cutaneous protothecosis is presented. A 6-year-old female boxer was brought in with skin lesions that consisted of nodules and generalized footpad hyperkeratosis, depigmentation, and erosion. Cytology and histopathology showed pyogranulomatous inflammation along with organisms containing round sporangia with spherical sporangiospores. PCR and sequencing identified the causal organism as Prototheca wickerhamii. Therapy applied in this patient with either fluconazole alone or combination of amphotericin B and itraconazole proved effective only for footpad lesions but not for skin nodules. Systemic therapy seems to be ineffective for skin nodules, at least in chronic cases of canine cutaneous protothecosis. Although canine protothecosis usually presents with the disseminated form, cutaneous disease as sole clinical manifestation of the infection may also be witnessed.
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35
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Irrgang A, Murugaiyan J, Weise C, Azab W, Roesler U. Well-known surface and extracellular antigens of pathogenic microorganisms among the immunodominant proteins of the infectious microalgae Prototheca zopfii. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2015; 5:67. [PMID: 26484314 PMCID: PMC4586511 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2015.00067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2015] [Accepted: 09/11/2015] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Microalgae of the genus Prototheca (P.) are associated with rare but severe infections (protothecosis) and represent a potential zoonotic risk. Genotype (GT) 2 of P. zopfii has been established as pathogenic agent for humans, dogs, and cattle, whereas GT1 is considered to be non-pathogenic. Since pathogenesis is poorly understood, the aim of this study was to determine immunogenic proteins and potential virulence factors of P. zopfii GT2. Therefore, 2D western blot analyses with sera and isolates of two dogs naturally infected with P. zopfii GT2 have been performed. Cross-reactivity was determined by including the type strains of P. zopfii GT2, P. zopfii GT1, and P. blaschkeae, a close relative of P. zopfii, which is known to cause subclinical forms of bovine mastitis. The sera showed a high strain-, genotype-, and species-cross-reactivity. A total of 198 immunogenic proteins have been analyzed via MALDI-TOF MS. The majority of the 86 identified proteins are intracellularly located (e.g., malate dehydrogenase, oxidoreductase, 3-dehydroquinate synthase) but some antigens and potential virulence factors, known from other pathogens, have been found (e.g., phosphomannomutase, triosephosphate isomerase). One genotype-specific antigen could be identified as heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70), a well-known antigen of eukaryotic pathogens with immunological importance when located extracellularly. Both sera were reactive to glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate-dehydrogenase of all investigated strains. This house-keeping enzyme is found to be located on the surface of several pathogens as virulence factor. Flow-cytometric analysis revealed its presence on the surface of P. blaschkeae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Irrgang
- Institute of Animal Hygiene and Environmental Health, Centre for Infection Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin Berlin, Germany
| | - Jayaseelan Murugaiyan
- Institute of Animal Hygiene and Environmental Health, Centre for Infection Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin Berlin, Germany
| | - Christoph Weise
- Institute for Chemistry and Biochemistry, Freie Universität Berlin Berlin, Germany
| | - Walid Azab
- Institute of Virology, Centre for Infection Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin Berlin, Germany
| | - Uwe Roesler
- Institute of Animal Hygiene and Environmental Health, Centre for Infection Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin Berlin, Germany
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Telle MR, Betbeze C. Hyphema: Considerations in the Small Animal Patient. Top Companion Anim Med 2015; 30:97-106. [PMID: 26494501 PMCID: PMC7173179 DOI: 10.1053/j.tcam.2015.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2015] [Accepted: 07/03/2015] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Classification, diagnosis, and treatment of hemorrhage into the anterior chamber of the eye, or hyphema, can be a challenging and frustrating process for many practitioners, especially in emergency situations. This review outlines an inclusive list of causes, diagnostics, and treatments for traumatic and nontraumatic hyphema in both canine and feline patients. The review is tailored to small animal practitioners, especially in emergency practice, and is designed to provide concise but thorough descriptions on investigating underlying causes of hyphema and treating accordingly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Rebecca Telle
- Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tennessee Veterinary Medical Center, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | - Caroline Betbeze
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS, USA.
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Prototheca zopfii Genotype 2-induced Nasal Dermatitis in a Cat. J Comp Pathol 2015; 152:287-90. [PMID: 25814431 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcpa.2015.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2014] [Revised: 01/29/2015] [Accepted: 02/03/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Few published cases of feline protothecosis exist; all of these were restricted to the skin and speciation of the causative organism revealed an infection with Prototheca wickerhamii in each case. This report describes Prototheca zopfii genotype 2-induced inflammation of the nasal skin and cutaneous mucosa of the right nostril in a 14-year-old neutered female domestic shorthair cat. Microscopical examination revealed marked pyogranulomatous inflammation with numerous intralesional algae. These had a round to ovoid shape, were 8-21 μm in diameter, formed endospores and displayed a positive immunoreaction for Prototheca zopfii antigen. By 18S rRNA gene amplification and sequencing the intralesional algae were confirmed as Prototheca zopfii and further characterized as Prototheca zopfii genotype 2. This case report reveals Prototheca zopfii as an additional Prototheca species associated with feline protothecosis.
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Tangeman L, Davignon D, Patel R, Littman M. Abdominal Cryptococcosis in Two Dogs: Diagnosis and Medical Management. J Am Anim Hosp Assoc 2015; 51:107-13. [DOI: 10.5326/jaaha-ms-6100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Canine cryptococcosis cases are typically reported as neurologic, disseminated, or both. There have been few reports of other parenchymal organ involvement. Dogs infected with Cryptococcus spp. are likely to develop central nervous system involvement, and those that are severely affected are treated aggressively with surgery and/or amphotericin B. This report describes two cases of canine abdominal cryptococcosis: one boxer with primary alimentary cryptococcosis alone and one miniature schnauzer with pancreatic and disseminated cryptococcosis. The boxer is unique in that the dog suffered from primary alimentary cryptococcosis without dissemination, secondary anemia due to gastrointestinal losses, and is the second case to have Cryptococcus spp. identified on fecal examination as part of the diagnostic workup. Unlike previous reports, surgery was not performed in either case, and both dogs were treated with fluconazole alone. Currently, both dogs are free from clinical signs, and Cryptococcus spp. antigen titers are negative at 17 and 15 mo after initial presentation. These cases suggest fluconazole may be effective therapy alone for canine abdominal cryptococcosis, negating the need for high-risk therapy options such as surgery and/or amphotericin B in some cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay Tangeman
- L. Tangeman's updated credentials since acceptence are DVM, DACVIM
| | - Danielle Davignon
- D. Davignon's present affiliation is Cornell University Hospital for Animals, Ithaca, NY
| | - Reema Patel
- From the Department of Pathobiology (R.P.) and Department of Clinical Studies (M.L.), University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA (L.T.); and Angell Animal Medical Center (D.D.)
| | - Meryl Littman
- From the Department of Pathobiology (R.P.) and Department of Clinical Studies (M.L.), University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA (L.T.); and Angell Animal Medical Center (D.D.)
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39
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Milley CD, Labelle P, Tolar E, Griffin J, Reeder C. Prototheca wickerhamii
in a dog with cutaneous, ocular and systemic manifestations and treatment with terbinafine. VETERINARY RECORD CASE REPORTS 2015. [DOI: 10.1136/vetreccr-2015-000225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Erica Tolar
- Department of OphthalmologyBlue Pearl Veterinary PartnersLouisvilleKentuckyUSA
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40
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Shank AMM, Dubielzig RD, Teixeira LBC. Canine ocular protothecosis: A review of 14 cases. Vet Ophthalmol 2014; 18:437-42. [PMID: 25515728 DOI: 10.1111/vop.12239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To examine a series of 14 cases of canine ocular protothecosis from archived cases from the Comparative Ocular Pathology Laboratory of Wisconsin (COPLOW), and compare gross and histologic findings. METHODS Archival records from COPLOW were searched for canine cases of ocular protothecosis. Fourteen cases that contained matching criteria were identified, and gross and histologic findings, and clinical records for each case were tabulated, examined, and compared (2001-2013). RESULTS Of the 14 cases identified, six had evidence of systemic disease, as per clinical history. Two of the 14 cases had Prototheca identified via cytology of ocular fluid or retinal exudate; in the remainder of cases, Prototheca identified via cytology of ocular fluid or retinal exudate in the remaining 12 cases, Prototheca was identified upon histologic examination of the submitted globe(s). Presenting ocular clinical signs were variable and nonspecific. Duration of ocular clinical signs varied from days to months. Fundoscopically, white membranes or plaques were identified on or around the retina in five cases. Retinal detachment was identified in 13 of the 14 submitted globes on gross examination following fixation and sectioning. The predominant histologic finding was granulomatous chorioretinitis with retinal detachment, with variable numbers of Prototheca within the inflammatory infiltrate. CONCLUSIONS Due to the nonspecific nature of the ocular signs, a diagnosis of protothecosis generally is not made until enucleation and histopathologic examination of the globe(s). Retinal detachment and blindness were common. Cytologic sampling of retinal plaques and exudate may provide a rapid way to identify Prototheca.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alba Maria M Shank
- IDEXX Laboratories, Inc., 3 Centennial Drive, North Grafton, MA, 508-887-7956, USA
| | - Richard D Dubielzig
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin, 2015 Linden Drive, Madison, WI, 53706, USA
| | - Leandro B C Teixeira
- Comparative Ocular Pathology Laboratory of Wisconsin, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 2015 Linden Drive, Madison, WI, 53706, USA
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Manino PM, Oliveira F, Ficken M, Swinford A, Burney D. Disseminated Protothecosis Associated With Diskospondylitis in a Dog. J Am Anim Hosp Assoc 2014; 50:429-35. [DOI: 10.5326/jaaha-ms-6083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
A 6 yr old female Labrador retriever was evaluated for an acute onset of difficulty walking and a head tilt. Initial physical examination revealed bilateral retinal detachment, a left-sided head tilt, positional rotary nystagmus, and lumbar hyperpathia. Pertinent preliminary diagnostic findings included systemic hypertension, bony lysis and adjacent sclerosis of the vertebral endplates of the first and second lumbar vertebrae, and positive urine and blood cultures for a yeast identified as Candida spp. Concerned about disseminated candidiasis after subsequent subretinal aspirates confirmed the presence of a yeast-like organism, therapy with voriconazole was initiated. Because of progressive clinical deterioration and the poor prognosis for recovery, the dog was eventually euthanized. Postmortem histological examination of tissues, including the affected vertebral endplates, revealed numerous intralesional algae compatible with Prototheca spp. To the authors' knowledge, this report is the first to document a case of protothecal diskospondylitis with possible concurrent candidiasis in a dog. Although typically associated with signs referable to the gastrointestinal tract, this report underscores the importance of not excluding protothecosis as a differential diagnosis when such signs are absent. Lastly, the use of voriconazole appears ineffective for reversing the clinical course of late-stage disseminated protothecosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul M. Manino
- Texas Gulf Coast Veterinary Specialists, Houston, TX (P.M.); Texas Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory, College Station, TX (F.O., M.F., A.S.); and Veterinary Specialist of North Texas, Dallas, TX (D.B.)
| | - Fabiano Oliveira
- Texas Gulf Coast Veterinary Specialists, Houston, TX (P.M.); Texas Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory, College Station, TX (F.O., M.F., A.S.); and Veterinary Specialist of North Texas, Dallas, TX (D.B.)
| | - Martin Ficken
- Texas Gulf Coast Veterinary Specialists, Houston, TX (P.M.); Texas Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory, College Station, TX (F.O., M.F., A.S.); and Veterinary Specialist of North Texas, Dallas, TX (D.B.)
| | - Amy Swinford
- Texas Gulf Coast Veterinary Specialists, Houston, TX (P.M.); Texas Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory, College Station, TX (F.O., M.F., A.S.); and Veterinary Specialist of North Texas, Dallas, TX (D.B.)
| | - Derek Burney
- Texas Gulf Coast Veterinary Specialists, Houston, TX (P.M.); Texas Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory, College Station, TX (F.O., M.F., A.S.); and Veterinary Specialist of North Texas, Dallas, TX (D.B.)
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Beribè F, Miglio A, Cassarani MP, Magi G, Passamonti F, Laus F, Cerquetella M, Spaterna A. What is your diagnosis? Systemic lymphadenopathy and blindness in a dog from Italy. Vet Clin Pathol 2014; 43:605-6. [DOI: 10.1111/vcp.12189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Beribè
- School of Veterinary Medical Science; University of Camerino; Camerino Italy
| | - Arianna Miglio
- Department of Veterinary Medicine; University of Perugia; Perugia Italy
| | | | - Gianenrico Magi
- School of Veterinary Medical Science; University of Camerino; Camerino Italy
| | | | - Fulvio Laus
- School of Veterinary Medical Science; University of Camerino; Camerino Italy
| | - Matteo Cerquetella
- School of Veterinary Medical Science; University of Camerino; Camerino Italy
| | - Andrea Spaterna
- School of Veterinary Medical Science; University of Camerino; Camerino Italy
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43
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Font C, Mascort J, Márquez M, Esteban C, Sánchez D, Durall N, Pumarola M, Luján A. Paraparesis as initial manifestation of a Prototheca zopfii infection in a dog. J Small Anim Pract 2014; 55:283-6. [PMID: 24502403 DOI: 10.1111/jsap.12188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
A case of protothecosis causing non-ambulatory paraparesis in a dog without clinical evidence of disseminated infection is described. A five-year-old female Labrador retriever was referred with a 10-day history of progressive non-ambulatory paraparesis and lumbar pain as the only physical and neurological abnormalities. Lumbar myelography revealed severe extradural spinal cord compression extending from L4 to L7 vertebrae, and a right hemilaminectomy was performed. Surgical findings included an adherent whitish hard ill-defined mass. Cytology and biopsy results disclosed the presence of algae enclosed in a matrix of chronic inflammatory infiltrate. Culture confirmed the presence of Prototheca species. Neurological improvement occurred within a month, and the dog received antifungal treatment without evidence of clinical disseminated disease for 6 months, but died after a generalised tonic-clonic seizure. Post-mortem examination revealed multiple foci of inflammatory granulomatous infiltrate and algae-like structures in the brain, lumbar intumescence and cauda equina. Prototheca zopfii was identified using molecular biology methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Font
- Hospital ARS Veterinaria, Cardedeu 3, 08023, Barcelona, Spain
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Hirose N, Nishimura K, Inoue-Sakamoto M, Masuda M. Ribosomal internal transcribed spacer of Prototheca wickerhamii has characteristic structure useful for identification and genotyping. PLoS One 2013; 8:e81223. [PMID: 24312279 PMCID: PMC3842318 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0081223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2013] [Accepted: 10/09/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Prototheca species are achlorophyllous algae ubiquitous in nature and known to cause localized and systemic infection both in humans and animals. Although identification of the Prototheca species in clinical specimens is a challenge, there are an increasing number of cases in which molecular techniques have successfully been used for diagnosis of protothecosis. In this study, we characterized nuclear ribosomal DNA (rDNA) of a strain of Prototheca (FL11-0001) isolated from a dermatitis patient in Japan for its species identification. When nuclear rDNA of FL11-0001 and that of various other Prototheca strains were compared by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), the results indicated that the sizes of ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS) were different in a species-dependent manner, suggesting that the variation might be useful for differentiation of Prototheca spp. Especially, ITS of P. wickerhamii, the most common cause of human protothecosis, was distinctively larger than that of other Prototheca spp. FL11-0001, whose ITS was comparably large, could easily be identified as P. wickerhamii. The usefulness of the PCR analysis of ITS was also demonstrated by the discovery that one of the clinical isolates that had previously been designated as P. wickerhamii was likely a novel species. Furthermore, our data demonstrated that nucleotide sequences of P. wickerhamii ITS are heterogenous between different rDNA copies in each strain and also polymorphic between strains. Phylogenetic analysis suggested that the ITS sequences could be classified to four clades, based on which P. wickerhamii strains might be grouped into at least two genotypes. Comprehensive characterization of Prototheca rDNA may provide valuable insights into diagnosis and epidemiology of protothecosis, as well as evolution and taxonomy of Prototheca and related organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noriyuki Hirose
- Department of Microbiology, Dokkyo Medical University School of Medicine, Tochigi, Japan
- Fukushima Plant, BD Japan, Co., Ltd., Fukushima, Japan
| | - Kazuko Nishimura
- Department of Microbiology, Dokkyo Medical University School of Medicine, Tochigi, Japan
- First Laboratories, Co. Ltd., Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Maki Inoue-Sakamoto
- Dermatology Division, Amakusa Chuo General Hospital, Kumamoto, Japan
- Department of Dermatology and Plastic Surgery, Faculty of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Michiaki Masuda
- Department of Microbiology, Dokkyo Medical University School of Medicine, Tochigi, Japan
- * E-mail:
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Abstract
A 6-year-old Boxer was examined because of progressive neurologic signs, with severe hindlimb ataxia and head tilt on presentation. There was no history of diarrhea or vomiting. MRI of the brain revealed multifocal ill-defined T1-enhancing lesions affecting the cerebrum, brainstem, and cervical meninges, without associated mass effect. Meningoencephalitis was considered the most likely diagnosis. Multiple algae were observed on the cytology of the CSF and were most consistent withProtothecaspp. Antiprotozoal treatment was denied by the owners, and 5 weeks after diagnosis, the dog was euthanized due to progression of the neurologic deficits, and a necropsy was performed. Histological changes in the brain were compatible with severe multifocal protothecal meningoencephalitis. The specificProtothecaspecies was not identified. The gastrointestinal tract was unremarkable on histology. According to this report,Protothecaspp. should be included in the differentials for neurological deficits even in the absence of gastrointestinal signs.
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Manchester AC, Hill S, Sabatino B, Armentano R, Carroll M, Kessler B, Miller M, Dogan B, McDonough SP, Simpson KW. Association between granulomatous colitis in French Bulldogs and invasive Escherichia coli and response to fluoroquinolone antimicrobials. J Vet Intern Med 2012. [PMID: 23206120 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.12020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND French Bulldogs develop a form of granulomatous colitis (GC) with histopathological resemblance to GC of Boxer dogs (GCB). GCB is associated with mucosally invasive Escherichia coli whose eradication correlates with clinical remission. HYPOTHESIS/OBJECTIVES To characterize the clinical and histopathological features, presence or absence of invasive colonic bacteria, and response to fluoroquinolones in French Bulldogs with GC. ANIMALS A total of 6 French Bulldogs with a histological diagnosis of GC. METHODS Retrospective study of medical records. Bacterial colonization was evaluated using 16S rRNA probes for eubacteria and E. coli. Biopsy specimens from 3 dogs were cultured for bacteria. Clinical response to fluoroquinolone antimicrobials was determined. RESULTS All dogs were ≤1 year of age with hematochezia that was refractory to empirical therapy. Clinicopathologic and fecal analysis did not reveal abnormalities. Abdominal ultrasound revealed patchy thickening of the colon in 4/5 dogs and regional lymphadenopathy in 5/5. Colonoscopic abnormalities included irregularly thickened and ulcerated mucosa, hyperemia, and overt bleeding in 4/6 cases. Multifocal accumulations of PAS-positive macrophages and intramucosal E. coli were present in colonic biopsies of all 6 dogs. Administration of enrofloxacin (5/6) or marbofloxacin (1/6) at 4.4-10 mg/kg (median 10 mg/kg) PO q24h for 6-10 weeks was associated with clinical improvement within 5-14 days. All dogs remained in remission over a 3-30 month follow-up period. CONCLUSIONS Granulomatous colitis in young French Bulldogs is associated with the presence of invasive E. coli and closely parallels GCB. Treatment with fluoroquinolone antimicrobials can induce lasting clinical remission.
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Affiliation(s)
- A C Manchester
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA.
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von Bergen M, Eidner A, Schmidt F, Murugaiyan J, Wirth H, Binder H, Maier T, Roesler U. Identification of harmless and pathogenic algae of the genus Prototheca by MALDI-MS. Proteomics Clin Appl 2012; 3:774-84. [PMID: 21136986 DOI: 10.1002/prca.200780138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
The only plants infectious for mammals, green algae from the genus Prototheca, are often overseen or mistaken for yeast in clinical diagnosis. To improve this diagnostical gap, a method was developed for fast and reliable identification of Prototheca. A collection of all currently recognized Prototheca species, most represented by several strains, were submitted to a simple extraction by 70% formic acid and ACN; the extracts were analyzed by means of MALDI-MS. Most of the peaks were found in the range from 4 to 20 kDa and showed a high reproducibility, not in absolute intensities, but in their peak pattern. The selection of measured peaks is mostly due to the technique of ionization in MALDI-MS, because proteins in the range up to 200 kDa were detected using gel electrophoresis. Some of the proteins were identified by peptide mass fingerprinting and MS(2) analysis and turned out to be ribosomal proteins or other highly abundant proteins such as ubiquitin. For the preparation of a heatmap, the intensities of the peaks were plotted and a cluster analysis was performed. From the peak-lists, a principal component analysis was conducted and a dendrogram was built. This dendrogram, based on MALDI spectra, was in fairly good agreement with a dendrogram based on sequence information from 18S DNA. As a result, pathogenic and nonpathogenic species from the genus Prototheca can be identified, with possible consequences for clinical diagnostics by MALDI-typing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin von Bergen
- Department of Proteomics, UFZ - Helmholtz-Centre for Environmental Research, Leipzig, Germany.
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Márquez M, Ródenas S, Molin J, Rabanal RM, Fondevila D, Añor S, Pumarola M. Protothecal pyogranulomatous meningoencephalitis in a dog without evidence of disseminated infection. Vet Rec 2012; 171:100. [DOI: 10.1136/vr.100661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- M. Márquez
- Banc de Teixits Animals de Catalunya (BTAC); Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona; 08193 Bellaterra (Cerdanyola del Vallès) Barcelona Spain
| | - S. Ródenas
- Banc de Teixits Animals de Catalunya (BTAC); Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona; 08193 Bellaterra (Cerdanyola del Vallès) Barcelona Spain
| | - J. Molin
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals; Facultat de Veterinària; Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona; 08193 Bellaterra (Cerdanyola del Vallès) Barcelona Spain
| | - R. M. Rabanal
- Centre de Biotecnologia Animal i Teràpia (CBATEG); Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona; 08193 Bellaterra (Cerdanyola del Vallès) Barcelona Spain
| | - D. Fondevila
- Centre de Biotecnologia Animal i Teràpia (CBATEG); Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona; 08193 Bellaterra (Cerdanyola del Vallès) Barcelona Spain
| | - S. Añor
- Banc de Teixits Animals de Catalunya (BTAC); Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona; 08193 Bellaterra (Cerdanyola del Vallès) Barcelona Spain
| | - M. Pumarola
- Banc de Teixits Animals de Catalunya (BTAC); Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona; 08193 Bellaterra (Cerdanyola del Vallès) Barcelona Spain
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Young M, Bush W, Sanchez M, Gavin P, Williams M. Serial MRI and CSF analysis in a dog treated with intrathecal amphotericin B for protothecosis. J Am Anim Hosp Assoc 2012; 48:125-31. [PMID: 22267176 DOI: 10.5326/jaaha-ms-5701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
A 3 yr old female spayed English setter mixed-breed dog presented with diarrhea, weight loss, side stepping to the right, and a right head tilt. Rectal and cerebrospinal fluid cytology and culture confirmed a diagnosis of Prototheca zopfii. MRI of the brain showed inflammation of the brain and meninges, ventriculomegaly, and syringomyelia. Treatment with prednisone, itraconazole, and amphotericin B lipid complex administered intrathecally yielded transient improvement. Progressive brainstem signs were noted, and a repeat MRI and cerebrospinal fluid analysis documented persistent disease. This is the first description of the MRI findings and treatment with intrathecal amphoteracin B lipid complex for protothecosis of the central nervous system. Protothecosis should be considered in dogs with chronic diarrhea and compatible MRI findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Young
- Bush Veterinary Neurology Service, Leesburg, VA, USA.
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