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Fonti N, Parisi F, Mancianti F, Freer G, Poli A. Cancerogenic parasites in veterinary medicine: a narrative literature review. Infect Agent Cancer 2023; 18:45. [PMID: 37496079 PMCID: PMC10373346 DOI: 10.1186/s13027-023-00522-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Parasite infection is one of the many environmental factors that can significantly contribute to carcinogenesis and is already known to be associated with a variety of malignancies in both human and veterinary medicine. However, the actual number of cancerogenic parasites and their relationship to tumor development is far from being fully understood, especially in veterinary medicine. Thus, the aim of this review is to investigate parasite-related cancers in domestic and wild animals and their burden in veterinary oncology. Spontaneous neoplasia with ascertained or putative parasite etiology in domestic and wild animals will be reviewed, and the multifarious mechanisms of protozoan and metazoan cancer induction will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niccolò Fonti
- Dipartimento di Scienze veterinarie, Università di Pisa, Viale delle Piagge, 2, 56124, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Francesca Parisi
- Dipartimento di Scienze veterinarie, Università di Pisa, Viale delle Piagge, 2, 56124, Pisa, Italy
| | - Francesca Mancianti
- Dipartimento di Scienze veterinarie, Università di Pisa, Viale delle Piagge, 2, 56124, Pisa, Italy
| | - Giulia Freer
- Dipartimento di Ricerca Traslazionale e delle Nuove Tecnologie in Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Pisa, Via Savi, 10, 56126, Pisa, Italy
| | - Alessandro Poli
- Dipartimento di Scienze veterinarie, Università di Pisa, Viale delle Piagge, 2, 56124, Pisa, Italy
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Asiag N, Chai O, Yodovner S, Ruggeri M, Rapaport K, Baneth G, Nachum-Biala Y, Konstantin L, Rojas A, Brenner O, Bruchim Y, Shamir MH. Evaluation of a treatment protocol in dogs with intraspinal spirocercosis. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2022; 261:384-390. [PMID: 36476412 DOI: 10.2460/javma.22.09.0401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the efficiency and safety of a doramectin-based treatment protocol in dogs affected by intraspinal spirocercosis (Spirocerca lupi). ANIMALS Client-owned dogs that were admitted to a veterinary hospital during 2021 to 2022 with acute onset of neurological signs and diagnosed with intraspinal spirocercosis. All dogs underwent complete neurological evaluation, CSF analysis, PCR confirmation of CNS S lupi infection, and follow-up evaluation of at least 6 months. PROCEDURES Upon diagnosis, dogs were treated with doramectin at a dose of 400 μg/kg, SC, q 24 h for 3 consecutive days, followed by the same dose once a week for 6 weeks. Prednisone was administered at a dose of 1 mg/kg, PO, q 24 h and tapered every 3 days. Antimicrobial clindamycin was administered at a dose of 12.5 mg/kg, PO, q 12 h for 7 days to reduce the risk of secondary spinal cord infection. Short- and long-term outcomes (1 week to 56 months) were recorded. RESULTS 8 dogs fulfilled the inclusion criteria, 7 of which presented with neurological deficits and 1 with cervical pain. Initiation of treatment was associated with stopping the deterioration in 7 of 8 dogs. Seven dogs improved and 6 recovered ambulation. One dog was euthanized due to lack of improvement. Six of the recovered dogs were still ataxic on the last follow-up examination at 6 to 56 months. No adverse effects of the drug were noted. CLINICAL RELEVANCE Frequent administration of doramectin was found to be safe and effective in preventing neurological deterioration in dogs with intraspinal spirocercosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nimrod Asiag
- 1Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel.,2Veterinary Specialist Referral Tipul Nimratz, Ben Shemen, Israel
| | - Orit Chai
- 2Veterinary Specialist Referral Tipul Nimratz, Ben Shemen, Israel
| | - Sapir Yodovner
- 1Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Marco Ruggeri
- 1Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Kira Rapaport
- 2Veterinary Specialist Referral Tipul Nimratz, Ben Shemen, Israel
| | - Gad Baneth
- 1Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Yaarit Nachum-Biala
- 1Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Lilach Konstantin
- 1Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel
| | | | | | - Yaron Bruchim
- 2Veterinary Specialist Referral Tipul Nimratz, Ben Shemen, Israel
| | - Merav H Shamir
- 1Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel
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Porras-Silesky C, Fernández-Trejos L, Villalobos R, Montenegro VM, Rojas A. Subcutaneous spirocercosis in a dog from Costa Rica and first molecular confirmation of Spirocerca lupi in Central America. Vet Parasitol Reg Stud Reports 2022; 29:100695. [PMID: 35256122 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2022.100695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Spirocerca lupi is the etiological agent of spirocercosis in canids from tropics and subtropics in the world. This parasite can lead to life threatening complications, including the formation of fibro and osteosarcomas. A 5-year-old crossbreed Maltese dog from Costa Rica was presented to a veterinary clinic with two nodules in the subcutaneous tissues of the cervical region. One of the nodules resolved with intramuscular antibiotic and anti-inflammatory treatment. However, the other nodule persisted and became purulent. The content of the nodule was excised releasing two coiled 3-cm reddish worms. Identity of the specimens was confirmed by amplifying an 850 bp fragment of the 18S rDNA. The obtained sequence showed 99.96% similarities with S. lupi from Hungary. The present study highlights the need of veterinary clinicians' awareness towards nematode aberrant migrations, and the require of molecular studies to gain insight into the parasite's evolutionary history.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catalina Porras-Silesky
- Laboratory of Helminthology, Centro de Investigación en Enfermedades Tropicales, University of Costa Rica, San José, Costa Rica
| | | | - Randall Villalobos
- Centro Médico Veterinario Dr. Villalobos, San Ramón. Alajuela, Costa Rica
| | - Víctor M Montenegro
- Laboratory of Parasitology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Universidad Nacional, Campus Benjamín Núñez. Heredia, Costa Rica
| | - Alicia Rojas
- Laboratory of Helminthology, Centro de Investigación en Enfermedades Tropicales, University of Costa Rica, San José, Costa Rica.
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Holland M, Hudson J, Hofmeister E. An observational thoracic radiographic study of aortic remodeling in dogs with confirmed systemic hypertension. Vet Radiol Ultrasound 2022; 63:254-263. [PMID: 34989099 DOI: 10.1111/vru.13054] [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: 05/03/2021] [Revised: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Sustained systemic hypertension (SH) has been shown to cause target organ damage to various tissues in dogs and cats, including the aorta. Aortic dilatation occurs most commonly secondary to SH in people and develops prior to an aortic aneurysm. Our hypothesis was that blinded reviewers could be trained to recognize variable alterations of aortic shape and size on thoracic radiographs of canine patients with SH. A retrospective, observational, cross-sectional study was performed with three blinded reviewers evaluating thoracic radiographic images of 21 dogs with normal blood pressure compared to 145 dogs with system hypertension. Lateral radiographs showed variable aortic undulation and disproportionate enlargement of a portion of the aorta between the ascending and proximal descending aorta compared to the descending aorta just cranial to the diaphragm. On orthogonal projections, the aortic arch to proximal descending aorta bowed laterally similar to changes reported in people with the formation of an aortic "knob." After completing a training module, reviewers of the thoracic images had a 74% agreement with Fleiss' Kappa of 0.50 indicating moderate agreement recognizing SH changes to the thoracic aorta. The more experienced blinded reviewers had accuracies of 85% and 80% for identifying systemic hypertension, slightly better than the less experienced reviewer at 76%. The ratio of thoracic cavity width to aortic knob width was significantly different between the groups (median ratio 3.4 SH vs 4.1 normal). Evidence of target organ damage (TOD) to the thoracic aorta may prompt earlier recognition and treatment for systemic hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merrilee Holland
- Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn, Alabama, USA
| | - Judith Hudson
- Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn, Alabama, USA
| | - Erik Hofmeister
- Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn, Alabama, USA
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CHARACTERIZATION OF LESIONS INDUCED BY SPIROCERCA VULPIS (SPIRURIDAE: SPIROCERCIDAE) IN RED FOXES (VULPES VULPES). J Wildl Dis 2021; 58:137-147. [PMID: 34788835 DOI: 10.7589/jwd-d-20-00162] [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: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Spirocerca lupi infection in dogs (Canis domesticus) is associated with esophageal lesions that may evolve to a neoplastic stage in the form of esophageal sarcoma. In the red fox (Vulpes vulpes) infected with the closely related Spirocerca vulpis, similar lesions may occur in the stomach, but neoplastic forms have not been reported. We characterize Spirocerca vulpis-induced lesions in the fox, using pathology and immunohistochemical (IHC) techniques. Seventy-one out of 163 Spirocerca vulpis-positive red foxes were selected and subjected to histopathological study. Lesions were classified as patchy or diffuse. Ten patchy and 10 diffuse lesion samples were studied using three IHC markers (CD68, CD3, and CD79α for macrophages, T lymphocytes, and B lymphocytes, respectively) and H&E stain for neutrophils and eosinophils. Intensity of necrosis, hemorrhages, and the presence of collagen was also analyzed. Of the S. vulpis-positive red foxes, 96.9% had S. vulpis nodules localized in the gastric area (wall and/or omentum), and 3.1% had nodules in the small intestine. All the samples had a moderate to severe lymphoplasmacytic infiltrate. Mild eosinophil infiltration was observed in both types of lesions, while neutrophil infiltration was significatively higher in the patchy than in the diffuse lesions. Fibrosis with mature collagen fibers was also predominant in the patchy lesions along with the presence of T lymphocytes and macrophages. Both the patchy and diffuse patterns had very few B lymphocytes. These findings suggest that the diffuse form is an earlier stage of the lesion, which eventually evolves into patchy forms. Neoplastic forms were not seen. Although more studies are necessary, this study describes the lesions, characterizes the inflammatory infiltrates, and establishes a possible evolution of the different pathological forms of S. vulpis infection in the red fox.
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Porras-Silesky C, Mejías-Alpízar MJ, Mora J, Baneth G, Rojas A. Spirocerca lupi Proteomics and Its Role in Cancer Development: An Overview of Spirocercosis-Induced Sarcomas and Revision of Helminth-Induced Carcinomas. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10020124. [PMID: 33530324 PMCID: PMC7911836 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10020124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2020] [Revised: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Spirocerca lupi is a parasitic nematode of canids that induces a myriad of clinical manifestations in its host and, in 25% of infections, leads to the formation of sarcomas. The description of the protein composition of the excretory and secretory products (Sl-ESP) of S. lupi has shed light on its possible interactions with the host environment, including migration within the host and mechanisms of immunomodulation. Despite this, the process by which S. lupi induces cancer in the dog remains poorly understood, and some hypotheses have arisen regarding these possible mechanisms. In this review, we discuss the role of specific ESP from the carcinogenic helminths Clonorchis sinensis, Opisthorchis viverrini and Schistosoma haematobium in inducing chronic inflammation and cancer in their host’s tissues. The parasitic worms Taenia solium, Echinococcus granulosus, Heterakis gallinarum, Trichuris muris and Strongyloides stercoralis, which have less-characterized mechanisms of cancer induction, are also analyzed. Based on the pathological findings in spirocercosis and the mechanisms by which other parasitic helminths induce cancer, we propose that the sustained inflammatory response in the dog´s tissues produced in response to the release of Sl-ESP homologous to those of other carcinogenic worms may lead to the malignant process in infected dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catalina Porras-Silesky
- Laboratory of Helminthology, Centro de Investigación en Enfermedades Tropicales, University of Costa Rica, 11501-2060 San José, Costa Rica; (C.P.-S.); (M.J.M.-A.); (J.M.)
| | - María José Mejías-Alpízar
- Laboratory of Helminthology, Centro de Investigación en Enfermedades Tropicales, University of Costa Rica, 11501-2060 San José, Costa Rica; (C.P.-S.); (M.J.M.-A.); (J.M.)
| | - Javier Mora
- Laboratory of Helminthology, Centro de Investigación en Enfermedades Tropicales, University of Costa Rica, 11501-2060 San José, Costa Rica; (C.P.-S.); (M.J.M.-A.); (J.M.)
| | - Gad Baneth
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot 7610001, Israel;
| | - Alicia Rojas
- Laboratory of Helminthology, Centro de Investigación en Enfermedades Tropicales, University of Costa Rica, 11501-2060 San José, Costa Rica; (C.P.-S.); (M.J.M.-A.); (J.M.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +506-2511-8644
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Holland M, Hudson J, Bao Y, Gaillard P. Aortic to caudal vena cava ratio measurements using abdominal ultrasound are increased in dogs with confirmed systemic hypertension. Vet Radiol Ultrasound 2019; 61:206-214. [PMID: 31845468 DOI: 10.1111/vru.12822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2018] [Revised: 08/06/2019] [Accepted: 08/19/2019] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronically sustained systemic hypertension in dogs can damage the kidneys, eye, brain, heart, and vessels. In human medicine, systemic hypertension has been implicated as the most common risk factor for aorta dilation, which can progress to an aneurysm. Abdominal ultrasound has been commonly used to monitor the size of the abdominal aorta in people with systemic hypertension. In this retrospective cross-sectional abdominal ultrasound study, evaluation of the size of the abdominal aorta relative to the caudal vena cava was performed in 18 control dogs and 128 dogs with confirmed systemic hypertension. Preexisting conditions contributing to systemic hypertension in these dogs were renal disease, hyperadrenocorticism, diabetes mellitus, adrenal tumors, and previous administration of phenylpropanolamine or palladia. The abdominal aorta and caudal vena cava were assessed from longitudinal images cranial to the trifurcation with measurements made from outer border to outer border of the walls, being careful not to compress the caudal vena cava that would alter its size. Our hypothesis was the ratio of the diameter of the abdominal aorta to caudal vena cava would be higher in dogs with systemic hypertension compared to dogs with normal blood pressure. The mean abdominal aorta-caudal vena cava ratio was 1.028 in control dogs with a normal blood pressure and 1.515 in dogs with systemic hypertension. In dogs with confirmed systemic hypertension, the abdominal aorta was dilated compared to the caudal vena cava in the caudal abdomen. An increase in the abdominal aorta-caudal vena cava ratio in a dog should raise suspicion for the presence of systemic hypertension and prompt evaluation of blood pressure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merrilee Holland
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn, Alabama
| | - Judith Hudson
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn, Alabama
| | - Yida Bao
- Department of Mathematics & Statistics, Auburn University College of Business, Auburn, Alabama
| | - Philippe Gaillard
- Department of Mathematics & Statistics, Auburn University College of Business, Auburn, Alabama
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Insights on Spirocerca lupi, the Carcinogenic Dog Nematode. Trends Parasitol 2019; 36:52-63. [PMID: 31734099 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2019.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2019] [Revised: 10/11/2019] [Accepted: 10/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Spirocerca lupi is a nematode transmitted by dung beetles that infects domestic and wild canids in tropical and subtropical regions and is associated with neoplasia. It produces a distinctive pathology with the formation of esophageal nodules classified as inflammatory, preneoplastic, or neoplastic with metastasis to distant organs. Aberrant central nervous system migration of this nematode is also responsible for severe neurological manifestations. Reports of spirocercosis have increased over the last two decades showing spread of this canine helminth in five continents. S. lupi from different geographical locations is genetically distinct with two genotypes, genotype I from Africa, Asia, and Australia, and genotype II from Europe, and recently separated from Spirocerca vulpis, a new species described in red foxes from Europe.
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Rojas A, Baneth G. Secretome of the carcinogenic helminth Spirocerca lupi reveals specific parasite proteins associated with its different life stages. Vet Parasitol 2019; 275:108935. [PMID: 31704657 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2019.108935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2019] [Revised: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Spirocerca lupi is a parasitic and carcinogenic nematode of canids distributed in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. The excretion-secretion proteins (PES) of S. lupi have been suggested to play a role in the pathogenesis of its infection. We aimed to identify the PES of different stages of S. lupi and search for proteins that would be useful for diagnostic, therapeutic and vaccination purposes as well as understand their functions. A nano-UPLC mass spectrometry de novo analysis was performed on proteins collected from cultures of S. lupi L3 larvae, L4 females, adult females and adult males from naturally infected hosts. A total of 211 proteins were identified in all cultures. Accordingly, 117, 130, 99 and 116 proteins were detected in L3 larva, L4 females, adult females and adult males, respectively, with a strong correlation in the biological replicates (Pearson coefficients > 0.73). Fourty-four proteins were detected in all developmental stages, 64 were stage-specific and 49 were exclusively identified in L4 females. Cell compartment enrichment analysis revealed that proteins common to all stages were cytoplasmatic (p < 9.x10-6), whereas L4 unique proteins were in collagen trimers, and macromolecular complexes (p < 0.00001). Functional enrichment analysis of proteins showed significant enrichment in lipid metabolism in L3-unique proteins (p<0.00005), in mannose metabolism and protein de-glycosylation for L4-unique proteins (p < 0.00004), and in phosphorus metabolism in proteins shared by all stages (p < 2.1 x10-9). Interestingly, annexin 6, associated with cancer in humans, was detected in all life stages, but in a larger abundance in L4 females and adults. These findings indicate that S. lupi establishes complex interactions with its hosts by an arsenal of proteins expressed in different patterns in each life stage which influence the pathogenesis and oncogenesis of S. lupi and may be used as potential targets for diagnostic assays, drug targets or vaccine candidates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicia Rojas
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel.
| | - Gad Baneth
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel
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McKenna M, Bristow PC, Suarez‐Bonnet A, Fox MT, Glanemann B. Clinical spirocercosis in a dog in the UK. VETERINARY RECORD CASE REPORTS 2019. [DOI: 10.1136/vetreccr-2019-000828] [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)
- Myles McKenna
- Clinical Services DivisionRoyal Veterinary CollegeHatfieldUK
| | | | | | - Mark T Fox
- Department of Pathology and Pathogen BiologyRoyal Veterinary CollegeHatfieldUK
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Ruggeri M, Rojas A, Chai O, Purzyc H, Hanael E, Rapoport K, Barnoon I, Konstantin L, Baneth G, Shamir MH. Detection of Intraspinal Spirocerca lupi in Canine Cerebrospinal Fluid by Polymerase Chain Reaction. J Comp Pathol 2019; 170:105-112. [PMID: 31375154 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcpa.2019.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2019] [Revised: 05/15/2019] [Accepted: 05/27/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Aberrant migration of Spirocerca lupi into the spinal cord is an important cause of severe progressive neurological dysfunction in dogs. Although early diagnosis is essential to prevent deterioration, ante-mortem diagnosis of this condition remains challenging. The aim of this study was to evaluate the detection of the 18S ribosomal DNA (rDNA) S. lupi gene in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of presumptively-affected dogs using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Dogs with a non-compressive spinal cord lesion, pleocytosis with presence of eosinophils in the CSF and a characteristic clinical presentation were included. CSF samples from eight dogs were available for the study, of which seven were definitively diagnosed with intraspinal spirocercosis by PCR of either the CSF samples (6/7) or tissue samples obtained at necropsy examination (3/7), or both (2/7). Of these seven positive cases, only one dog had a negative CSF PCR, indicating a sensitivity of 86% for detecting nematode DNA in the CSF of infected dogs using this PCR protocol. The nematode DNA sequences obtained from the CSF of six dogs and the spinal cord tissue of three dogs were 98-100% identical to the publicly available sequences of S. lupi, confirming the diagnosis. These findings indicate that PCR targeting the 18S rDNA of S. lupi in CSF is useful for the ante-mortem diagnosis of canine intraspinal spirocercosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Ruggeri
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, PO Box 12, Rehovot
| | - A Rojas
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, PO Box 12, Rehovot
| | - O Chai
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, PO Box 12, Rehovot
| | - H Purzyc
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, PO Box 12, Rehovot
| | - E Hanael
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, PO Box 12, Rehovot
| | - K Rapoport
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, PO Box 12, Rehovot
| | - I Barnoon
- VetNeuro, Veterinary Specialist Referral Centre Knowledge Farm, Beit Berl, Israel
| | - L Konstantin
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, PO Box 12, Rehovot
| | - G Baneth
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, PO Box 12, Rehovot
| | - M H Shamir
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, PO Box 12, Rehovot.
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12
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Valcárcel F, González J, Aguilar A, Sánchez M, González MG, Suárez R, Tercero AM, Tercero JM, Nieto JM, González-Guirado AM, Olmeda AS. Spirocercosis in red fox (Vulpes vulpes) in a natural reserve located in a meso-Mediterranean area. VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY- REGIONAL STUDIES AND REPORTS 2018; 13:115-119. [PMID: 31014857 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2018.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2017] [Revised: 05/14/2018] [Accepted: 05/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Spirocerca lupi Rudolphi 1809 (Nematoda Spirocercidae) has an indirect cycle involving intermediate and paratenic hosts, having domestic or wild canids as the main definitive hosts. The most frequent pathology affecting dogs is a granulomatous tumor-like growth containing adults in the oesophagus and aorta. There are very few references about the presence of nodules in the stomach. There is scant information about the epidemiology of this disease in wild red foxes in meso-Mediterranean areas. In this work we report on the natural infection of wild red foxes by Spirocerca lupi and the damage produced in the stomach wall in an area where contact with other potential definitive hosts (canids) is very rare. From July 2015 to November 2016, 61 red foxes were sampled. 18.03% of the stomach walls examined had nodules containing Spirocerca lupi adults and eggs. The prevalence of infection was similar for young and adult groups (23.81 and 18.18%; χ2 = 0.25; df = 1; P = 0.6171) and it was higher in females than in males (25.81 versus 10.00%, χ2 = 2.58; df = 1; P = 0.1082). The red fox population in the area seems to be well established judging from their age distribution and the fact that they could be captured all year round. It would appear that in the absence of other main definitive host S. lupi population is able to survive just parasitizing red foxes. Pathologic effects of this parasite on red foxes seems to show some differences related to domestic dogs. These results also indicates as predator control programs can maintain suitable host populations with reduced level of infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Valcárcel
- Grupo de Parasitología Animal, Animalario del Departamento de Reproducción Animal (INIA), 28040 Madrid, Spain.
| | - J González
- Villamagna SA, Finca "La Garganta", 14440 Villanueva de Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
| | - A Aguilar
- Grupo de Parasitología Animal, Animalario del Departamento de Reproducción Animal (INIA), 28040 Madrid, Spain.
| | - M Sánchez
- Grupo de Parasitología Animal, Animalario del Departamento de Reproducción Animal (INIA), 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - M G González
- Villamagna SA, Finca "La Garganta", 14440 Villanueva de Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
| | - R Suárez
- Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - A M Tercero
- Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - J M Tercero
- Villamagna SA, Finca "La Garganta", 14440 Villanueva de Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain.
| | - J M Nieto
- Departamento de Anatomía, Producción y Ciencias Clínicas Veterinarias, Fac. de Veterinaria, 27002 Lugo, Spain
| | - A M González-Guirado
- Laboratorio de Anatomía Patológica, Centro de Investigación en Sanidad Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA), 28130 Valdeomos, Madrid, Spain.
| | - A S Olmeda
- Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain.
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Segev G, Rojas A, Lavy E, Yaffe M, Aroch I, Baneth G. Evaluation of a spot-on imidacloprid-moxidectin formulation (Advocate®) for the treatment of naturally occurring esophageal spirocercosis in dogs: a double-blinded, placebo-controlled study. Parasit Vectors 2018; 11:127. [PMID: 29506575 PMCID: PMC5838953 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-018-2731-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2017] [Accepted: 02/19/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Dogs are the definitive hosts of Spirocerca lupi. Spirocercosis is treated by prolonged avermectin administration by injection or daily oral doses. In this prospective, double-blinded, placebo-controlled, clinical trial, the efficacy of imidacloprid and moxidectin spot-on formulation (Advocate®) was compared to injectable doramectin (Dectomax®). Dogs diagnosed with benign esophageal spirocercosis were divided randomly into doramectin (400 μg/kg IM) or moxidectin and imidacloprid spot-on (2.5–6.25 mg/kg and 10–25 mg/kg, respectively) groups and treated weekly for 12 consecutive weeks. Dogs were followed for 20 weeks by physical examination, owners’ questionnaire, blood work, fecal floatation, PCR and endoscopy. Results All the doramectin group dogs (n = 10) completed the treatment and follow-up, and the disease had completely resolved in all by week 12. Of the Advocate® group (n = 10), four had complete resolution at week 12, four had partial resolution, one dog did not respond to treatment, and one dog was switched to the doramectin protocol on week 5 due to persistent severe clinical signs. PCR analysis was more sensitive in detecting S. lupi eggs compared to fecal floatation. Discrepancies were detected on 22 occasions, of which on 20 occasions, the PCR was positive while fecal floatation was negative, and only on two occasions the PCR results were negative while fecal flotation was positive. Conclusions The present results indicate that weekly Advocate® spot-on administration may be effective for treating benign esophageal spirocercosis, but is less effective than the currently used injectable doramectin therapy at the dose and duration used herein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gilad Segev
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, P.O. Box 12, 7610001, Rehovot, Israel.
| | - Alicia Rojas
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, P.O. Box 12, 7610001, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Eran Lavy
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, P.O. Box 12, 7610001, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Marganit Yaffe
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, P.O. Box 12, 7610001, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Itamar Aroch
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, P.O. Box 12, 7610001, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Gad Baneth
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, P.O. Box 12, 7610001, Rehovot, Israel
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Clinical characteristics of Spirocerca lupi migration in the spinal cord. Vet Parasitol 2018; 253:16-21. [PMID: 29604997 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2018.02.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2017] [Revised: 02/04/2018] [Accepted: 02/10/2018] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Spirocerca lupi is a nematode infecting dogs mostly in tropical and subtropical areas. Although its typical target is the esophageal wall, aberrant migration is not uncommon, including migration of unknown incidence into the spinal cord. While successful treatment of intraspinal S. lupi (ISSL) infection depends on early diagnosis, tools for definitive ante-mortem diagnosis are unavailable. We therefore aimed at characterizing clinical signs and clinical pathology findings of ISSL in dogs. For that, we analyzed medical records of dogs hospitalized in 2005-2016 presenting with neurological signs consistent with ISSL, which were diagnosed definitively post-mortem. Retrieved information included signalment, medical history, chief complaint, physical and neurological evaluation, neuroanatomical localization at presentation, clinical pathology, imaging findings, treatment, outcome and post-mortem findings. Ten midsize to large breed dogs were included, 7 of which had received prophylactic treatment. In all 10 dogs, onset was acute and neurological deterioration until presentation (2 h-6 d) was fast. Neurological examination localized the lesions within the spinal cord and paresis or paralysis was asymmetric in all dogs. Spinal pain was documented in 9/10 dogs. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis was abnormal in all dogs and was characterized by pleocytosis in 8/10, whereas cytology revealed the presence of eosinophils in all dogs. Advanced imaging excluded spinal cord compression in all dogs tested. Post-mortem examination detected spinal cord migration tract in all cases. Nematodes were found in the spinal cord parenchyma (8/10) or adjacent to it (2/10) in all dogs. A larva was found in the subarachnoid space of one dog and an adult nematode in the thoracic intervertebral artery of another. Esophageal nodules were found in 5/10 dogs. These findings suggest that the combination of sudden onset of acute asymmetric paresis accompanied by pain, presence of eosinophils in the CSF and lack of compressive lesion may serve as sufficient evidence for tentative diagnosis of ISSL in endemic areas.
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Pazzi P, Kavkovsky A, Shipov A, Segev G, Dvir E. Spirocerca lupi induced oesophageal neoplasia: Predictors of surgical outcome. Vet Parasitol 2017; 250:71-77. [PMID: 29329628 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2017.11.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2017] [Revised: 11/27/2017] [Accepted: 11/28/2017] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Canine spirocercosis is caused by the nematode Spirocerca lupi. Migration results in oesophageal fibro-inflammatory nodules that may undergo neoplastic transformation. No studies have assessed pre- or post-surgical prognostic indicators in dogs that undergo intervention for S. lupi induced oesophageal neoplasia. This observational, multi-center study aimed to assess the outcome of dogs with Spirocerca induced sarcoma undergoing endoscopic-guided ablation (n = 12) or surgery (n = 18), and identify prognostic indicators. Parameters evaluated included: age, weight, gender, presenting complaints, duration of clinical signs, complete blood count, serum biochemistry, neoplasia size, placement of percutaneous endoscopically-placed gastrostomy tube, histopathological mitotic indices, days to discharge and chemotherapy administration. Kaplan-Meier survival curves showed no difference in survival between ablation and surgery {(median: 73.5 days (range: 0-1511) vs. 108 days (range: 0-1550), respectively (p = 0.982)}. Reduced survival was documented in patients presenting with weight loss (P = 0.027), hypochromasia (MCHC <33 g/dL, P = 0.023) or leucocytosis (>15 × 109/L, P = 0.017) with a hazard ratio of 2.51 (CI95% = 1.071-6.018, P = 0.034), 2.71 (CI95% = 1.10-6.65, P = 0.03) and 4.39 (CI95%: 1.21-15.97, P = 0.025) respectively. In the dogs surviving more than 21 days, Ht <36% and leucocytosis >15.0 × 109/L at presentation were associated with reduced survival (p = 0.016, p = 0.021 respectively) and hazard ratio of 3.29 (CI95% = 1.18-9.2, P = 0.023) and 3.81 (CI95% = 1.15-12.55, P = 0.028) respectively. Intra-intervention-group survival analysis identified increased survival time in dogs receiving chemotherapy, but only within the surgical group (P = 0.02).The hospitalisation time of dogs undergoing ablation (median: 0 days, range: 0-4) was significantly shorter than dogs undergoing surgery (9 days, 1-21) (P < 0.001). In this study, no clear benefit was identified for surgery, thus when ablation is technically possible it should be considered advantageous, as hospitalisation time is significantly shorter. Weight loss, hypochromasia and leucocytosis were identified as long-term prognostic indicators at presentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Pazzi
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.
| | - Anastasia Kavkovsky
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Anna Shipov
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Gilad Segev
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Eran Dvir
- Tel Hai Academic College, Upper Galilee, Israel
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16
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Sako K, Rensburg IJ, Clift S, Naidoo V. The use of primary murine fibroblasts to ascertain if Spirocerca lupi secretory/excretory protein products are mitogenic ex vivo. BMC Vet Res 2017; 13:262. [PMID: 28830546 PMCID: PMC5568052 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-017-1162-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2015] [Accepted: 08/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Spirocerca lupi is a nematode that parasitizes vertebrates in particular canids, by forming nodules in the thoracic cavity specifically in the oesophagus. In 25% of Spirocerca infections of the domestic dog, nodules progress from inflammatory to pre-neoplastic to sarcomatous neoplasia. With the mechanism of neoplastic transformation being incompletely understood, this study investigates if S. lupi parasite proteinaceous secretory/excretory products (ESPs) play a role in the neoplastic transformation. Methods To facilitate collection of ESPs, we maintained naturally harvested adult parasites in the laboratory under artificial conditions. Media in which the parasites were grown was subsequently evaluated for the presence of proteinaceous compounds using a mass spectroscopy library as well as for their ability to be mitogenic in primary murine fibroblastic cells. Results Chromatrography of the ethyl acetate extracted incubation media showed the presence of 9 protein compounds, of which three were identified as non-specific proteins isolated from Nematostella vectensis, Caenorhabditis brenneri and Sus scrofa, with the rest being unknown. Acetone, methanol, hexane and ethylacetate extracted culture media were unable to induce a mitogenic change in primary murine fibroblasts in comparison to the controls. Conclusion While no mitogenic effect was evident, further studies are required to understand the role of worm excretory/secretory products on clastogenesis under chronic exposure. In addition, while not of primary importance for this study, the observed duration of parasite survival indicates that ex vivo studies on S. lupi are possible. For the latter we believe that the worm culture method can be further optimized if longer survival times are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kgomotso Sako
- Section of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Paraclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort, 0110, South Africa
| | - Ilse Jv Rensburg
- University of Pretoria Biomedical Research Centre, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort, 0110, South Africa
| | - Sarah Clift
- Section of Pathology, Department of Paraclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort, 0110, South Africa
| | - Vinny Naidoo
- Section of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Paraclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort, 0110, South Africa. .,University of Pretoria Biomedical Research Centre, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort, 0110, South Africa.
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17
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Bumby MM, Williams MC, Steyl JCA, Harrison-White R, Lutermann H, Fosgate GT, de Waal PJ, Mitha J, Clift SJ. Genotyping and comparative pathology of Spirocerca in black-backed jackals (Canis mesomelas) in South Africa. BMC Vet Res 2017; 13:245. [PMID: 28814297 PMCID: PMC5559831 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-017-1175-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2016] [Accepted: 08/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The pathology of spirocercosis, a disease caused by the infestation of carnivores with the nematode Spirocerca lupi, has been extensively described in domestic dogs and coyotes. However, it has not been described in wild carnivores in South Africa. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether black-backed jackals are a host for Spirocerca species and to provide a detailed description of the associated pathology. Jackals were also stratified according to age and the Spirocerca species recovered were characterized using molecular techniques. Methods Standard necropsies were performed on routinely culled jackals from three of the nine provinces of South Africa during the period June 2012 to February 2013. Jackals were screened for the presence of pathognomonic Spirocerca-induced lesions and for evidence of aberrant migration. Relevant samples were submitted for histopathology and collected larvae were genotyped at nine microsatellite loci. Results Spirocerca lupi-associated aortic lesions were found in 16 of 93 (17%) black-backed jackals. Of these, four (25%) were associated with S. lupi larvae. Genotyping of the larvae revealed amplification of all nine loci that amplified dog-derived S. lupi, with the same level of polymorphism in the allele size ranges. Only 1 of 93 jackals had an esophageal nodule with concurrent S. lupi-induced aortic aneurysms. The single esophageal nodule found did not contain adult nematodes, nor did it communicate with the esophageal lumen. None of the jackals that were examined had macroscopically evident spondylitis, which is frequently reported in the dog. Histopathology of the S. lupi-induced aortic lesions in the jackal revealed replacement of elastic and smooth muscle fibers by fibrous connective tissue. In cases where inflammation was present, the inflammatory infiltrate consisted predominantly of eosinophils. The single esophageal nodule histologically resembled the early inflammatory nodule described in dogs and consisted of fibrous connective tissue, multifocal accumulation of lymphocytes, plasma cells and rare hemosiderin-laden macrophages. Conclusions These lesions suggest that the life cycle of S. lupi may not or only rarely be completed in jackals. A possible explanation might be that jackals are relatively resistant to developing significant pathology associated with S. lupi-infection. However, before any conclusions can be drawn, many more jackals, including those that die naturally will have to be investigated for evidence of S. lupi infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- M M Bumby
- Section Pathology, Department of Paraclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private bag X04, Onderstepoort, 0110, South Africa.
| | - M C Williams
- Section Pathology, Department of Paraclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private bag X04, Onderstepoort, 0110, South Africa
| | - J C A Steyl
- Section Pathology, Department of Paraclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private bag X04, Onderstepoort, 0110, South Africa
| | - R Harrison-White
- Wildlife Damage- Research and Management, North West Parks and Tourism Board, Madikwe and SA Lombard Nature Reserves, North West province, South Africa, P.O. Box 783540, Sandton, Johannesburg, 2146, South Africa
| | - H Lutermann
- Mammal Research Institute, Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X20, Hatfield, Pretoria, 0028, South Africa
| | - G T Fosgate
- Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private bag X04, Onderstepoort, 0110, South Africa
| | - P J de Waal
- Department of Genetics, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, 0002, South Africa
| | - J Mitha
- Department of Genetics, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, 0002, South Africa
| | - S J Clift
- Section Pathology, Department of Paraclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private bag X04, Onderstepoort, 0110, South Africa
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18
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Rojas A, Freedberg N, Markovics A, Gottlieb Y, Baneth G. Influence of physical and chemical factors on the embryonation, hatching and infectivity of Spirocerca lupi. Vet Parasitol 2017; 242:71-78. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2017.05.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2017] [Revised: 05/24/2017] [Accepted: 05/25/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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19
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Dvir E. Developments in the therapy of spirocercosis-induced sarcoma. Vet Rec 2015; 177:363-4. [PMID: 26449905 DOI: 10.1136/vr.h5310] [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)
- Eran Dvir
- Tel Hai College and MIGAL Galilee Research Institute, Upper Galilee, Israel
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20
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Shipov A, Kelmer G, Lavy E, Milgram J, Aroch I, Segev G. Long-term outcome of transendoscopic oesophageal mass ablation in dogs with Spirocerca lupi
-associated oesophageal sarcoma. Vet Rec 2015; 177:365. [DOI: 10.1136/vr.103356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/07/2015] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- A. Shipov
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem; Rehovot Israel
| | - G. Kelmer
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem; Rehovot Israel
| | - E. Lavy
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem; Rehovot Israel
| | - J. Milgram
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem; Rehovot Israel
| | - I. Aroch
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem; Rehovot Israel
| | - G. Segev
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem; Rehovot Israel
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21
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Aroch I, Rojas A, Slon P, Lavy E, Segev G, Baneth G. Serological cross-reactivity of three commercial in-house immunoassays for detection of Dirofilaria immitis antigens with Spirocerca lupi in dogs with benign esophageal spirocercosis. Vet Parasitol 2015; 211:303-5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2015.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2015] [Revised: 06/05/2015] [Accepted: 06/08/2015] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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22
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Aroch I, Markovics A, Mazaki-Tovi M, Kuzi S, Harrus S, Yas E, Baneth G, Bar-El M, Bdolah-Abram T, Segev G, Lavy E. Spirocercosis in dogs in Israel: A retrospective case-control study (2004-2009). Vet Parasitol 2015; 211:234-40. [PMID: 26012861 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2015.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2014] [Revised: 05/03/2015] [Accepted: 05/09/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
This case-control retrospective study (years 2004-2009) investigated the epidemiological, clinical, and diagnostic test findings of dogs with esophageal spirocercosis (ES) presented to the Hebrew University Veterinary Teaching Hospital (HUVTH) and coproscopy-positive dogs at the Kimron Veterinary Institute (KVI), Israel. It included 133 dogs with ES and 133 negative controls diagnosed at the hospital, and 343 dogs diagnosed at the KVI. The average incidence of ES at the HUVTH was 22.5/year, and the percentage of spirocercosis cases was stable at both institutions (HUVTH, 0.67-1.23%; KVI, 5-8%). Dogs aged > 5 years old had 100-fold likelihood to be infected compared to dogs aged ≤ 1 year of age (P < 0.001). Mean body weight (P = 0.0004), proportion of Retrievers (P = 0.002) and sporting breed dogs (P = 0.006) were higher, while proportion of toy breeds (P = 0.004) was lower in the ES group compared to the control group. The proportion of cases from Greater Tel-Aviv decreased (P = 0.002), while that of those from Judea and Jerusalem increased (P = 0.01) compared to the 1990 s. Spirocercosis occurred in 22 dogs despite past prophylactic avermectin treatment. Vomiting and regurgitation were the most common clinical signs of ES. Coproscopy was S. lupi-positive in 33/60 dogs (55.0%). The median number of esophageal nodules was two (range 1-8), with a median diameter of 3.5 cm (range 1.0-11.0). Malignant esophageal lesion transformation was confirmed in 29 dogs (22%). Despite preventive attempts, spirocercosis has spread in Israel over time, compared to previous findings, raising questions about the efficacy of the currently accepted prophylactic protocol is incompletely effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Itamar Aroch
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, P.O. Box 12, Rehovot 761001, Israel.
| | - Alexander Markovics
- Department of Parasitology, Kimron Veterinary Institute, P.O. Box 12, Bet Dagan, 5020000, Israel
| | - Michal Mazaki-Tovi
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, P.O. Box 12, Rehovot 761001, Israel
| | - Sharon Kuzi
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, P.O. Box 12, Rehovot 761001, Israel
| | - Shimon Harrus
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, P.O. Box 12, Rehovot 761001, Israel
| | - Einat Yas
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, P.O. Box 12, Rehovot 761001, Israel
| | - Gad Baneth
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, P.O. Box 12, Rehovot 761001, Israel
| | - Maya Bar-El
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, P.O. Box 12, Rehovot 761001, Israel
| | - Tali Bdolah-Abram
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, P.O. Box 12, Rehovot 761001, Israel
| | - Gilad Segev
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, P.O. Box 12, Rehovot 761001, Israel
| | - Eran Lavy
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, P.O. Box 12, Rehovot 761001, Israel
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Aisa J, Grand J, Atencia S, Zarelli M, Callanan JJ. Total excision of a caudal mediastinal paraoesophageal abscess in a dog. VETERINARY RECORD CASE REPORTS 2015. [DOI: 10.1136/vetreccr-2014-000146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Josep Aisa
- Department of Small Animal SurgeryUniversity of Glasgow464 Bearsden Road, BearsdenGlasgowG61 1BDUK
| | - Jean‐Guillaume Grand
- Department of SurgeryClinique vétérinaire Aquivet, Zac MermozAvenue de la ForêtEysines33320France
| | - Sabela Atencia
- University College DublinUCD Veterinary HospitalBelfield CampusDublin 4Ireland
| | - Micaela Zarelli
- University College DublinUCD Veterinary HospitalBelfield CampusDublin 4Ireland
| | - John J Callanan
- Department of Veterinary PathologyUniversity College DublinBelfieldDublin 4Ireland
- Ross School of Veterinary MedicineBasseterreSt KittsSaint Kitts and Nevis
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Kirberger RM, Cassel N, Stander N, McLean M, Dvir E. Triple phase dynamic computed tomographic perfusion characteristics of spirocercosis induced esophageal nodules in non-neoplastic versus neoplastic canine cases. Vet Radiol Ultrasound 2014; 56:257-63. [PMID: 25393217 DOI: 10.1111/vru.12231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2014] [Accepted: 08/20/2014] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Neoplastic transformation of Spirocerca lupi induced esophageal nodules carries a poor prognosis. Clinical, clinicopathological, endoscopic, and radiographic characteristics may be indicative of neoplastic transformation but variable sensitivity and specificity of these parameters makes their use questionable. We hypothesized that CT would be a better diagnostic modality to discriminate between non-neoplastic and neoplastic nodules. In this prospective study of 38 dogs, the appearance and perfusion characteristics of confirmed spirocercosis-induced neoplastic and non-neoplastic esophageal nodules were described using survey CT and triple phase dynamic CT angiography (CTA). Pre- and post-contrast early arterial, late arterial, and venous CTA images were evaluated. Non-neoplastic nodules were smooth and nonmineralized with a higher proportion of hypoattenuating necropurulent cavities compared to neoplastic nodules that had a more irregular surface, with 93% having mineralized foci and rarely any hypoattenuating pockets. Non-neoplastic nodules were significantly more perfused than neoplastic nodules with the difference being up to 23 Hounsfield units. The difference was most marked in the early and late arterial phases (P = 0.0005 and 0.00005, respectively). Ratios of the normal esophagus adjacent to the neoplastic and non-neoplastic nodules did not differ significantly from each other. Perfusion findings demonstrated relative hypoperfusion of the esophageal sarcomas. Findings from the current study indicated that CT characteristics of relative postcontrast hypoperfusion, combined with nodule irregularity and mineralization warrant a high level of concern for neoplastic transformation in canine spirocercosis-induced esophageal nodules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert M Kirberger
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort, 0110, Republic of South Africa
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Blume GR, Reis Junior JL, Gardiner CH, Hoberg EP, Pilitt PA, Monteiro RV, de Sant’Ana FJF. Spirocerca lupi granulomatous pneumonia in two free-ranging maned wolves (Chrysocyon brachyurus) from central Brazil. J Vet Diagn Invest 2014; 26:815-7. [DOI: 10.1177/1040638714554442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The current report describes granulomatous pneumonia due to Spirocerca lupi in 2 free-ranging maned wolves ( Chrysocyon brachyurus). Both wolves had multiple, white, 1–1.5 cm in diameter, soft, encapsulated granulomas in the caudal lung lobes, which contained centrally placed parasites on cut sections. Microscopically, there was granulomatous inflammation with numerous intralesional sections of spirurid nematodes. Representative complete adult specimens of nematodes derived from these lesions were submitted for parasitological exam and identified as the spirurid S. lupi. To the authors’ knowledge, there have been no published reports of S. lupi in maned wolves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guilherme R. Blume
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology (Blume, Reis Junior, Sant’Ana), University of Brasília, Brasília, Federal District, Brazil
- Laboratory of Research in Wildlife Animals (Veríssimo Monteiro), University of Brasília, Brasília, Federal District, Brazil
- Veterinary Pathology Service, Joint Pathology Center, Silver Spring, MD (Gardiner)
- U.S. National Parasite Collection, Agricultural Research Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, MD (Hoberg, Pilitt)
| | - Janildo L. Reis Junior
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology (Blume, Reis Junior, Sant’Ana), University of Brasília, Brasília, Federal District, Brazil
- Laboratory of Research in Wildlife Animals (Veríssimo Monteiro), University of Brasília, Brasília, Federal District, Brazil
- Veterinary Pathology Service, Joint Pathology Center, Silver Spring, MD (Gardiner)
- U.S. National Parasite Collection, Agricultural Research Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, MD (Hoberg, Pilitt)
| | - Chris H. Gardiner
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology (Blume, Reis Junior, Sant’Ana), University of Brasília, Brasília, Federal District, Brazil
- Laboratory of Research in Wildlife Animals (Veríssimo Monteiro), University of Brasília, Brasília, Federal District, Brazil
- Veterinary Pathology Service, Joint Pathology Center, Silver Spring, MD (Gardiner)
- U.S. National Parasite Collection, Agricultural Research Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, MD (Hoberg, Pilitt)
| | - Eric P. Hoberg
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology (Blume, Reis Junior, Sant’Ana), University of Brasília, Brasília, Federal District, Brazil
- Laboratory of Research in Wildlife Animals (Veríssimo Monteiro), University of Brasília, Brasília, Federal District, Brazil
- Veterinary Pathology Service, Joint Pathology Center, Silver Spring, MD (Gardiner)
- U.S. National Parasite Collection, Agricultural Research Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, MD (Hoberg, Pilitt)
| | - Patricia A. Pilitt
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology (Blume, Reis Junior, Sant’Ana), University of Brasília, Brasília, Federal District, Brazil
- Laboratory of Research in Wildlife Animals (Veríssimo Monteiro), University of Brasília, Brasília, Federal District, Brazil
- Veterinary Pathology Service, Joint Pathology Center, Silver Spring, MD (Gardiner)
- U.S. National Parasite Collection, Agricultural Research Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, MD (Hoberg, Pilitt)
| | - Rafael Veríssimo Monteiro
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology (Blume, Reis Junior, Sant’Ana), University of Brasília, Brasília, Federal District, Brazil
- Laboratory of Research in Wildlife Animals (Veríssimo Monteiro), University of Brasília, Brasília, Federal District, Brazil
- Veterinary Pathology Service, Joint Pathology Center, Silver Spring, MD (Gardiner)
- U.S. National Parasite Collection, Agricultural Research Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, MD (Hoberg, Pilitt)
| | - Fabiano J. F. de Sant’Ana
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology (Blume, Reis Junior, Sant’Ana), University of Brasília, Brasília, Federal District, Brazil
- Laboratory of Research in Wildlife Animals (Veríssimo Monteiro), University of Brasília, Brasília, Federal District, Brazil
- Veterinary Pathology Service, Joint Pathology Center, Silver Spring, MD (Gardiner)
- U.S. National Parasite Collection, Agricultural Research Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, MD (Hoberg, Pilitt)
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26
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Al-Sabi MNS, Hansen MS, Chriél M, Holm E, Larsen G, Enemark HL. Genetically distinct isolates of Spirocerca sp. from a naturally infected red fox (Vulpes vulpes) from Denmark. Vet Parasitol 2014; 205:389-96. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2014.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2014] [Revised: 06/30/2014] [Accepted: 07/01/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Vrdoljak KJ, Cassel N, Dvir E. Oesophagogastric intussusception associated with spirocercosis in a dog. J S Afr Vet Assoc 2014; 85:1065. [PMID: 25686084 DOI: 10.4102/jsava.v85i1.1065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2013] [Revised: 01/09/2014] [Accepted: 02/11/2014] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
An oesophagogastric intussusception was diagnosed in an intact Bull Terrier female aged 2 years and 7 months with a concurrent Spirocerca lupi infection. The dog was presented collapsed with a history of inappetance and lethargy of one day's duration. Anaemia and melaena were present on clinical examination. Thoracic radiographs did not reveal any significant findings. Abdominal ultrasound was suspicious for gastric pathology or a possible foreign body. The final diagnosis of an oesophagogastric intussusception with an S. lupi nodule at the cardia was made on post-mortem. Oesophageal intussusceptions are rare in dogs and often fatal. Gastro-oesophageal intussusceptions usually present with obvious radiographic signs in the caudal thorax, unlike an oesophagogastric intussusception, where the pathology lies within the abdomen and may not be readily diagnosed. Although spirocercosis often presents with a caudal oesophageal mass, this may not be seen radiographically. In this case, the two conditions were present together but the thoracic radiographs were normal. An oesophagogastric intussusception was diagnosed in an intact Bull Terrier female aged 2 years and 7 months with a concurrent Spirocerca lupi infection. The dog was presented collapsed with a history of inappetance and lethargy of one day's duration. Anaemia and melaena were present on clinical examination. Thoracic radiographs did not reveal any significant findings. Abdominal ultrasound was suspicious for gastric pathology or a possible foreign body. The final diagnosis of an oesophagogastric intussusception with an S. lupi nodule at the cardia was made on post-mortem. Oesophageal intussusceptions are rare in dogs and often fatal. Gastro-oesophageal intussusceptions usually present with obvious radiographic signs in the caudal thorax, unlike an oesophagogastric intussusception, where the pathology lies within the abdomen and may not be readily diagnosed. Although spirocercosis often presents with a caudal oesophageal mass, this may not be seen radiographically. In this case, the two conditions were present together but the thoracic radiographs were normal.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Eran Dvir
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, University of Pretoria.
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28
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Serum acute phase protein concentrations in dogs with spirocercosis and their association with esophageal neoplasia – A prospective cohort study. Vet Parasitol 2014; 203:153-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2014.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2013] [Revised: 02/01/2014] [Accepted: 02/04/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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29
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Pazzi P, Goddard A, Kristensen AT, Dvir E. Evaluation of hemostatic abnormalities in canine spirocercosis and its association with systemic inflammation. J Vet Intern Med 2013; 28:21-9. [PMID: 24147754 PMCID: PMC4895557 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.12220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2012] [Revised: 08/19/2013] [Accepted: 09/10/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Canine spirocercosis is caused by the nematode Spirocerca lupi and is characterized by esophageal fibro-inflammatory nodules that may undergo neoplastic transformation. No sensitive and specific laboratory assays other than histopathology have been reported to differentiate non-neoplastic from neoplastic disease. HYPOTHESIS/OBJECTIVES Dogs with spirocercosis will have evidence of hypercoagulability based on thromboelastography (TEG)-derived maximal amplitude (MA); increased MA will be correlated with increased acute phase protein (APP) concentrations (C-reactive protein [CRP] and fibrinogen); increased MA and APPs will be exacerbated with neoplastic spirocercosis. ANIMALS Thirty-nine client-owned dogs with naturally occurring spirocercosis and 15 sex-matched healthy controls. METHODS A prospective comparative study evaluating TEG, activated partial thromboplastin time, prothrombin time, antithrombin (AT) activity, platelet count and D-dimer concentration, and APPs of dogs with non-neoplastic (n = 24) and neoplastic (n = 15) spirocercosis compared to control dogs. RESULTS Median MA was significantly increased in the non-neoplastic group (P < .01) and neoplastic group (P < .01) compared to the controls. Both APPs were significantly increased in the neoplastic group compared to the non-neoplastic and control groups. MA was strongly correlated with fibrinogen (r = 0.85, P < .001) and CRP (r = 0.73, P < .001). An MA >76 mm provided 96% specificity and 73% sensitivity for differentiation of disease state. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE Canine spirocercosis is associated with increased TEG variables, MA and α, and decreased AT activity, which may indicate a hypercoagulable state seemingly more severe with neoplastic transformation. MA was correlated with APP in dogs with spirocercosis and can be used as an adjunctive test to support the suspicion of neoplastic transformation.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Pazzi
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort, SA
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30
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Da Fonseca EJ, Do Amarante EEVG, de S Abboud LC, Hees SJ, Franco RJ, de A Silva BJ. Fatal esophageal fibrosarcoma associated to parasitism by spirurid nematode Spirocerca lupi in a dog: a case report. J Parasit Dis 2013; 36:273-6. [PMID: 24082542 DOI: 10.1007/s12639-012-0108-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2011] [Accepted: 02/26/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022] Open
Abstract
A 7-years-old intact female mixed breed dog was referred to the private veterinary clinic because of history of intense food regurgitation. The plain X-ray examination and the contrast-enhanced X-ray using barium sulfate revealed the presence of a radio-opaque mass in the final third of the esophagus. Stool samples were collected and the coproparasitological test was done, which showed thick-shelled eggs from Spirocerca lupi. As the canine died, the necropsy was performed, showing nodular lesions in the esophagus, compatible with the typical lesions of spirocercosis. The histopathological analysis showed the proliferation of spindle-shaped cells, process compatible with fibrosarcoma. This is the first official report of the presence of canine spirocercosis in Guapimirim city, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and can serve as a warning to veterinary practitioners, about this probably endemic region for S. lupi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo J Da Fonseca
- Instituto Qualittas de Pós-graduação em Medicina Veterinária, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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31
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Rosa C, Schoeman J, Berry J, Mellanby R, Dvir E. Hypovitaminosis D in Dogs with Spirocercosis. J Vet Intern Med 2013; 27:1159-64. [DOI: 10.1111/jvim.12161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2013] [Revised: 05/22/2013] [Accepted: 07/16/2013] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- C.T. Rosa
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies; Faculty of Veterinary Science; University of Pretoria; Onderstepoort South Africa
| | - J.P. Schoeman
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies; Faculty of Veterinary Science; University of Pretoria; Onderstepoort South Africa
| | - J.L. Berry
- Department of Medicine; Vitamin D Research Group; Manchester Royal Infirmary; Manchester UK
| | - R.J. Mellanby
- Division of Veterinary Clinical Studies; The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies; Hospital for Small Animals; Easter Bush Veterinary Centre; The University of Edinburgh; Midlothian UK
| | - E. Dvir
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies; Faculty of Veterinary Science; University of Pretoria; Onderstepoort South Africa
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32
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Okanishi H, Matsumoto J, Aoki H, Kagawa Y, Asano K, Nogami S, Watari T. Successful resolution of esophageal granulomas in a dog infected with Spirocerca lupi. J Vet Med Sci 2013; 75:1629-32. [PMID: 23884021 PMCID: PMC3942967 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.13-0116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
A 13-year-old female Labrador
Retriever presented with chronic regurgitation. Radiography and computed tomography (CT)
revealed nodules in the caudal esophagus. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy followed by
histopathological examination revealed esophageal granulomas caused by Spirocerca
lupi. The infection was treated with milbemycin oxime. The therapy was
successful, and a remarkable reduction in granulomas was observed. This case report
describes the diagnostic imaging findings and treatment outcome of a dog with S.
lupi infection in Japan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroki Okanishi
- Laboratory of Comprehensive Veterinary Clinical Studies, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Bioresource Sciences, Nihon University, 1866 Kameino, Fujisawa, Kanagawa 252-0880, Japan
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33
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Pazzi P, Tompkins S, Kirberger RM. Canine spirocercosis-associated extraskeletal osteosarcoma with central nervous system metastasis. J S Afr Vet Assoc 2013; 84:E1-4. [DOI: 10.4102/jsava.v84i1.71] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2012] [Revised: 12/03/2012] [Accepted: 01/21/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
A five-year-old male Boerboel presented for examination, collapsed for an unknown period of time. On clinical examination, multifocal subcutaneous masses and enlarged prescapular lymph nodes as well as neurological deficits that suggested a multifocal neurological syndrome were found. Fine needle aspirates of the prescapular lymph nodes revealed cells suggestive of osteosarcoma. Radiographs showed foci of mineralisation within the soft tissue masses as well as diffuse pulmonary metastasis and a caudodorsal mediastinal mass believed to be a Spirocerca lupi nodule. Computed tomography imaging, necropsy and histopathology confirmed S. lupi oesophageal neoplastic transformation (extraskeletal osteosarcoma), believed to be the primary lesion, and the majority of secondary metastasis to the brain, spine, heart, multiple muscular groups and abdominal organs. This is the first known report of extraskeletal osteosarcoma metastasis to the brain and spinal cord in a dog.
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34
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Kirberger RM, Stander N, Cassel N, Pazzi P, Mukorera V, Christie J, Carstens A, Dvir E. COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHIC AND RADIOGRAPHIC CHARACTERISTICS OF AORTIC LESIONS IN 42 DOGS WITH SPIROCERCOSIS. Vet Radiol Ultrasound 2013; 54:212-22. [DOI: 10.1111/vru.12021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2012] [Accepted: 01/05/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Robert M. Kirberger
- From the Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies; Faculty of Veterinary Science; University of Pretoria; Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort 0110,; Republic of South Africa
| | - Nerissa Stander
- From the Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies; Faculty of Veterinary Science; University of Pretoria; Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort 0110,; Republic of South Africa
| | - Nicky Cassel
- From the Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies; Faculty of Veterinary Science; University of Pretoria; Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort 0110,; Republic of South Africa
| | - Paolo Pazzi
- From the Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies; Faculty of Veterinary Science; University of Pretoria; Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort 0110,; Republic of South Africa
| | - Varaidzo Mukorera
- From the Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies; Faculty of Veterinary Science; University of Pretoria; Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort 0110,; Republic of South Africa
| | - Jevan Christie
- From the Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies; Faculty of Veterinary Science; University of Pretoria; Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort 0110,; Republic of South Africa
| | - Ann Carstens
- From the Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies; Faculty of Veterinary Science; University of Pretoria; Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort 0110,; Republic of South Africa
| | - Eran Dvir
- From the Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies; Faculty of Veterinary Science; University of Pretoria; Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort 0110,; Republic of South Africa
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35
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Kirberger RM, Clift SJ, van Wilpe E, Dvir E. Spirocerca lupi-associated vertebral changes: a radiologic-pathologic study. Vet Parasitol 2012; 195:87-94. [PMID: 23298568 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2012.12.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2012] [Revised: 12/13/2012] [Accepted: 12/15/2012] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Spirocerca lupi causes a caudal esophageal mass in dogs which may be accompanied by aortic changes and caudal thoracic spondylitis. Previous literature hypothesized that the spondylitis was caused by either aberrant larval migration or was secondary to the inflammation caused by the aortic migration. The current study aimed to evaluate these hypotheses. Ten dogs of various breeds and ages with radiographic evidence of spondylitis, which were necropsied, had the affected vertebrae removed and prepared for light and transmission electron microscopy examination. Transverse and sagittal sections of the ventral vertebrae were taken from 27 spondylitis and 8 spondylosis deformans lesions as well as from 8 normal vertebrae. Early spondylitis changes were characterized by periosteal woven new bone covered by hyperplastic periosteum with some involvement of the ventral longitudinal ligament. More mature lesions were characterized by nodules of denser trabecular bone and cartilage, also covered by hyperplastic periosteum and involved the ventral longitudinal ligament. It was difficult to distinguish the spondylitis and spondylosis deformans new bone. Inflammation was seen in five spondylitis cases (edema, lymphocytes, plasma cells, eosinophils and fibrin fibers). Spirocerca eggs were seen in one histologic section. This study shows that inflammation is mild and inconsistent in spirocercosis-induced spondylitis and that aberrant migration of the larvae or adults did not appear to be a predominant cause. Inflammatory mediators or osteoproliferative growth factors, which may be related to the primary esophageal lesion or to the worm itself, could be involved. This requires further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert M Kirberger
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort, South Africa.
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36
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Sasani F, Javanbakht J, Javaheri A, Hassan MAM, Bashiri S. The evaluation of retrospective pathological lesions on spirocercosis (Spirocerca lupi) in dogs. J Parasit Dis 2012; 38:170-3. [PMID: 24808646 DOI: 10.1007/s12639-012-0216-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2012] [Accepted: 11/26/2012] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
From 1998 to 2012, 42 dogs with spirocercosis referred to pathology Department of Veterinary Faculty, Tehran University. Frequency of spirocercosis was higher in October, November, December, January, February, March months. Averagely, the cases were 4.73 years old of age, so that 59.3 % of them were male. The major pathological findings were located in distal part of esophagus (57 %, n = 24), stomach (24 %, n = 10), and aorta (9.5 %, n = 4), respectively. In addition, 7 % (n = 3) were in esophagus and stomach, 2 % (n = 1) in esophagus and aorta, 42 % (n = 18) indicated pulmonary lesions with hyperemia, atelectasis, edema and pneumonia. In 35 % (n = 15) of cases were with hepatic lesions hyperemia and fatty change. However, 26 % (n = 11) cases demonstrated renal lesions with hyperemia, interstitial nephritis, and 24 % (n = 10) encompassed urinary bladder lesions with hyperemia and adhesive cystitis. Furthermore, sudden death occurred in 7 % (n = 3) as well as cachexia in 7 % (n = 3) cases. Some spirocercosis cases (12 %, n = 5) were accompanied by distemper disease, mixed mammary gland tumor (2 %, n = 1) and parasitic dermatitis due to demodicosis (9.5 %, n = 4). Presumably some of pathological findings were related or emerged by other sort of diseases such as distemper.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Sasani
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Tehran University, Tehran, Iran
| | - J Javanbakht
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Tehran University, Tehran, Iran
| | - A Javaheri
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Semnan University, Semnan, Iran
| | - M A Mohammad Hassan
- Department of Clinical Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Tehran University, Tehran, Iran
| | - S Bashiri
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Tehran University, Tehran, Iran
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37
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Dvir E, Mellanby R, Kjelgaard-Hansen M, Schoeman J. Plasma IL-8 concentrations are increased in dogs with spirocercosis. Vet Parasitol 2012; 190:185-90. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2012.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2012] [Revised: 06/08/2012] [Accepted: 06/10/2012] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
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38
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Pollard RE. Imaging evaluation of dogs and cats with Dysphagia. ISRN VETERINARY SCIENCE 2012; 2012:238505. [PMID: 23762579 PMCID: PMC3671744 DOI: 10.5402/2012/238505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2012] [Accepted: 09/19/2012] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
The current literature is reviewed in this paper regarding the application of diagnostic imaging in the evaluation of swallowing disorders of the dog. The applications of radiography, contrast radiography, and contrast videofluoroscopy are discussed with pertinent case examples provided for emphasis. The indications for image-guided interventions are also described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel E Pollard
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, The University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
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39
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Chikweto A, Bhaiyat MI, Tiwari KP, de Allie C, Sharma RN. Spirocercosis in owned and stray dogs in Grenada. Vet Parasitol 2012; 190:613-6. [PMID: 22841904 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2012.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2012] [Revised: 07/03/2012] [Accepted: 07/05/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this retrospective study was to estimate the prevalence of Spirocerca lupi and its associated lesions in owned and stray dogs in Grenada. During 2001-2011 necropsies were carried out on 1022 owned and 450 stray dogs at the pathology diagnostic laboratory, School of Veterinary Medicine, St. George's University, Grenada. Lesions due to S. lupi characterized by focal to multifocal granulomatous esophagitis with aneurysms, mineralized plaques and nodules in the adjacent thoracic aorta were found in 90 (8.8%; 95% confidence interval, 7.1-10.5%) of owned dogs and 64 (14.2%; 95% CI, 11.2-17.6%) of stray dogs. Stray dogs were significantly more affected by spirocercosis than owned dogs (p=0.0022). Of the 90 owned dogs with spirocercosis, 3 dogs had aberrant migration to the thoracic vertebral column with resultant spondylitis; 1 dog each had aberrant migration involving the stomach and the lung. Two dogs had ruptured aorta with hemothorax. Among the 64 stray dogs with spirocercosis, one dog had an esophageal granuloma that transformed into a fibroblastic osteosarcoma; spondylitis due to aberrant migration of S. lupi and hypertrophic osteopathy. We report spirocercosis for the first time in the dogs from a tropical island of Grenada.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Chikweto
- Pathobiology Academic Program, School of Veterinary Medicine, St. George's University, P.O. Box 7, Grenada.
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40
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Successful resolution of oesophageal spirocercosis in 20 dogs following daily treatment with oral doramectin. Vet J 2012; 193:277-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2011.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2011] [Revised: 08/29/2011] [Accepted: 09/07/2011] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
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41
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Kirberger RM, van der Merwe LL, Dvir E. Pneumoesophagography and the appearance of masses in the caudal portion of the esophagus in dogs with spirocercosis. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2012; 240:420-6. [PMID: 22309014 DOI: 10.2460/javma.240.4.420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the usefulness of pneumoesophagography, compared with that of survey radiography, for characterization of esophageal pathological changes in dogs with endoscopically confirmed intraluminal Spirocerca lupi nodules in the caudal portion of the esophagus. DESIGN Diagnostic test evaluation. ANIMALS 30 dogs with endoscopically confirmed spirocercosis. PROCEDURES Dorsoventral (DV) and right lateral recumbent (RLR) thoracic survey radiographs were obtained for each dog. Endoscopy was subsequently performed, the esophagus was inflated with air, and left lateral recumbent, RLR, DV, and ventrodorsal thoracic radiographs were obtained. The amount of esophageal and gastric distention was recorded. Visibility, location, and surface characteristics of lesions and total length of esophageal involvement were recorded independently for each radiograph and modality and compared with each other. RESULTS Survey DV radiographs were more reliable than survey RLR radiographs for detecting caudal esophageal pathological changes. Lateral pneumoesophagograms showed more esophageal air and had more visible nodules than did their orthogonal counterparts. Right lateral recumbent pneumoesophagograms allowed for evaluation of the air-filled stomach, particularly the cardiac portion, for additional pathological changes. Pneumoesophagography allowed the mural position (47% located dorsally) and surface characteristics of Spirocerca nodules to be determined. Six of 9 dogs with confirmed malignant disease had an irregular nodule surface suggestive of neoplastic transformation. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Pneumoesophagography was easily performed in dogs with spirocercosis and showed promise as a cost-effective and safe initial diagnostic procedure for further evaluation and characterization of suspected caudal esophageal lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert M Kirberger
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort 0110, Republic of South Africa.
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42
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Dvir E, Schoeman JP, Clift SJ, McNeilly TN, Mellanby RJ. Immunohistochemical characterization of lymphocyte and myeloid cell infiltrates in spirocercosis-induced oesophageal nodules. Parasite Immunol 2012; 33:545-53. [PMID: 21770972 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-3024.2011.01316.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Spirocerca lupi is a nematode that infects the dog's oesophagus and promotes the formation of an inflammatory fibroblastic nodule that progresses to sarcoma in approximately 25% of cases. Spirocercosis-associated oesophageal sarcoma is an excellent and under-utilized spontaneous model of parasite-associated malignancy. The inflammatory infiltrate of paraffin-embedded, non-neoplastic oesophageal nodules (n = 46), neoplastic nodules (n = 25) and normal oesophagus (n = 14) was examined by immunohistochemistry using MAC387 (myeloid cells), CD3 (T cells), Pax5 (B cells) and FoxP3 (T regulatory cells) antibodies. Myeloid cells predominated in 70% of nodules, in pockets around the worms' migratory tracts and in necro-ulcerative areas in neoplastic cases. T cells predominated in 23% of cases with a focal or diffuse distribution, in the nodule periphery. No significant differences were observed between neoplastic and non-neoplastic stages. FoxP3+ cells were observed in low numbers, not significantly different from the controls. The inflammation in spirocercosis is characterized by pockets of pus surrounded by organized lymphoid foci. There was no evidence of a local accumulation of FoxP3+ cells, unlike many previous studies that have reported an increase in FoxP3+ T cells in both malignancies and parasite infections. The triggering factor(s) driving the malignant transformation of the spirocercosis-associated chronic inflammatory nodule warrants further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Dvir
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.
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43
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Mukorera V, van der Merwe LL, Lavy E, Aroch I, Dvir E. Serum alkaline phosphatase activity is not a marker for neoplastic transformation of esophageal nodules in canine spirocercosis. Vet Clin Pathol 2011; 40:389-92. [PMID: 21790698 DOI: 10.1111/j.1939-165x.2011.00331.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spirocerca lupi is a nematode of Canidae that matures within the esophageal wall to form fibroblastic nodules with potential for malignant transformation. Diagnosis is based on histopathologic examination, but false-negative results may be obtained from samples collected by endoscopy. Serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, frequently increased in hepatobiliary disease, is also increased in a variety of neoplastic conditions in dogs, including appendicular osteosarcoma, and has also been reported to be increased in dogs with spirocercosis. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to evaluate serum ALP activity as a marker for malignant transformation of esophageal nodules in S. lupi-infected dogs. METHODS In this retrospective study, medical records of dogs diagnosed with spirocercosis from 1991 to 2008 were reviewed, and serum ALP activity determined at presentation was compared between dogs with nonneoplastic and neoplastic nodules. Owing to use of multiple analyzers, ratios of ALP activity to the upper reference interval for ALP were calculated and compared. RESULTS Median ALP activity ratios were 0.65 (0.07-4.00) and 0.86 (0.10-3.40) for dogs with nonneoplastic (n=88) and neoplastic (n=32) nodules, respectively, with no significant difference (P=.18) and substantial overlap between groups. Tumors included osteosarcoma (15 dogs), fibrosarcoma (15 dogs), and anaplastic sarcoma (2 dogs); there was no difference in ALP activity between the dogs with osteosarcoma and fibrosarcoma. CONCLUSION ALP is a poor marker of malignant transformation in canine spirocercosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Varaidzo Mukorera
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.
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Mukorera V, Dvir E, van der Merwe L, Goddard A. Serum C-Reactive Protein Concentration in Benign and Malignant Canine Spirocercosis. J Vet Intern Med 2011; 25:963-6. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1939-1676.2011.0733.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
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The efficacy of milbemycin oxime against pre-adult Spirocerca lupi in experimentally infected dogs. Vet Parasitol 2011; 177:111-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2010.11.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2010] [Revised: 11/12/2010] [Accepted: 11/18/2010] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Gottlieb Y, Markovics A, Klement E, Naor S, Samish M, Aroch I, Lavy E. Characterization of Onthophagus sellatus as the major intermediate host of the dog esophageal worm Spirocerca lupi in Israel. Vet Parasitol 2011; 180:378-82. [PMID: 21474246 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2011.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2011] [Revised: 03/02/2011] [Accepted: 03/03/2011] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Spirocerca lupi is a parasitic nematode of dogs, that causes significant morbidity and mortality. Its intermediate hosts in Israel have never been described. The aim of this study was therefore to identify the intermediate hosts of S. lupi in Israel and to describe their abundance and annual infection rate with the nematode, in different microenvironments (i.e., the effects of irrigation and shade) in an endemic area. Dog dung pads were collected every 2 months from two different public parks for 1 year. Dung beetles were identified to the species level in infested dog feces and were examined for the presence of S. lupi larvae through dissection. The Scarabid beetle Onthophagus sellatus was the most abundant dung beetle species in dog dung pads and the only one infected with S. lupi larvae. The minimal period for development of the S. lupi L3 infective stage was 7 days. Significant differences were observed between the two different microenvironments and along the year. The highest risk for infection of dogs with the nematode was during the summer, in an irrigated, shady microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuval Gottlieb
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, POB 12, Herzel St., Rehovot 76100, Israel.
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The use of milbemycin oxime in a prophylactic anthelmintic programme to protect puppies, raised in an endemic area, against infection with Spirocerca lupi. Vet Parasitol 2010; 174:277-84. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2010.08.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2010] [Revised: 08/16/2010] [Accepted: 08/23/2010] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Dvir E, Clift S, Williams M. Proposed histological progression of the Spirocerca lupi-induced oesophageal lesion in dogs. Vet Parasitol 2010; 168:71-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2009.10.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2009] [Revised: 10/20/2009] [Accepted: 10/26/2009] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
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KIRBERGER ROBERTM, DVIR ERAN, VAN DER MERWE LIESELL. THE EFFECT OF POSITIONING ON THE RADIOGRAPHIC APPEARANCE OF CAUDODORSAL MEDIASTINAL MASSES IN THE DOG. Vet Radiol Ultrasound 2009; 50:630-4. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1740-8261.2009.01594.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
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Rinas MA, Nesnek R, Kinsella JM, DeMatteo KE. Fatal aortic aneurysm and rupture in a neotropical bush dog (Speothos venaticus) caused by Spirocerca lupi. Vet Parasitol 2009; 164:347-9. [PMID: 19515493 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2009.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2008] [Revised: 03/24/2009] [Accepted: 05/06/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
This report details the post-mortem discovery of a larva of Spirocerca lupi in the caudal thoracic aorta of a 2-year, male bush dog (Speothos venaticus). This individual presented no clinical symptoms of the parasite's presence prior to its sudden death. The cause of death was determined to be acute bleeding following the rupture of an aneurysm in the caudal thoracic aorta as a result of the parasite located there. This is the first report of S. lupi in a bush dog.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel A Rinas
- Parque Ecológico El Puma, Ministerio de Ecología, Recursos Naturales Renovables y Turismo de la Provincia Misiones, Candelaria, Misiones, Argentina
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