1
|
Rauch-Schmücking H, Bohner J, Goeritz F, Bakker D, Stalder G, Stenvinkel P, Johnson RJ, Shiels PG, Redtenbacher I, Azogu-Sepe I, Burgener IA, Painer-Gigler J. CYSTOCENTESIS AND URINALYSIS IN ZOOMEDICINE: AN UNDERESTIMATED TOOL FOR LARGE FELID STANDARD HEALTH CHECKS. J Zoo Wildl Med 2024; 55:555-564. [PMID: 39255196 DOI: 10.1638/2023-0071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 09/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a prevalent disease among felids; yet its origin is still poorly understood, and the disease often remains asymptomatic for years, underscoring the need for early diagnosis. This study aimed to investigate the diagnostic value of urinalysis in accurately staging CKD, particularly as routine health checks in large felids often overlook its significance. In this research, ultrasound-guided cystocentesis (UGC) was performed on 50 captive nondomestic felids during routine veterinary health checks under general anesthesia. Urinalysis included microscopic examination of the sediment, measurement of urine specific gravity (USG) and protein to creatinine ratio (UPC). Additional serum kidney markers, such as creatinine and symmetric dimethylarginine, were compared with USG and UPC to assess their diagnostic value as urinary biomarkers. The results demonstrated proteinuria (UPC > 0.4) or borderline proteinuria (UPC 0.2-0.4) in 49% of the animals. Among these cases, 62% were of renal origin, and 38% were postrenal causes. USG was significantly higher in felids with borderline proteinuria compared to those with proteinuria. A moderate, but significant negative correlation between serum parameters and USG was observed, emphasizing the importance of assessing both diagnostic parameters during kidney evaluations. Additionally, felids with CKD have an increased risk of urinary tract infections, necessitating microscopic urinalysis and bacterial culture analysis. Abnormalities, including hematuria, pyuria, crystalluria, and bacteriuria, were found in approximately 38% of cases through microscopical examination of urine. No complications associated with UGC were observed and abnormal findings were detected in 60% of the cases. Based on these results, the authors recommend the inclusion of UGC and urinalysis as standard diagnostic tools in general health checks for nondomestic felids. This approach provides valuable insights into the early detection and staging of CKD, supporting early intervention and supportive medical care to prolong renal health in these animals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hanna Rauch-Schmücking
- Research Institute of Wildlife Ecology, Department of Interdisciplinary Life Sciences, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna 1160, Austria
| | - Julia Bohner
- Research Institute of Wildlife Ecology, Department of Interdisciplinary Life Sciences, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna 1160, Austria
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW), 10315 Berlin, Germany
| | - Frank Goeritz
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW), 10315 Berlin, Germany
| | - Denyse Bakker
- Lammermoor Veterinary Clinic, Krugersdorp 1747, South Africa
| | - Gabrielle Stalder
- Research Institute of Wildlife Ecology, Department of Interdisciplinary Life Sciences, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna 1160, Austria
| | - Peter Stenvinkel
- Department of Renal Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm 171 77, Sweden
| | - Richard J Johnson
- Division of Renal Diseases and Hypertension, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora 80045, Colorado, USA
| | - Paul G Shiels
- School of Molecular Biosciences, MVLS, University of Glasgow G12 8QQ, United Kingdom
| | | | - Idu Azogu-Sepe
- Serengeti-Park Department of Research, Serengeti-Park Hodenhagen GmbH, Hodenhagen 29693, Germany
| | - Iwan A Burgener
- Division of Small Animal Internal Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna 1210, Austria
| | - Johanna Painer-Gigler
- Research Institute of Wildlife Ecology, Department of Interdisciplinary Life Sciences, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna 1160, Austria,
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Balaguera-Reina SA, Brandt LA, Hernandez ND, Mason BM, Smith CD, Mazzotti FJ. Body condition as a descriptor of American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis) health status in the Greater Everglades, Florida, United States. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0295357. [PMID: 38033092 PMCID: PMC10688880 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0295357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Body condition is used as an indicator of the degree of body fat in an animal but evidence of its actual relationship with health diagnostics (e.g., blood parameters) is usually lacking across species. In American alligators (Alligator mississippiensis), body condition has been used as a performance metric within the Greater Everglades ecosystem to provide insight on hydrological and landscape changes on alligator populations. However, there is no clear evidence that spatial body condition changes relate to different health conditions (low food intake vs sickness) and whether this link can be made when relating body condition values with blood parameters. We assessed the relationship between alligator body condition and 36 hematological and biochemistry (blood) parameters in four areas across two physiographic regions (Everglades and Big Cypress) of the Greater Everglades (sample size = 120). We found very strong to weak evidence of linearity between 7 (Big Cypress) and 19 (Everglades) blood parameters and relative condition factor index, from which cholesterol (38%) and uric acid (41%) for the former and phosphorus (up to 52%) and cholesterol (up to 45%) for the latter (mean absolute error MAE = 0.18 each) were the predictors that individually explain most of the body condition variation. The best combination of blood parameters for the Everglades were cholesterol, phosphorus, osmolality, total protein, albumin, alpha 2, beta, and gamma globulins, and corticosterone accounting for 40% (37 ± 21%, MAE = 0.16) of the variation found in alligator body condition for this region. We found better predictability power in models when analyzed at smaller rather than larger scales showing a potential habitat effect on the body condition-blood parameters relationship. Overall, Everglades alligators in poorer condition are likely dehydrated or have an inadequate diet and the spatial differences found between physiographic regions suggest that these areas differ in prey availability/quality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sergio A. Balaguera-Reina
- Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center, Institute of Food and Agricultural Science, University of Florida, Davie, Florida, United States of America
| | - Laura A. Brandt
- U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Davie, Florida, United States of America
| | - Nicole D. Hernandez
- Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center, Institute of Food and Agricultural Science, University of Florida, Davie, Florida, United States of America
| | - Brittany M. Mason
- Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center, Institute of Food and Agricultural Science, University of Florida, Davie, Florida, United States of America
| | | | - Frank J. Mazzotti
- Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center, Institute of Food and Agricultural Science, University of Florida, Davie, Florida, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
deMaar TW, Laack LL, Mays JL, Sternberg MA, Swarts HM, Korchia J. FREE-RANGING OCELOTS ( LEOPARDUS PARDALIS): HEMATOLOGY AND SERUM CHEMISTRY REFERENCE VALUES. J Zoo Wildl Med 2023; 54:473-483. [PMID: 37817613 DOI: 10.1638/2022-0112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Acquiring baseline physiologic data for animals from a free-ranging wildlife species is an elusive objective. Between 1990 and 2020, a monitoring program on the last population of ocelot (Leopardus pardalis) to inhabit public land in the United States yielded 139 blood samples from 67 individual animals. Ocelots were live trapped and anesthetized for census and radiotelemetric studies. The protocol included morphometrics, photographs, electronic identification, and blood collection. Complete blood count and serum chemistry were performed, and after sorting of the data to remove unhealthy individuals and occasional outliers, the dataset provided sufficient information to compute reliable reference intervals (RI). According to the American Society of Veterinary Clinical Pathology consensus guidelines, RI should be elaborated by using data from each reference individual only once. RI by random selection was determined when several measurements were available over time from one same animal. Second, RI were also computed allowing repeat measurements for reference individuals, exclusively to characterize and quantify the effect on the data distribution and on the generated RI. A summary of published RI for various species of wild felids is also presented. The variations observed between species is due not only to species differences but also to variation in measurement methods and RI study design. Overall, accurate blood work interpretation requires RI generated from a healthy population, with defined measurement methods and state-of-the-art RI study design. Of note, calcium is typically tightly regulated in all mammals, as illustrated by the narrow RI (8.5-10.8 mg/dl); conversely, finding a narrow RI in calcium across as many as 49 healthy individuals suggests a high-quality design study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Linda L Laack
- Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge, United States Fish and Wildlife Service, Los Fresnos, TX 78566, USA
| | - Jody L Mays
- Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge, United States Fish and Wildlife Service, Los Fresnos, TX 78566, USA
| | - Mitch A Sternberg
- South Texas Refuge Complex, United States Fish and Wildlife Service, Alamo, TX 78516, USA
| | - Hilary M Swarts
- Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge, United States Fish and Wildlife Service, Los Fresnos, TX 78566, USA
| | - Jeremie Korchia
- Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation. Michigan State University, College of Veterinary Medicine, East Lansing, MI 48824
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
YERSINIA PSEUDOTUBERCULOSIS INFECTION IN LIONS (PANTHERA LEO) AT A ZOOLOGICAL PARK. J Zoo Wildl Med 2022; 53:593-599. [DOI: 10.1638/2021-0106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
|
5
|
Buck RK, Tordiffe ASW, Zeiler GE. Ketamine-medetomidine compared to tiletamine-zolazepam-medetomidine for immobilisation of semi-captive cheetahs (
Acinonyx jubatus
). J S Afr Vet Assoc 2022. [DOI: 10.36303/jsava.2022.93.1.489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- RK Buck
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria,
South Africa
| | - ASW Tordiffe
- Department of Paraclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria,
South Africa
| | - GE Zeiler
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria,
South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Kophamel S, Illing B, Ariel E, Difalco M, Skerratt LF, Hamann M, Ward LC, Méndez D, Munns SL. Importance of health assessments for conservation in noncaptive wildlife. CONSERVATION BIOLOGY : THE JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR CONSERVATION BIOLOGY 2022; 36:e13724. [PMID: 33634525 PMCID: PMC9291856 DOI: 10.1111/cobi.13724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2020] [Revised: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 04/13/2023]
Abstract
Wildlife health assessments help identify populations at risk of starvation, disease, and decline from anthropogenic impacts on natural habitats. We conducted an overview of available health assessment studies in noncaptive vertebrates and devised a framework to strategically integrate health assessments in population monitoring. Using a systematic approach, we performed a thorough assessment of studies examining multiple health parameters of noncaptive vertebrate species from 1982 to 2020 (n = 261 studies). We quantified trends in study design and diagnostic methods across taxa with generalized linear models, bibliometric analyses, and visual representations of study location versus biodiversity hotspots. Only 35% of studies involved international or cross-border collaboration. Countries with both high and threatened biodiversity were greatly underrepresented. Species that were not listed as threatened on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List represented 49% of assessed species, a trend likely associated with the regional focus of most studies. We strongly suggest following wildlife health assessment protocols when planning a study and using statistically adequate sample sizes for studies establishing reference ranges. Across all taxa blood analysis (89%), body composition assessments (81%), physical examination (72%), and fecal analyses (24% of studies) were the most common methods. A conceptual framework to improve design and standardize wildlife health assessments includes guidelines on the experimental design, data acquisition and analysis, and species conservation planning and management implications. Integrating a physiological and ecological understanding of species resilience toward threatening processes will enable informed decision making regarding the conservation of threatened species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Kophamel
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary SciencesJames Cook UniversityTownsvilleQueenslandAustralia
| | - Björn Illing
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef StudiesJames Cook UniversityTownsvilleQueenslandAustralia
| | - Ellen Ariel
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary SciencesJames Cook UniversityTownsvilleQueenslandAustralia
| | - Morgan Difalco
- School of Natural SciencesBangor UniversityBangorWalesUK
| | - Lee F. Skerratt
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural SciencesThe University of MelbourneWerribeeVictoriaAustralia
| | - Mark Hamann
- College of Science and EngineeringJames Cook UniversityTownsvilleQueenslandAustralia
| | - Leigh C. Ward
- School of Chemistry and Molecular BiosciencesThe University of QueenslandBrisbaneQueenslandAustralia
| | - Diana Méndez
- Australian Institute of Tropical Health and MedicineJames Cook UniversityTownsvilleQueenslandAustralia
| | - Suzanne L. Munns
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary SciencesJames Cook UniversityTownsvilleQueenslandAustralia
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Proverbio D, Perego R, Baggiani L, Ravasio G, Giambellini D, Spada E. Hematological and Biochemical Reference Values in Healthy Captive Tigers ( Panthera tigris). Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:3440. [PMID: 34944217 PMCID: PMC8698039 DOI: 10.3390/ani11123440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2021] [Revised: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The tiger (Panthera tigris) is an endangered species. The health of individuals is important and any data on hematological and biochemical blood values can provide valuable information; when combined with physical assessment. This data assists in both the diagnosis of disease and some conservation strategies. The behavior of wild tigers makes it is extremely difficult to obtain biological samples from free-living subjects, therefore, data collected from captive tigers is highly valuable. The aim of this study was to provide additional information for the values of hematological and serum biochemical parameters in healthy captive tigers. Blood samples were collected from 22 clinically healthy tigers (Panthera tigris). The following parameters were analyzed: glucose, urea, creatinine, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), total protein (TP) and red blood cells (RBCs), hemoglobin (Hb), hematocrit (Hct) and red cell indices; such as mean cell volume (MCV), mean cell Hb (MCH), mean cell Hb concentration (MCHC), platelet (PLT) and white blood cells (WBCs). The mean hematological values in our tiger population were not significantly different when compared with the same parameters in the previously studied tiger population. The mean values of RBCs and PLT were statistically significantly higher and the mean values of Hb, PCV, MCV, MCH, MCHC, and WBC were lower than the mean values obtained in previous studies on the Amur tiger. Further investigation of captive and free-living tigers is needed to identify the normal ranges for parameters in this endangered species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Proverbio
- Department of Veterinary Medicine (DIMEVET), University of Milan, Via dell’Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy; (L.B.); (G.R.); (E.S.)
| | - Roberta Perego
- Department of Veterinary Medicine (DIMEVET), University of Milan, Via dell’Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy; (L.B.); (G.R.); (E.S.)
| | - Luciana Baggiani
- Department of Veterinary Medicine (DIMEVET), University of Milan, Via dell’Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy; (L.B.); (G.R.); (E.S.)
| | - Giuliano Ravasio
- Department of Veterinary Medicine (DIMEVET), University of Milan, Via dell’Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy; (L.B.); (G.R.); (E.S.)
| | | | - Eva Spada
- Department of Veterinary Medicine (DIMEVET), University of Milan, Via dell’Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy; (L.B.); (G.R.); (E.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Equal contributions of feline immunodeficiency virus and coinfections to morbidity in African lions. Int J Parasitol Parasites Wildl 2021; 16:83-94. [PMID: 34466379 PMCID: PMC8385399 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2021.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Revised: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) is a pathogenic lentivirus related to human and simian immunodeficiency viruses that has been associated with AIDS-like pathologies in domestic and wild cats, as well as in hyenas. Despite known pathologies, progressive immunosuppression and ill health effects driven by these lentiviruses in association with other secondary infections remain understudied in free-ranging species. Here, the role of coinfections by gastrointestinal parasites and tick-borne hemoparasites for FIV disease progression was explored in 195 free-ranging African lions (Panthera leo) living in Kruger National Park (KNP), South Africa. Using statistical methodology, we evaluated the effects of FIV on a range of health indicators to explore how direct and indirect effects of FIV and associated coinfections align to determine lion health outcomes. Findings show direct negative effects of FIV on host immunity and nutritional status, and exacerbation of aggressive behaviors, conditions which may increase exposure/susceptibility to other secondary infections. When taken together, the contribution of coinfecting parasites to morbidity in lions is of similar magnitude as direct effects of FIV infection alone, suggesting that the particular coinfection assemblage may play a role in mediating disease progression within natural lion populations. Immunosuppression by FIV increases richness and abundance of secondary parasites. Infection by gastrointestinal parasites drives severe malnourishment in FIV hosts. Hemoparasite infection contributed to liver pathology and clinical wasting. Contributions of secondary infections to morbidity equal the direct effects of FIV.
Collapse
|
9
|
SERUM BIOCHEMISTRY AND SELECT MINERAL PARAMETERS OF PRE-RELEASE SUNDA PANGOLINS ( MANIS JAVANICA) FOLLOWING REHABILITATION IN VIETNAM. J Zoo Wildl Med 2021; 52:241-252. [PMID: 33827182 DOI: 10.1638/2020-0124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Native to Southeast Asia, the Sunda pangolin (Manis javanica) is critically endangered largely because of poorly regulated wildlife trade, consumptive practices, and use in traditional Chinese medicine. Efforts to rescue and rehabilitate animals confiscated from the illegal trade are complicated by a general lack of knowledge surrounding the normal health and disease processes unique to the species. To provide clinical reference intervals for normal health states of Sunda pangolins, biochemical parameters were determined from rescued individuals in Vietnam that had undergone a 14-day observation period and met a set of criteria for release back into the wild. Blood samples were collected from 42 apparently healthy Sunda pangolins while anesthetized or awake. Packed cell volume (PCV) and total solids (TS) were determined manually, and serum biochemistry values were determined in-house with a benchtop analyzer. Additional biochemical and mineral parameters not included in the primary panel were determined from a subset of 10 pangolins through an external diagnostic laboratory. Overall reference intervals were calculated for PCV and TS (n = 29) and for standard serum biochemistry parameters (n = 42). Females and males demonstrated significant variation with respect to body mass, potassium (K+), and phosphorus, whereas age was a significant source of variation in alkaline phosphatase. Seasonal variation in glucose (GLU), creatinine (CRE), total proteins, sodium, calcium, and K+ was also observed. Comparisons between anesthetized and awake pangolins demonstrated significant variation in GLU, CRE, and K+. The parameters determined in this study can serve as a clinical reference for ex situ Sunda pangolin conservation efforts. In the context of wildlife rehabilitation, serial bloodwork allows for continued monitoring of patient health and should inform decision making regarding release readiness and timing.
Collapse
|
10
|
Shima AL, Berger L, Skerratt LF. Haematological and serum biochemical reference intervals of free-ranging Lumholtz's tree-kangaroos (Dendrolagus lumholtzi). Aust Vet J 2021; 99:249-254. [PMID: 33751570 DOI: 10.1111/avj.13063] [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: 07/24/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Reference intervals for haematology and serum biochemistry parameters were developed for free-ranging Lumholtz's tree-kangaroo (Dendrolagus lumholtzi) using 35 samples from 12 female and 15 male free-ranging animals. Captive tree-kangaroos (n = 12) were also sampled for comparison. Differences were found between free-ranging and captive animals in white blood cell and neutrophil counts, and levels of aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, bilirubin, creatine kinase, phosphate, triglycerides and lipase. These differences may be attributed to diet, activity, capture methods or age group. Reference intervals generated may be used for both free-ranging and captive Lumholtz's tree-kangaroos. This study provides a valuable tool for the assessment of health in rescued and captive tree-kangaroos and will aid in investigations into population health and disease in free-ranging Lumholtz's tree-kangaroos. OBJECTIVE To develop reference intervals (RIs) for haematology and serum biochemistry parameters in Lumholtz's tree-kangaroos. METHODS Haematological and serum biochemical RIs were determined using 35 samples from 27 clinically healthy Lumholtz's tree-kangaroos from the Atherton Tablelands region of Queensland examined between 2014 and 2019. Haematology and serum biochemistry parameters were measured from 16 samples from 12 captive animals for comparison. RESULTS Reference intervals based on 35 samples from free-ranging animals showed higher mean and standard deviation values for white blood cell and neutrophil counts, and levels of aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, bilirubin, creatine kinase, phosphate, triglycerides and lipase than results for 16 samples from captive animals. Captive individuals showed higher mean values than free-ranging individuals for albumin, protein, creatinine as well as Hb, MCV, MCH and MCHC. CONCLUSION The haematological and serum biochemistry RIs developed for Lumholtz's tree-kangaroos in this study will provide a valuable tool during clinical examination and investigations into disease and population health by veterinarians and researchers. The differences in parameters between free-ranging and captive animals are consistent with differences in diet, age cohort, activity or capture methods. Reference intervals generated from free-ranging animals should also be valid for captive Lumholtz's tree-kangaroos.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A L Shima
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Science, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, 4811, Australia
| | - L Berger
- One Health Research Group, Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, 3030, Australia
| | - L F Skerratt
- One Health Research Group, Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, 3030, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Green J, Jakins C, Asfaw E, Bruschi N, Parker A, de Waal L, D’Cruze N. African Lions and Zoonotic Diseases: Implications for Commercial Lion Farms in South Africa. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10091692. [PMID: 32962130 PMCID: PMC7552683 DOI: 10.3390/ani10091692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary In South Africa, thousands of African lions are bred on farms for commercial purposes, such as tourism, trophy hunting, and traditional medicine. Lions on farms often have direct contact with people, such as farm workers and tourists. Such close contact between wild animals and humans creates opportunities for the spread of zoonotic diseases (diseases that can be passed between animals and people). To help understand the health risks associated with lion farms, our study compiled a list of pathogens (bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi) known to affect African lions. We reviewed 148 scientific papers and identified a total of 63 pathogens recorded in both wild and captive lions, most of which were parasites (35, 56%), followed by viruses (17, 27%) and bacteria (11, 17%). This included pathogens that can be passed from lions to other animals and to humans. We also found a total of 83 diseases and clinical symptoms associated with these pathogens. Given that pathogens and their associated infectious diseases can cause harm to both animals and public health, we recommend that the lion farming industry in South Africa takes action to prevent and manage potential disease outbreaks. Abstract African lions (Panthera leo) are bred in captivity on commercial farms across South Africa and often have close contact with farm staff, tourists, and other industry workers. As transmission of zoonotic diseases occurs through close proximity between wildlife and humans, these commercial captive breeding operations pose a potential risk to thousands of captive lions and to public health. An understanding of pathogens known to affect lions is needed to effectively assess the risk of disease emergence and transmission within the industry. Here, we conduct a systematic search of the academic literature, identifying 148 peer-reviewed studies, to summarize the range of pathogens and parasites known to affect African lions. A total of 63 pathogenic organisms were recorded, belonging to 35 genera across 30 taxonomic families. Over half were parasites (35, 56%), followed by viruses (17, 27%) and bacteria (11, 17%). A number of novel pathogens representing unidentified and undescribed species were also reported. Among the pathogenic inventory are species that can be transmitted from lions to other species, including humans. In addition, 83 clinical symptoms and diseases associated with these pathogens were identified. Given the risks posed by infectious diseases, this research highlights the potential public health risks associated with the captive breeding industry. We recommend that relevant authorities take imminent action to help prevent and manage the risks posed by zoonotic pathogens on lion farms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennah Green
- World Animal Protection 222 Gray’s Inn Rd., London WC1X 8HB, UK; (J.G.); (E.A.); (N.B.); (A.P.)
| | - Catherine Jakins
- Blood Lion NPC, P.O. Box 1548, Kloof 3640, South Africa; (C.J.); (L.d.W.)
| | - Eyob Asfaw
- World Animal Protection 222 Gray’s Inn Rd., London WC1X 8HB, UK; (J.G.); (E.A.); (N.B.); (A.P.)
| | - Nicholas Bruschi
- World Animal Protection 222 Gray’s Inn Rd., London WC1X 8HB, UK; (J.G.); (E.A.); (N.B.); (A.P.)
| | - Abbie Parker
- World Animal Protection 222 Gray’s Inn Rd., London WC1X 8HB, UK; (J.G.); (E.A.); (N.B.); (A.P.)
| | - Louise de Waal
- Blood Lion NPC, P.O. Box 1548, Kloof 3640, South Africa; (C.J.); (L.d.W.)
| | - Neil D’Cruze
- World Animal Protection 222 Gray’s Inn Rd., London WC1X 8HB, UK; (J.G.); (E.A.); (N.B.); (A.P.)
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Sylvester TT, Parsons SDC, van Helden PD, Miller MA, Loxton AG. A pilot study evaluating the utility of commercially available antibodies for flow cytometric analysis of Panthera species lymphocytes. BMC Vet Res 2018; 14:410. [PMID: 30567560 PMCID: PMC6299994 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-018-1717-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2018] [Accepted: 11/26/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The immune response against tuberculosis in lions is still poorly defined and our understanding is hampered by the lack of lion specific reagents. The process for producing antibodies against a specific antigen is laborious and not available to many research laboratories. As the search for antibody cross-reactivity is an important strategy for immunological studies in veterinary medicine, we have investigated the use of commercially available antibodies to characterize T cell subsets in African lions (Panthera leo). Results Commercially available antibodies were screened and investigated the influence of two different sample processing methods, as well as the effect of time delay on cell surface marker expression on lion lymphocytes. Using commercially available antibodies, we were able to identify CD4+, CD5+, CD8+, CD14+, CD25+, CD44+ and CD45+ T lymphocytes in samples obtained by density gradient centrifugation as well as red cell lysis of lion whole blood. Two distinct lymphocyte populations, which differed in size and phenotype, were observed in the samples processed by density gradient centrifugation. Conclusion Commercially available antibodies are able to differentiate between T lymphocyte subsets including immune effector cells in African lion whole blood, and possibly give insight into unique specie phenotypes. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12917-018-1717-4) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tashnica Taime Sylvester
- NRF/DST Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research; South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research; Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Sven David Charles Parsons
- NRF/DST Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research; South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research; Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Paul David van Helden
- NRF/DST Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research; South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research; Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Michele Ann Miller
- NRF/DST Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research; South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research; Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Andre Gareth Loxton
- NRF/DST Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research; South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research; Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Couch CE, Movius MA, Jolles AE, Gorman ME, Rigas JD, Beechler BR. Serum biochemistry panels in African buffalo: Defining reference intervals and assessing variability across season, age and sex. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0176830. [PMID: 28472180 PMCID: PMC5417560 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0176830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2016] [Accepted: 04/18/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Serum biochemical parameters can be utilized to evaluate the physiological status of an animal, and relate it to the animal's health. In order to accurately interpret individual animal biochemical results, species-specific reference intervals (RI) must be established. Reference intervals for biochemical parameters differ between species, and physiological differences including reproductive status, nutritional resource availability, disease status, and age affect parameters within the same species. The objectives of this study were to (1) establish RI for biochemical parameters in managed African buffalo (Syncerus caffer), (2) assess the effects of age, sex, pregnancy, and season on serum biochemistry values, and (3) compare serum biochemistry values from a managed herd to a free-ranging buffalo herd and to values previously published for captive (zoo) buffalo. Season profoundly affected all biochemistry parameters, possibly due to changes in nutrition and disease exposure. Age also affected all biochemical parameters except gamma glutamyl transferase and magnesium, consistent with patterns seen in cattle. Sex and reproductive status had no detectable effects on the parameters that were measured. The biochemical profiles of managed buffalo were distinct from those observed in the free-ranging herd and captive buffalo. Biochemical differences between buffalo from captive, managed, and free-ranging populations may be related to nutritional restriction or lack of predation in the context of management or captivity. The reference intervals provided in this study, in addition to the seasonal and age-related patterns observed, provide a foundation for health investigations that may inform management strategies in this ecologically and economically important species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claire E. Couch
- Oregon State University, Department of Integrative Biology, Corvallis, Oregon, United States of America
| | - Morgan A. Movius
- Oregon State University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Corvallis, Oregon, United States of America
| | - Anna E. Jolles
- Oregon State University, Department of Integrative Biology, Corvallis, Oregon, United States of America
- Oregon State University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Corvallis, Oregon, United States of America
| | - M. Elena Gorman
- Oregon State University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Corvallis, Oregon, United States of America
| | - Johanna D. Rigas
- Utah State University, School of Veterinary Medicine, Logan, Utah, United States of America
| | - Brianna R. Beechler
- Oregon State University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Corvallis, Oregon, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|