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Beckwith-Cohen B, Petersen-Jones SM. Manifestations of systemic disease in the retina and fundus of cats and dogs. Front Vet Sci 2024; 11:1337062. [PMID: 38444779 PMCID: PMC10912207 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2024.1337062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
The fundus is unique in that it is the only part of the body that allows for a noninvasive and uninterrupted view of vasculature and nervous tissue. Utilization of this can be a powerful tool in uncovering salient incidental findings which point to underlying systemic diseases, and for monitoring response to therapy. Retinal venules and arterioles allow the clinician to assess changes in vascular color, diameter, outline, and tortuosity. The retina and optic nerve may exhibit changes associated with increased or decreased thickness, inflammatory infiltrates, hemorrhages, and detachments. While some retinal manifestations of systemic disease may be nonspecific, others are pathognomonic, and may be the presenting sign for a systemic illness. The examination of the fundus is an essential part of the comprehensive physical examination. Systemic diseases which may present with retinal abnormalities include a variety of disease classifications, as represented by the DAMNIT-V acronym, for Degenerative/Developmental, Anomalous, Metabolic, Neoplastic, Nutritional, Inflammatory (Infectious/Immune-mediated/ischemic), Toxic, Traumatic and Vascular. This review details systemic illnesses or syndromes that have been reported to manifest in the fundus of companion animals and discusses key aspects in differentiating their underlying cause. Normal variations in retinal anatomy and morphology are also considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Billie Beckwith-Cohen
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States
| | - Simon M. Petersen-Jones
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States
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2
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Wilczyńska A, Komsta R, Szadkowski M, Ziętek J, Adaszek Ł. Prevalence of Encephalitozoon cuniculi Infection in Guinea Pigs ( Cavia porcellus) in Poland with Different Clinical Disorders-A Pilot Study. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:1992. [PMID: 37370502 DOI: 10.3390/ani13121992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Encephalitozoonosis is a disease caused by E. cuniculi. It is diagnosed primarily in rabbits but is less frequently so in other animal species. E. cuniculi is classified among Microsporidia-fungi frequently found in the environment, that are resistant to numerous external factors. Apart from rabbits, rodents form the next group of animals most exposed to infection with these pathogens. The objective of the study was to analyze the prevalence of E. cuniculi infection in guinea pigs with different clinical disorders. The study included 67 animals with E. cuniculi infection confirmed via real-time PCR. The infected animals most frequently exhibited nervous and urinary system symptoms, as well as issues with vision organs, while several animals were also recorded as having problems with the respiratory system and thyroid gland dysfunction. The study shows that encephalitozoonosis constitutes a significant problem in rodents kept as domestic animals, which in turn may be a source of infection for humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Wilczyńska
- Department of Epizootiology and Clinic of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine of the University of Life Sciences in Lublin, ul. Głęboka 30, 20-612 Lublin, Poland
| | - Renata Komsta
- Laboratory for Radiology and Ultrasonography, Department and Clinic of Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine of the University of Life Sciences in Lublin, ul. Głęboka 30, 20-612 Lublin, Poland
| | - Mateusz Szadkowski
- Department and Clinic of Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine of the University of Life Sciences in Lublin, ul. Głęboka 30, 20-612 Lublin, Poland
| | - Jerzy Ziętek
- Department of Epizootiology and Clinic of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine of the University of Life Sciences in Lublin, ul. Głęboka 30, 20-612 Lublin, Poland
| | - Łukasz Adaszek
- Department of Epizootiology and Clinic of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine of the University of Life Sciences in Lublin, ul. Głęboka 30, 20-612 Lublin, Poland
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3
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Neuber C, Koch U, Nell B. [Ophthalmic findings caused by Encephalitozoon cuniculi (strain III) in a dog]. TIERARZTLICHE PRAXIS. AUSGABE K, KLEINTIERE/HEIMTIERE 2023; 51:42-47. [PMID: 36917992 DOI: 10.1055/a-1982-3564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
Abstract
A 2-year-old female mixed-breed canine patient from Namibia presented originally with chronic uveitis. A serum antibody titer and a PCR test performed on the aqueous humor were positive for encephalitozoon cuniculi. The left eye showed an immature anterior focal cortical cataract in the periphery with suspected lens capsule rupture and signs of chronic uveitis. An incipient anterior focal cortical cataract was also perceivable in the patient's right eye. Despite local treatment as well as systemic administration of carprofen, prednisolone, and fenbendazol recurrent uveitis occurred. The patient then underwent bilateral extracapsular lensextraction via phacoemulsification. A PCR test of the lens material was positive for encephalitozoon cuniculi strain III. Recurring uveitis and secondary glaucoma 10 months post-op resulted in permanent blindness of the left eye. The patient then continued to receive local anti-inflammatory treatment. The last recheck examination of both eyes, 31 month post-op, revealed no signs of uveitis. This is the first case reported of a cataract in a canine patient caused by encephalitozoon cuniculi strain III.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Neuber
- Tierärztliches Gesundheitszentrum Oerzen, Melbeck, Deutschland
| | - Ulrike Koch
- Tierärztliches Gesundheitszentrum Oerzen, Melbeck, Deutschland
| | - Barbara Nell
- Department für Kleintiere und Pferde, Veterinärmedizinische Universität Wien, Österreich
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Magalhães TR, Pinto FF, Queiroga FL. A multidisciplinary review about Encephalitozoon cuniculi in a One Health perspective. Parasitol Res 2022; 121:2463-2479. [PMID: 35840730 PMCID: PMC9286959 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-022-07562-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Encephalitozoon cuniculi is a microsporidian parasite mostly associated with its natural host, the rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus). However, other animals can be infected, like other mammals, birds, and even humans. Although it usually causes subclinical infection, it can also lead to encephalitozoonosis, a clinical disease characterized by neurological, ocular, and/or renal signs that can be even fatal, especially in immunocompromised individuals. Therefore, this multidisciplinary review contributes with updated information about the E. cuniculi, deepening in its molecular and genetic characterization, its mechanisms of infection and transmission, and its prevalence among different species and geographic locations, in a One Health perspective. Recent information about the diagnostic and therapeutic approach in the main host species and the prophylaxis and infection control measures currently suggested are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomás Rodrigues Magalhães
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Trás-Os-Montes and Alto Douro, Quinta dos Prados, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- Animal and Veterinary Research Centre (CECAV), University of Trás-Os-Montes and Alto Douro, Vila Real, Portugal
- Centre for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences (CITAB), University of Trás-Os-Montes and Alto Douro, Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Filipe Fontes Pinto
- HIPRA, Malveira, Portugal
- Cytology Diagnostic Services, Laboratory of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences (ICBAS), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Felisbina Luisa Queiroga
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Trás-Os-Montes and Alto Douro, Quinta dos Prados, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- Animal and Veterinary Research Centre (CECAV), University of Trás-Os-Montes and Alto Douro, Vila Real, Portugal
- Center for the Study of Animal Sciences, CECA-ICETA, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
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Santaniello A, Cimmino I, Dipineto L, Agognon AL, Beguinot F, Formisano P, Fioretti A, Menna LF, Oriente F. Zoonotic Risk of Encephalitozoon cuniculi in Animal-Assisted Interventions: Laboratory Strategies for the Diagnosis of Infections in Humans and Animals. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18179333. [PMID: 34501921 PMCID: PMC8430659 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18179333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Revised: 08/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
The involvement of animals for therapeutic purposes has very ancient roots. To date, it is clear that animal-assisted interventions (AAIs), in addition to ensuring the replacement of missing or deficient affects, improves psychophysiological parameters connected to human health. However, AAI could potentially present risks related to the transmission of infectious agents from animals to humans. Among these microorganisms, E. cuniculi is a microspore which induces pathological effects (fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, breathlessness, respiratory symptoms, and weakness) in both humans and animals. Consequently, an accurate and fast diagnosis of E. cuniculi infection, as well as the identification of new diagnostic approaches, is of fundamental importance. This literature review was carried out to provide an extensive and comprehensive analysis of the most recent diagnostic techniques to prevent and care for E. cuniculi-associated risks in the AAI field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Santaniello
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, Federico II University of Naples, 80134 Naples, Italy; (L.D.); (A.F.)
- Correspondence: (A.S.); (L.F.M.); Tel.: +39-081-253-6134 (A.S.)
| | - Ilaria Cimmino
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Federico II University of Naples, 80131 Naples, Italy; (I.C.); (A.L.A.); (F.B.); (P.F.); (F.O.)
| | - Ludovico Dipineto
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, Federico II University of Naples, 80134 Naples, Italy; (L.D.); (A.F.)
| | - Ayewa Lawoe Agognon
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Federico II University of Naples, 80131 Naples, Italy; (I.C.); (A.L.A.); (F.B.); (P.F.); (F.O.)
| | - Francesco Beguinot
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Federico II University of Naples, 80131 Naples, Italy; (I.C.); (A.L.A.); (F.B.); (P.F.); (F.O.)
| | - Pietro Formisano
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Federico II University of Naples, 80131 Naples, Italy; (I.C.); (A.L.A.); (F.B.); (P.F.); (F.O.)
| | - Alessandro Fioretti
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, Federico II University of Naples, 80134 Naples, Italy; (L.D.); (A.F.)
| | - Lucia Francesca Menna
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, Federico II University of Naples, 80134 Naples, Italy; (L.D.); (A.F.)
- Correspondence: (A.S.); (L.F.M.); Tel.: +39-081-253-6134 (A.S.)
| | - Francesco Oriente
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Federico II University of Naples, 80131 Naples, Italy; (I.C.); (A.L.A.); (F.B.); (P.F.); (F.O.)
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de Boer TS, Diaz Espineira MM, Mandigers PJJ. Is Encephalitozoon cuniculi of Significance in Young Dogs With Neurological Signs? Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:678968. [PMID: 34055959 PMCID: PMC8149585 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.678968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Encephalitozoon cuniculi is a microsporidium belonging to the phylum Microspora. A few reports have described the clinical significance of E. cuniculi infection in young dogs. In American and Japanese household dog populations, the seroprevalence was found to be 21%, indicating its wide-spread existence. To evaluate the clinical significance of E. cuniculi in a cohort of young dogs with neurological signs, the presence of the organism and possible response to treatment were studied. Over a 1-year period, all young dogs (<3 years old) that were referred with neurological signs were examined for the presence of E. cuniculi. Dogs were selected if serology revealed a clearly elevated IgM titer (>100) and/or if an EDTA-blood sample and/or urine sample tested positive by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Sixteen dogs with various neurological signs were included in this study. Additional work-up included magnetic resonance imaging and cerebrospinal fluid analysis, but these revealed no abnormalities or indication of infection. All dogs were treated with fenbendazole for 10–30 days. Neurological signs disappeared completely in five dogs, 11 dogs continued to show neurological signs, and five dogs deteriorated and were euthanized, after which necropsy was performed in three. At necropsy no evidence of an E. cuniculi infection was found. We concluded that, although IgM titers and PCR indicated an E. cuniculi infection, it is most likely of limited clinical significance in young dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamar S de Boer
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Montse M Diaz Espineira
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Paul J J Mandigers
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
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Taghipour A, Bahadory S, Khazaei S. A systematic review and meta-analysis on the global prevalence of microsporidia infection among dogs: a zoonotic concern. Trop Med Health 2020. [DOI: 10.1186/s41182-020-00265-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Microsporidiosis is an emerging zoonotic disease that is considered a global public health concern. Dogs are suggested as one of potential reservoirs for transmitting the microsporidia infection to humans. However, there is little data on distribution of microsporidia in dogs. The current study aimed to evaluate the global prevalence and genetic diversity of microsporidia infection among the dog population.
Methods
We searched four major databases for studies reporting the prevalence of microsporidia in dogs until 30 May 2020. A random-effects model was used to estimate the overall and the subgroup-pooled prevalence of microsporidia across studies.
Result
Finally, a total of 32 studies (including 37 datasets) from 17 countries were included in this meta-analysis. The overall prevalence (95% CI) of microsporidia infection was estimated at 23.1% (13.5–36.8%) using microscopic methods, 20.9% (14.6–29%) using serological methods, and 8.4% (6.1–11.5%) using molecular methods. Molecular methods showed that the highest number of reports was related to Enterocytozoon bieneusi with a pooled prevalence of 6.5% (4.9–8.7%). Considering E. bieneusi genotypes, most studies reported the PtEb IX (10 studies) and the D (eight studies) genotypes.
Conclusion
These results emphasize the role of a dog as a reservoir host for human-infecting microsporidia. In addition, monitoring programs for human-infecting microsporidia in animals with close contact to humans should be considered.
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8
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Duzlu O, Yildirim A, Onder Z, Ciloglu A, Yetismis G, Inci A. Prevalence and Genotyping of Microsporidian Parasites in Dogs in Turkey: Zoonotic Concerns. J Eukaryot Microbiol 2019; 66:771-777. [PMID: 30849216 DOI: 10.1111/jeu.12725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2018] [Revised: 02/19/2019] [Accepted: 03/02/2019] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Microsporidia are opportunistic pathogens that infect a wide range of invertebrates and vertebrates. To assess the potential role of dogs in the transmission of these zoonotic pathogens, a total of 282 fecal samples from dogs in the Central Anatolia Region of Turkey were analyzed by utilizing species specific polymerase chain reaction for the four most frequent human microsporidia. Two microsporidia species were recognized in 41 samples (14.5%). Encephalitozoon intestinalis was detected in 35 samples (12.4%) and it was the most common microsporidium. The second microsporidium, E. cuniculi, was identified in six (2.1%) of the samples. Sequence analysis of the intergenic spacer of the ribosomal ribonucleic acid (RNA) internal transcribed spacer (ITS) gene revealed the presence of three E. intestinalis haplotypes closely associated with each other. No polymorphic region was found among the ITS sequences of E. cuniculi isolates and they were characterized as genotype III. This study provides the first data on the zoonotic microsporidia species from dogs in Turkey.
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Affiliation(s)
- Onder Duzlu
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Erciyes University, 38280, Kayseri, Turkey.,Vectors and Vector-Borne Diseases Implementation and Research Center, Erciyes University, 38280, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Alparslan Yildirim
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Erciyes University, 38280, Kayseri, Turkey.,Vectors and Vector-Borne Diseases Implementation and Research Center, Erciyes University, 38280, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Zuhal Onder
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Erciyes University, 38280, Kayseri, Turkey.,Vectors and Vector-Borne Diseases Implementation and Research Center, Erciyes University, 38280, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Arif Ciloglu
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Erciyes University, 38280, Kayseri, Turkey.,Vectors and Vector-Borne Diseases Implementation and Research Center, Erciyes University, 38280, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Gamze Yetismis
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Erciyes University, 38280, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Abdullah Inci
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Erciyes University, 38280, Kayseri, Turkey.,Vectors and Vector-Borne Diseases Implementation and Research Center, Erciyes University, 38280, Kayseri, Turkey
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9
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Engelhardt S, Buder A, Pfeil K, Schwittlick U, Klas E, Hinney B, Aupperle-Lellbach H, Pfeil I. [Nephritis in a Staffordshire Terrier puppy caused by Encephalitozoon cuniculi genotype I]. TIERARZTLICHE PRAXIS. AUSGABE K, KLEINTIERE/HEIMTIERE 2017; 45:161123. [PMID: 29099899 DOI: 10.15654/tpk-161123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2016] [Accepted: 04/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
An 8-week-old puppy was presented to the clinic because of anorexia, polyuria, polydipsia and azotemia. The urinary sediment displayed large amounts of protozoan-like organisms, which could be identified by PCR as Encephalitozoon cuniculi genotype I. In the immunofluorescence antibody test (IFAT) an antibody titer against E. cuniculi of 1 : 2560 was found. The dog was treated with fenbendazole over 3 weeks. After 3 months, an antibody titer against E. cuniculi could no longer be detected. The dog recovered completely. This rare case demonstrates that E. cuniculi genotype I can cause clinical disease in dogs with renal involvement, which can be successfully treated with fenbendazole.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephan Engelhardt
- Stephan Engelhardt, Tierklinik Dresdner Heide, Fischhausstraße 5, 01099 Dresden, E-Mail:
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Stull JW, Kasten JI, Evason MD, Sherding RG, Hoet AE, O'Quin J, Burkhard MJ, Weese JS. Risk reduction and management strategies to prevent transmission of infectious disease among dogs at dog shows, sporting events, and other canine group settings. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2017; 249:612-27. [PMID: 27585099 DOI: 10.2460/javma.249.6.612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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11
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Kourgelis C, Reilly C, Von Roedern M, Cray C. Serological survey for antibodies to Encephalitozoon cuniculi in cats within the United States. VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY- REGIONAL STUDIES AND REPORTS 2017; 9:122-124. [PMID: 31014834 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2017.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2017] [Revised: 06/18/2017] [Accepted: 06/26/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Encephalitozoon cuniculi is an obligate intracellular microsporidian parasite that causes clinical and subclinical infection in many species. It is also considered a potential zoonotic disease. In the present study, a serological survey was conducted using samples from pet cats using an ELISA with a confirmed positive control sample from a cat with E. cuniculi related uveitis. Thirty-four of 127 serum samples or 26.8% were found to demonstrate reactivity with titers ranging from 1:32 to 1:1024. There were no significant differences by age or sex (p=0.99 and p=0.32, respectively). This is the first description of the use of an enzyme linked immunosorbent assay for the detection of E. cuniculi antibodies in cats in the United States.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Kourgelis
- Division of Comparative Pathology, Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33101, USA
| | - C Reilly
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California at Davis, Davis, CA 95615, USA
| | - M Von Roedern
- Department of Critical Care, The Animal Medical Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - C Cray
- Division of Comparative Pathology, Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33101, USA.
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12
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Moss JA, Snyder RA. Biofilms for Monitoring Presence of Microsporidia in Environmental Water. J Eukaryot Microbiol 2017; 64:533-538. [DOI: 10.1111/jeu.12390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2016] [Revised: 10/24/2016] [Accepted: 12/14/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Joseph A. Moss
- Center for Environmental Diagnostics and Bioremediation; University of West Florida; 11,000 University Parkway, Bldg 58 Pensacola Florida 32514
| | - Richard A. Snyder
- Virginia Institute of Marine Science Eastern Shore Laboratory; 40 Atlantic Avenue Wachapreague Virginia 23480
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13
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Hinney B, Sak B, Joachim A, Kváč M. More than a rabbit's tale - Encephalitozoon spp. in wild mammals and birds. Int J Parasitol Parasites Wildl 2016; 5:76-87. [PMID: 28560162 PMCID: PMC5439460 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2016.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2015] [Revised: 12/23/2015] [Accepted: 01/05/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Within the microsporidian genus Encephalitozoon, three species, Encephalitozoon cuniculi, Encephalitozoon hellem and Encephalitozoon intestinalis have been described. Several orders of the Class Aves (Passeriformes, Psittaciformes, Apodiformes, Ciconiiformis, Gruiformes, Columbiformes, Suliformes, Podicipediformes, Anseriformes, Struthioniformes, Falconiformes) and of the Class Mammalia (Rodentia, Lagomorpha, Primates, Artyodactyla, Soricomorpha, Chiroptera, Carnivora) can become infected. Especially E. cuniculi has a very broad host range while E. hellem is mainly distributed amongst birds. E. intestinalis has so far been detected only sporadically in wild animals. Although genotyping allows the identification of strains with a certain host preference, recent studies have demonstrated that they have no strict host specificity. Accordingly, humans can become infected with any of the four strains of E. cuniculi as well as with E. hellem or E. intestinalis, the latter being the most common. Especially, but not exclusively, immunocompromised people are at risk. Environmental contamination with as well as direct transmission of Encephalitozoon is therefore highly relevant for public health. Moreover, endangered species might be threatened by the spread of pathogens into their habitats. In captivity, clinically overt and often fatal disease seems to occur frequently. In conclusion, Encephalitozoon appears to be common in wild warm-blooded animals and these hosts may present important reservoirs for environmental contamination and maintenance of the pathogens. Similar to domestic animals, asymptomatic infections seem to occur frequently but in captive wild animals severe disease has also been reported. Detailed investigations into the epidemiology and clinical relevance of these microsporidia will permit a full appraisal of their role as pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Hinney
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinaerplatz 1, A-1210 Vienna, Austria
| | - Bohumil Sak
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre of the Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, v.v.i. Branišovská 31, 370 05 České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Anja Joachim
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinaerplatz 1, A-1210 Vienna, Austria
| | - Martin Kváč
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre of the Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, v.v.i. Branišovská 31, 370 05 České Budějovice, Czech Republic
- Faculty of Agriculture, University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, Studentská 13, 370 05 České Budějovice, Czech Republic
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14
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Nell B, Csokai J, Fuchs-Baumgartinger A, Maaß G. Encephalitozoon cuniculi causes focal anterior cataract and uveitis in dogs. TIERAERZTLICHE PRAXIS AUSGABE KLEINTIERE HEIMTIERE 2015; 43:337-44. [PMID: 26355191 DOI: 10.15654/tpk-141053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2014] [Accepted: 03/13/2015] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Three mongrel dogs, aged 10 months (case 1), 14 months (case 2) and 7.5 years (case 3), were presented because of ophthalmologic disorders of 4 months, 6 months and 7 years duration, respectively. All three dogs were offspring of stray dogs from Hungary and Serbia and had positive serum antibody titres against Encephalitozoon (E.) cuniculi. The two young dogs showed unilateral, the older dog bilateral chronic anterior uveitis with posterior synechia and focal anterior cortical cataract. The fundi that could be evaluated developed focal tapetal hyporeflective lesions in the course of the disease. Dogs 1 and 2 underwent removal of the lens via phacoemulsification. PCR of the lens material was positive for E. cuniculi strains IV and II, respectively. In dog 2 findings suggestive of microsporidia were detected underneath the anterior lens capsule by immunohistochemical staining. In all cases medical treatment consisted of systemic fenbendazole, prednisolone, and topical anti-inflammatory drugs, and additional brinzolamid/timolol for dog 3. For the time being all cases (follow up 23 months, 6 months and 3 months, respectively) are still on topical anti-inflammatory therapy. It is concluded that E. cuniculi infections can cause cataract and chorioretinal lesions in dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Nell
- Prof. Dr. Barbara Nell, Dip ECVO, Department of Companion Animals and Horses, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinaerplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria,
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Abu-Akkada SS, Ashmawy KI, Dweir AW. First detection of an ignored parasite, Encephalitozoon cuniculi, in different animal hosts in Egypt. Parasitol Res 2014; 114:843-50. [PMID: 25547075 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-014-4247-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2014] [Accepted: 11/26/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Encephalitozoon cuniculi is an obligate intracellular microsporidian parasite that infects a wide range of mammalian hosts. The present study investigated the prevalence of E. cuniculi in different animal hosts from different provinces of Egypt (Alexandria, Behera, and Assuit) using serological (IFAT and ELISA) and molecular (PCR) assays. A total of 324 serum and 274 urine samples were collected from seven different species of animals (cattle, buffaloes, sheep, goat, rabbit, dog, and rat). The results of serological examination confirmed the occurrence of antibodies against E. cuniculi in 38.9 % (126 out of 324) of the examined animals. The significant (P < 0.01) highest positivity was observed in goats (67 %) followed by buffaloes, rabbits, dogs, rat, and cattle (46.42, 41, 40, 36.2, and 28.1 %, respectively), while the least was recorded in sheep (9 %). Behera province showed the highest (P < 0.01) infection rate (40.68 %) followed by Alexandria and Assuit (39.2 and 22.73 %, respectively). The infection rate was significantly higher (P < 0.01) in females (45.34 %) than that in males (30.47 %). Positive cases were observed in all age categories. The highest infection rate (64.66 %) was recorded in the age group 1-5 years and the least was recorded in the age group <1 year (34.85 %).On the other hand, only five positive out of 274 urine samples (1.82 %) were detected by PCR. Our study provides a wide database on prevalence and epidemiology of an ignored parasite (E. cuniculi) for the first time in Egypt.
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Affiliation(s)
- Somaia S Abu-Akkada
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Alexandria University, Edfina, Egypt,
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Meng X, Zheng J, He X, Jia H, Zhang Y. First Characterization in China of Encephalitozoon cuniculi
in the Blue Fox (Alopex lagopus). J Eukaryot Microbiol 2014; 61:580-5. [DOI: 10.1111/jeu.12135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2014] [Revised: 03/25/2014] [Accepted: 04/10/2014] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Xiangchun Meng
- College of Wildlife Resources Northeast Forestry University; Hexing Road 26 Xiangfang District, Harbin 150040 China
- Harbin Veterinary Research Institute; CAAS-Michigan State University Joint Laboratory of Innate Immunity; State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Biotechnology; Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences; Maduan Street 427 Nangang District, Harbin 150001 China
| | - Jun Zheng
- Harbin Veterinary Research Institute; CAAS-Michigan State University Joint Laboratory of Innate Immunity; State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Biotechnology; Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences; Maduan Street 427 Nangang District, Harbin 150001 China
| | - Xijun He
- Harbin Veterinary Research Institute; CAAS-Michigan State University Joint Laboratory of Innate Immunity; State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Biotechnology; Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences; Maduan Street 427 Nangang District, Harbin 150001 China
| | - Honglin Jia
- Harbin Veterinary Research Institute; CAAS-Michigan State University Joint Laboratory of Innate Immunity; State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Biotechnology; Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences; Maduan Street 427 Nangang District, Harbin 150001 China
| | - Yanlong Zhang
- College of Wildlife Resources Northeast Forestry University; Hexing Road 26 Xiangfang District, Harbin 150040 China
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Cray C, Perritt E, Hughes C, Belgrave RL. Serological survey for antibody to Encephalitozoon cuniculi in horses in the USA. Parasitol Res 2014; 113:2757-9. [DOI: 10.1007/s00436-014-3930-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2014] [Accepted: 04/25/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Meng X, Zheng J, Gao Y, Zhang Y, Jia H. Evaluation of spore wall protein 1 as an alternative antigen for the diagnosis of Encephalitozoon cuniculi infection of farmed foxes using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Vet Parasitol 2014; 203:331-4. [PMID: 24830821 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2014.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2014] [Revised: 03/05/2014] [Accepted: 03/10/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The sequence encoding SWP1 was cloned from the genome of Encephalitozoon cuniculi. Recombinant SWP1 (rSWP1) was expressed in Escherichia coli and used to detect E. cuniculi infections in farmed foxes and dogs with an indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in the present study. The sera of foxes infected with E. cuniculi could be distinguished from the sera of foxes infected with Toxoplasma gondii, Neospora caninum, and Cryptosporidium parvum using the ELISA. In total, 198 fox samples collected in Liaoning were used to determine the prevalence of antibodies against this disease. The results showed that 16.7% of the fox serum samples were positive according to the ELISA using rSWP1, which agreed with the ELISA results based on recombinant PTP2 (rPTP2). The sensitivity and specificity of the ELISA based on rSWP1 suggest that this could be an alternative method for the diagnosis of E. cuniculi infections in foxes. In addition, 298 dog samples collected in Beijing, Shanghai, and Hunan were also detected in this study, of which six dog samples (2%) were positive according to the ELISA using rSWP1. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to demonstrate the serological prevalence of E. cuniculi infections in dogs and foxes in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangchun Meng
- Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, CAAS-Michigan State University Joint Laboratory of Innate Immunity, State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Maduan Street 427, Nangang District, Harbin 150001, PR China; College of Wildlife Resources Northeast Forestry University, Hexing Road 26, Xiangfang District, Harbin 150040, PR China
| | - Jun Zheng
- Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, CAAS-Michigan State University Joint Laboratory of Innate Immunity, State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Maduan Street 427, Nangang District, Harbin 150001, PR China
| | - Yang Gao
- Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, CAAS-Michigan State University Joint Laboratory of Innate Immunity, State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Maduan Street 427, Nangang District, Harbin 150001, PR China
| | - Yanlong Zhang
- College of Wildlife Resources Northeast Forestry University, Hexing Road 26, Xiangfang District, Harbin 150040, PR China.
| | - Honglin Jia
- Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, CAAS-Michigan State University Joint Laboratory of Innate Immunity, State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Maduan Street 427, Nangang District, Harbin 150001, PR China.
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