1
|
Halkjær SI, Refslund Danielsen M, de Knegt VE, Andersen LO, Stensvold CR, Nielsen HV, Mirsepasi-Lauridsen HC, Krogfelt KA, Cortes D, Petersen AM. Multi-strain probiotics during pregnancy in women with obesity influence infant gut microbiome development: results from a randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled study. Gut Microbes 2024; 16:2337968. [PMID: 38591920 PMCID: PMC11005804 DOI: 10.1080/19490976.2024.2337968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Probiotics have been described to influence host health and prevent the risk of obesity by gut microbiome (GM) modulation. In a randomized double-blinded placebo-controlled feasibility study, we investigated whether Vivomixx® multi-strain probiotics administered to 50 women with obesity during pregnancy altered the GM composition and perinatal health outcomes of their infants up to 9 months after birth. The mothers and infants were followed up with four visits after birth: at 3 d, and at 3, 6, and 9 months after delivery. The infants were monitored by anthropometric measurements, fecal sample analysis, and questionnaires regarding health and diet.The study setup after birth was feasible, and the women and infants were willing to participate in additional study visits and collection of fecal samples during the 9-month follow-up. In total, 47 newborns were included for microbiome analysis.Maternal prenatal Vivomixx® administration did not alter infant GM diversity nor differential abundance, and the probiotic strains were not vertically transferred. However, the infant GM exhibited a decreased prevalence of the obesity-associated genera, Collinsella, in the probiotic group and of the metabolic health-associated Akkermansia in the placebo group, indicating that indirect community-scale effects of Vivomixx® on the GM of the mothers could be transferred to the infant.Moreover, 3 d after birth, the GM of the infant was influenced by mode of delivery and antibiotics administered during birth. Vaginally delivered infants had increased diversity and relative abundance of the metabolic health-associated Bifidobacterium and Bacteroides while having a decreased relative abundance of Enterococcus compared with infants delivered by cesarean section. Maternal antibiotic administration during birth resulted in a decreased relative abundance of Bifidobacteriumin the GM of the infants. In conclusion, this study observed potential effects on obesity-associated infant GM after maternal probiotic supplementation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sofie Ingdam Halkjær
- Gastrounit,Medical Division, Copenhagen University Hospital Amager and Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | | | - Victoria E. de Knegt
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital Amager and Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Lee O’Brien Andersen
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Henrik Vedel Nielsen
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Hengameh Chloé Mirsepasi-Lauridsen
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Science and Environment, Roskilde University, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Karen Angeliki Krogfelt
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Science and Environment, Roskilde University, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Dina Cortes
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital Amager and Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Andreas Munk Petersen
- Gastrounit,Medical Division, Copenhagen University Hospital Amager and Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Copenhagen University Hospital Amager and Hvidovre, Copenhagen, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Svensgaard SNH, Jokelainen P, Stensvold CR, Lausch KR, Højsgaard A, Keller JL, Nielsen HV, Larsen CS. Pulmonary cystic echinococcosis acquired during a short-term tourist travel. IDCases 2023; 33:e01833. [PMID: 37448378 PMCID: PMC10336687 DOI: 10.1016/j.idcr.2023.e01833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Cystic echinococcosis is non-endemic in Denmark and primarily diagnosed in migrants from endemic areas. Here, we report a case of pulmonary cystic echinococcosis in a Danish woman with no history of longer-term stays abroad, only holiday travelling to tourist destinations. This is the first case reported in international literature from Denmark where the causative parasite was identified to species and genotype level. Case A 27-year-old pregnant Danish woman was admitted for examination because of haemoptysis for three months.Chest X-ray and computed tomography revealed a cystic structure in the left lung and a left-sided thoracotomy was performed to remove the cyst. Postoperative histopathological examination revealed a hyaline membrane and protoscoleces. Subsequently, infection with Echinococcus granulosus was confirmed by molecular methods. The causative agent was further characterised as E. granulosus sensu stricto G1, which is not known to have an established life cycle in Denmark. It was concluded that the infection was most likely acquired during a tourist travel to an endemic country. The patient was treated with albendazole for four weeks. Conclusion This case of pulmonary cystic echinococcosis in a person who had lived in Denmark and had history of only short-term tourist travelling abroad highlights that the disease may be acquired during tourist travelling. Thus, a diagnosis of cystic echinococcosis should be considered not only in migrants from endemic countries but also in travellers upon incidental findings of a lung or liver cysts. The case also exemplifies the importance of reaching a diagnosis at species and genotype level.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Pikka Jokelainen
- Infectious Disease Preparedness, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | | | - Anette Højsgaard
- Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark
| | | | - Henrik Vedel Nielsen
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | |
Collapse
|
3
|
Gynthersen RMM, Stensvold CR, Nielsen SL, Møller HJ, Nielsen HV, Lebech AM, Christensen JR, Mens H, Fassi DE. Neoehrlichia mikurensis - an emerging opportunistic tick-borne infection in immunosuppressed patients. J Intern Med 2023; 293:782-790. [PMID: 37013266 DOI: 10.1111/joim.13638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neoehrlichia mikurensis (N. mikurensis) is a newly discovered tick-borne pathogen that can inflict life-threatening illness in immunocompromised patients. N. mikurensis infection is only detectable by polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based methodologies. We describe three distinct clinical manifestations of N. mikurensis infection (neoehrlichiosis) in Danish patients receiving B-lymphocyte-depleting therapy, rituximab, for underlying hematological, rheumatological, or neurological disorders. All three patients went through a protracted pre-diagnostic period. METHODS N. mikurensis DNA was detected and confirmed using two methods. Blood was tested by specific real-time PCR targeting the groEL gene and by 16S and 18S profiling followed by sequencing. Bone marrow was analyzed by 16S and 18S profiling. RESULTS N. mikurensis was detected in blood samples in all three cases and in bone marrow from one of the three. The severity of the symptoms ranged from prolonged fever lasting more than six months to life-threatening hyperinflammation in the form of hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis. Interestingly, all patients presented with splenomegaly and two with hepatomegaly. After starting doxycycline therapy, symptoms were relieved within a few days, and biochemistry and organomegaly quickly normalized. CONCLUSION We present three Danish patients recognized by the same clinician over a period of six months, strongly suggesting that many cases are going unrecognized. Secondly, we describe the first case of N. mikurensis-induced hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis and emphasize the potential severity of undetected neoehrlichiosis. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rosa M M Gynthersen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Christen Rune Stensvold
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Bacteria, Parasites, and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Holger Jon Møller
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Depart of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Henrik Vedel Nielsen
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Bacteria, Parasites, and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anne-Mette Lebech
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jeppe Romme Christensen
- Danish Multiple Sclerosis Center, Department of Neurology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Helene Mens
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Daniel El Fassi
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Hematology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Holmstroem RB, Dahl EK, Helms M, Nielsen HV, Andersen JB, Bjerrum JT, Svane IM, Ellebaek E, Seidelin JB. Tofacitinib and faecal microbiota transplantation in treating checkpoint inhibitor-induced enterocolitis: case report. BMJ Open Gastroenterol 2022; 9:bmjgast-2022-000989. [PMID: 36581371 PMCID: PMC9806036 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgast-2022-000989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) can induce a wide range of immune-related adverse events (irAEs), potentially affecting any organ. ICI-induced colitis is a frequently reported irAE, whereas enteritis is rare and not well documented. CASE PRESENTATION We are presenting a patient with metastatic melanoma who developed severe ICI-induced enterocolitis multirefractory for glucocorticoids, infliximab and vedolizumab, partially responding to faecal microbiota transplantation and final complete response to tofacitinib. CONCLUSION This case supports that tofacitinib may be an(other) effective agent in managing multirefractory ICI-induced diarrhoea caused by colitis and/or enteritis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rikke Boedker Holmstroem
- National Center of Cancer Immune therapy (CCIT-DK), Department of Oncology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev, Denmark
| | | | - Morten Helms
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Henrik Vedel Nielsen
- Department of Microbiology and Infection Control, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Jacob Tveiten Bjerrum
- Department of Gastroenterology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev, Denmark,Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Inge Marie Svane
- National Center of Cancer Immune therapy (CCIT-DK), Department of Oncology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev, Denmark,Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Eva Ellebaek
- National Center of Cancer Immune therapy (CCIT-DK), Department of Oncology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Jakob Benedict Seidelin
- Department of Gastroenterology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev, Denmark,Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Copenhagen, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Stensvold CR, Storgaard L, Maroun LL, Kurtzhals JAL, Nielsen HV. Toxoplasma gondii-associated Placentitis in the absence of maternal seroconversion. Parasite Epidemiol Control 2022; 19:e00279. [DOI: 10.1016/j.parepi.2022.e00279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
|
6
|
Pansri P, Svensmark B, Liu G, Thamsborg SM, Kudirkiene E, Nielsen HV, Goecke NB, Olsen JE. Evaluation of a novel multiplex qPCR method for rapid detection and quantification of pathogens associated with calf diarrhoea. J Appl Microbiol 2022; 133:2516-2527. [PMID: 35858716 PMCID: PMC9796748 DOI: 10.1111/jam.15722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Diarrhoea is a common health problem in calves and a main reason for use of antimicrobials. It is associated with several bacterial, viral and parasitic pathogens, most of which are commonly present in healthy animals. Methods, which quantify the causative agents, may therefore improve confidence in associating a pathogen to the disease. This study evaluated a novel commercially available, multiplex quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assay (Enterit4Calves) for detection and quantification of pathogens associated with calf-diarrhoea. METHODS AND RESULTS Performance of the method was first evaluated under laboratory conditions. Then it was compared with current routine methods for detection of pathogens in faecal samples from 65 calves with diarrhoea and in 30 spiked faecal samples. The qPCR efficiencies were between 84%-103% and detection limits of 100-1000 copies of nucleic acids per sample were observed. Correct identification was obtained on 42 strains of cultured target bacteria, with only one false positive reaction from 135 nontarget bacteria. Kappa values for agreement between the novel assay and current routine methods varied between 0.38 and 0.83. CONCLUSION The novel qPCR method showed good performance under laboratory conditions and a fair to good agreement with current routine methods when used for testing of field samples. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF STUDY In addition to having fair to good detection abilities, the novel qPCR method allowed quantification of pathogens. In the future, use of quantification may improve diagnosis and hence treatment of calf diarrhoea.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Gang Liu
- Department of Veterinary and Animal SciencesUniversity of CopenhagenCopenhagenDenmark
| | - Stig Milan Thamsborg
- Department of Veterinary and Animal SciencesUniversity of CopenhagenCopenhagenDenmark
| | - Egle Kudirkiene
- Department of Veterinary and Animal SciencesUniversity of CopenhagenCopenhagenDenmark
| | - Henrik Vedel Nielsen
- Department of Microbiology and Infection ControlStatens Serum InstitutCopenhagenDenmark
| | | | - John Elmerdahl Olsen
- Department of Veterinary and Animal SciencesUniversity of CopenhagenCopenhagenDenmark
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Florescu AM, Sørensen ALT, Nielsen HV, Tolnai D, Sjö LD, Larsen KL, Al-Karagholi MAM. Blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm and cerebral toxoplasmosis: a case report. BMC Neurol 2022; 22:233. [PMID: 35751052 PMCID: PMC9229753 DOI: 10.1186/s12883-022-02748-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The present case contributes to the limited literature on central nervous system involvement of blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm (BPDCN). CASE PRESENTATION : A 63-year-old male presented to the department of neurology with a three-day history of rapidly progressing headache, fatigue, and confusion. Physical examination revealed multiple bruise-like skin lesions. Initial laboratory workup raised suspicion of acute leukemia, and a brain computer tomography identified several hyperdense processes. A bone marrow biopsy gave the diagnosis BPDCN, a rare and aggressive hematologic malignancy derived from plasmacytoid dendritic cells with a poor prognosis. Lumbar puncture showed not only signs of BPDCN, but also cerebral toxoplasmosis, thus providing a differential diagnosis. Despite intensive systemic and intrathecal chemotherapy, the patient died 25 days later due to multi-organ failure. DISCUSSION The exact incidence of BPDCN is unknown and perhaps underestimated but may account for 0.5 - 1% of all hematological malignancies. The median age at onset is 60 to 70 years, and most patients are men. Cutaneous lesions are the most frequent clinical manifestation at diagnosis. Other symptoms present at time of diagnosis or during disease progression include lymphadenopathy, splenomegaly and cytopenia caused by bone marrow involvement. Although the majority of BPDCN patients have no symptoms or signs of central nervous system involvement, plasmacytoid dendritic cells have been detected in the cerebrospinal fluid in more than 50%. CONCLUSIONS This case highlights the importance of considering hematological malignancies as a differential diagnosis in patients developing acute neurological symptoms and raises suspicion of a possible association between toxoplasmosis and hematological malignancies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Maria Florescu
- Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet Glostrup, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Glostrup, Denmark.
| | - Anne Louise Tølbøll Sørensen
- Department of Hematology, Rigshospitalet, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Henrik Vedel Nielsen
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Bacteria, Parasites & Fungi, Infectious Disease Preparedness, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Daniel Tolnai
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Rigshospitalet Glostrup, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Lene Dissing Sjö
- Department of Pathology, Rigshospitalet, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Katja Lohmann Larsen
- Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet Glostrup, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Mohammad Al-Mahdi Al-Karagholi
- Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet Glostrup, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Glostrup, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Mirsepasi-Lauridsen HC, Vranckx K, Nielsen HV, Andersen LO, Archampong T, Krogfelt KA, Petersen AM. Substantial Intestinal Microbiota Differences Between Patients With Ulcerative Colitis From Ghana and Denmark. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:832500. [PMID: 35372093 PMCID: PMC8965593 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.832500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a relapsing nontransmural inflammatory disease that is restricted to the colon and is characterized by flare-ups of bloody diarrhea. In this study, we aimed to investigate intestinal bacterial diversity in healthy controls and patients with UC with and without active disease, from Ghana and Denmark. Methods The study included 18 UC patients (9 with active and 9 with inactive disease) and 18 healthy controls from Ghana. In addition 16 UC patients from Denmark (8 UC with active and 8 UC with inactive disease) and 19 healthy controls from Denmark. Microbiota diversity analysis relied on sequencing of ribosomal small subunit genes. Purified genomic DNA was submitted to PCR using a primer set targeting prokaryotes and eukaryotes. The purified DNA was sequenced on the Illumina MiSeq system in a 2 × 250 bp set up (Illumina, San Diego, CA, USA). Blinded analysis of the taxonomy table was performed using BioNumerics-7.5 (Applied Maths NV, Sint-Martens-Latem, Belgium). Results When analyzing the taxonomy data for prokaryotes, cluster and principal component analysis shows Danish healthy controls clustered together, but separate from healthy controls from Ghana, which also clustered together. The Shannon diversity index (SDI) for prokaryotes shows significant differences between Danish healthy controls and patients in comparison with the corresponding groups from Ghana (p = 0.0056). Significant increased abundance of Escherichia coli was detected in healthy controls from Ghana in comparison with healthy controls from Denmark. The SDI of the prokaryotes ranges between 0 and 3.1 in the Ghana study groups, while in the Danish study groups it ranges between 1.4 and 3.2, the difference is however not significant (p = 0.138). Our data show a significant increased abundance of eukaryotes species in the healthy control group from Ghana and Denmark in comparison with patient groups from Ghana and Denmark. Conclusion Overall, healthy controls and patients with UC from Denmark have increased diversity of prokaryotes. Healthy controls from Denmark and Ghana have increased abundance of eukaryotes in comparison with UC patient groups from Denmark and Ghana.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hengameh Chloé Mirsepasi-Lauridsen
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Science and Environment, Unit of Molecular and Medical Biology, Roskilde University, Roskilde, Denmark
- *Correspondence: Hengameh Chloé Mirsepasi-Lauridsen,
| | | | - Henrik Vedel Nielsen
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lee O’Brien Andersen
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Timothy Archampong
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Ghana Medical School, Korle-Bu, Accra, Ghana
| | - Karen Angeliki Krogfelt
- Department of Science and Environment, Unit of Molecular and Medical Biology, Roskilde University, Roskilde, Denmark
- Department of Virus and Microbiological Special Diagnostics, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Andreas Munk Petersen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Olsen A, Nielsen HV, Alban L, Houe H, Jensen TB, Denwood M. Determination of an optimal ELISA cut-off for the diagnosis of Toxoplasma gondii infection in pigs using Bayesian latent class modelling of data from multiple diagnostic tests. Prev Vet Med 2022; 201:105606. [DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2022.105606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
|
10
|
Szabados F, Nielsen HV, Fuursted K, Linauskas A, Rasmussen C, Christian Leutscher PD. Screening for Leishmania specific antibodies among patients with rheumatic diseases treated with biological therapy. Eur J Rheumatol 2022; 9:114-115. [PMID: 35156625 PMCID: PMC10176213 DOI: 10.5152/eurjrheum.2022.20105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
|
11
|
Marstrand J, Kurtzhals JAL, Fuchs HJ, Nielsen HV, Jokelainen P. The disease burden of ocular toxoplasmosis in Denmark in 2019: Estimates based on laboratory testing of ocular samples and on publicly available register data. Parasite Epidemiol Control 2022; 15:e00229. [PMID: 35005263 PMCID: PMC8716638 DOI: 10.1016/j.parepi.2021.e00229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2021] [Revised: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Toxoplasma gondii is an important zoonotic protozoan parasite with worldwide distribution. Information on the contribution of ocular toxoplasmosis to the disease burden caused by this parasite is limited or lacking from many countries. Methods We estimated the minimum occurrence of ocular toxoplasmosis in Denmark using results from direct detection of T. gondii DNA with qPCR and determination of the Goldmann-Witmer coefficient on ocular samples submitted by ophthalmological clinics and departments to the national reference laboratory in 2003–2019. In addition, we inferred incidence estimates using retrospective data that are publicly available in the National Patient Register, and we used unstructured expert elicitation as the basis for sensitivity analyses. We estimated the disease burden of ocular toxoplasmosis in 2019 in disability-adjusted life years (DALYs). Findings Ocular samples from 263 individuals (median age 57 years, range 2–88) had been tested with at least one of the methods during 2003–2019, and 42 (16%) tested positive (median age 65 years, range 14–85). In 2019, five (16%) of 31 tested individuals were positive, giving a minimum annual incidence estimate of 0.09 per 100.000 population. From this, we calculated a disease burden of at least 4 DALYs (95% confidence interval, 3–5). The age range suggested that this figure represented postnatally acquired ocular toxoplasmosis. The disease burden of ocular toxoplasmosis due to congenital toxoplasmosis has been previously estimated to be at least 12 DALYs, resulting in an estimated minimum total disease burden due to ocular toxoplasmosis of 16 DALYs. In 2005–2018, the mean annual number of diagnoses of ocular toxoplasmosis reported to the National Patient Register was 186, and the corresponding disease burden estimate was 134 DALYs (95% confidence interval, 113–158). Sensitivity analyses focusing on incidence and severity resulted in disease burden estimates in the range of 9–523 DALYs. Interpretation Because most diagnoses of ocular toxoplasmosis are based on clinical observations, ophthalmoscopy, and serology without confirmatory testing, the disease burden caused by ocular toxoplasmosis is likely substantially higher than our minimum estimates. Our results indicate that ocular toxoplasmosis contributes to the disease burden caused by T. gondii in Denmark, but uncertainty about the incidence and severity precludes reliable estimation of its importance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Marstrand
- Centre for Medical Parasitology, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jørgen Anders Lindholm Kurtzhals
- Centre for Medical Parasitology, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Microbiology, Copenhagen University Hospital (Rigshospitalet), Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Helle Josefine Fuchs
- Department of Ophthalmology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Henrik Vedel Nielsen
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Bacteria, Parasites & Fungi, Infectious Disease Preparedness, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Pikka Jokelainen
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Bacteria, Parasites & Fungi, Infectious Disease Preparedness, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Eiset AH, Stensvold CR, Fuursted K, Nielsen HV, Wejse C. High prevalence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, Giardia, and Blastocystis in asymptomatic Syrian asylum seekers in Denmark during 2016 through 2018. J Migr Health 2021; 1-2:100016. [PMID: 34405169 PMCID: PMC8352168 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmh.2020.100016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Revised: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
High prevalence of intestinal parasite colonisation; all were asymptomatic. High prevalence of MRSA; low prevalence of ESBL and CPO. Recommend attention to antimicrobial resistance when attending to Syrian refugees. Recommend no routine screening for parasites in asymptomatic adult Syrian refugees.
Introduction Concerns have been raised regarding the emergence of antimicrobial-resistance and parasitic infections in the European refugee population. Here, we estimated the prevalence of intestinal parasites and selected antimicrobial-resistant bacteria in newly arrived asylum seekers in Denmark. Materials and methods Using a cross-sectional one-stage cluster sample design, adult Syrian asylum seekers were included upon arrival in Denmark. Faecal samples were collected and tested for ova and parasites, extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing Enterobacterales (ESBL-E) and carbapenemase-producing organisms (CPO). Throat swabs were collected and analysed for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Corynebacterium diphtheriae. Results We invited 121 eligible individuals (20% of the source population) from six different asylum centres to participate, of whom 113 agreed. Throat swabs and faecal samples were received from 104 and 48 participants, respectively. Seven individuals did not provide enough material for the entire panel of faecal analyses. Three individuals (7.3%, 95%CI: 2.5–19.4%) were colonised with Giardia intestinalis and 28 (68.3%, 95%CI: 53.0–80.4%) with Blastocystis sp. (subtypes 1 [n = 5], 2 [n = 9] and 3 [n = 14]). Seven individuals (6.7%, 95%CI: 3.3–13.3%) were colonised with MRSA and one with ESBL-E. None had CPO or Corynebacterium diphtheriae and none reported any gastro-intestinal symptoms. Discussion Even with the most conservative estimates, the prevalence of Giardia intestinalis, Blastocystis sp. and MRSA was high in this asymptomatic refugee population. Conclusions We highlight the importance of raised awareness of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria when attending to newly arrived Syrian refugees. Meanwhile, our data suggest that routine screening for intestinal parasites in this population is of limited clinical relevance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Halgreen Eiset
- Center for Global Health (GloHAU), Department of Public Health, Aarhus University, Bartholins Allé 2, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Christen Rune Stensvold
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, 2300 Copenhagen S, Denmark
| | - Kurt Fuursted
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, 2300 Copenhagen S, Denmark
| | - Henrik Vedel Nielsen
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, 2300 Copenhagen S, Denmark
| | - Christian Wejse
- Center for Global Health (GloHAU), Department of Public Health, Aarhus University, Bartholins Allé 2, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Gotfred-Rasmussen H, Stensvold CR, Ingham AC, Johannesen TB, Andersen LO, Röser D, Nielsen HV. Impact of Metronidazole Treatment and Dientamoeba Fragilis Colonization on Gut Microbiota Diversity. J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr 2021; 73:23-29. [PMID: 33633081 DOI: 10.1097/mpg.0000000000003096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The intestinal parasite Dientamoeba fragilis is a common colonizer of children in Denmark. Metronidazole has been used to reduce gastrointestinal symptoms in children colonized with D fragilis. We aimed to identify gut microbiota changes associated with D fragilis carrier status and metronidazole treatment of D fragilis-positive children. METHODS The fecal microbiota of 275 fecal samples from children treated with metronidazole (n = 48) or placebo (n = 48) were characterized by ribosomal DNA sequencing. Samples collected before (T1), 2 weeks after (T2), and 8 weeks (T5) after treatment were included. Seventy fecal samples from 70 age-matched parasite-negative children served as controls. RESULTS The abundance of 24 bacterial genera differed significantly according to D fragilis carrier status, with Flavonifractor being remarkably more abundant in children testing negative for D fragilis. Eight bacterial genera changed significantly in abundance in children losing versus keeping D fragilis after metronidazole treatment. Of these, 7 returned to pretreatment (T1) levels at T5. Meanwhile, the abundance of Flavonifractor continued to differ at T5, whereas for Ruminococcus the abundance only remained high in children who were D fragilis-negative at T2 and T5. Increases in Hungatella, Sutterella, and Streptococcus abundances observed at T2 were specific to metronidazole exposure and hence independent of D fragilis colonization. CONCLUSIONS This study revealed that specific bacterial genera were associated with D fragilis colonization. Metronidazole treatment had a short-term impact on the abundance of some bacterial genera, with most of these reverting to pretreatment levels 8 weeks after completed treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Anna Cäcilia Ingham
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, Copenhagen S
| | - Thor Bech Johannesen
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, Copenhagen S
| | | | - Dennis Röser
- Department of Paediatrics, Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, Kettegård Alle 30, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Thomsen K, Pedersen HP, Iversen S, Wiese L, Fuursted K, Nielsen HV, Christensen JJE, Nielsen XC. Extensive microbiological respiratory tract specimen characterization in critically ill COVID-19 patients. APMIS 2021; 129:431-437. [PMID: 33950572 PMCID: PMC8239678 DOI: 10.1111/apm.13143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Microbial co‐infections may contribute to the pulmonary deterioration in COVID‐19 patients needing intensive care treatment. The present study portrays the extent of co‐infections in COVID‐19 ICU patients. Conventional culture, molecular detections for atypical aetiologies, QiaStat‐Dx® respiratory panel V2 detecting 21 respiratory pathogens and ribosomal DNA genes 16S/18S amplicon‐based microbiome analyses were performed on respiratory samples from 34 COVID‐19 patients admitted to the ICU. Potential pathogens were detected in seven patients (21%) by culturing, in four patients (12%) by microbiome analysis and in one patient (3%) by respiratory panel. Among 20 patients receiving antibiotics prior to ICU admission, fungi (3 Candidaalbicans, 1 C. tropicalis, 1 C. dubliniensis) were cultured in 5 (15%) endotracheal aspirates. Among 14 patients who were antibiotic‐naive at ICU admission, two patients (6%) had bacterial respiratory pathogens (Staphylococcusaureus, Streptococcuspseudopneumoniae) cultured in their endotracheal aspirates. Microbiome analysis recognized four potential respiratory pathogens (3 Haemophilusinfluenza, 1 Fusobacterium necrophorum) isolated in samples from four other patients (12%). QiaStat‐Dx® respiratory panel V2 detected adenovirus in one patient (3%). The prevalence of pulmonary microbial co‐infections is modest among COVID‐19 patients upon admission to ICU. Microbiome analysis complements conventional microbial diagnostics in characterization of respiratory co‐infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kim Thomsen
- The Regional Department of Clinical Microbiology, Zealand University Hospital, Roskilde, Denmark
| | | | - Susanne Iversen
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Slagelse Hospital, Slagelse, Denmark
| | - Lothar Wiese
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Zealand University Hospital Roskilde, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Kurt Fuursted
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Henrik Vedel Nielsen
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jens Jørgen Elmer Christensen
- The Regional Department of Clinical Microbiology, Zealand University Hospital, Roskilde, Denmark.,Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Xiaohui Chen Nielsen
- The Regional Department of Clinical Microbiology, Zealand University Hospital, Roskilde, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Stensvold CR, Jirků-Pomajbíková K, Tams KW, Jokelainen P, Berg RPKD, Marving E, Petersen RF, Andersen LO, Angen Ø, Nielsen HV. Parasitic Intestinal Protists of Zoonotic Relevance Detected in Pigs by Metabarcoding and Real-Time PCR. Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9061189. [PMID: 34073014 PMCID: PMC8229027 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9061189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Revised: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Several parasite species are shared between humans and pigs. We explored the application of next-generation sequencing-based metabarcoding supplemented with real-time PCR to fecal DNAs from 259 samples from 116 pigs in Denmark to detect and differentiate single-celled intestinal parasites of zoonotic relevance. Enterocytozoon bieneusi, Balantioides coli, and Giardia duodenalis were observed in 34/37 (92%), 148/259 (57%), and 86/259 (33%) samples, respectively. Entamoeba polecki ST1, E. polecki ST3, and Entamoeba hartmanni were detected in 104/259 (40%), 161/259 (62%), and 8/259 (3%) samples, respectively. Metabarcoding and real-time PCR detected Cryptosporidium in 90/259 (35%) and 239/259 (92%) of the samples, respectively, with Cryptosporidium suis and Cryptosporidium scrofarum observed in nearly equal proportions. Blastocystis subtypes 1, 3, 5, and 15 were found in 72 (28%), 6 (2%), 176 (68%), and 36 (14%) of 259 samples, respectively. Iodamoeba was identified in 1/259 samples (<1%), while none of 37 tested samples was positive for Dientamoeba fragilis. Our results illustrate how metabarcoding exemplifies a 'one-fits-many' approach to detecting intestinal single-celled parasites in feces supplemented with real-time PCR for selected parasites. Using metabarcoding with pathogen-specific assays may help detect emerging and previously underdetected pathogens and further elucidate the role of micro-eukaryotic parasites in human and animal health and disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christen Rune Stensvold
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, DK-2300 Copenhagen S, Denmark; (P.J.); (R.P.K.D.B.); (R.F.P.); (L.O.A.); (Ø.A.); (H.V.N.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Kateřina Jirků-Pomajbíková
- Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, Institute of Parasitology, Branišovská 31, 370 05 České Budějovice, Czech Republic;
| | - Katrine Wegener Tams
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Søltofts Plads, Bygning 221, DK-2800 Kongens Lyngby, Denmark;
| | - Pikka Jokelainen
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, DK-2300 Copenhagen S, Denmark; (P.J.); (R.P.K.D.B.); (R.F.P.); (L.O.A.); (Ø.A.); (H.V.N.)
| | - Rebecca P. K. D. Berg
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, DK-2300 Copenhagen S, Denmark; (P.J.); (R.P.K.D.B.); (R.F.P.); (L.O.A.); (Ø.A.); (H.V.N.)
| | - Ellinor Marving
- Department of Virus and Microbiological Special Diagnostics, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, DK-2300 Copenhagen S, Denmark;
| | - Randi Føns Petersen
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, DK-2300 Copenhagen S, Denmark; (P.J.); (R.P.K.D.B.); (R.F.P.); (L.O.A.); (Ø.A.); (H.V.N.)
| | - Lee O’Brien Andersen
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, DK-2300 Copenhagen S, Denmark; (P.J.); (R.P.K.D.B.); (R.F.P.); (L.O.A.); (Ø.A.); (H.V.N.)
| | - Øystein Angen
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, DK-2300 Copenhagen S, Denmark; (P.J.); (R.P.K.D.B.); (R.F.P.); (L.O.A.); (Ø.A.); (H.V.N.)
| | - Henrik Vedel Nielsen
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, DK-2300 Copenhagen S, Denmark; (P.J.); (R.P.K.D.B.); (R.F.P.); (L.O.A.); (Ø.A.); (H.V.N.)
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Stensvold CR, Nielsen M, Baraka V, Lood R, Fuursted K, Nielsen HV. Entamoeba gingivalis: epidemiology, genetic diversity and association with oral microbiota signatures in North Eastern Tanzania. J Oral Microbiol 2021; 13:1924598. [PMID: 34104347 PMCID: PMC8143617 DOI: 10.1080/20002297.2021.1924598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Entamoeba gingivalis has been associated with periodontal diseases. Baseline data from the background population, which could help delimit the role of the parasite in health and disease, remain limited. Objective To describe epidemiological features, genetic diversity, and associations with oral microbiome signatures of E. gingivalis colonisation in Tanzanians with non-oral/non-dental diseases. Methods DNAs from 92 oral washings from 52 participants were subject to metabarcoding of ribosomal genes. DNA sequences were identified to genus level and submitted to oral microbiota diversity analyses. Results Sixteen (31%) of the 52 study participants were E. gingivalis-positive, with no difference in positivity rate according to gender or age. Only one subtype (ST1) was found. Individuals testing positive for E. gingivalis had higher oral microbiota alpha diversity than those testing negative (P = 0.03). Eight of the top-ten most common bacterial genera were shared between the two groups (Alloprevotella, Fusobacterium, Gemella, Haemophilus, Neisseria, Porphyromonas, Prevotella, Streptococcus, and Veillonella). Meanwhile, E. gingivalis carriers and non-carriers were more likely to have Aggregatibacter and Rothia, respectively, among the top-ten most common genera. Conclusion About one third of the cohort carried E. gingivalis ST1, and carriers had higher oral microbiome diversity and were more predominantly colonized by Aggregatibacter.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Michelle Nielsen
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen S, Denmark
| | - Vito Baraka
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, National Institute for Medical Research, Tanga Centre, United Republic of Tanzania
| | - Rolf Lood
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Division of Infection Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Kurt Fuursted
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen S, Denmark
| | - Henrik Vedel Nielsen
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen S, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Olsen A, Alban L, Denwood M, Houe H, Birk Jensen T, Vedel Nielsen H. A longitudinal study of Toxoplasma gondii seroconversion on four large Danish sow farms. Vet Parasitol 2021; 295:109460. [PMID: 34029851 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2021.109460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2021] [Revised: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Serological tests are routinely used to detect Toxoplasma gondii specific IgG antibodies in serum. Serological surveys of T. gondii show a medium to high prevalence in Danish indoor sows at the time of slaughter. However, little is known about when sows acquire T. gondii, and for how long they remain seropositive. Our focus was on quantifying the incidence rates in different age-cohorts and on investigating the T. gondii IgG antibody dynamics in sows. Four large Danish sow farms were longitudinally surveyed for 1 year. A total of 320 animals from 6, 12, 18, and 24-months age-cohorts were sampled at 5-week intervals. In total, 2989 plasma samples were tested using commercial enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The incidence rate in each of the four age-cohorts was calculated, and a time-to-event analysis was applied to the interval censored data to investigate the relationship between age and probability of T. gondii seroconversion. In the initial ELISA testing, eight sows tested positive for T. gondii at first survey, of which seven remained seropositive throughout the follow-up period. Additionally, 16 sows seroconverted, but only five of these remained seropositive. Weekly incidence rates in the 6, 12, 18, and 24-month age-cohorts were 0.0017 (95% CI = 0.0008 - 0.0037), 0.0009 (95% CI = 0.0003 - 0.0027), 0.0003 (95% CI = 0.0000 - 0.0018), and 0.0023 (95% CI = 0.0010 - 0.0051), respectively. Time-to-event analysis suggested that the incidence rate increased with age but could not conclude this definitively. The retesting of a subsample of the sows (n = 200) with the same ELISA and with modified direct agglutination test (MAT), and western blot (WB) assays suggested that 12 out of the 24 initial ELISA seropositive sows may have been false positive. These 12 sows also showed fluctuating antibody dynamics in ELISA. Hence, the unstable antibody dynamics in ELISA may pose a challenge for serological surveys of T. gondii in sows.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abbey Olsen
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Grønnegårdsvej 8, DK-1870, Frederiksberg C, Denmark; Department of Food Safety, Veterinary Issues & Risk Analysis, Danish Agriculture & Food Council, Axelborg, Axeltorv 3, DK-1609, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Lis Alban
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Grønnegårdsvej 8, DK-1870, Frederiksberg C, Denmark; Department of Food Safety, Veterinary Issues & Risk Analysis, Danish Agriculture & Food Council, Axelborg, Axeltorv 3, DK-1609, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Matthew Denwood
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Grønnegårdsvej 8, DK-1870, Frederiksberg C, Denmark.
| | - Hans Houe
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Grønnegårdsvej 8, DK-1870, Frederiksberg C, Denmark.
| | | | - Henrik Vedel Nielsen
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Bacteria, Parasites & Fungi, Infectious Disease Preparedness, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, DK-2300, Copenhagen S, Denmark.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Olsen A, Sandberg M, Houe H, Nielsen HV, Denwood M, Jensen TB, Alban L. Seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii infection in sows and finishers from conventional and organic herds in Denmark: Implications for potential future serological surveillance. Prev Vet Med 2020; 185:105149. [PMID: 33127169 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2020.105149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Revised: 07/10/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Pigs are one of several host species for Toxoplasma gondii parasites, and consumption of infected pork may lead to toxoplasmosis in humans. We estimated seroprevalence in sows and finishers from conventional and organic herds in Denmark and discussed the strategies for reducing the risk from pork. We collected 447 blood samples from 59 herds, and additional meat-juice samples from 212 of the same pigs. Using a T. gondii IgG commercial ELISA test, we found 2% (95% CI = 0.4%-5%) apparent seroprevalence of T. gondii in conventional finishers, 11% (95% CI = 6%-17%) in organic finishers, 19% (95% CI = 11%-30%) in conventional sows and 60% (95% CI = 47%-72%) in organic sows. The odds of an animal testing positive for T. gondii was 16 times higher (95% CI = 4.6-74.3) in organic compared to conventional herds. The odds were 22 times higher (95% CI = 6.5-88.3) if the animal was a sow compared to a finisher. Meat-juice ELISA values were significantly correlated with plasma results (P < 0.001), but on average 64% of the blood-plasma ELISA values. Lowering the recommended cut-off from 20 to 13 percent positive values of the positive control for meat-juice ELISA, resulted in the meat-juice ELISA identifying 93% of the plasma positives as positive and 99% of the plasma negatives as negative. The time taken to detect one or more infected pigs from a T. gondii positive herd at slaughter was estimated using abattoir data on pigs (17,195,996) and batches (165,569) delivered to Danish abattoirs in 2018. The time to detection was affected by the seroprevalence, frequency at which the pigs were delivered, the number of samples tested per batch delivery and the batch sizes. Time to detection was long in conventional finisher herds due to low prevalence, and in sow herds because of intermittent delivery of a low number of sows. In organic finisher herds, time to detection was short due to medium prevalence and frequent delivery of a high number of finishers. Conventional finisher herds may be classified as low-risk, organic finisher herds as medium-risk, and conventional and organic sow herds as high-risk herds. Risk-mitigation strategies at processing plants (freezing or curing) or at the consumer level (heat treatment) for meat originating from high-risk herds, surveillance of medium-risk herds, and auditing for controlled housing (high biosecurity) in low-risk herds may be cost-effective alternatives to serological surveillance of all Danish pig herds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abbey Olsen
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Grønnegaardsvej 8, DK-1870, Frederiksberg C, Denmark; Department of Food Safety, Veterinary Issues & Risk Analysis, Danish Agriculture & Food Council, Axelborg, Axeltorv 3, DK-1609, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Marianne Sandberg
- Department of Food Safety, Veterinary Issues & Risk Analysis, Danish Agriculture & Food Council, Axelborg, Axeltorv 3, DK-1609, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Hans Houe
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Grønnegaardsvej 8, DK-1870, Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Henrik Vedel Nielsen
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Bacteria, Parasites & Fungi, Infectious Disease Preparedness, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, DK-2300, Copenhagen S, Denmark
| | - Matt Denwood
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Grønnegaardsvej 8, DK-1870, Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | | | - Lis Alban
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Grønnegaardsvej 8, DK-1870, Frederiksberg C, Denmark; Department of Food Safety, Veterinary Issues & Risk Analysis, Danish Agriculture & Food Council, Axelborg, Axeltorv 3, DK-1609, Copenhagen, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Halkjær SI, de Knegt VE, Lo B, Nilas L, Cortes D, Pedersen AE, Mirsepasi-Lauridsen HC, Andersen LO, Nielsen HV, Stensvold CR, Johannesen TB, Kallemose T, Krogfelt KA, Petersen AM. Multistrain Probiotic Increases the Gut Microbiota Diversity in Obese Pregnant Women: Results from a Randomized, Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Study. Curr Dev Nutr 2020; 4:nzaa095. [PMID: 32617453 PMCID: PMC7319727 DOI: 10.1093/cdn/nzaa095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2020] [Revised: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 05/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Maternal obesity is associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes. Probiotic supplementation during pregnancy may have positive effects on blood glucose, gestational weight gain (GWG), and the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus [GDM and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c)]. OBJECTIVES This feasibility study involved a daily probiotic intervention in obese pregnant women from the early second trimester until delivery. The primary aim was to investigate the effect on GWG and maternal glucose homeostasis (GDM and HbA1c). Secondary aims were the effect on infant birth weight, maternal gut microbiota, and other pregnancy outcomes. METHODS We carried out a randomized double-blinded placebo-controlled study in 50 obese pregnant women. Participants were randomly allocated (1:1) to multistrain probiotic (4 capsules of Vivomixx®; total of 450 billion CFU/d) or placebo at 14-20 weeks of gestation until delivery. Participants were followed with 2 predelivery visits at gestational week 27-30 and 36-37 and with 1 postdelivery visit. All visits included blood and fecal sampling. An oral-glucose-tolerance test was performed at inclusion and gestational week 27-30. RESULTS Forty-nine participants completed the study. Thirty-eight participants took >80% of the capsules (n = 21), placebo (n = 17). There was no significant difference in GWG, GDM, HbA1c concentrations, and infant birth weight between groups. Fecal microbiota analyses showed an overall increase in α-diversity over time in the probiotic group only (P = 0.016). CONCLUSIONS Administration of probiotics during pregnancy is feasible in obese women and the women were willing to participate in additional study visits and collection of fecal samples during pregnancy. Multistrain probiotic can modulate the gut microbiota in obese women during pregnancy. A larger study population is needed to uncover pregnancy effects after probiotic supplementation. This trial was registered at clincaltrials.gov as NCT02508844.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sofie Ingdam Halkjær
- Gastrounit, Medical Division, Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | | | - Bobby Lo
- Gastrounit, Medical Division, Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Lisbeth Nilas
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Dina Cortes
- Department of Pediatrics, Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anders Elm Pedersen
- Department of Dentistry, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Lee O'Brien Andersen
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Henrik Vedel Nielsen
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Thor Bech Johannesen
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Thomas Kallemose
- Clinical Research Centre, Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Karen Angeliki Krogfelt
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Science and Environment, Roskilde University, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Andreas Munk Petersen
- Gastrounit, Medical Division, Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Eiset AH, Aoun MP, Haddad RS, Naja WJ, Fuursted K, Nielsen HV, Stensvold CR, Nielsen MS, Gottlieb A, Frydenberg M, Wejse C. Asylum seekers' and Refugees' Changing Health (ARCH) study protocol: an observational study in Lebanon and Denmark to assess health implications of long-distance migration on communicable and non-communicable diseases and mental health. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e034412. [PMID: 32461293 PMCID: PMC7259863 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-034412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION By end of 2018, the European Union countries hosted approximately 2.5 million refugees and Lebanon alone hosted more than 1 million. The majority of refugees worldwide came from Syria. The prevailing study design in published studies on asylum seekers' and refugees' health leaves a number of fundamental research questions unanswerable. In the Asylum seekers' and Refugees' Changing Health (ARCH) study, we examine the health of a homogeneous group of refugees and asylum seekers in two very different host countries with very different migration histories. We aim to study the health impact of the migration process, living conditions, access to healthcare, gene-environment interactions and the health transition. METHODS AND ANALYSIS ARCH is an international multisite study of the health of adult (>18 years old) Syrian refugees and asylum seekers in Lebanon and Denmark. Using a standardised framework, we collect information on mental and physical health using validated scales and biological samples. We aim to include 220 participants in Danish asylum centres and 1100 participants in Lebanese refugee camps and settlements. We will use propensity score weights to control for confounding and multiple imputation to handle missing data. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethical approval has been obtained in Lebanon and Denmark. In the short term, we will present the cross-sectional association between long-distance migration and the results of the throat and wound swab, blood and faeces samples and mental health screenings. In the longer term, we are planning to follow the refugees in Denmark with collection of dried blood spots, mental health screenings and semistructured qualitative interviews on the participant's health and access to healthcare in the time lived in Denmark. Here, we present an overview of the background for the ARCH study as well as a thorough description of the methodology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Halgreen Eiset
- Center for Global Health (GloHAU), Department of Public Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Clinic for PTSD and Anxiety, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | - Ramzi S Haddad
- Department of Psychiatry, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Wadih J Naja
- Department of Psychiatry, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Kurt Fuursted
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Kobenhavn, Denmark
| | - Henrik Vedel Nielsen
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Kobenhavn, Denmark
| | | | | | - Annemarie Gottlieb
- Clinic for PTSD and Anxiety, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | - Christian Wejse
- Center for Global Health (GloHAU), Department of Public Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Wilhelmsson P, Lövmar M, Krogfelt KA, Nielsen HV, Forsberg P, Lindgren PE. Clinical/serological outcome in humans bitten by Babesia species positive Ixodes ricinus ticks in Sweden and on the Åland Islands. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2020; 11:101455. [PMID: 32386909 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2020.101455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2018] [Revised: 04/16/2020] [Accepted: 04/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The risk of contracting babesiosis after a tick bite in Sweden and on the Åland Islands, Finland, is unknown. We investigated clinical and serological outcomes in people bitten by Ixodes ricinus ticks positive for Babesia species. Ticks, blood and questionnaires were obtained from study participants in Sweden and on the Åland Islands. Sixty-five of 2098 (3.1 %) ticks were positive by real-time PCR. Three Babesia species were detected, Babesia microti (n = 33), B. venatorum (n = 27) and B. capreoli (n = 5), the latter species not known to cause human infection. Half (46 %) of the Babesia PCR-positive ticks also contained Borrelia spp. Fifty-three participants bitten by a Babesia PCR-positive tick and a control group bitten by a Babesia PCR-negative tick were tested for B. microti IgG antibodies by IFA. The overall seroprevalence was 4.4 %, but there was no significant difference between the groups. None of the participants seroconverted and no participant with a Babesia PCR-positive tick sought medical care or reported symptoms suggestive of babesiosis. Given the prevalence of Babesia in I. ricinus ticks in southern Sweden and on the Åland Islands, babesiosis should be considered a possible diagnosis in symptomatic residents who seek medical care following tick exposure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- P Wilhelmsson
- Division of Inflammation and Infection, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden; Department of Clinical Microbiology, Region Jönköping County, Jönköping, Sweden.
| | - M Lövmar
- Division of Inflammation and Infection, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden.
| | - K A Krogfelt
- Department of Bacteria Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institute, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Science and Environmental, Roskilde University, Denmark.
| | - H V Nielsen
- Department of Bacteria Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institute, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - P Forsberg
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden.
| | - P E Lindgren
- Division of Inflammation and Infection, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden; Department of Clinical Microbiology, Region Jönköping County, Jönköping, Sweden.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Gogarten JF, Calvignac-Spencer S, Nunn CL, Ulrich M, Saiepour N, Nielsen HV, Deschner T, Fichtel C, Kappeler PM, Knauf S, Müller-Klein N, Ostner J, Robbins MM, Sangmaneedet S, Schülke O, Surbeck M, Wittig RM, Sliwa A, Strube C, Leendertz FH, Roos C, Noll A. Metabarcoding of eukaryotic parasite communities describes diverse parasite assemblages spanning the primate phylogeny. Mol Ecol Resour 2019; 20:204-215. [PMID: 31600853 DOI: 10.1111/1755-0998.13101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2019] [Revised: 10/02/2019] [Accepted: 10/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Despite their ubiquity, in most cases little is known about the impact of eukaryotic parasites on their mammalian hosts. Comparative approaches provide a powerful method to investigate the impact of parasites on host ecology and evolution, though two issues are critical for such efforts: controlling for variation in methods of identifying parasites and incorporating heterogeneity in sampling effort across host species. To address these issues, there is a need for standardized methods to catalogue eukaryotic parasite diversity across broad phylogenetic host ranges. We demonstrate the feasibility of a metabarcoding approach for describing parasite communities by analysing faecal samples from 11 nonhuman primate species representing divergent lineages of the primate phylogeny and the full range of sampling effort (i.e. from no parasites reported in the literature to the best-studied primates). We detected a number of parasite families and regardless of prior sampling effort, metabarcoding of only ten faecal samples identified parasite families previously undescribed in each host (x̅ = 8.5 new families per species). We found more overlap between parasite families detected with metabarcoding and published literature when more research effort-measured as the number of publications-had been conducted on the host species' parasites. More closely related primates and those from the same continent had more similar parasite communities, highlighting the biological relevance of sampling even a small number of hosts. Collectively, results demonstrate that metabarcoding methods are sensitive and powerful enough to standardize studies of eukaryotic parasite communities across host species, providing essential new tools for macroecological studies of parasitism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jan F Gogarten
- Project Group 3: Epidemiology of Highly Pathogenic Microorganisms, Robert Koch Institute Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Viral Evolution, Robert Koch-Institute Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Sébastien Calvignac-Spencer
- Project Group 3: Epidemiology of Highly Pathogenic Microorganisms, Robert Koch Institute Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Viral Evolution, Robert Koch-Institute Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Charles L Nunn
- Department of Evolutionary Anthropology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA.,Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Markus Ulrich
- Project Group 3: Epidemiology of Highly Pathogenic Microorganisms, Robert Koch Institute Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Nasrin Saiepour
- Primate Genetics Laboratory, German Primate Center, Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Henrik Vedel Nielsen
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Tobias Deschner
- Department of Primatology, Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Claudia Fichtel
- Behavioral Ecology & Sociobiology Unit, German Primate Center, Goettingen, Germany.,Leibniz Science Campus Primate Cognition, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Peter M Kappeler
- Behavioral Ecology & Sociobiology Unit, German Primate Center, Goettingen, Germany.,Leibniz Science Campus Primate Cognition, Goettingen, Germany.,Department of Sociobiology/Anthropology, Johann-Friedrich-Blumenbach Institute for Zoology, Georg-August University, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Sascha Knauf
- Neglected Tropical Diseases Work Group, Infection Biology Unit, German Primate Center, Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Nadine Müller-Klein
- Department of Behavioral Ecology, University of Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Julia Ostner
- Leibniz Science Campus Primate Cognition, Goettingen, Germany.,Department of Behavioral Ecology, University of Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany.,Research Group Primate Social Evolution, German Primate Center - Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Martha M Robbins
- Department of Primatology, Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Somboon Sangmaneedet
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | - Oliver Schülke
- Leibniz Science Campus Primate Cognition, Goettingen, Germany.,Department of Behavioral Ecology, University of Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany.,Research Group Primate Social Evolution, German Primate Center - Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Martin Surbeck
- Department of Primatology, Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Leipzig, Germany.,Department of Human Evolutionary Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Roman M Wittig
- Department of Primatology, Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Leipzig, Germany.,Taï Chimpanzee Project, Centre Suisse de Recherches Scientifiques, Abidjan, Ivory Coast
| | | | - Christina Strube
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Fabian H Leendertz
- Project Group 3: Epidemiology of Highly Pathogenic Microorganisms, Robert Koch Institute Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Christian Roos
- Primate Genetics Laboratory, German Primate Center, Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, Goettingen, Germany.,Gene Bank of Primates, German Primate Center, Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Angela Noll
- Primate Genetics Laboratory, German Primate Center, Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, Goettingen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Nielsen ST, Westergaard IL, Guldbech GK, Nielsen HV, Johansen MV. The prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii in mice living in Danish indoor sow herds. Acta Vet Scand 2019; 61:48. [PMID: 31619271 PMCID: PMC6796487 DOI: 10.1186/s13028-019-0483-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2019] [Accepted: 10/03/2019] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Toxoplasma gondii is found worldwide, and consumption of undercooked meat is considered a significant risk factor for human infections. In Denmark, little is known about the distribution of T. gondii, but a recent study revealed a seroprevalence of 34% in Danish indoor sows. The present cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the role of mice for the transmission of T. gondii in Danish indoor sow herds. Results In total, 56 sow herds were visited, 137 mice were caught by snap traps from 32 farms, and 52 cat faecal samples were collected from 22 farms. Eight percent of the mice were positive for T. gondii DNA, representing 11% of the farms. Significant associations were found between the presence of T. gondii-positive mice and both open feed systems (P= 0.041) and extra rodent control on the farm (P= 0.024). All cat faecal samples were deemed negative for T. gondii by light microscopy examination and real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis. Conclusion Mice captured inside Danish sow herds were found to be infected with T. gondii and may thus contribute to the transmission of T. gondii to sows, which may explain the high seroprevalence found in Danish pigs.
Collapse
|
24
|
Nardo-Marino A, Bukan K, Nielsen HV, El Fassi D. Remembering visceral leishmaniasis as a potential trigger of haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis in individuals treated with anti-TNF-alpha therapy. Eur J Rheumatol 2019; 6:226-227. [PMID: 31449489 DOI: 10.5152/eurjrheum.2019.18178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2018] [Accepted: 12/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Amina Nardo-Marino
- Department of Haematology, Herlev and Gentofte Hospital, Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Katrine Bukan
- Department of Haematology, Herlev and Gentofte Hospital, Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev, Denmark.,Department of Nephrology, Herlev and Gentofte Hospital, Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Henrik Vedel Nielsen
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Daniel El Fassi
- Department of Haematology, Herlev and Gentofte Hospital, Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev, Denmark.,Department of Rheumatology, Rigshospitalet, Institute for Inflammation Research, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Petersen A, Rosenstierne MW, Rasmussen M, Fuursted K, Nielsen HV, O'Brien Andersen L, Bødker R, Fomsgaard A. Field samplings of Ixodes ricinus ticks from a tick-borne encephalitis virus micro-focus in Northern Zealand, Denmark. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2019; 10:1028-1032. [PMID: 31151922 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2019.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2018] [Revised: 04/25/2019] [Accepted: 05/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
In 2008-2009 a tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) micro-focus was detected in Northern Zealand, Denmark. No new cases of TBE with an epidemiological link to Northern Zealand has been reported since. Here we undertook to investigate Ixodes ricinus ticks from this endemic micro-focus in 2016 and 2017. In addition to TBEV, I. ricinus ticks may host other pathogens that include Borrelia spp., Babesia spp., Rickettsia spp. and Neoehrlichia mikurensis, together with various endosymbiont microorganisms. To detect multiple organisms we used a metagenomics PanVirus microarray and next-generation sequencing to examine the persistence and evolution of other emerging viruses, bacteria and parasites. Here we report the rise and fall of the Danish TBEV micro-focus in Northern Zealand. However, we identify for the first time in Danish I. ricinus ticks the presence of Uukuniemi virus in addition to a tick-borne phlebovirus and a range of bacteria.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Petersen
- European Program for Public Health Microbiology Training (EUPHEM), European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, (ECDC), Solna, Sweden; Virus Research and Development Laboratory, Department of Virus and Microbiological Special Diagnosis, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark; Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Infection Preparedness, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Maiken Worsøe Rosenstierne
- Virus Research and Development Laboratory, Department of Virus and Microbiological Special Diagnosis, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Morten Rasmussen
- Virus Research and Development Laboratory, Department of Virus and Microbiological Special Diagnosis, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kurt Fuursted
- Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Infection Preparedness, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Henrik Vedel Nielsen
- Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Infection Preparedness, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lee O'Brien Andersen
- Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Infection Preparedness, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - René Bødker
- DTU National Veterinary Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Anders Fomsgaard
- Virus Research and Development Laboratory, Department of Virus and Microbiological Special Diagnosis, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark; Infectious Disease Research Unit, Clinical Institute, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Olsen A, Berg R, Tagel M, Must K, Deksne G, Enemark HL, Alban L, Johansen MV, Nielsen HV, Sandberg M, Lundén A, Stensvold CR, Pires SM, Jokelainen P. Seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii in domestic pigs, sheep, cattle, wild boars, and moose in the Nordic-Baltic region: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Parasite Epidemiol Control 2019; 5:e00100. [PMID: 30906889 PMCID: PMC6411595 DOI: 10.1016/j.parepi.2019.e00100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2019] [Revised: 03/01/2019] [Accepted: 03/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Toxoplasma gondii is an important foodborne zoonotic parasite. Meat of infected animals is presumed to constitute a major source of human infection and may be a driver of geographical variation in the prevalence of anti-T. gondii antibodies in humans, which is substantial in the Nordic-Baltic region in northern Europe. However, data on seroprevalence of T. gondii in different animal species used for human consumption are scattered. Methods We conducted a systematic review of seroprevalence studies and meta-analysis to estimate the seroprevalence of T. gondii in five animal species that are raised or hunted for human consumption in the Nordic-Baltic region: domestic pigs (Sus scrofa domesticus), sheep (Ovis aries), cattle (Bos taurus), wild boars (Sus scrofa), and moose (Alces alces). We searched for studies that were conducted between January 1990 and June 2018, and reported in articles, theses, conference abstracts and proceedings, and manuscripts. Subgroup analyses were performed to identify variables influencing the seroprevalence. Findings From a total of 271 studies identified in the systematic review, 32 were included in the meta-analysis. These comprised of 13 studies on domestic pigs, six on sheep, three on cattle, six on wild boars, and four on moose. The estimated pooled seroprevalence of T. gondii was 6% in domestic pigs (CI95%: 3–10%), 23% in sheep (CI95%: 12–36%), 7% in cattle (CI95%: 1–21%), 33% in wild boars (CI95%: 26–41%), and 16% in moose (CI95%: 10–23%). High heterogeneity was observed in the seroprevalence data within each species. In all host species except wild boars, the pooled seroprevalence estimates were significantly higher in animals >1 year of age than in younger animals. Not all studies provided information on animal age, sensitivity and specificity of the serological method employed, and the cut-off values used for defining an animal seropositive. Conclusions A substantial proportion of animals raised or hunted for human consumption in the region had tested positive for T. gondii. This indicates widespread exposure to T. gondii among animals raised or hunted for human consumption in the region. Large variations were observed in the seroprevalence estimates between the studies in the region; however, studies were too few to identify spatial patterns at country-level.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abbey Olsen
- Section for Parasitology and Aquatic Pathobiology, Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Dyrlægevej 100, DK-1870 Frederiksberg C, Denmark.,Department of Food Safety, Veterinary Issues & Risk Analysis, Danish Agriculture & Food Council, Axelborg, Axeltorv 3, DK-1609 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Rebecca Berg
- Section for Organismal Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Copenhagen, Thorvaldsensvej 40, DK-1871 Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Maarja Tagel
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Kreutzwaldi 62, 51006 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Kärt Must
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Kreutzwaldi 62, 51006 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Gunita Deksne
- Department of Parasitology, Institute of Food Safety, Animal Health and Environment "BIOR", Lejupes Str. 3, LV-1076 Riga, Latvia.,Department of Zoology and Animal Ecology, Faculty of Biology, University of Latvia, Jelgavas Str. 1, LV-1004 Riga, Latvia
| | - Heidi Larsen Enemark
- Norwegian Veterinary Institute, Department of Animal Health and Food Safety, P.O. Box 750, Sentrum, NO-0106 Oslo, Norway
| | - Lis Alban
- Department of Food Safety, Veterinary Issues & Risk Analysis, Danish Agriculture & Food Council, Axelborg, Axeltorv 3, DK-1609 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Maria Vang Johansen
- Section for Parasitology and Aquatic Pathobiology, Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Dyrlægevej 100, DK-1870 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Henrik Vedel Nielsen
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Bacteria, Parasites & Fungi, Infectious Disease Preparedness, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, 2300 Copenhagen S, Denmark
| | - Marianne Sandberg
- Department of Food Safety, Veterinary Issues & Risk Analysis, Danish Agriculture & Food Council, Axelborg, Axeltorv 3, DK-1609 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anna Lundén
- National Veterinary Institute, Department of Microbiology, SE-751 89 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Christen Rune Stensvold
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Bacteria, Parasites & Fungi, Infectious Disease Preparedness, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, 2300 Copenhagen S, Denmark
| | - Sara M Pires
- National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kemitorvet 201, 2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Pikka Jokelainen
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Bacteria, Parasites & Fungi, Infectious Disease Preparedness, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, 2300 Copenhagen S, Denmark.,Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Kreutzwaldi 62, 51006 Tartu, Estonia.,Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, P.O. Box 66, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Bukan KB, Nardo-Marino A, Hagdrup C, Boennelycke M, Breinholdt MF, Schöllkopf C, Nielsen HV, El Fassi D. Haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis associated with leishmaniasis reactivation: a potential adverse event to anti-tumour necrosis factor-α therapy. Scand J Rheumatol 2018; 48:342-343. [PMID: 30526204 DOI: 10.1080/03009742.2018.1533035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- K B Bukan
- a Department of Haematology , Herlev and Gentofte University Hospital , Herlev , Denmark.,b Department of Nephrology , Herlev and Gentofte University Hospital , Herlev , Denmark
| | - A Nardo-Marino
- a Department of Haematology , Herlev and Gentofte University Hospital , Herlev , Denmark
| | - C Hagdrup
- c Department of Anesthesiology , Herlev and Gentofte University Hospital , Herlev , Denmark
| | - M Boennelycke
- d Department of Pathology , Herlev and Gentofte University Hospital , Herlev , Denmark
| | - M F Breinholdt
- d Department of Pathology , Herlev and Gentofte University Hospital , Herlev , Denmark
| | - C Schöllkopf
- a Department of Haematology , Herlev and Gentofte University Hospital , Herlev , Denmark
| | - H V Nielsen
- e Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi , Statens Serum Institut , Copenhagen , Denmark
| | - D El Fassi
- a Department of Haematology , Herlev and Gentofte University Hospital , Herlev , Denmark.,f Department of Rheumatology , Institute for Inflammation Research , Copenhagen , Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Pomorska A, Malecka A, Jaworski R, Radon-Proskura J, Hare RK, Nielsen HV, Andersen LO, Jensen HE, Arendrup MC, Irga-Jaworska N. Isavuconazole in a Successful Combination Treatment of Disseminated Mucormycosis in a Child with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia and Generalized Haemochromatosis: A Case Report and Review of the Literature. Mycopathologia 2018; 184:81-88. [DOI: 10.1007/s11046-018-0287-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2018] [Accepted: 07/02/2018] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
|
29
|
Röser D, Bjerrum S, Helleberg M, Nielsen HV, David KP, Thybo S, Stensvold CR. Adventure tourism and schistosomiasis: serology and clinical findings in a group of Danish students after white-water rafting in Uganda. JMM Case Rep 2018; 5:e005141. [PMID: 29868173 PMCID: PMC5982149 DOI: 10.1099/jmmcr.0.005141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2017] [Accepted: 01/22/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Diagnosis of schistosomiasis in travellers is a clinical challenge, since cases may present with no symptoms or a few non-specific symptoms. Here, we report on the laboratory and clinical findings in Danish travellers exposed to Schistosoma-infested water during white-water rafting on the Ugandan part of the upper Nile River in July 2009. Case presentation Forty travellers were offered screening for Schistosoma-specific antibodies. Serological tests were performed 6–65 weeks after exposure. A self-reporting questionnaire was used to collect information on travel activity and health history, fresh water exposure, and symptoms. Seropositive cases were referred to hospitals where clinical and biochemical data were collected. Schistosoma-specific antibodies were detected in 13/35 (37 %) exposed participants, with 4/13 (31 %) seroconverting later than 2 months following exposure. Four of thirteen (31 %) cases reported ≥3 symptoms compatible with schistosomiasis, with a mean onset of 41 days following exposure. No Schistosoma eggs were detected in stool or urine in any of the cases. Peripheral eosinophilia (>0.45×109 cells l−1) was seen in 4/13 cases, while IgE levels were normal in all cases. Conclusion Schistosomiasis in travellers is not necessarily associated with specific signs or symptoms, eosinophilia, raised IgE levels, or detection of eggs. The only prognostic factor for infection was exposure to freshwater in a Schistosoma-endemic area. Seroconversion may occur later than 2 months after exposure and therefore – in the absence of other diagnostic evidence – serology testing should be performed up to at least 2–3 months following exposure to be able to rule out schistosomiasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dennis Röser
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, DK-2300 Copenhagen S, Denmark.,Department of Pediatrics, Herlev Hospital, Herlev Ringvej 75, DK-2730 Herlev, Denmark
| | - Stephanie Bjerrum
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, DK-2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Marie Helleberg
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, DK-2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Henrik Vedel Nielsen
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, DK-2300 Copenhagen S, Denmark
| | - Kim Peter David
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Hvidovre Hospital, Kettegård Alle 30, DK-2650 Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Søren Thybo
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, DK-2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Christen Rune Stensvold
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, DK-2300 Copenhagen S, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Jokelainen P, Murat JB, Nielsen HV. Direct genetic characterization of Toxoplasma gondii from clinical samples from Denmark: not only genotypes II and III. Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis 2017; 37:579-586. [PMID: 29197989 DOI: 10.1007/s10096-017-3152-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2017] [Accepted: 11/24/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Genetic variation within Toxoplasma gondii can have both clinical and epidemiological significance, while the genotypes circulating in many parts of the world, including the Nordic country Denmark, are still unknown. We genetically characterized T. gondii strains that had been detected in human clinical samples in Denmark in 2011-2016. Samples that had tested positive for T. gondii DNA and had a quantification cycle value <33 were included in this study and subjected to direct genetic characterization of T. gondii based on length-polymorphism of 15 microsatellite markers. A total of 23 DNA samples from 22 individual patients were analyzed. The results were consistent with genotype II with 15/15 markers amplified from seven samples from the central nervous system (CNS) including two samples from one patient, four ocular samples, and one unspecified sample; with genotype III with 15/15 markers amplified from two ocular samples; with genotype Africa 1 with 15/15 markers amplified from one amniotic fluid sample and from one CNS-sample; with atypical genotype with 15/15 markers amplified from one CNS-sample and with 11/15 markers amplified from one CNS-sample; and with HG12-like genotype with 9/15 markers amplified from one CNS-sample. Genotype II, which is endemic in Europe, was predominant, but more than a third of the successfully genotyped strains were non-type-II. The possibility that clinical toxoplasmosis is caused by a strain that is not considered endemic to the region is definitely not negligible.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- P Jokelainen
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Bacteria, Parasites & Fungi, Infectious Disease Preparedness, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, DK-2300, Copenhagen S, Denmark.
- University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
- Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia.
| | - J-B Murat
- National Reference Centre for Toxoplasmosis, Biological Resource Center for Toxoplasma, Laboratoire de Parasitologie et de Mycologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Limoges, Limoges, France
- INSERM, UMR_S 1094, Neuroépidémiologie Tropicale, Université de Limoges, Limoges, France
| | - H V Nielsen
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Bacteria, Parasites & Fungi, Infectious Disease Preparedness, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, DK-2300, Copenhagen S, Denmark.
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Kofoed KG, Vorslund-Kiær M, Nielsen HV, Alban L, Johansen MV. Sero-prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii in Danish pigs. Veterinary Parasitology: Regional Studies and Reports 2017; 10:136-138. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2017.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2017] [Revised: 10/06/2017] [Accepted: 10/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
|
32
|
Nissen J, Jokelainen P, Stensvold CR, Trevisan C, Fuchs J, Burgdorf KS, Nielsen HV, Pires SM. The disease burden of congenital toxoplasmosis in Denmark, 2014. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0178282. [PMID: 28558051 PMCID: PMC5448755 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0178282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2016] [Accepted: 05/10/2017] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Congenital toxoplasmosis (CT) causes a substantial disease burden worldwide. The aim of this study was to estimate the disease burden of CT in Denmark, a developed country with free public healthcare and nationwide data available. METHODS Using data primarily from two public health surveillance programmes conducted between 1992 and 2007, we estimated the incidence, occurrence of sequelae, mortality and the burden of disease in terms of disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) of CT in Denmark in 2014. FINDINGS We estimated that 14 children were born with CT in 2014, of which six will have developed sequelae by the age of 12. CT resulted in a total disease burden of 123 DALYs (95% uncertainty interval [UI], 100-148), of which 78 (95% UI, 64-94) were due to foetal loss and 2 (95% UI, 1-3) were due to neonatal death; the remaining burden was due to moderate to severe life-long sequelae. A comparison of the estimated incidence of CT with the number of reported CT cases in 2008-2014 indicated that for each reported CT case, at least five other CT cases could be expected to have occurred and gone unreported. INTERPRETATION Early onset, severity, and life-long duration of sequelae have a major effect on the disease burden of CT. Our data suggest that CT is under-diagnosed or under-reported in Denmark. The estimated disease burden and public health impact in Denmark is lower than in other European countries, highlighting the need for country-specific studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Janna Nissen
- Division of Diet, Disease Prevention and Toxicology, National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Pikka Jokelainen
- Laboratory for Parasitology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Basic Veterinary Sciences and Population Medicine, Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
| | | | - Chiara Trevisan
- Department of Veterinary Disease Biology, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Josefine Fuchs
- Department of Ophthalmology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Glostrup, Denmark
| | | | | | - Sara M Pires
- Division of Diet, Disease Prevention and Toxicology, National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Dakić Z, Nielsen HV, Pavlović M, Poluga J, Stevanović G, Lavadinović L, Milošević B, Pelemiš M, Urošević A, Jovanović S, Stensvold CR. Retrospective PCR-based species identification of Leishmania in two patients with visceral leishmaniasis in Serbia. JMM Case Rep 2016; 3:e005063. [PMID: 28348785 PMCID: PMC5343143 DOI: 10.1099/jmmcr.0.005063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2016] [Accepted: 08/13/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Retrospective molecular identification of Leishmania parasites in two patients with visceral leishmaniasis (VL) previously treated in Serbia was carried out. DNA was isolated from unstained bone marrow smears (BMSs) kept for 11 and 8 years. Genus-specific real-time PCR was combined with conventional PCR and sequencing for detection and species identification. CASE PRESENTATION In 2003, a 40-year-old Serbian male was admitted to the Clinical Centre of Serbia (CCS) with fever, sweating, fatigue and splenomegaly, which developed over a period of 7 weeks. He had frequently travelled around Europe. VL was confirmed by microscopy of Giemsa-stained BMS. Treatment by pentavalent antimonials was successfully completed. Two years later, the patient developed post-kala-azar dermal leishmaniasis. Treatment resulted in symptom resolution. Later on, Leishmania infantum was identified as the causative agent of the VL by sequencing of the ITS (internal transcribed spacer) region; mixed Leishmania spp. infection could not be excluded. In 2006, a 33-year-old female from Vojvodina, Serbia, with pre-existing diabetes mellitus and chronic meningoencephalitis and a history of frequent visits to the Montenegrin seacoast, was admitted to the CCS with fever, pancytopenia and moderate hepatosplenomegaly. A stained BMS revealed abundant Leishmania amastigotes. Indirect haemagglutination analysis was positive with a titre of 1 : 2048, and a rapid dipstick rK39 test was also positive. Treatment by liposomal amphotericin B was successful; however, shortly after, the patient developed neural infection and pneumonia and died. The causative agent was identified as L. infantum. CONCLUSION Molecular diagnosis of VL and species delineation using DNA from unstained BMSs stored for several years is possible.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zorica Dakić
- Parasitological Laboratory, Department of Microbiology, Clinical Centre of Serbia, Bulevar Oslobodjenja 16, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Henrik Vedel Nielsen
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Microbiology and Infection Control, Division of Diagnostics and Infection Control, Statens Serum Institute, 5 Artillerivej, DK–2300 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Milorad Pavlović
- Medical Faculty, University of Belgrade, Dr Subotića 8, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
- Clinic for Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Clinical Centre of Serbia, Bulevar Oslobodjenja 16, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Jasmina Poluga
- Medical Faculty, University of Belgrade, Dr Subotića 8, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
- Clinic for Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Clinical Centre of Serbia, Bulevar Oslobodjenja 16, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Goran Stevanović
- Medical Faculty, University of Belgrade, Dr Subotića 8, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
- Clinic for Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Clinical Centre of Serbia, Bulevar Oslobodjenja 16, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Lidija Lavadinović
- Medical Faculty, University of Belgrade, Dr Subotića 8, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
- Clinic for Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Clinical Centre of Serbia, Bulevar Oslobodjenja 16, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Branko Milošević
- Medical Faculty, University of Belgrade, Dr Subotića 8, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
- Clinic for Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Clinical Centre of Serbia, Bulevar Oslobodjenja 16, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Mijomir Pelemiš
- Medical Faculty, University of Belgrade, Dr Subotića 8, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
- Clinic for Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Clinical Centre of Serbia, Bulevar Oslobodjenja 16, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Aleksandar Urošević
- Medical Faculty, University of Belgrade, Dr Subotića 8, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
- Clinic for Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Clinical Centre of Serbia, Bulevar Oslobodjenja 16, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Snežana Jovanović
- Parasitological Laboratory, Department of Microbiology, Clinical Centre of Serbia, Bulevar Oslobodjenja 16, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Christen Rune Stensvold
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Microbiology and Infection Control, Division of Diagnostics and Infection Control, Statens Serum Institute, 5 Artillerivej, DK–2300 Copenhagen, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Hebbelstrup Jensen B, Röser D, Andreassen BU, Olsen KEP, Nielsen HV, Roldgaard BB, Schjørring S, Mirsepasi-Lauridsen HC, Jørgensen SL, Mortensen EM, Petersen AM, Krogfelt KA. Childhood diarrhoea in Danish day care centres could be associated with infant colic, low birthweight and antibiotics. Acta Paediatr 2016; 105:90-5. [PMID: 26355526 DOI: 10.1111/apa.13209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2015] [Revised: 08/13/2015] [Accepted: 09/07/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
AIM Diarrhoea is very common in children attending day care centres. The aim of this study was to examine certain predisposing risk factors for an association with diarrhoea, including foreign travel, treatment with antibiotics, having household pets, infant colic, bottle feeding, using a pacifier and low birthweight. METHODS A dynamic one-year follow-up cohort study comprising 179 children from 36 day care centres was conducted from September 2009 to July 2013 in Copenhagen, Denmark. Questionnaires were sent to the children's parents or legal guardians every two months for a year, requesting information on gastrointestinal symptoms and exposure. A logistic regression was performed to identify the odds ratios of different risk factors for diarrhoea. RESULTS The odds ratios for diarrhoea were 1.97 (0.93-4.20) for children with a history of infant colic, 1.91 (0.90-4.04) for low birthweight children and 1.45 (0.74-2.82) for children who had used antibiotics. Having a pet in the household had a possible protective effect towards diarrhoeal events, with an odds ratio of 0.47 (0.20-1.09). CONCLUSION A history of infant colic, low birthweight, and to a lesser extent antibiotic use, possibly increased the risk of diarrhoea in Danish children in day care centres.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Dennis Röser
- Department of Microbiology and Infection Control; Statens Serum Institut; Copenhagen Denmark
- Department of Paediatrics; Hvidovre University Hospital; Copenhagen Denmark
| | | | - Katharina E. P. Olsen
- Department of Microbiology and Infection Control; Statens Serum Institut; Copenhagen Denmark
| | - Henrik Vedel Nielsen
- Department of Microbiology and Infection Control; Statens Serum Institut; Copenhagen Denmark
| | - Bent Bjørn Roldgaard
- Department of Microbiology and Infection Control; Statens Serum Institut; Copenhagen Denmark
| | - Susanne Schjørring
- Department of Microbiology and Infection Control; Statens Serum Institut; Copenhagen Denmark
| | | | - Steffen L. Jørgensen
- Department of Microbiology and Infection Control; Statens Serum Institut; Copenhagen Denmark
| | - Esben Munk Mortensen
- Department of Microbiology and Infection Control; Statens Serum Institut; Copenhagen Denmark
| | - Andreas Munk Petersen
- Department of Microbiology and Infection Control; Statens Serum Institut; Copenhagen Denmark
- Department of Gastroenterology; Hvidovre University Hospital; Copenhagen Denmark
- Department of Clinical Microbiology; Hvidovre University Hospital; Copenhagen Denmark
| | - Karen Angeliki Krogfelt
- Department of Microbiology and Infection Control; Statens Serum Institut; Copenhagen Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Stensvold CR, Al Marai D, Andersen LO, Krogfelt KA, Jensen JS, Larsen KS, Nielsen HV. Babesia spp. and other pathogens in ticks recovered from domestic dogs in Denmark. Parasit Vectors 2015; 8:262. [PMID: 25951937 PMCID: PMC4425907 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-015-0843-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2015] [Accepted: 04/06/2015] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Newly recognized endemic foci for human babesiosis include Europe, where Ixodes ricinus, a vector for several species of Babesia, is the most commonly identified tick. Vector-based surveillance provides an early warning system for the emergence of human babesiosis, which is likely to be under-reported at emerging sites. In the present study, we set out to screen I. ricinus collected from Danish domestic dogs for Babesia, in order to identify whether humans in Denmark are exposed to the parasite. Findings A total of 661 ticks (Ixodes spp.) were collected from 345 Danish domestic dogs during April-September 2011 and pooled, one sample per dog. DNA was extracted from each sample and examined by PCR and sequencing for Rickettsia spp., Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato, Bartonella spp., Francisella tularensis, Candidatus Neoehrlichia mikurensis, and Babesia spp. In total, 34% of the samples were positive for tick-borne microorganisms potentially pathogenic to humans: Rickettsia spp. were detected in 16% of the pools, with 79% being R. helvetica. Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato was found in 15%, with the main species identified as Borrelia afzelii (39%). Likewise, 8% of the samples were positive for Babesia spp. (Babesia microti, 82%; Babesia venatorum (‘EU1’), 18%). Lastly, 1% of the samples tested positive for Candidatus Neoehrlichia mikurensis, and 0.6% for Bartonella spp. No ticks were found to be infected with Francisella tularensis. Conclusions Our data are in support of endemic occurrence of potentially zoonotic Babesia in Denmark and confirms I. ricinus as a vector of multiple pathogens of public health concern. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13071-015-0843-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christen Rune Stensvold
- Department of Microbiology and Infection Control, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, DK-2300, Copenhagen, Denmark. .,Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Microbiology and Infection Control, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, DK-2300, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Dua Al Marai
- Department of Microbiology and Infection Control, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, DK-2300, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Lee O'Brien Andersen
- Department of Microbiology and Infection Control, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, DK-2300, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Karen Angeliki Krogfelt
- Department of Microbiology and Infection Control, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, DK-2300, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Jørgen Skov Jensen
- Department of Microbiology and Infection Control, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, DK-2300, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | | | - Henrik Vedel Nielsen
- Department of Microbiology and Infection Control, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, DK-2300, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Stensvold CR, Ethelberg S, Hansen L, Sahar S, Voldstedlund M, Kemp M, Hartmeyer GN, Otte E, Engsbro AL, Nielsen HV, Mølbak K. Cryptosporidium infections in Denmark, 2010-2014. Dan Med J 2015; 62:A5086. [PMID: 26050832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The incidence of cryptosporidiosis in Denmark is unknown. Here, we present the number of cases detected in the 2010-2014 period along with data on species and subtypes. METHODS Complete national data retrieved from the Danish Microbiology Database and Statens Serum Institut (SSI) comprised test results on cryptosporidia detected by microscopy or polymerase chain reaction (PCR) between 1 January 2010 and 30 April 2014. Samples that tested positive at the SSI were submitted to species and subtype analysis by conventional PCR and sequencing of ribosomal and gp60 genes, respectively. RESULTS A total of 689 Cryptosporidium-positive stool samples were submitted by 387 patients. Limiting case episodes to two months (60 days), a total of 388 case episodes representing 387 patients were identified. Cryptosporidiosis was most common among infants and toddlers. Moreover, a peak in incidence was observed among younger adults aged 23-24 years. In 43 Cryptosporidium-positive faecal samples, identification was performed to species and subtype level. Cryptosporidium parvum was found in 34 samples, C. hominis in eight, and C. meleagridis in one sample; C. parvum subtypes IIaA15G2R1 (n = 10) and IIaA16G3R1 (n = 5) were predominating. CONCLUSION Cryptosporidia are a significant cause of diarrhoea in Denmark. Outbreaks may not be detected due to continued use of diagnostic tests of limited sensitivity and due to lack of surveillance. With molecular methods now being introduced in many Danish laboratories, we propose establishing national surveillance of cryptosporidiosis. FUNDING not relevant. TRIAL REGISTRATION not relevant.
Collapse
|
37
|
Engsbro AL, Stensvold CR, Vedel Nielsen H, Bytzer P. Prevalence, incidence, and risk factors of intestinal parasites in Danish primary care patients with irritable bowel syndrome. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 46:204-9. [PMID: 24344761 DOI: 10.3109/00365548.2013.861609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The gut microbiota may be involved in the aetiopathogenesis of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). We studied the role of intestinal parasites by describing the epidemiology and risk factors for infection in primary care patients aged 18-50 y with IBS. One hundred and thirty-eight patients at baseline and 78/116 patients returning 1 y later, submitted faecal samples that were examined by microscopy, culture for Blastocystis, and real-time PCR for Dientamoeba fragilis, Entamoeba (dispar and histolytica), Cryptosporidium spp., and Giardia intestinalis. Overall, 42-45% of patients harboured intestinal parasites (baseline and follow-up, respectively): D. fragilis carriage was 35-41%; Blastocystis 14-20%. Incidence rates for D. fragilis and Blastocystis were 10 and 4 per 100 person-y, respectively. Blastocystis carriage increased the odds for carrying D. fragilis. Clinical comparisons showed D. fragilis to be associated with a low frequency of defecation. Further, D. fragilis was associated with having children aged 5-18 y and Blastocystis with increasing age.
Collapse
|
38
|
Dencker D, Ewertsen C, Nielsen HV, Dragsted UB, Karstrup S. Ultrasound-guided treatment of cystic echinococcosis in the spleen. Ultraschall Med 2013; 34:317-318. [PMID: 23696059 DOI: 10.1055/s-0033-1335452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
|
39
|
Petersen AM, Stensvold CR, Mirsepasi H, Engberg J, Friis-Møller A, Porsbo LJ, Hammerum AM, Nordgaard-Lassen I, Nielsen HV, Krogfelt KA. Active ulcerative colitis associated with low prevalence of Blastocystis and Dientamoeba fragilis infection. Scand J Gastroenterol 2013; 48:638-9. [PMID: 23528075 DOI: 10.3109/00365521.2013.780094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
|
40
|
Affiliation(s)
- Lee O'Brien Andersen
- Unit of Mycology and Parasitology, Department of Microbiology and Infection Control, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
41
|
Stensvold CR, Christiansen DB, Olsen KEP, Nielsen HV. Blastocystis sp. subtype 4 is common in Danish Blastocystis-positive patients presenting with acute diarrhea. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2011; 84:883-5. [PMID: 21633023 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.2011.11-0005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Fecal samples from 444 Danish patients presenting with acute diarrhea were tested for Blastocystis and positive samples were subtyped to investigate the prevalence and subtype distribution of Blastocystis in this patient group. A total of 25 patients (5.6%) were positive, and 19 of these patients (76.0%) were positive for Blastocystis sp. ST4. Because the relative prevalence of ST4 in other patients presenting with other types of diarrhea (persistent, travel-related, and human immunodeficiency virus-related) in Denmark is low, the role of Blastocystis sp. ST4 in the etiology of acute diarrhea should be investigated further.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christen Rune Stensvold
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Microbiological Diagnostics, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
42
|
Stensvold CR, Nielsen HV, Petersen E. [Toxocariasis]. Ugeskr Laeger 2011; 173:186-189. [PMID: 21241625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
The clinical presentation of toxocariasis, a zoonotic parasitosis transmitted from dogs and cats to humans, can be very diverse, which is one of the reasons why Toxocara-related disease may go unnoticed. This paper gives a brief summary of the various clinical presentations (covert/common toxocariasis, visceral larva migrans, ocular toxocariasis and neurotoxocariasis), diagnostic and differential-diagnostic considerations as well as treatment and prevention. In brief, the diagnosis of human toxocariasis relies mainly on patient data, anamnestic information, symptoms, eosinophil count and total-IgE levels.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christen Rune Stensvold
- Afdeling for Bakteriologi, Mykologi og Parasitologi, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, 2300 København S, Denmark.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
43
|
Stensvold CR, Nielsen SD, Badsberg JH, Engberg J, Friis-Møller N, Nielsen SS, Nielsen HV, Friis-Møller A. The prevalence and clinical significance of intestinal parasites in HIV-infected patients in Denmark. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010; 43:129-35. [DOI: 10.3109/00365548.2010.524659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
|
44
|
Röser D, Nielsen HV, Petersen E, Saugmann-Jensen P, Nørgaard-Pedersen B. Congenital toxoplasmosis--a report on the Danish neonatal screening programme 1999-2007. J Inherit Metab Dis 2010; 33:S241-7. [PMID: 20585987 DOI: 10.1007/s10545-010-9124-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2010] [Revised: 04/16/2010] [Accepted: 04/28/2010] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This paper reports on the national neonatal screening programme for congenital toxoplasmosis (CT) in Denmark conducted from 1999 to 2007, including background, basis for initiation of screening, methods, results, and finally reasons for the discontinuation of the screening. METHODS A nationwide screening was conducted at Statens Serum Institut, including >98% newborns, and using filter paper eluates (Guthrie card, PKU card) obtained from newborns 5-10 days old. These were analysed for Toxoplasma gondii-specific antibodies (IgM), and if positive, then IgM (ISAGA). Confirmatory serology was performed on children and their mothers (IgM, IgG, IgA, dye test) where infection was suspected, and children with suspected or confirmed CT initiated a 3-month treatment regimen with pyrimethamine, sulfadiazine and folinic acid supplements. Selective cohorts were followed with regard to developmental and clinical outcome. RESULTS A total of 100 children were diagnosed with CT in the screening period, and only 2 cases were detected outside of the screening programme. CT prevalence was 1.6 per 10,000 live-born infants. Follow-up studies showed new retinochoroidal lesions in affected children despite treatment. CONCLUSION Screening was terminated August 2007, after it became apparent that no benefit of treatment could be shown. CT was evaluated using a Danish adaptation of the Uniform Screening Panel (ACMG), showing CT as an unlikely candidate for screening today. Whereas results might be comparable with other low-endemic countries with similar strains of T. gondii, neonatal screening and treatment might offer different results in regions with either high prevalence or different strains of T. gondii.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dennis Röser
- Department of Microbiological Surveillance and Research, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
45
|
Brillowska-Dabrowska A, Nielsen SS, Nielsen HV, Arendrup MC. Optimized 5-hour multiplex PCR test for the detection of tinea unguium: performance in a routine PCR laboratory. Med Mycol 2010; 48:828-31. [DOI: 10.3109/13693780903531579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
|
46
|
Stensvold CR, Arendrup MC, Nielsen HV, Mølbak K. [Blastocystis--an enigmatic parasite]. Ugeskr Laeger 2009; 171:2388-2390. [PMID: 19732521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Blastocystis can be isolated from roughly 25% of patients suspected of intestinal parasitosis. At least ten subtypes (STs) have been isolated from humans and animals, and recent data demonstrate that the pathogenicity of the parasite is subtype-dependent. For instance, ST1 and ST7 are more prevalent among patients with symptoms than healthy individuals, whereas ST3 predominates among healthy carriers. The article sums up basic aspects of the parasite and gives an introduction to new data and points of criticism of previous studies seeking to unravel the pathogenicity of the parasite.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christen Rune Stensvold
- Afdeling for Bakteriologi, Mykologi og Parasitologi, Statens Serum Institut, DK-2300 København S.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
47
|
Stensvold CR, Arendrup MC, Nielsen HV, Bada A, Thorsen S. Symptomatic infection with Blastocystis sp. subtype 8 successfully treated with trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. Ann Trop Med Parasitol 2008; 102:271-4. [PMID: 18348782 DOI: 10.1179/136485908x278847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- C R Stensvold
- Department of Bacteriology, Mycology and Parasitology, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, DK-2300 Copenhagen S, Denmark.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
48
|
Ozyurt M, Kurt O, Mølbak K, Nielsen HV, Haznedaroglu T, Stensvold CR. Molecular epidemiology of Blastocystis infections in Turkey. Parasitol Int 2008; 57:300-6. [PMID: 18337161 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2008.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2007] [Revised: 01/20/2008] [Accepted: 01/22/2008] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Blastocystis is a very common unicellular intestinal parasite of ubiquitous occurrence. In order to describe the molecular epidemiology of Blastocystis infections in Turkey, 87 isolates from 69 symptomatic and 18 asymptomatic individuals were sequenced. Sequence data were phylogenetically analyzed and statistically tested against unmodifiable risk factors such as gender and age. Blastocystis-positive males were complaining mainly of gastroenteritis, whereas dyspepsia was the chief complaint among Blastocystis-positive females. Blastocystis sp. subtypes detected in the study included subtypes 1, 2, 3 and 4, subtype 3 being the most predominant (75.9%). No association was detected between Blastocystis sp. subtype and symptoms (p>0.365), or between infection intensity and symptoms (p>0.441). There was a tendency of subtype 2 isolates being more common among older study individuals, and subtype 2 isolates were significantly associated with higher parasite abundance (p=0.017). Compared to data from similar studies, the distribution of Blastocystis sp. isolates in Turkey was found to more or less reflect the one seen in other countries, and it was deduced that subtype 3 is generally by far the most common subtype infecting humans, followed by subtypes 1, 2 and 4.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mustafa Ozyurt
- Department of Microbiology and Clinical Microbiology, Gülhane Military Medical Academy, Haydarpasa Training Hospital, Usküdar, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
49
|
Abstract
A 59-year-old Danish woman presented to her general practitioner (GP) at the end of June. A few weeks earlier, during a meal at home in Denmark, she had consumed a slice of pork sausage (‘teewurst’, German sausage) brought to her by three Polish visitors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C R Stensvold
- Department of Bacteriology, Mycology and Parasitology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
50
|
Stensvold CR, Arendrup MC, Mølbak K, Nielsen HV. The prevalence of Dientamoeba fragilis in patients with suspected enteroparasitic disease in a metropolitan area in Denmark. Clin Microbiol Infect 2007; 13:839-42. [PMID: 17610603 DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-0691.2007.01760.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The prevalence of Dientamoeba fragilis in patients from a metropolitan area in Denmark was determined by examination of paired stool samples using two techniques: a formol ethyl-acetate concentration technique with unpreserved faeces and a permanent staining technique on faeces preserved with sodium acetate-acetic acid-formalin (SAF). Using the SAF permanent staining technique and the formol ethyl-acetate concentration technique, 25% and 15% of the specimens, respectively, were parasite-positive. D. fragilis was detected in 12 of the 103 patients, only two of whom harboured other recognised pathogenic parasites. Overall, D. fragilis had a remarkably high prevalence in the metropolitan area of Denmark investigated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C R Stensvold
- Department of Bacteriology, Mycology and Parasitology, Statens Serum Institute, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|