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Haynes E, Yabsley MJ, Nemeth NM, Danks ZD, Stasiak I, Garrett KB, Adcock KG, Chamberlain MJ, Ruder MG. Health Assessment of Adult Male Eastern Wild Turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo silvestris) from Western Kentucky, USA. J Wildl Dis 2024:499831. [PMID: 38584308 DOI: 10.7589/jwd-d-23-00162] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Wild turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo) are an important game species throughout the geographic range. Populations throughout multiple regions of the US have been declining, including in Kentucky, US, raising concerns among managers and resource users. To better understand the overall population health, we performed postmortem examinations and targeted pathogen, mineral, and toxicant testing on 36 adult male, apparently healthy, wild turkeys that were hunter harvested in western Kentucky during April 2018. We found that birds were in fair to good nutritional condition with no significant gross or microscopic lesions. Ticks (Amblyomma spp.) and lice (three species) were present on 94 and 31% of birds, respectively. We commonly detected intestinal nematodes and cestodes and found coccidian oocysts in 39% and capillarid eggs in 6% of birds. The prevalences of lymphoproliferative disease virus and reticuloendotheliosis virus were 39 and 11%, respectively. Spleen samples tested with PCR were positive for Borrelia burgdorferi, Haemoproteus sp., and Leucocytozoon sp. in 11, 83, and 3%, respectively. Based on a subjective histologic assessment of testis tissues, most birds had widespread and abundant sperm present. Mineral analysis and broad toxicant screening on liver samples from 32 turkeys were unremarkable. Further work is needed to assess potential population risk factors and to determine individual- and population-level impacts of pathogens on adults and poults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen Haynes
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine, 589 D. W. Brooks Drive, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA
| | - Michael J Yabsley
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine, 589 D. W. Brooks Drive, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, 180 East Green Street, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA
- Center for Ecology of Infectious Diseases, University of Georgia, 203 D. W. Brooks Drive, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA
| | - Nicole M Nemeth
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine, 589 D. W. Brooks Drive, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA
- Department of Pathology, University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine, 501 D. W. Brooks Drive, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA
| | - Zachary D Danks
- Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, 1 Sportsman's Lane, Frankfort, Kentucky 40601, USA
| | - Iga Stasiak
- Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, 1 Sportsman's Lane, Frankfort, Kentucky 40601, USA
| | - Kayla B Garrett
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine, 589 D. W. Brooks Drive, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, 180 East Green Street, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA
| | - Kayla G Adcock
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine, 589 D. W. Brooks Drive, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA
| | - Michael J Chamberlain
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, 180 East Green Street, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA
| | - Mark G Ruder
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine, 589 D. W. Brooks Drive, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA
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Wyckoff ST, Judkins TC, Nemeth NM, Ruder MG, Martin JA, Kunkel MR, Garrett KB, Adcock KG, Mead DG, Yabsley MJ. Surveillance for Selected Pathogens and Parasites of Northern Bobwhite (Colinus virginianus) from Western Oklahoma, USA, 2018-20. J Wildl Dis 2024; 60:346-361. [PMID: 38314860 DOI: 10.7589/jwd-d-23-00102] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
The Northern Bobwhite (Colinus virginianus) has been undergoing a range-wide population decline. Potential causes for declines across its historic range have been investigated for decades and include habitat loss and fragmentation and a variety of parasitic and infectious diseases. Although there have been studies on bobwhite ecology in Oklahoma, USA, relatively little is known about parasites and pathogens in the region. We evaluated the health of free-ranging bobwhites from nine sites in western Oklahoma. From 2018 to 2020, 206 bobwhites were evaluated for gross and microscopic lesions and tested for selected pathogens. In general, bobwhites were in good nutritional condition with ample muscle mass and fat stores. No significant gross lesions were observed in any bobwhite and no significant histologic lesions were detected in a subset. There was no evidence of infection with or exposure to reticuloendotheliosis virus, West Nile virus, respiratory Mycoplasmataceae species, Pasteurella multocida, intestinal Eimeria spp., or oral Trichomonas spp. Several pathogens of potential concern were detected, including avian adenovirus (8.6%), Toxoplasma gondii (2.3%), and haemosporidians (a Haemoproteus sp. (1.5%), Leucocytozoon schoutedeni (1.5%), and Plasmodium homopolare haplotype 2 [lineage LAIRI01; 3.6%]). Physaloptera sp. (12%) and Sarcocystis sp. (1%) were detected in the breast muscle. Low intraspecific genetic diversity was noted for Physaloptera sp., and sequences were most similar to Physaloptera sequences from bobwhites and grasshoppers (Orthoptera) in Texas. Low intensities of chewing lice, chiggers, and ticks were observed. A subset of bobwhites had evidence of exposure to selected toxicants and heavy metals; a small number had low levels of iron, manganese, zinc, molybdenum, and copper, which were not considered diagnostically relevant. In general, bobwhites from western Oklahoma appeared to be in good health with a low diversity of pathogens detected, but future work is needed to understand potentially changing disease risks for this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seth T Wyckoff
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Wildlife Health Building, 589 D. W. Brooks Drive, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, 180 E. Green Street, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA
| | - Tell C Judkins
- Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, 1801 N. Lincoln Boulevard, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73152, USA
| | - Nicole M Nemeth
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Wildlife Health Building, 589 D. W. Brooks Drive, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA
- Department of Pathology, 501 D. W. Brooks Drive, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA
| | - Mark G Ruder
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Wildlife Health Building, 589 D. W. Brooks Drive, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA
| | - James A Martin
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, 180 E. Green Street, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA
| | - Melanie R Kunkel
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Wildlife Health Building, 589 D. W. Brooks Drive, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA
| | - Kayla B Garrett
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Wildlife Health Building, 589 D. W. Brooks Drive, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, 180 E. Green Street, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA
| | - Kayla G Adcock
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Wildlife Health Building, 589 D. W. Brooks Drive, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA
| | - Daniel G Mead
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Wildlife Health Building, 589 D. W. Brooks Drive, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA
| | - Michael J Yabsley
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Wildlife Health Building, 589 D. W. Brooks Drive, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, 180 E. Green Street, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA
- Center for the Ecology of Infectious Diseases, 140 E. Green Street, Odum School of Ecology, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA
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Yabsley MJ, Garrett KB, Thompson AT, Box EK, Giner MR, Haynes E, Barron H, Schneider RM, Coker SM, Beasley JC, Borchert EJ, Tumlison R, Surf A, Dukes CG, Olfenbuttel C, Brown JD, Swanepoel L, Cleveland CA. Otterly diverse - A high diversity of Dracunculus species (Spirurida: Dracunculoidea) in North American river otters ( Lontra canadensis). Int J Parasitol Parasites Wildl 2024; 23:100922. [PMID: 38516639 PMCID: PMC10955650 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2024.100922] [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: 01/26/2024] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
The genus Dracunculus contains numerous species of subcutaneous parasites of mammals and reptiles. In North America, there are at least three mammal-infecting species of Dracunculus. Reports of Dracunculus infections have been reported from river otters (Lontra canadensis) since the early 1900s; however, little is known about the species infecting otters or their ecology. Most reports of Dracunculus do not have a definitive species identified because females, the most common sex found due to their larger size and location in the extremities of the host, lack distinguishing morphological characteristics, and few studies have used molecular methods to confirm identifications. Thus, outside of Ontario, Canada, where both D. insignis and D. lutrae have been confirmed in otters, the species of Dracunculus in river otters is unknown. In the current study, molecular characterization of nematodes from river otters revealed a high diversity of Dracunculus species. In addition to confirming D. insignis infections, two new clades were detected. One clade was a novel species in any host and the other was a clade previously detected in Virginia opossums (Didelphis virginiana) from the USA and a domestic dog from Spain. No infections with D. lutrae were detected and neither new lineage was genetically similar to D. jaguape, which was recently described from a neotropical otter (Lontra longicaudis) from Argentina. These data also indicate that Dracunculus spp. infections in otters are widespread throughout Eastern North America. Currently the life cycles for most of the Dracunculus spp. infecting otters are unknown. Studies on the diversity, life cycle, and natural history of Dracunculidae parasites in wildlife are important because the related parasite, D. medinensis (human Guinea worm) is the subject of an international eradication campaign and there are increasing reports of these parasites in new geographic locations and new hosts, including new species in humans and domestic dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J. Yabsley
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
- Center for Ecology of Infectious Diseases, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Kayla B. Garrett
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Alec T. Thompson
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
- Center for Ecology of Infectious Diseases, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Erin K. Box
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Madeline R. Giner
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Ellen Haynes
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Heather Barron
- Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife, Sanibel, FL, 33957, USA
| | | | - Sarah M. Coker
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - James C. Beasley
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, Aiken, SC, USA
| | - Ernest J. Borchert
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, Aiken, SC, USA
| | - Renn Tumlison
- Applied Science and Technology, Henderson State University, Arkadelphia, AR, 71999, USA
| | - Allison Surf
- Applied Science and Technology, Henderson State University, Arkadelphia, AR, 71999, USA
| | - Casey G. Dukes
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
- North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, NCSU Centennial Campus, 1751 Varsity Drive, Raleigh, NC, 27606, USA
| | - Colleen Olfenbuttel
- North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, NCSU Centennial Campus, 1751 Varsity Drive, Raleigh, NC, 27606, USA
| | - Justin D. Brown
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
| | - Liandrie Swanepoel
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Christopher A. Cleveland
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
- Center for Ecology of Infectious Diseases, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
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Yabsley MJ, Coker SM, Welch CN, Garrett KB, Murray M, Grunert R, Seixas JS, Kistler WM, Curry SE, Adams HC, Nakatsu CS, Swanepoel L, Wyckoff ST, Koser TM, Kurimo-Beechuk E, Haynes E, Hernandez SM. A single Haemoproteus plataleae haplotype is widespread in white ibis ( Eudocimus albus) from urban and rural sites in southern Florida. Int J Parasitol Parasites Wildl 2023; 21:269-276. [PMID: 37520900 PMCID: PMC10372042 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2023.06.010] [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: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
The American white ibis (Eudocimus albus), a common bird species in Florida, has become increasingly urban, with many populations relying heavily on urban and suburban habitats, which may alter parasite transmission. Parasites of ibis, especially haemosporidians, are understudied. Avian haemosporidia can have a wide range of impacts on birds, including decreased reproductive success or increased mortality. Because southern Florida is subtropical and has a high diversity of potential vectors for haemosporidia, we hypothesized that there will be a high prevalence and genetic diversity of haemosporidia in white ibis. A total of 636 ibis from South Florida were sampled from 2010 to 2022, and blood samples were tested for haemosporidia by examination of Giemsa-stained thin blood smears and/or nested PCRs targeting the cytochrome b gene. A total of 400 (62.9%, 95% CI 59-66.7%) ibis were positive for parasites that were morphologically identified as Haemoproteus plataleae. Sequences of 302 positives revealed a single haplotype of Haemoproteus (EUDRUB01), which was previously reported from white ibis in South Florida and captive scarlet ibis (E. ruber) in Brazil. No Plasmodium or Leucocytozoon infections were detected. Parasitemias of the 400 positive birds were very low (average 0.084%, range 0.001%-2.16% [although only 2 birds had parasitemias >1%]). Prevalence and parasitemias were similar for males and females (68% vs. 61.6% and 0.081% vs. 0.071%, respectively). Prevalence in juveniles was lower compared with adults (52% vs. 67.4%) but parasitemias were higher in juveniles (0.117% vs. 0.065%). This data shows that H. plataleae is common in ibis in South Florida. Although parasitemias were generally low, additional research is needed to determine if this parasite has subclinical effects on ibis, if additional haplotypes or parasite species infect ibis in other regions of their range, or if H. plataleae is pathogenic for other sympatric avian species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J. Yabsley
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
- Center for Ecology of Infectious Diseases, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Sarah M. Coker
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Catharine N. Welch
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
- Common Ground Ecology, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Kayla B. Garrett
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Maureen Murray
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Ryan Grunert
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Julia S. Seixas
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Whitney M. Kistler
- School of Mathematics and Sciences, Lincoln Memorial University, Harrogate, TN, USA
| | - Shannon E. Curry
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Henry C. Adams
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Charlie S. Nakatsu
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Liandrie Swanepoel
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Seth T. Wyckoff
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Troy M. Koser
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Elizabeth Kurimo-Beechuk
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Ellen Haynes
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Sonia M. Hernandez
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
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Lane M, Kashani M, Barratt JLN, Qvarnstrom Y, Yabsley MJ, Garrett KB, Bradbury RS. Application of a universal parasite diagnostic test to biological specimens collected from animals. Int J Parasitol Parasites Wildl 2022; 20:20-30. [PMID: 36593876 PMCID: PMC9803608 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2022.12.003] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
A previously described universal parasite diagnostic (nUPDx) based on PCR amplification of the 18S rDNA and deep-amplicon sequencing, can detect human blood parasites with a sensitivity comparable to real-time PCR. To date, the efficacy of this assay has only been assessed on human blood. This study assessed the utility of nUPDx for the detection of parasitic infections in animals using blood, tissues, and other biological sample types from mammals, birds, and reptiles, known to be infected with helminth, apicomplexan, or pentastomid parasites (confirmed by microscopy or PCR), as well as negative samples. nUPDx confirmed apicomplexan and/or nematode infections in 24 of 32 parasite-positive mammals, while also identifying several undetected coinfections. nUPDx detected infections in 6 of 13 positive bird and 1 of 2 positive reptile samples. When applied to 10 whole parasite specimens (worms and arthropods), nUPDx identified all to the genus or family level, and detected one incorrect identification made by morphology. Babesia sp. infections were detected in 5 of the 13 samples that were negative by other diagnostic approaches. While nUPDx did not detect PCR/microscopy-confirmed trichomonads or amoebae in cloacal swabs/tissue from 8 birds and 2 reptiles due to primer template mismatches, 4 previously undetected apicomplexans were detected in these samples. Future efforts to improve the utility of the assay should focus on validation against a larger panel of tissue types and animal species. Overall, nUPDx shows promise for use in both veterinary diagnostics and wildlife surveillance, especially because species-specific PCRs can miss unknown or unexpected pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meredith Lane
- Parasitic Diseases Branch, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Center for Global Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA,Synergy America Inc., Duluth, GA, USA
| | - Mitra Kashani
- Parasitic Diseases Branch, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Center for Global Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA,Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education, Oak Ridge, TN, USA
| | - Joel LN. Barratt
- Parasitic Diseases Branch, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Center for Global Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA,Corresponding author.
| | - Yvonne Qvarnstrom
- Parasitic Diseases Branch, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Center for Global Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Michael J. Yabsley
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA,Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA,Center for the Ecology of Infectious Diseases, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Kayla B. Garrett
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA,Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Richard S. Bradbury
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Federation University, Berwick Campus, Berwick, Victoria, Australia
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Swanepoel L, Loyola A, Flowers J, Lewbart GA, Garrett KB, Yabsley MJ. Infection with a novel pentastome (Raillietiella sp.) in a juvenile endangered Galápagos tortoise (Chelonoidis niger). Vet Parasitol Reg Stud Reports 2022; 35:100782. [PMID: 36184111 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2022.100782] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2022] [Revised: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Pentastomes are crustacean endoparasites in the lungs of herpetofauna and rarely mammals and birds. To date, the only pentastomes reported in chelonians, all aquatic turtles, are Diesingia megastomum from Brazil and Pelonia africana from South Africa. In March 2021, 185 juvenile tortoises (Chelonoidis niger) were confiscated after an attempted illegal exportation from the Galápagos. It is believed the tortoises were removed from nests on Santa Cruz Island. The young tortoises were individually wrapped in plastic and at seizure ten were dead and another 25 tortoises subsequently died. One of the tortoises, estimated to be 3 months old, had 11 pentastomes in the lungs. The pentastomes were identified as a Raillietiella sp. based on morphology. The specimens had a claviform body that tapers into a bifid tail, a 165.3 μm × 92.1 μm buccal cadre, and sharp tipped anterior and posterior hooks with the posterior hooks being larger than the anterior. The males have smooth copulatory spicules with a rounded, smooth base. All females were gravid. Molecular analysis confirmed that the parasites were a Raillietiella sp. Based on the COI gene, it was most similar (82.7% identical) to an undescribed Raillietiella species from a Caribbean anole (Anolis cristatellus) found in Florida followed by R. hebitihamata (81%), R. indica (80.7%), and R. orientalis (78.8-80.7%). Based on the 18S rRNA gene sequence (1799 bp), it was most similar (99.3% identical) to two undescribed Raillietiella species followed by R. aegypti from a berber skink (Eumeces schneideri) from Saudia Arabia. Phylogenetically, with both molecular targets, the Raillietiella sp. from the Galápagos tortoise grouped with other Raillietiella spp. and was basal within the group. Currently, the origin of this parasite (native to Galápagos or introduced) and the life cycle are unknown. Because some pentastome species, especially when in aberrant hosts, can be pathogenic, additional studies of parasites in native and introduced reptile and amphibian species in the Galápagos are needed to better understand the risk this parasite poses to Galápagos tortoises.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liandrie Swanepoel
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Wildlife Health Building, 589 D.W, Brooks Dr, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Andrea Loyola
- Dirección Parque Nacional Galápagos, Islas Galápagos, Ecuador
| | - James Flowers
- College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, 1060 William Moore Drive, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
| | - Gregory A Lewbart
- College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, 1060 William Moore Drive, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
| | - Kayla B Garrett
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Wildlife Health Building, 589 D.W, Brooks Dr, Athens, GA 30602, USA; Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Michael J Yabsley
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Wildlife Health Building, 589 D.W, Brooks Dr, Athens, GA 30602, USA; Center for the Ecology of Infectious Diseases, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA; Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA.
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Haynes E, Cleveland CA, Garrett KB, Grunert RKA, Bryan JA, Sidouin M, Oaukou PT, Ngandolo BNR, Yabsley MJ. Characterization of the genetics and epidemiology of Brugia sp. in domestic dogs in Chad, Africa. Vet Parasitol Reg Stud Reports 2022; 35:100784. [PMID: 36184112 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2022.100784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Revised: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Neglected tropical diseases pose a threat to domestic animal health, as domestic animals can serve as reservoirs for certain zoonotic parasitic infections, including Guinea worm (Dracunculus medinensis) and lymphatic filariasis. Surveillance for these parasites in domestic animals is needed to understand infection prevalence and transmission cycles, with the goal of instituting appropriate interventions. The goal of this research was to report our finding of Brugia sp. infection in dogs from Chad, Africa, and to characterize the genetics and epidemiology of the parasite. During a recent Chadian canine pathogen surveillance project, we identified Brugia sp. infections in a total of 46 out of 428 dogs (10.7%) sampled at three time points in 2019-2020. We found high levels of sequence similarity to B. malayi and B. pahangi based on amplification of 18S rRNA, 5.8S rRNA, and ITS-2 regions. Phylogenetic analysis of 18S rRNA gene sequences placed the Chadian Brugia sp. in a clade with other Brugia spp. but grouped it separately from both B. malayi and B. pahangi. Analysis of Hha I sequences showed the greatest similarity with B. patei, a parasite previously reported from dogs, cats, and wildlife hosts in Kenya. Epidemiologic analysis using generalized linear regression modeling found significantly higher odds of Brugia sp. detection among dogs in villages in southern Chad compared to those in the northern region. Further, within the northern region, there were higher odds of detection in the dry season, compared to the wet season, which is consistent with the ecology of a presumably mosquito-borne parasite. The same 428 dogs were tested for Dirofilaria immitis antigen using a commercial assay (IDEXX SNAP 4Dx) at the earliest time point of the study, with 119 dogs testing positive. However, no association was noted between Brugia infection and a dog being positive for Di. immitis antigen, with only seven of the 119 Di. immitis antigen-positive dogs being Brugia-positive. This is the first report of Brugia sp. in domestic dogs in Chad and additional research is needed to definitively identify the species present, elucidate transmission, and understand potential risks to canine and human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen Haynes
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Wildlife Health Building, 589 D.W, Brooks Dr, Athens, GA 30602, USA.
| | - Christopher A Cleveland
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Wildlife Health Building, 589 D.W, Brooks Dr, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Kayla B Garrett
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Wildlife Health Building, 589 D.W, Brooks Dr, Athens, GA 30602, USA; Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Ryan K A Grunert
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Wildlife Health Building, 589 D.W, Brooks Dr, Athens, GA 30602, USA; Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - John A Bryan
- Zachery Consulting LLC, 2595 Rogers Mill Road, Danielsville, GA 30633, USA
| | - Metinou Sidouin
- The Carter Center, 453 Freedom Pkwy NE, Atlanta, GA 30307, USA
| | | | | | - Michael J Yabsley
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Wildlife Health Building, 589 D.W, Brooks Dr, Athens, GA 30602, USA; Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA; Center for the Ecology of Infectious Diseases, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA.
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8
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Thompson AT, Garrett KB, Kirchgessner M, Ruder MG, Yabsley MJ. A survey of piroplasms in white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) in the southeastern United States to determine their possible role as Theileria orientalis hosts. Int J Parasitol Parasites Wildl 2022; 18:180-183. [PMID: 35637865 PMCID: PMC9142371 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2022.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
In 2017, clinical disease and mortality in cattle associated with Theileria orientalis Ikeda was reported in Virginia, U.S. The exotic tick, Haemaphysalis longicornis, is a competent vector for this species. White-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) are commonly infested with H. longicornis in the eastern U.S. and are also infected with several genotypes of piroplasms such as a Theileria sp. (often called Theileria cervi-like), Babesia odocoilei, and Babesia sp. H10. However, it is currently unknown if deer are susceptible to T. orientalis and can act as potential hosts. In this study, we tested 552 white-tailed deer samples from the southeastern U.S. to determine the presence of T. orientalis. We used a PCR-RFLP to test 293 (53%) of these samples to distinguish between piroplasm genera. A total of 189 white-tailed deer were positive with Theileria, 47 were positive with Babesia, and 57 did not amplify. Because this assay does not determine species, we sequenced 30 random samples targeting a fragment of the 18S rRNA gene. Although a high diversity of Theileria and Babesia spp. were detected, none were T. orientalis. All 552 samples were then screened with a T. orientalis specific real-time PCR protocol, but none were positive for T. orientalis. Our data suggests that white-tailed deer are commonly infected with piroplasm species but not T. orientalis. Piroplasm parasites of 552 white-tailed deer were surveyed in the Eastern U.S. A high prevalence and diversity of Theileria and Babesia species were observed. No infections with exotic Theileria orientalis Ikeda was detected in white-tailed deer.
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Cleveland CA, Garrett KB, Box EK, Thompson AT, Haynes EK, Elder DL, Richards RL, Majewska AA, Guagliardo SAJ, Wiegand RE, Bryan II JA, Torres-Velez F, Unterwegner K, Romero M, Zirimwabagabo H, Sidouin M, Oaukou PT, Ada MM, Ngandolo BNR, Mackenzie CD, Geary TG, Weiss AJ, Yabsley MJ. Investigating Flubendazole as an Anthelmintic Treatment for Guinea Worm (Dracunculus medinensis): Clinical Trials in Laboratory-Reared Ferrets and Domestic Dogs in Chad. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2022; 106:tpmd211222. [PMID: 35226875 PMCID: PMC9128682 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.21-1222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Dracunculus medinensis (Guinea worm [GW]), a zoonotic nematode targeted for eradication, has been managed using interventions aimed at humans; however, increases in domestic dog GW infections highlight the need for novel approaches. We conducted two clinical trials evaluating the efficacy of subcutaneously injected flubendazole (FBZ) as a treatment of GW infection. The first trial was conducted administering FBZ to experimentally infected ferrets; the second trial involved administering FBZ or a placebo to domestic dogs in the Republic of Tchad (Chad). We found contrasting results between the two trials. When adult gravid female GW were recovered from ferrets treated with FBZ, larvae presented in poor condition, with low to no motility, and an inability to infect copepods. Histopathology results indicated a disruption to morulae development within uteri of worms from treated animals. Results from the trial in Chadian dogs failed to indicate significant treatment of or prevention against GW infection. However, the difference in treatment intervals (1 month for ferrets and 6 months for dogs) or the timing of treatment (ferrets were treated later in the GW life-cycle than dogs) could explain different responses to the subcutaneous FBZ injections. Both trials provided valuable data guiding the use of FBZ in future trials (such as decreasing treatment intervals or increasing the dose of FBZ in dogs to increase exposure), and highlighted important lessons learned during the implementation of a field-based, double-blinded randomized control trial in Chadian dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Robert L. Richards
- University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia
- Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, Louisiana
| | | | | | - Ryan E. Wiegand
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Mbang Mahammat Ada
- Programme National d’Eradication du Ver de Guinée, Ministry of Health, N’Djamena, Chad
| | | | | | - Timothy G. Geary
- McGill University, Montreal, Canada
- Queen’s University, Belfast, Northern Ireland
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Ganoe LS, Brown JD, Lovallo MJ, Yabsley MJ, Garrett KB, Thompson AT, Poppenga RH, Ruder MG, Walter WD. Surveillance for diseases, pathogens, and toxicants of muskrat (Ondatra zibethicus) in Pennsylvania and surrounding regions. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0260987. [PMID: 34882733 PMCID: PMC8659318 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0260987] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Using diagnostic data and contemporary sampling efforts, we conducted surveillance for a diversity of pathogens, toxicants, and diseases of muskrats (Ondatra zibethicus). Between 1977 and 2019, 26 diagnostic cases were examined from Kansas and throughout the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic, USA. We identified multiple causes of mortality in muskrats, but trauma (8/26), Tyzzer's disease (5/6), and cysticercosis (5/26) were the most common. We also conducted necropsies, during November 2018-January 2019 Pennsylvania muskrat trapping season, on 380 trapper-harvested muskrat carcasses after the pelt was removed. Tissue samples and exudate were tested for presence of or exposure to a suite of pathogens and contaminants. Gastrointestinal tracts were examined for helminths. Intestinal helminths were present in 39.2% of necropsied muskrats, with Hymenolepis spp. (62%) and echinostome spp. (44%) being the most common Molecular testing identified a low prevalence of infection with Clostridium piliforme in the feces and Sarcocystis spp. in the heart. We detected a low seroprevalence to Toxoplasma gondii (1/380). No muskrats were positive for Francisella tularensis or Babesia spp. Cysticercosis was detected in 20% (5/26) of diagnostic cases and 15% (57/380) of our trapper-harvested muskrats. Toxic concentrations of arsenic, cadmium, lead, or mercury were not detected in tested liver samples. Copper, molybdenum, and zinc concentrations were detected at acceptable levels comparative to previous studies. Parasite intensity and abundance were typical of historic reports; however, younger muskrats had higher intensity of infection than older muskrats which is contradictory to what has been previously reported. A diversity of pathogens and contaminants have been reported from muskrats, but the associated disease impacts are poorly understood. Our data are consistent with historic reports and highlight the wide range of parasites, pathogens and contaminants harbored by muskrats in Pennsylvania. The data collected are a critical component in assessing overall muskrat health and serve as a basis for understanding the impacts of disease on recent muskrat population declines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laken S. Ganoe
- Pennsylvania Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Justin D. Brown
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Matthew J. Lovallo
- Bureau of Wildlife Management, Pennsylvania Game Commission, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Michael J. Yabsley
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, United States of America
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Kayla B. Garrett
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, United States of America
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Alec T. Thompson
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Robert H. Poppenga
- California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory, University of California, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - Mark G. Ruder
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, United States of America
| | - W. David Walter
- U.S. Geological Survey, Pennsylvania Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, United States of America
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11
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Thompson AT, White SA, Shaw D, Garrett KB, Wyckoff ST, Doub EE, Ruder MG, Yabsley MJ. A multi-seasonal study investigating the phenology, host and habitat associations, and pathogens of Haemaphysalis longicornis in Virginia, U.S.A. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2021; 12:101773. [PMID: 34229999 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2021.101773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Revised: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Understanding the abiotic and biotic variables affecting tick populations is essential for studying the biology and health risks associated with vector species. We conducted a study on the phenology of exotic Haemaphysalis longicornis (Asian longhorned tick) at a site in Albemarle County, Virginia, United States. We also assessed the importance of wildlife hosts, habitats, and microclimate variables such as temperature, relative humidity, and wind speed on this exotic tick's presence and abundance. In addition, we determined the prevalence of infection with selected tick-borne pathogens in host-seeking H. longicornis. We determined that the seasonal activity of H. longicornis in Virginia was slightly different from previous studies in the northeastern United States. We observed nymphal ticks persist year-round but were most active in the spring, followed by a peak in adult activity in the summer and larval activity in the fall. We also observed a lower probability of collecting host-seeking H. longicornis in field habitats and the summer months. In addition, we detected H. longicornis on several wildlife hosts, including coyote (Canis latrans), eastern cottontail (Sylvilagus floridanus), raccoon (Procyon lotor), Virginia opossum (Didelphis virginiana), white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus), woodchuck (Marmota monax), and a Peromyscus sp. mouse. This latter record is the first detection of a larval H. longicornis on a North American rodent host important to the enzootic maintenance of tick-borne pathogens of humans and animals. Finally, we continued to detect the exotic piroplasm parasite, Theileria orientalis Ikeda, in H. longicornis as well as other pathogens, including Rickettsia felis, Anaplasma phagocytophilum (AP-1), and a Hepatozoon sp. previously characterized in Amblyomma americanum. These represent some of the first detections of arthropod-borne pathogens native to the United States in host-seeking H. longicornis. These data increase our understanding of H. longicornis biology in the United States and provide valuable information into the future health risks associated with this tick and pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alec T Thompson
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens GA, USA; Center for the Ecology of Infectious Diseases, Odum School of Ecology, University of Georgia, Athens GA, USA.
| | - Seth A White
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens GA, USA; Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens GA, USA
| | - David Shaw
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens GA, USA
| | - Kayla B Garrett
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens GA, USA; Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens GA, USA
| | - Seth T Wyckoff
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens GA, USA; Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens GA, USA
| | - Emily E Doub
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens GA, USA
| | - Mark G Ruder
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens GA, USA
| | - Michael J Yabsley
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens GA, USA; Center for the Ecology of Infectious Diseases, Odum School of Ecology, University of Georgia, Athens GA, USA; Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens GA, USA.
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12
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Box EK, Cleveland CA, Garrett KB, Grunert RK, Hutchins K, Majewska AA, Thompson AT, Wyckoff ST, Ehlers C, Yabsley MJ. Copepod consumption by amphibians and fish with implications for transmission of Dracunculus species. Int J Parasitol Parasites Wildl 2021; 15:231-237. [PMID: 34189031 PMCID: PMC8217678 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2021.06.001] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Revised: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Parasitic nematodes in the genus Dracunculus have a complex life cycle that requires more than one host species in both aquatic and terrestrial habitats. The most well-studied species, Dracunculus medinensis, is the causative agent of human Guinea worm disease (dracunculiasis). There are several other Dracunculus species that infect non-human animals, primarily wildlife (reptiles and mammals). The classic route of D. medinensis transmission to humans is through the ingestion of water containing the intermediate host, a cyclopoid copepod, infected with third-stage larvae (L3s). However, many animal hosts (e.g., terrestrial snakes, dogs) of other Dracunculus sp. appear unlikely to ingest a large number of copepods while drinking. Therefore, alternative routes of infection (e.g., paratenic or transport hosts) may facilitate Dracunculus transmission to these species. To better understand the role of paratenic and transport hosts in Dracunculus transmission to animal definitive hosts, we compared copepod ingestion rates for aquatic species (fish, frogs [tadpoles and adults], and newts) which may serve as paratenic or transport hosts. We hypothesized that fish would consume more copepods than amphibians. Our findings confirm that African clawed frogs (Xenopus laevis) and fish consume copepods, but that fish ingest, on average, significantly higher numbers (68% [34/50]) than adult African clawed frogs (36% [18/50]) during a 24-h time period. Our results suggest that amphibians and fish may play a role in the transmission of Dracunculus to definitive hosts. Still, additional research is required to determine whether, in the wild, fish or frogs are serving as paratenic or transport hosts. If so, they may facilitate Dracunculus transmission. However, if these animals simply act as dead-end hosts or as means of copepod population control, they may decrease Dracunculus transmission. Copepod ingestion during 24 h was assessed for fish and amphibians. Significant numbers of copepods were consumed by fish and adult Xenopus. Tadpoles and newts did not consume large numbers of copepods during this time. Fish and amphibians may facilitate Dracunculus transmission. Further studies may elucidate how copepod ingestion impact parasite transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin K Box
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, 30602, GA, USA
| | - Christopher A Cleveland
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, 30602, GA, USA
| | - Kayla B Garrett
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, 30602, GA, USA.,Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, 30602, GA, USA
| | - Ryan K Grunert
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, 30602, GA, USA.,Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, 30602, GA, USA
| | - Katherine Hutchins
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, 30602, GA, USA
| | - Ania A Majewska
- Department of Biology, Emory University, Atlanta, 30322, GA, USA
| | - Alec T Thompson
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, 30602, GA, USA
| | - Seth T Wyckoff
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, 30602, GA, USA.,Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, 30602, GA, USA
| | - Coles Ehlers
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, 30602, GA, USA.,Young Scholars Program at the University of Georgia, Athens, 30602, GA, USA
| | - Michael J Yabsley
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, 30602, GA, USA.,Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, 30602, GA, USA
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13
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Cleveland CA, Eberhard ML, Garrett KB, Thompson AT, Swanepoel L, Miller EA, Stephens OL, Yabsley MJ. Dracunculus Species in Meso-mammals from Georgia, United States, and Implications for the Guinea Worm Eradication Program in Chad, Africa. J Parasitol 2021; 106:616-622. [PMID: 33009554 DOI: 10.1645/18-178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
The prevalence and diversity of parasitic nematodes in wildlife have been well studied for certain species, yet for others considerable gaps in knowledge exist. The parasitic nematode Dracunculus insignis infects North American wildlife, and past research on this species has led to an increased understanding of the potential host diversity and transmission of the closely related human Guinea worm, Dracunculus medinensis (which is currently the focus of a global eradication program). Many definitive hosts have been documented for D. insignis; however, the life cycle has been studied only in laboratories, and only a single phylogenetic study has been conducted on D. insignis (from Canada). The goals of the present study were to investigate the prevalence of infections with Dracunculus species among wildlife at a single site (Di-Lane plantation) in the southeastern United States, evaluate the genetic diversity of parasites at this site, and investigate potential paratenic hosts that may be involved in transmission. Over 3 yr, we sampled 228 meso-mammals, reporting an overall prevalence of infection with Dracunculus insignis of 20% (46/228). Amphibians and fish were sampled in the same geographic area as infected meso-mammals. Dracunculus insignis third-stage larvae were recovered from 2 different species of amphibians, but all fish sampled were negative. Phylogenetic analysis of the partial cytochrome c oxidase I (COI) gene showed very little diversity of Dracunculus at Di-Lane; however, we did recover a single nematode from a Virginia opossum (Didelphis virginiana) that falls outside of the D. insignis clade, more closely aligns with Dracunculus lutrae, and may represent an undescribed species. This work documents the occurrence of D. insignis in frogs, a potential transmission pathway for D. insignis at a single geographic site in nature. When applied to the global Guinea Worm Eradication Program, and Chad, Africa, in particular, this work increases our knowledge of the potential role of aquatic animals in the transmission of Dracunculus species and informs on potential intervention strategies that may be applied to the eradication of Guinea worm in Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher A Cleveland
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia 589 D. W. Brooks Dr., Athens, Georgia 30602.,Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, 180 E. Green St., Athens, Georgia 30602
| | - Mark L Eberhard
- (Retired) Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Road, Atlanta, Georgia 30333
| | - Kayla B Garrett
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia 589 D. W. Brooks Dr., Athens, Georgia 30602
| | - Alec T Thompson
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia 589 D. W. Brooks Dr., Athens, Georgia 30602
| | - Liandrie Swanepoel
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia 589 D. W. Brooks Dr., Athens, Georgia 30602
| | - Elizabeth A Miller
- United States Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Wildlife Services, Fort Collins, Colorado 80526
| | - Odin L Stephens
- United States Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Wildlife Services, Athens, Georgia 30602
| | - Michael J Yabsley
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia 589 D. W. Brooks Dr., Athens, Georgia 30602.,Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, 180 E. Green St., Athens, Georgia 30602
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Garrett KB, Box EK, Cleveland CA, Majewska AA, Yabsley MJ. Dogs and the classic route of Guinea Worm transmission: an evaluation of copepod ingestion. Sci Rep 2020; 10:1430. [PMID: 31996759 PMCID: PMC6989452 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-58191-4] [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] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2019] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Dracunculus medinensis, the causative agent of Guinea worm disease in humans, is being reported with increasing frequency in dogs. However, the route(s) of transmission to dogs is still poorly understood. Classical transmission to humans occurs via drinking water that contains cyclopoid copepods infected with third stage larvae of D. medinensis, but due to the method of dog drinking (lapping) compared to humans (suction and/or retrieval of water into containers), it seems unlikely that dogs would ingest copepods readily through drinking. We exposed lab raised beagles to varying densities of uninfected copepods in 2 liters of water to evaluate the number of copepods ingested during a drinking event. We confirmed dogs can ingest copepod intermediate hosts while drinking; however, low numbers were ingested at the densities that are typically observed in Chad suggesting this transmission route may be unlikely. Overall, the relative importance of the classic transmission route and alternate transmission routes, such as paratenic and transport hosts, needs investigation in order to further clarify the epidemiology of guinea worm infections in dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayla B Garrett
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA.
| | - Erin K Box
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
| | - Christopher A Cleveland
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
| | - Ania A Majewska
- Odum School of Ecology, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
- Emory University, Biology Department, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Michael J Yabsley
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
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Garrett KB, Hernandez SM, Balsamo G, Barron H, Beasley JC, Brown JD, Cloherty E, Farid H, Gabriel M, Groves B, Hamer S, Hill J, Lewis M, McManners K, Nemeth N, Oesterle P, Ortiz S, Peshock L, Schnellbacher R, Schott R, Straif-Bourgeois S, Yabsley MJ. Prevalence, distribution, and diversity of cryptic piroplasm infections in raccoons from selected areas of the United States and Canada. Int J Parasitol Parasites Wildl 2019; 9:224-233. [PMID: 31198681 PMCID: PMC6555877 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2019.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2019] [Revised: 05/24/2019] [Accepted: 05/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The order Piroplasmida contains a diverse group of intracellular parasites, many of which can cause significant disease in humans, domestic animals, and wildlife. Two piroplasm species have been reported from raccoons (Procyon lotor), Babesia lotori (Babesia sensu stricto clade) and a species related to Babesia microti (called B. microti-like sp.). The goal of this study was to investigate prevalence, distribution, and diversity of Babesia in raccoons. We tested raccoons from selected regions in the United States and Canada for the presence of Babesia sensu stricto and Babesia microti-like sp. piroplasms. Infections of Babesia microti-like sp. were found in nearly all locations sampled, often with high prevalence, while Babesia sensu stricto infections had higher prevalence in the Southeastern United States (20–45% prevalence). Co-infections with both Babesia sp. were common. Sequencing of the partial 18S rRNA and cytochrome oxidase subunit 1 (cox1) genes led to the discovery of two new Babesia species, both found in several locations in the eastern and western United States. One novel Babesia sensu stricto sp. was most similar to Babesia gibsoni while the other Babesia species was present in the ‘western piroplasm’ group and was related to Babesia conradae. Phylogenetic analysis of the cox1 sequences indicated possible eastern and western genetic variants for the three Babesia sensu stricto species. Additional analyses are needed to characterize these novel species; however, this study indicates there are now at least four species of piroplasms infecting raccoons in the United States and Canada (Babesia microti-like sp., Babesia lotori, a novel Babesia sensu stricto sp., a novel western Babesia sp.) and a possible fifth species (Babesia sensu stricto) in raccoons in Japan. Raccoons in all locations tested were infected with piroplasms. Babesia microti-like sp. was commonly found in raccoons throughout North America. Babesia sensu stricto spp. were less common throughout North America. Four, possibly five, distinct species of piroplasms in raccoons. Possible spatial genetic variation within the two raccoon piroplasm species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayla B. Garrett
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, 140 Green Street, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, 589 DW Brooks Drive, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
- Corresponding author. 589 D. W. Brooks Drive, Wildlife Health Building, Athens, GA, 30602, USA.
| | - Sonia M. Hernandez
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, 140 Green Street, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, 589 DW Brooks Drive, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Gary Balsamo
- Louisiana Department of Health, 628 N. 4th Street, Baton Rouge, LA, 70802, USA
| | - Heather Barron
- Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW), 3883 Sanibel Captiva Road, Sanibel Island, FL, 33957, USA
| | - James C. Beasley
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, 140 Green Street, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, P.O. Drawer E., Aiken, SC, 29802, USA
| | - Justin D. Brown
- Pennsylvania Game Commission, 2001 Elmerton Ave, Harrisburg, PA, 17110, USA
| | - Erin Cloherty
- New Orleans Mosquito, Termite, and Rodent Control Board, 2100 Leon C Simon Dr., New Orleans, LA, 70122, USA
| | - Hossain Farid
- Department of Animal Science and Aquaculture, Faculty of Agriculture, Agricultural Campus, PO Box 550, Dalhousie University, Truro, Nova Scotia, B2N 5E3, Canada
| | - Mourad Gabriel
- Karen C. Drayer Wildlife Health Center, University of California Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
- Integral Ecology Research Center, 239 Railroad Ave, Blue Lake, CA, 95525, USA
| | | | - Sarah Hamer
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, TAMU 4458, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Julia Hill
- Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW), 3883 Sanibel Captiva Road, Sanibel Island, FL, 33957, USA
| | - Meghan Lewis
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, 140 Green Street, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, 589 DW Brooks Drive, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
- Young Scholars Program at the University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Katie McManners
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, 140 Green Street, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Nicole Nemeth
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, 140 Green Street, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
- Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road E., Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Paul Oesterle
- Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road E., Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Sebastian Ortiz
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, 140 Green Street, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, 589 DW Brooks Drive, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Lea Peshock
- Greenwood Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, 5761 Ute Hwy, Longmont, CO, 80503, USA
| | | | - Renee Schott
- Wildlife Rehabilitation Center of Minnesota, 2530 Dale St N, Roseville, MN, 55113, USA
| | - Susanne Straif-Bourgeois
- Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, School of Public Health, 2020 Gravier Street, New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA
| | - Michael J. Yabsley
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, 140 Green Street, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, 589 DW Brooks Drive, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
- Corresponding author. 589 D. W. Brooks Drive, Wildlife Health Building, Athens, GA, 30602, USA.
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Cleveland CA, Eberhard ML, Thompson AT, Garrett KB, Swanepoel L, Zirimwabagabo H, Moundai T, Ouakou PT, Ruiz-Tiben E, Yabsley MJ. A search for tiny dragons (Dracunculus medinensis third-stage larvae) in aquatic animals in Chad, Africa. Sci Rep 2019; 9:375. [PMID: 30675007 PMCID: PMC6344555 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-37567-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [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: 10/30/2018] [Accepted: 12/10/2018] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Dracunculus medinensis, or human Guinea worm (GW), causes a painful and debilitating infection. The global Guinea Worm Eradication Program (GWEP) has successfully reduced human GW cases from 3.5 million in 21 countries in 1986 to only 30 cases in three remaining countries in 2017. Since 2012, an increase in GW infections in domestic dogs, cats and baboons has been reported. Because these infections have not followed classical GW epidemiological patterns resulting from water-borne transmission, it has been hypothesized that transmission occurs via a paratenic host. Thus, we investigated the potential of aquatic animals to serve as paratenic hosts for D. medinensis in Chad, Africa. During three rainy and two dry season trips we detected no GW larvae in 234 fish, two reptiles and two turtles; however, seven GW larvae were recovered from 4 (1.4%) of 276 adult frogs. These data suggest GW infections may occur from ingestion of frogs but the importance of this route is unknown. Additional studies are needed, especially for other possible routes (e.g., ingestion of fish intestines that were recently shown to be a risk). Significantly, 150 years after the life cycle of D. medinensis was described, our data highlights important gaps in the knowledge of GW ecology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher A Cleveland
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, 589 D.W. Brooks Dr., Athens, GA, 30601, United States.
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, 180 E. Green St., Athens, GA, 30602, United States.
| | | | - Alec T Thompson
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, 589 D.W. Brooks Dr., Athens, GA, 30601, United States
| | - Kayla B Garrett
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, 589 D.W. Brooks Dr., Athens, GA, 30601, United States
| | - Liandrie Swanepoel
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, 589 D.W. Brooks Dr., Athens, GA, 30601, United States
| | | | | | | | - Ernesto Ruiz-Tiben
- The Carter Center, 453 Freedom Pkwy NE, Atlanta, GA, 30307, United States
| | - Michael J Yabsley
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, 589 D.W. Brooks Dr., Athens, GA, 30601, United States.
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, 180 E. Green St., Athens, GA, 30602, United States.
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Cleveland CA, Garrett KB, Cozad RA, Williams BM, Murray MH, Yabsley MJ. The wild world of Guinea Worms: A review of the genus Dracunculus in wildlife. Int J Parasitol Parasites Wildl 2018; 7:289-300. [PMID: 30094178 PMCID: PMC6072916 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2018.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [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: 06/07/2018] [Revised: 07/04/2018] [Accepted: 07/07/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Nematodes are an extremely diverse and speciose group of parasites. Adult dracunculoid nematodes (Superfamily Dracunculoidea) occur in the tissues and serous cavities of mammals, fish, reptiles, amphibians and birds. Of the dracunculid group, perhaps best known is Dracunculus medinensis, the human Guinea Worm. Considerable work has been done on D. medinensis; however recent infections in peri-domestic dogs and the finding of naturally-infected paratenic hosts (previously unreported for D. medinensis) indicate we still have much to learn about these parasites. Furthermore, among eight species in the Old World and six species in the New World there is a lack of general life history knowledge as well as questions on species occurrence, host diversity, and transmission dynamics. Herein, we provide a comprehensive review of the genus Dracunculus, in order of a theoretical evolutionary progression from reptilian to mammalian hosts. Species descriptions, where available, are provided but also show where gaps occur in our knowledge of various species. Additionally, many first reports of Dracunculus spp. were done prior to the development and use of molecular tools. This is especially important for this group of parasites as speciation based on morphology is only applicable to males of the genus, and males, given their size, are notoriously difficult to recover from definitive hosts. Therefore, we also discuss current molecular tools used in the investigation of this group of parasites. Given recent host-switching events, the dracunculids are of increasing importance and require further work to expand our understanding of this genus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher A. Cleveland
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Wildlife Health Building, 589 D.W, Brooks Dr, Athens, 30602, GA, USA
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, 30602, GA, USA
| | - Kayla B. Garrett
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Wildlife Health Building, 589 D.W, Brooks Dr, Athens, 30602, GA, USA
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, 30602, GA, USA
| | - Rebecca A. Cozad
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, 30602, GA, USA
| | - Brianna M. Williams
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Wildlife Health Building, 589 D.W, Brooks Dr, Athens, 30602, GA, USA
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, 30602, GA, USA
| | - Maureen H. Murray
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, 30602, GA, USA
| | - Michael J. Yabsley
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Wildlife Health Building, 589 D.W, Brooks Dr, Athens, 30602, GA, USA
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, 30602, GA, USA
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Henneman PL, Mena IG, Rothstein RJ, Garrett KB, Pleyto AS, French WJ. Evaluation of patients with chest pain and nondiagnostic ECG using thallium-201 myocardial planar imaging and technetium-99m first-pass radionuclide angiography in the emergency department. Ann Emerg Med 1992; 21:545-50. [PMID: 1570911 DOI: 10.1016/s0196-0644(05)82522-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
STUDY OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to determine if thallium-201 myocardial planar imaging and technetium-99m first-pass radionuclide angiography, performed in the emergency department, could predict which patients with acute chest pain and nondiagnostic ECGs were more likely to have an acute myocardial infarction (AMI). DESIGN Retrospective analysis. SETTING Urban, county ED. TYPE OF PARTICIPANTS Convenience sample of 47 patients with acute chest pain suggestive of myocardial ischemia and nondiagnostic ECG. INTERVENTIONS Thallium-201 myocardial imaging and technetium-99m first-pass radionuclide angiography in the ED. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS Four patients had an AMI (ie, CK-MB greater than or equal to 6% total CK). The combined scans had a sensitivity of 75%, (95% confidence interval [Cl], 19-99%), a specificity of 42% (95% CI, 27-58%), an accuracy of 45% (95% CI, 19-99%), a positive predictive value of 11% (95% CI, 2-29%), and a negative predictive value of 95% (95% CI, 75-100%) in predicting AMI. CONCLUSION Thallium-201 myocardial planar imaging and technetium-99m first-pass radionuclide angiography performed in the ED do not appear to be useful in determining which patients with acute chest pain and nondiagnostic ECG are likely to have an AMI.
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Affiliation(s)
- P L Henneman
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance
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