Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum antibody seroprevalence and risk factors among dogs treated at Public Veterinary Hospitals in São Paulo, Brazil / Soroprevalência de anticorpos anti-Toxoplasma gondii e Neospora caninum em cães atendidos em Hospitais Públicos Veterinários em São Paulo, Brasil

Abstract Dogs can be infected by Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum, for which they function, respectively, as intermediate, and definitive hosts. In the present study seroprevalence against T. gondii and N. caninum antibodies, were determined by indirect fluorescent antibody test (cut off of 16 and 50, respectively), in dogs that were treated at public veterinary hospitals in the metropolitan region of São Paulo and risk factors were identified. Out of the 1,194 samples 125 (10.5%; 95% CI: 8.8-12.3%) were positive for T. gondii and 9 (0.75%, 95% CI: 0.34-1.4%) for N. caninum. For T. gondii, statistical differences were observed between the proportions of positive dogs and different zones of the municipality (p = 0.025), and age (p = 0.02), higher among older dogs. The keepers were invited to answer an epidemiological questionnaire to analyze risk factors, and 471 (39.4%) agreed to be interviewed, and among their dogs 65 (13.8%) were T. gondii seropositive. Age group above 8 years (OR = 3.63; 95% CI: 1.08-12.23) was a risk factor and having a defined breed (OR = 0.49; 95% CI: 0.25-0.96) was a protective factor for T. gondii infection. Because of the low number of dogs positive for N. caninum, risk factors for this coccidium were not determined.

Resumo Cães podem ser infectados por Toxoplasma gondii e Neospora caninum, os quais funcionam, respectivamente, como hospedeiros intermediários e definitivos. Neste estudo, a soroprevalência contra anticorpos anti-T. gondii e N. caninum foi determinada pelo teste de imunofluorescência indireta (ponto de corte de 16 e 50, respectivamente), em cães atendidos em hospitais públicos veterinários da região metropolitana de São Paulo e fatores de risco foram identificados. Das 1.194 amostras, 125 (10,5%; IC 95%: 8,8-12,3%) foram positivas para T. gondii e 9 (0,75%, IC 95%: 0,34-1,4%) para N. caninum. Para T. gondii foram observadas diferenças entre as proporções de cães positivos e diferentes zonas do município (p = 0,025) e idade (p = 0,02), prevalência maior entre os mais velhos. Os tutores foram convidados a responder um questionário epidemiológico para análise de fatores de risco, e 471 (39,4%) concordaram em ser entrevistados, destes 65 cães (13,8%) eram soropositivos para T. gondii. Faixa etária acima de 8 anos (OR = 3,63; IC 95%: 1,08-12,23) foi fator de risco e raça definida (OR = 0,49; IC 95%: 0,25-0,96) foi fator de proteção para a infecção por T. gondii. Devido ao baixo número de positivos para anticorpos anti-N. caninum, fatores de risco para este coccídio não foram determinados.

Intestinal coccidian: an overview epidemiologic worldwide and Colombia / Coccidias Intestinales: Panorama epidemiológico mundial y en Colombia

Intestinal coccidia have been classified as protozoa of the Apicomplex phylum, with the presence of an intracellular behavior and adaptation to the habit of the intestinal mucosa, related to several parasites that can cause enteric infections in humans, generating especially complications in immunocompetent patients and opportunistic infections in immunosuppressed patients. Alterations such as HIV/AIDS, cancer and immunosuppression. Cryptosporidium spp., Cyclospora cayetanensis and Cystoisospora belli are frequently found in the species. Multiple cases have been reported in which their parasitic organisms are associated with varying degrees of infections in the host, generally characterized by gastrointestinal clinical manifestations that can be observed with diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, malaise and severe dehydration. Therefore, in this review a specific study of epidemiology has been conducted in relation to its distribution throughout the world and in Colombia, especially, global and national reports about the association of coccidia informed with HIV/AIDS. Proposed revision considering the needs of a consolidated study in parasitology, establishing clarifications from the transmission mechanisms, global and national epidemiological situation, impact at a clinical level related to immunocompetent and immunocompromised individuals, as well as a focus on public health in institutional government policies and scientific information based on the characterization of coccidia in the tropical region and Colombia.

Los coccidios intestinales se han clasificado como protozoos del Apicomplexa phylum, con presencia de un comportamiento intracelular y adaptación al hábito de la mucosa intestinal, relacionado con varios parásitos que pueden causar infecciones entéricas en los humanos, generando especialmente complicaciones en pacientes inmunocompetentes e infecciones oportunistas en pacientes inmunodeprimidos. Alteraciones como el VIH/SIDA, cáncer e inmunosupresión con tratamientos farmacológicos. En las especies que se encuentran frecuentemente se encuentran Cryptosporidium spp., Cyclospora cayetanensis y Cystoisospora belli. Se han reportado múltiples casos en los que sus organismos parásitos se asocian a diversos grados de infecciones en el huésped, generalmente caracterizadas por manifestaciones clínicas gastrointestinales que pueden observarse con diarrea, vómitos, calambres abdominales, malestar general y deshidratación severa. Por lo tanto, en esta revisión se ha realizado un estudio específico de epidemiología con relación a su distribución en todo el mundo y en Colombia, especialmente, reportes a nivel global y nacional a cerca de la asociación de coccidios informados con el VIH/SIDA. Revisión propuesta con el objetivo de considerar las necesidades de un estudio consolidado a nivel del campo de la parasitología, evidenciando literatura actualizada, estableciendo información de los mecanismos de transmisión, situación epidemiológica global y nacional, impacto a nivel clínico relacionadas con individuos inmunocompetentes e inmunocomprometidos, así como un enfoque en salud pública en políticas gubernamentales institucionales y la información científica basada en la caracterización de coccidias en la región tropical y principalmente en Colombia.

Gastrointestinal parasites of a population of emus (Dromaius novaehollandiae) in Brazil / Parasitas gastrointestinais de emus Dromaius novaehollandiae de cativeiro no Brasil

Abstract Emus are large flightless birds in the ratite group and are native to Australia. Since the mid-1980s, there has been increased interest in the captive breeding of emus for the production of leather, meat and oil. The aim of this study was to identify gastrointestinal parasites in the feces of emus Dromaius novaehollandiae from a South American scientific breeding. Fecal samples collected from 13 birds were examined by direct smears, both with and without centrifugation, as well as by the fecal flotation technique using Sheather's sugar solution. Trophozoites, cysts and oocysts of protozoa and nematode eggs were morphologically and morphometrically evaluated. Molecular analysis using PCR assays with specific primers for the genera Entamoeba, Giardia and Cryptosporidium were performed. Trophozoites and cysts of Entamoeba spp. and Giardia spp., oocysts of Eimeria spp. and Isospora dromaii, as well as eggs belonging to the Ascaridida order were found in the feces. Three animals were diagnosed with Giardia spp., and three were positive for Entamoeba spp. based on PCR techniques. After analyzing the data, we concluded that emus were infected enzootically by nematode and protozoan species.

Resumo Emus são aves grandes que não voam pertencentes ao grupo das ratitas e são originários da Austrália. Desde meados da década de 1980, aumentou o interesse pela criação de emus em cativeiro para a produção de couro, carne e óleo. O objetivo deste estudo foi identificar parasitas gastrointestinais nas fezes de emus Dromaius novaehollandiae de um criatório científico da América do Sul. Amostras de fezes coletadas de 13 aves foram examinadas por esfregaços diretos, tanto com e sem centrifugação, quanto com a técnica de flutuação fecal utilizando solução de açúcar de Sheather. Trofozoítos, cistos e oocistos de protozoários e ovos de nematóides foram avaliados morfologicamente e morfometricamente. Foram realizadas análises moleculares utilizando ensaios de PCR com primers específicos para os gêneros Entamoeba, Giardia e Cryptosporidium. Trofozoítos e cistos de Entamoeba spp. e Giardia spp., oocistos de Eimeria spp. e Isospora dromaii, bem como ovos pertencentes à ordem Ascaridida foram encontrados nas fezes. Três animais foram diagnosticados com Giardia spp., e três foram positivos para Entamoeba spp. com base em técnicas de PCR. Depois de analisar os dados, concluímos que os emus estavam infectados enzooticamente por espécies de nematóides e protozoários.

First report of Davaneidae and Strongylida parasitizing Ramphocelus carbo (Aves: Passeriformes: Thraupidae) in the southwest of the Brazilian Amazon region / Primeiro relato de Davaneidae e Strongylida parasitando Ramphocelus carbo (Aves: Passeriformes: Thraupidae) no sudoeste da Amazônia brasileira

Abstract In Brazil, species of the genus Ramphocelus with the presence of various endoparasites have already been reported. Coccidia have been the parasites most frequently found. All species of this genus have similar habitats and ecological niches, which makes parasite transmission easy. The aim of this study was to diagnose the presence of endoparasites in fecal samples from specimens of Ramphocelus carbo that were caught in the Cazumbá-Iracema Extractive Reserve (Cazumbá Resex), in the State of Acre. The specimens (n = 30) were caught in mist nets arranged in different ecosystems of the Reserve. After identification, the bird specimens were placed in cloth bags for a maximum of 30 minutes to collect feces. Among the 22 samples collected, 63.63% (n = 14) were positive for endoparasites. The coccidia were the parasites most frequently. Helminths belonging to Ascaridiidae (Nematoda), Strongylida (Nematoda) and Davaneidae (Cestoda) were recorded for the first time in R. carbo in the State of Acre. Parasites belonging to Strongylida and Davaneidae were recorded for the first time in a species of Ramphocelus. These findings add information on the parasitic fauna of wild birds, since in the Amazon region there are few studies on this subject.

Resumo No Brasil, espécies do gênero Ramphocelus ja foram relatadas com a presença de vários endoparasitos, sendo os coccídios os parasitos mais frequentes. Todas as espécies do gênero possuem habitats e nichos ecológicos semelhantes, facilitando a transmissão desses parasitos. O presente estudo teve como objetivo diagnosticar a presença de endoparasitos em amostras fecais de Ramphocelus carbo capturadas na Reserva Extrativista Cazumbá-Iracema (Resex do Cazumbá), localizada no estado do Acre. Os espécimes (n=30) foram capturados em redes de neblina dispostas em diferentes ecossistemas da Reserva. Após a identificação das aves, os espécimes foram colocadas em sacos de pano por no máximo 30 minutos para coleta das fezes. Das 22 amostras coletadas, 63,63% (n = 14) foram positivas para endoparasitas. Os coccídíos foram os parasitos mais frequentes. Os helmintos Ascaridiidae (Nematoda), Strongylida(Nematoda) e Davaneidae (Cestoda) foram registrados pela primeira vez em R. carbo, no estado do Acre. Strongylida e Davaneidae são registrados pela primeira vez em uma espécie pertencente a Ramphocelus. Esses achados acrescentam informações sobre a fauna parasitária de aves silvestres, pois na Amazônia existem poucos estudos nessa área.

Coccidian parasites from birds at rehabilitation centers in Portugal, with notes on Avispora bubonis in Old World / Coccídios parasitas de aves em centros de reabilitação em Portugal, com notas sobre Avispora bubonis no Velho Mundo

Abstract Portugal has some rehabilitation centers for wild animals, which are responsible for the rehabilitation and reintroduction of birds, among other animals, into the wild. Coccidian parasites of these wild birds in rehabilitation centers are especially important because these centers can introduce coccidian species into new environments through the reintroduction of their respective hosts. In this context, the current study aimed to identify intestinal coccidia from wild birds at two rehabilitation centers for wild animals located in two municipalities of Portugal. Eighty-nine wild birds of 9 orders and 11 families were sampled, of which 22 (25%) were positive for Coccidia. Avispora spp. were found in raptors. Sporocysts of Sarcocystinae subfamily were recovered from owls. An Isospora sp. was found in Turdus merula Linnaeus, 1758, and an Eimeria sp. was found in Fulica atra Linnaeus, 1758. Among the coccidian species, Avispora bubonis (Cawthorn, Stockdale, 1981) can be highlighted. The finding of this species indicates that transmission of coccidians from the New World to the Old World may be occurring, potentially through dispersion by Bubo scandiacus (Linnaeus, 1758) through Arctic regions or by means of anthropic activities, and/or through other unknown mechanisms.

Resumo Portugal possui alguns centros de reabilitação de animais silvestres, responsáveis ​​pela reabilitação e reintrodução de aves, entre outros animais, na natureza. Os coccídios parasitas dessas aves silvestres em centros de reabilitação são especialmente importantes porque esses centros podem introduzir espécies de coccídios em novos ambientes através da reintrodução de seus respectivos hospedeiros. Neste contexto, o presente estudo visou identificar coccídios intestinais de aves silvestres em dois centros de reabilitação de animais silvestres localizados em dois municípios de Portugal. Oitenta e nove aves silvestres de 9 ordens e 11 famílias foram amostradas, das quais 22 (25%) foram positivas para coccídios. Avispora spp. foram encontradas em aves de rapina. Esporocistos de coccídios da subfamilia Sarcocystinae foram encontrados em corujas. Uma Isospora sp. foi encontrada em Turdus merula Linnaeus, 1758 e uma Eimeria sp. foi encontrada em Fulica atra Linnaeus, 1758. Entre as espécies de coccídios, Avispora bubonis (Cawthorn, Stockdale, 1981) pode ser destacada. O encontro dessa espécie indica que a transmissão de coccídios do Novo Mundo para o Velho Mundo pode estar ocorrendo, potencialmente através da dispersão por Bubo scandiacus (Linnaeus, 1758) pelas regiões árticas ou por meio de atividades antrópicas, e/ou através de outros mecanismos desconhecidos.

Copro-ovoscopical Assessment of Gastrointestinal Parasitism in Captive Canine and Feline Carnivorans

The health surveillance through a copro-ovoscopical study was conducted to assess the gastrointestinal parasitic infections in captive canine {jackal (Canis aureus), wolf (Canis lupus), dhole (Cuon alpinus) and hyaena (Hyaena hyaena)} and feline carnivorans {lion (Panthera leo), tiger (Panthera tigris), leopard (Panthera pardus) and jungle cat (Felis chaus)}, maintained at Bannerghatta Biological Park, Bengaluru, Karnataka. A total of 41 fecal samples from apparently normal/healthy captive lions, 35 from tigers, 34 from leopards, 14 from jungle cats, 4 from dholes, 4 from wolves, 4 from jackals and 2 from hyenas were collected over a period of 12 months during 2015-2016 and were screened using classical parasitological techniques including sedimentation and floatation technique followed by microscopic identification of eggs. It revealed the prevalence of ova of 3 (7.31%) Strongyle sp., 8 (19.51%) Ancylostoma sp., 21 (51.21%) Toxocara sp., 16 (39.02%) Toxascaris leonina, 4 (9.75%) mixed (Ascaris and Ancylostoma sp.) in lions; 19 (54.28%) Toxocara sp., 8 (22.85%) Toxascaris leonina, 6 (17.14%) Ancylostoma sp., 2 (5.71%) oocyst of Eimeria sp., 2 (5.71%) Spirometra sp. in tigers; 13 (38.23%) Toxocara sp., 6 (17.64%) Ancylostoma sp. in leopards; 7 (50%) Isospora sp. and 2 (14.28%) Toxocara sp. in jungle cats; 2 (50%) Ancylostoma sp. in jackals; 2 (50%) Toxocara canis and 1 (25%) Ancylostoma sp. in wolves; 2 (50%) Toxocara canis in dholes; while ova of only 1 (50%) Ancylostoma sp. could be observed in hyaena. This preliminary data may be useful for health management of the said species in captivity.

Infectious diarrhea in autologous stem cell transplantation: high prevalence of coccidia in a South American center

ABSTRACT Background: Diarrhea is frequently seen in autologous stem cell transplantation. Although toxicity related to conditioning is the most common cause, infectious pathogens can play a distinctive role particularly in certain regions and environments. Methods: The role of enteropathogens was investigated in 47 patients submitted to autologous stem cell transplantation at a Brazilian center between May 2011 and May 2013. All patients who presented with diarrhea consented to stool sample analysis to identify the etiological agents including coccidia, Strongyloides sp., Clostridium difficile and other pathogenic bacteria. Results: Thirty-nine patients (83%) had diarrhea, among whom seven (17.5%) presented with coccidia, three (7.5%) with Candida sp., one (2.5%) with C. difficile, and one (2.5%) with Giardia lamblia. There was a tendency toward a higher incidence of diarrhea in older patients (p-value = 0.09) and those who received conditioning with lomustine, etoposide, cytarabine, and melphalan (p-value = 0.083). Furthermore, the number of days of neutropenia was higher in patients with diarrhea (p-value = 0.06). Conclusions: The high frequency of diarrhea caused by coccidia shows the importance of investigating and correctly identifying etiological agents and highlights the possible varieties of intestinal infections in patients who undergo autologous stem cell transplantation.

Extraintestinal isosporoid coccidian causing atoxoplasmosis in captive green-winged saltators: clinical and hematological features / Coccidiose extraintestinal causando atoxoplasmose em trinca-ferros de cativeiro: aspectos clínicos e hematológicos

Populations of green-winged saltators, Saltator similis, are decreasing especially because of illegal trade and infectious diseases. We describe natural cases of an extraintestinal isosporoid coccidian in caged S. similis, and suggest the need of preventive measures in handling these birds. Nonspecific clinical signs were seen in all of them, however, intracytoplasmic Atoxoplasma sp. was found in peripheral blood, reinforcing the idea of systemic isosporosis. Leukocytosis with high number of heterophils and monocytes suggested that atoxoplasmosis in green-winged saltators can progress as an acute disease. The birds showed clinical improvement after treatment. Handling recommendations were proposed to upgrade hygienic conditions of the facilities. We concluded that nonspecific symptoms and an acute inflammatory process can be associated with atoxoplasmosis in young S. similis. We emphasize the importance of blood smear to detect merozoites.(AU)

As populações de trinca-ferro, Saltator similis, estão declinando especialmente em função do comércio illegal e das doenças infecciosas. Descrevem-se casos naturais de coccidiose extraintestinal em S. similis de cativeiro, sugerindo a necessidade de medidas preventivas no manejo desses animais. Sinais clínicos inespecíficos foram observados em todos os animais, contudo, formas intracitoplasmáticas de Atoxoplasma sp. foram vistas no sangue periférico, reforçando a ideia de isosporose sistêmica. Leucocitose com aumento de heterófilos e monócitos sugeriram que a atoxoplasmose em trinca-ferro pode progredir como uma doença aguda. As aves apresentaram melhora clínica após tratamento. Recomendações de manejo foram propostas a fim de melhorar as condições higiênicas das instalações das aves. Concluiu-se que sinais inespecíficos e processo inflamatório agudo podem ser associados com a atoxoplasmose em S. similis jovens. Enfatizamos a importância da avaliação do esfregaço sanguíneo para detector os merozoítos.(AU)

Avispora mochogalegoi n. sp. (Apicomplexa: Sarcocystidae) in the little owl, Athene noctua (Strigiformes: Strigidae), in mainland Portugal / Avispora mochogalegoi n. sp. (Apicomplexa: Eimeriidae) no mocho-galego, Athene noctua (Strigiformes: Strigidae), em Portugal Continental

Abstract The little owl Athene noctua (Scopoli, 1769) is a small raptor that is widely distributed from northern to southern Portugal and several other countries in Europe, Asia and North Africa, and which has been introduced into New Zealand. In the current study, 18 fecal samples were collected from little owls kept at the Lisbon Center for Wild Animal Recovery, which is located in Monsanto Forest Park, Lisbon, Portugal. Twelve (67%) of them were found to be passing an undescribed species of Avispora in their feces. The oocysts of Avispora mochogalegoi n. sp. were ellipsoidal with a bilayered wall and measured 38.9 × 32.9 µm, with a shape index of 1.18. No micropyle, oocyst residuum or polar granule was present. The sporocysts were subspherical, measuring 21.1 × 20.1 µm. Stieda, sub-Stieda and para-Stieda bodies were absent. The sporocyst residuum was composed of a compact subspherical mass of granules. This is the fourth species of Avispora reported in Strigiformes.

Resumo O mocho-galego Athene noctua (Scopoli, 1769) é uma pequena ave de rapina amplamente distribuída de norte a sul de Portugal, em vários países da Europa, Ásia e norte da África, e foi introduzida na Nova Zelândia. No presente trabalho, 18 amostras de fezes foram coletadas de mochos-galegos mantidos no Centro de Recuperação de Animais Silvestres de Lisboa, localizado no Parque Florestal de Monsanto, Lisboa, Portugal. Doze (67%) deles eliminaram uma espécie não descrita de Avispora em suas fezes. Os oocistos de Avispora mochogalegoi n. sp. foram elipsóides, com parede de dupla camada, medindo 38,9 × 32,9 µm, e índice morfométrico de 1,18. A micrópila, resíduo do oocisto e grânulo polar foram ausentes. Os esporocistos foram subesféricos, medindo 21,1 × 20,1 µm. Corpos de Stieda, substieda e parastieda foram ausentes. O resíduo do esporocisto foi composto de uma massa subesférica compacta de grânulos. Esta é a quarta espécie Avispora relatada em Strigiformes.

Isospora albicollis (Apicomplexa: Eimeriidae) in thrushes Turdus spp. (Passeriformes: Turdidae), in southeastern Brazil / Isospora albicollis (Apicomplexa: Eimeriidae) em sabiás Turdus spp. (Passeriformes: Turdidae), no sudeste Brasileiro

Abstract The aim of the present study was to report and describe Isospora albicollis Lainson and Shaw, 1989 parasitizing a white-necked thrush Turdus albicollis Vieillot, 1818 and a pale-breasted thrush Turdus leucomelas Vieillot, 1818 in two different localities: the Itatiaia National Park and Cacaria, in southeastern Brazil. The oocysts identified were ovoidal, 24.4 × 19.7 μm, with a smooth, bilayered wall, around 1.4 μm thick. Oocyst residuum was absent, but a micropyle and a polar granule were present. The sporocysts were ellipsoidal, 15.4 × 10.1 μm. The Stieda body was knob-like to rounded and the sub-Stieda body was prominent and wide. Sporocyst residuum was present, usually as a cluster of granules that appear to be membrane-bounded. The sporozoites were vermiform with one posterior refractile body and a centrally located nucleus. Besides recording the new host T. leucomelas, the identification of I. albicollis in the Itatiaia National Park and Cacaria, in southeastern Brazil, provide records of new localities for its parasitism, and reveals the wide distribution and dispersion of this coccidium in Brazil.

Resumo O objetivo do presente estudo foi relatar e descrever Isospora albicollis Lainson e Shaw, 1989, parasitando um sabiá-coleira Turdus albicollis Vieillot, 1818 e um sabiá-barranco Turdus leucomelas Vieillot 1818, em duas localidades diferentes: Parque Nacional do Itatiaia e Cacaria, no Sudeste do Brasil. Os oocistos identificados foram ovóides, 24,4 × 19,7 μm, com uma parede lisa e dupla, com cerca de 1,4 μm de espessura. Resíduo do oocisto foi ausente, mas uma micrópila e um grânulo polar foram presentes. Esporocistos elipsoidais, 15,4 × 10,1 μm, corpo de Stieda em forma de botão a arredondado e corpo de sub-Stieda proeminente e largo. Resíduo do esporocisto presente, usualmente como um aglomerado de grânulos que parecem estar envolvidos por uma membrana. Esporozoítos vermiformes com um corpo refráctil posterior e um núcleo centralizado. Além de registrar o novo hospedeiro T. leucomelas, a identificação de I. albicollis no Parque Nacional de Itatiaia e Cacaria, no Sudeste do Brasil, fornece registros de novas localidades para seu parasitismo e revela a ampla distribuição e dispersão desse coccídio no Brasil.

Gastrointestinal parasites of a population of emus (Dromaius novaehollandiae) in Brazil

Abstract Emus are large flightless birds in the ratite group and are native to Australia. Since the mid-1980s, there has been increased interest in the captive breeding of emus for the production of leather, meat and oil. The aim of this study was to identify gastrointestinal parasites in the feces of emus Dromaius novaehollandiae from a South American scientific breeding. Fecal samples collected from 13 birds were examined by direct smears, both with and without centrifugation, as well as by the fecal flotation technique using Sheathers sugar solution. Trophozoites, cysts and oocysts of protozoa and nematode eggs were morphologically and morphometrically evaluated. Molecular analysis using PCR assays with specific primers for the genera Entamoeba, Giardia and Cryptosporidium were performed. Trophozoites and cysts of Entamoeba spp. and Giardia spp., oocysts of Eimeria spp. and Isospora dromaii, as well as eggs belonging to the Ascaridida order were found in the feces. Three animals were diagnosed with Giardia spp., and three were positive for Entamoeba spp. based on PCR techniques. After analyzing the data, we concluded that emus were infected enzootically by nematode and protozoan species.

Resumo Emus são aves grandes que não voam pertencentes ao grupo das ratitas e são originários da Austrália. Desde meados da década de 1980, aumentou o interesse pela criação de emus em cativeiro para a produção de couro, carne e óleo. O objetivo deste estudo foi identificar parasitas gastrointestinais nas fezes de emus Dromaius novaehollandiae de um criatório científico da América do Sul. Amostras de fezes coletadas de 13 aves foram examinadas por esfregaços diretos, tanto com e sem centrifugação, quanto com a técnica de flutuação fecal utilizando solução de açúcar de Sheather. Trofozoítos, cistos e oocistos de protozoários e ovos de nematóides foram avaliados morfologicamente e morfometricamente. Foram realizadas análises moleculares utilizando ensaios de PCR com primers específicos para os gêneros Entamoeba, Giardia e Cryptosporidium. Trofozoítos e cistos de Entamoeba spp. e Giardia spp., oocistos de Eimeria spp. e Isospora dromaii, bem como ovos pertencentes à ordem Ascaridida foram encontrados nas fezes. Três animais foram diagnosticados com Giardia spp., e três foram positivos para Entamoeba spp. com base em técnicas de PCR. Depois de analisar os dados, concluímos que os emus estavam infectados enzooticamente por espécies de nematóides e protozoários.

Coccidiosis intestinal en niños admitidos en un hospital de Perú y comparación de dos métodos para la detección del Cryptosporidium spp / Intestinal coccidiosis in children admitted to a hospital in Peru and comparison of two methods for detecting Cryptosporidium spp

Con el objetivo de estimar la frecuencia de infección por coccidios intestinales en niños admitidos en un hospital de Perú, y comparar la tinción ácido-resistente modificada (TARM) y el ELISA para la detección de Cryptosporidium spp.; se realizó un estudio transversal entre octubre de 2014 y junio de 2015. Los coccidios se detectaron mediante la TARM y ELISA Cryptosporidium (kit r-Biopharm) en muestras seriadas de heces. De un total de 325 niños, el 5,5% tuvieron algún coccidio intestinal, 3,7% Cryptosporidium spp. (usando ambas técnicas) y 1,8% Cyclospora cayetanensis (TARM). La TARM y ELISA mostraron una concordancia de 0,955 en la detección de Cryptosporidium spp. Se concluye que los coccidios intestinales son frecuentes en niños de la población estudiada; asimismo, ambas técnicas pueden usarse para la detección de Cryptosporidium spp., sin embargo, el menor costo y la capacidad de detectar otros coccidios ofrecen una ventaja a la TARM en la práctica diaria.

A cross-sectional study was done between October 2014 and June 2015 to estimate the frequency of infection due to intestinal coccidiosis in children admitted to a hospital in Peru, and compare the modified acid-fast staining procedure with the enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA) method for the detection of Cryptosporidium spp. Coccidia were detected using the modified acid-fast staining procedure and the Cryptosporidium ELISA method (kit r-Biopharm) on seriated stool samples. Out of a total of 325 children, 5.5% had some type of intestinal coccidiosis: 3.7% involved Cryptosporidium spp. (using both techniques) and 1.8% involved Cyclospora cayetanensis (using the modified acid-fast staining procedure). The modified acid-fast staining procedure and ELISA method revealed a 0.955 consistency in the detection of Cryptosporidium spp. In conclusion, intestinal coccidiosis is frequent in children based on the population studied; similarly, both techniques can be used to detect Cryptosporidium spp., but the modified acid-fast staining procedure has an advantage over the other because it is cost-effective and can detect other coccidia in everyday practice.

Occurrence of eggs and oocysts of gastrointestinal parasites in passerine birds kept in captivity in Para State, Brazil / Ocorrência de ovos e oocistos de parasitos gastrointestinais em aves Passeriformes mantidas em cativeiro no estado do Pará, Brasil

ABSTRACT: The objective of this study was to detect helminth eggs and protozoan oocysts in samples of feces from birds of the order Passeriformes in Para State, Brazil. Fecal samples were collected individually from 403 passerine birds seized and kept in captivity in Para State. Samples were processed by the double centrifugation technique in saturated sucrose solution and the coccidial oocyst-positive samples were submitted to sporulation in potassium dichromate 2.0%. Helminth eggs and/or protozoan oocysts were observed in 43.18% (174/403) of the fecal samples examined. Coccidial oocysts were detected in 93.68% (163/174) of the positive samples, whereas helminth eggs were observed in 10.34% (18/174) of the positive samples. Oocyst sporulation occurred in 43.56% (71/163) of the samples, and only Isospora spp. oocysts were detected. Nematode eggs of the superfamilies Trichostrongyloidea (4.60%; 8/174), Ascaridoidea (0.57%; 1/174), and Trichuroidea (0.57%; 1/174) were diagnosed in the positive samples. Cestoda eggs were diagnosed in 2.87% (5/174), whereas Trematoda eggs were detected in 2.30% (4/174) of positive samples. Passerine birds seized and kept in captivity in the visited local presented parasitism by intestinal helminths and protozoan, with a predominance of infection with coccidia of the gender Isospora.

RESUMO: O objetivo do presente estudo foi detectar ovos de helmintos e oocistos de protozoários em amostras de fezes de aves da ordem Passeriformes no estado do Pará, Brasil. Amostras de fezes foram coletadas individualmente de 403 aves Passeriformes oriundas de apreensão e mantidas em cativeiro no estado do Pará. As amostras foram processadas usando a técnica de dupla centrifugação em solução saturada de sacarose e as amostras positivas para oocistos de coccídios foram submetidas à esporulação em dicromato de potássio 2,0%. Ovos de helmintos e/ou oocistos de protozoários foram observados em 43,18% (174/403) das amostras fecais examinadas. Oocistos de coccídios foram detectados em 93,68% (163/174) das amostras positivas, enquanto que ovos de helmintos foram observados em 10,34% (18/174). A esporulação de oocistos ocorreu em 43,56% (71/163) das amostras, e somente oocistos de Isospora spp. foram detectados. Ovos de nematódeos das Superfamílias Trichostrongyloidea (4,60%; 8/174), Ascaridoidea (0,57%; 1/174) e Trichuroidea (0,57%; 1/174) foram diagnosticados nas amostras positivas. Ovos de Cestoda foram diagnosticados em 2,87% (5/174), enquanto que ovos de Trematoda foram detectados em 2,30% (4/174) das amostras positivas. Aves Passeriformes oriundas de apreensão e mantidas em cativeiro nas áreas visitadas estavam parasitadas por helmintos e protozoários, predominando a infecção por coccídios do gênero Isospora.

Primer reporte de Cyclospora cayetanensis en una comunidad indígena Kariña del municipio Sucre, estado Sucre, Venezuela / First report of Cyclospora cayetanensis in an indigenous Kariña A community in Sucre state, Venezuela

Cyclospora cayetanensis es un protozoario emergente, considerado un patógeno importante causante de diarrea endémica y epidémica en niños y adultos en todo el mundo. En el estado Sucre, son escasas las investigaciones dedicadas al diagnóstico de los coccidios intestinales y se desconocen los aspectos epidemiológicos asociados con estos parásitos. En este sentido, se realizó un estudio en la comunidad indígena Kariña de Piñantal, estado Sucre, Venezuela, con la finalidad de determinar la prevalencia de las enteroparasitosis haciendo énfasis en los coccidios intestinales. Para ello, se recolectaron 141 muestras fecales de individuos de ambos géneros con edades comprendidas entre 0 y 60 años. El diagnóstico parasitológico se realizó mediante el examen directo, técnica de filtración de formol al 5%, dicromato de potasio al 2,5%, coloración de Kinyoun y micrometría ocular. La prevalencia de enteroparasitosis fue de 82,98%, destacándose el cromista Blastocystis spp. (60,80%), Endolimax nana (24,70%) y Ascaris lumbricoides (25,53%). De los coccidios intestinales evaluados, sólo se encontró Cyclospora cayetanensis (10%), resultando los individuos menores de 20 años los más afectados (85,71%); esta alta prevalencia de C. cayetanensis refleja precarias condiciones de vida asociadas con insalubridad y falta de educación en la población indígena Kariña. De los individuos con ciclosporiosis, sólo el 36% presentó diarrea y el 64% restante resultaron portadores asintomáticos, lo que representa un riesgo epidemiológico que debe ser tomado en cuenta por los organismos sanitarios competentes para la implementación del diagnóstico de coccidios de forma rutinaria, contribuyendo así a la prevención de brotes.

Cyclospora cayetanensis is an emerging protozoan pathogen considered as a major cause of endemic and epidemic diarrhea in children and adults worldwide. In Sucre state, Venezuela, few investigations have focused on the diagnosis of intestinal coccidia, and the epidemiological aspects associated with these intestinal parasites are unknown. The prevalence of enteroparasitosis, in particular intestinal coccidian, was studied in an indigenous Kariña community in Piñantal, Sucre state, Venezuela. A total of 141 fecal specimens were collected from individuals of both sexes, aged between 0 and 60 years. Parasitological diagnosis was done by direct examination, filtration technique with 5% formalin, 2.5% potassium dichromate, Kinyoun stain and ocular micrometry. The total prevalence of intestinal parasites was 82.98% with the chromista Blastocystis spp. (60.8%), Endolimax nana (24.7%) and Ascaris lumbricoides (25.53%), being the most abundant species. Of the evaluated intestinal coccidia, only Cyclospora cayetanensis (10%) was found, with individuals under 20 years old being the most affected (85.71%). The high prevalence of C. cayetanensis reflects inadequate living conditions associated with poor health and a lack of education among the indigenous Kariña population. Of the individuals infected with Cyclosporiosis, only 36% had diarrhea and the remaining 64% were asymptomatic carriers, these latter representing an epidemiological risk. This should be taken into account by the competent health authorities and the diagnosis of coccidia conducted routinely in order to reduce outbreaks.

Caryospora peneireiroi n. sp. (Apicomplexa: Eimeriidae) in the common kestrel, Falco tinnunculus (Falconiformes: Falconidae), in mainland Portugal / Caryospora peneireiroi n. sp. (Apicomplexa: Eimeriidae) no peneireiro, Falco tinnunculus (Falconiformes: Falconidae), em Portugal Continental

Abstract The common kestrel Falco tinnunculus Linnaeus, 1758, is a widespread raptor, native in Europe, Asia and Africa, and vagrant in the Americas. In the current work, 27 fecal samples were collected from common kestrels kept in the Lisbon Center for Wild Animal Recovery, located at Monsanto Forest Park, Lisbon, Portugal. Five (19%) of them were found to be passing an undescribed species of Caryospora in their feces. The oocysts of Caryospora peneireiroi n. sp. were ellipsoidal with a bilayered wall and measured 47.1 × 37.6 µm with a shape index of 1.25. No micropyle, oocyst residuum or polar granule was present. The sporocysts were subspherical, measuring 25.1 × 24.3 µm. Stieda, sub-Stieda and para-Stieda bodies were absent. The sporocyst residuum was composed of many homogenous globules scattered throughout the periphery of the sporocyst. This is the fourth caryosporan species reported from F. tinnunculus.

Resumo O peneireiro Falco tinnunculus Linnaeus, 1758, é uma ave de rapina com vasta distribuição geográfica, nativa da Europa, Ásia e África, e errante nas Américas. No presente trabalho, 27 amostras de fezes foram coletadas de peneireiros mantidos no Centro de Recuperação de Animais Silvestres de Lisboa, localizado no Parque Florestal de Monsanto, Lisboa, Portugal. Cinco (19%) deles eliminaram uma espécie não descrita de Caryospora em suas fezes. Os oocistos de Caryospora peneireiroi n. sp. foram elipsoides, com parede de dupla camada, medindo 47,1 × 37,6 µm, e índice morfométrico de 1,25. A micrópila, resíduo do oocisto e grânulo polar não foram evidenciados. Os esporocistos foram subesféricos, medindo 25,1 × 24,3 µm. Corpos de Stieda, substieda e parastieda não se manifestaram. Resíduo do esporocisto foi composto de muitos glóbulos homogêneos espalhados por toda a periferia do esporocisto. Essa é a quarta espécie Caryospora descrita de F. tinnunculus.

Prevalence of gastrointestinal nematodiasis and coccidiosis in goats from three selected farms in Terengganu, Malaysia

Objective To reveal the prevalence of gastrointestinal nematodiasis, Trichostrogylus, Haemonchus, Strongyloides and Trichuris and coccidiosis, mainly Eimeria in kids, yearlings and adult goats. Methods A total of 287 goat faecal specimens were randomly collected from three farms in Kuala Terengganu, Setiu and Besut. Results Prevalence of coccidiosis (89.2%) was significantly higher (P 0.05). The concurrent infections between GINs and Eimeria were 67.94% in all groups. Polyparasitisms of Trichostrongylus (17.4%), Haemonchus (15.15%) and Strongyloides (40.4%) with Eimeria had infected most adult goats. Dual infections of Trichostrongylus with Eimeria and Trichuris with Eimeria were significantly higher in adults than yearlings and kids (P < 0.05). Conclusions GINs and Eimeria were widely distributed in the goats leading to higher risk of morbidity and mortality.

Prevalence of gastrointestinal nematodiasis and coccidiosis in goats from three selected farms in Terengganu, Malaysia

Objective: To reveal the prevalence of gastrointestinal nematodiasis, Trichostrogylus, Haemonchus, Strongyloides and Trichuris and coccidiosis, mainly Eimeria in kids, yearlings and adult goats. Methods: A total of 287 goat faecal specimens were randomly collected from three farms in Kuala Terengganu, Setiu and Besut. Results: Prevalence of coccidiosis (89.2%) was significantly higher (P 0.05). The concurrent infections between GINs and Eimeria were 67.94% in all groups. Polyparasitisms of Trichostrongylus (17.4%), Haemonchus (15.15%) and Strongyloides (40.4%) with Eimeria had infected most adult goats. Dual infections of Trichostrongylus with Eimeria and Trichuris with Eimeria were significantly higher in adults than yearlings and kids (P<0.05). Conclusions: GINs and Eimeria were widely distributed in the goats leading to higher risk of morbidity and mortality.

Caryospora bigenetica (Apicomplexa: Eimeriidae) in South America: new hosts and distribution records / Caryospora bigenetica (Apicomplexa: Eimeriidae) na América do Sul: Registro de novos hospedeiros e distribuição

The coccidian Caryospora bigenetica was first described in the snake Crotalus horridus (Viperidae) from United States of America. This study represents the first record of the occurrence of C. bigenetica in snakes in South America. Feces were sampled between November 2013 and May 2014 from 256 wild snakes maintained in scientific breeding facilities in the states of Mato Grosso do Sul (MS; n = 214) and Rio de Janeiro (RJ; n = 42), Brazil. Caryospora bigenetica was found in 14 (5.6%) snakes, all belonging to the family Viperidae. Ten Bothrops moojeni and two Crotalus durissus from MS were infected. The coccidian was also found in one C. durissus and in one Bothrops jararacussu from the state of RJ. The oocysts were spherical with a double wall, the exterior lightly mammillated, striations apparent in transverse view, 13.0 µm (12 – 14); polar granule fixed in the internal wall. Sporocysts oval or pyriform, 10.0 × 8.0 µm (9 – 11 × 8 – 9); Stieda body discoid; sub-Stieda body present; sporocyst residuum present, formed by a group of spheroid bodies between sporozoites. This study increases the number of viperid hosts of C. bigenetica and expands the geographical distribution to South America.

O coccídio Caryospora bigenetica foi descrito na serpente Crotalus horridus (Viperidae) nos Estados Unidos da América. Este estudo representa o primeiro registro da ocorrência de C. bigenetica em serpentes da América do Sul. Amostras de fezes foram obtidas, entre novembro de 2013 e maio de 2014, de 256 serpentes silvestres mantidas em um criatório científico nos Estados do Mato Grosso do Sul (MS; n = 214) e Rio de Janeiro (RJ; n = 42), Brasil. Caryospora bigenetica foi encontrada em 14 (5,6%) serpentes, todas pertencentes à família Viperidae. Dez Bothrops moojeni e duas Crotalus durissus de MS estavam infectadas. O coccídio também foi encontrado em uma C. durissus e uma Bothrops jararacussu do Estado do Rio de Janeiro. Os oocistos foram esféricos, com parede dupla, sendo a externa ligeiramente mamilonada, estriações aparentes transversalmente, 13.0 µm (12 – 14); grânulo polar junto à parede interna. Esporocisto oval ou piriforme, 10.0 × 8.0 µm (9 – 11 × 8 – 9); corpo de Stieda discóide; sub-Stieda presente; resíduo do esporocisto presente, formado por um grupo de corpos esféricos entre os esporozoítos. Este estudo aumenta o número de hospedeiros viperídeos de C. bigenetica e expande a distribuição geográfica para a América do Sul.

Epidemiology of Coccidian Parasites in HIV Patients of Northern Uganda.

understood. This study aimed at determining the epidemiology of coccidian parasites and their associated risk factors. This was a cross sectional study carried out in Arua district in West Nile region of Northern Uganda for a period of five months. Materials and Methods: Participants in the study included HIV positive patients presenting with diarrhea. A total of 111 patients were included and classified into children, middle aged and adults. A structured questionnaire was administered, stool samples were obtained using sterile stool containers and laboratory analysis carried out using modified Ziehl-Neelsen technique (ZN). Ethical clearance was acquired and the consent of the patients was sought. Results and Discussion: Prevalence of Coccidian parasites among HIV patients was found to be 5.4% and Cryptosporidium parvum showed more prevalence than Isospora belli and Cyclospora cayatenensis i.e. (3.6%), (1.8%) and (0.0%) respectively. Most Cryptosporidium parvum infections occurred in children (13.6%) compared to adults (3.3%); with a significant relationship of (p = 0.02). The infection was higher in females (7.1%) than males (2.4%) (p = 0.19). The major risk factors associated with the disease were mainly consumption of contaminated and un-boiled water from taps and boreholes. HIV patients who took co-trimoxazole and drunk boiled water were shown to have a low prevalence of coccidian parasites of 1.9% and 2.6% respectively (p<0.05). This is because cotrimoxazole is a prophylactic drug for opportunistic infections and proper boiling of drinking water kills coccidian parasites. Conclusion and Recommendations: The study highlighted the importance and need to screen for coccidian parasites and emphasis on regular taking of prophylactic treatment as a way of controlling opportunistic infections in HIV patients. Future prevalence studies of Coccidia amongst healthy, HIV sero-negative children and adults of similar age groups in similar settings are recommended to ratify the relationship.

Caryospora bigenetica (Apicomplexa: Eimeriidae) in South America: new hosts and distribution records

The coccidian Caryospora bigenetica was first described in the snake Crotalus horridus (Viperidae) from United States of America. This study represents the first record of the occurrence of C. bigenetica in snakes in South America. Feces were sampled between November 2013 and May 2014 from 256 wild snakes maintained in scientific breeding facilities in the states of Mato Grosso do Sul (MS; n = 214) and Rio de Janeiro (RJ; n = 42), Brazil. Caryospora bigenetica was found in 14 (5.6%) snakes, all belonging to the family Viperidae. Ten Bothrops moojeni and two Crotalus durissus from MS were infected. The coccidian was also found in one C. durissus and in one Bothrops jararacussu from the state of RJ. The oocysts were spherical with a double wall, the exterior lightly mammillated, striations apparent in transverse view, 13.0 µm (12 14); polar granule fixed in the internal wall. Sporocysts oval or pyriform, 10.0 × 8.0 µm (9 11 × 8 9); Stieda body discoid; sub-Stieda body present; sporocyst residuum present, formed by a group of spheroid bodies between sporozoites. This study increases the number of viperid hosts of C. bigenetica and expands the geographical distribution to South America.

O coccídio Caryospora bigenetica foi descrito na serpente Crotalus horridus (Viperidae) nos Estados Unidos da América. Este estudo representa o primeiro registro da ocorrência de C. bigenetica em serpentes da América do Sul. Amostras de fezes foram obtidas, entre novembro de 2013 e maio de 2014, de 256 serpentes silvestres mantidas em um criatório científico nos Estados do Mato Grosso do Sul (MS; n = 214) e Rio de Janeiro (RJ; n = 42), Brasil. Caryospora bigenetica foi encontrada em 14 (5,6%) serpentes, todas pertencentes à família Viperidae. Dez Bothrops moojeni e duas Crotalus durissus de MS estavam infectadas. O coccídio também foi encontrado em uma C. durissus e uma Bothrops jararacussu do Estado do Rio de Janeiro. Os oocistos foram esféricos, com parede dupla, sendo a externa ligeiramente mamilonada, estriações aparentes transversalmente, 13.0 µm (12 14); grânulo polar junto à parede interna. Esporocisto oval ou piriforme, 10.0 × 8.0 µm (9 11 × 8 9); corpo de Stieda discóide; sub-Stieda presente; resíduo do esporocisto presente, formado por um grupo de corpos esféricos entre os esporozoítos. Este estudo aumenta o número de hospedeiros viperídeos de C. bigenetica e expande a distribuição geográfica para a América do Sul.