Anti-infection treatment and pharmaceutical care for a patient with severe pneumonia caused by Chlamydia psittaci / 中国药房

OBJECTIVE To provide ideas and reference for the anti-infection treatment and pharmaceutical care for severe pneumonia caused by Chlamydia psittaci. METHODS Clinical pharmacists participated in the whole process of the treatment for a patient with C. psittaci-induced severe pneumonia. According to the patient’s medical history， clinical symptoms and test results， clinical pharmacists assisted the physician to dynamically adjust the anti-infective scheme； for C. psittaci infection， the patient was treated with tigecycline combined with azithromycin successively， and other infection therapy plans were dynamically adjusted according to the results of pathogen examination. During the treatment， the patient suffered from suspicious adverse drug reactions such as prolonged QTc interval， elevated lipase and amylase； the clinical pharmacists conducted pharmaceutical care and put forward reasonable suggestions. RESULTS The physician adopted the pharmacists’ suggestion， and the patient was discharged after treatment. CONCLUSIONS For the treatment of severe pneumonia caused by C. psittaci， the characteristics of patients， drugs and pathogens should be taken into account to develop individualized anti-infective treatment. Tetracyclines and macrolides have a definite effect on C. psittaci infection， but attention should be paid to the possible ADR caused by drugs in clinical application.

Rapid evaluation of the early pathogen of severe Chlamydophila psittaci pneumonia by diagnostic bronchoscopy / 中华危重病急救医学

Objective:To explore the rapid evaluation of the early pathogen of severe Chlamydophila psittaci pneumonia by bedside diagnostic bronchoscopy, so as to start effective anti-infection treatment before the results of macrogenome next generation sequencing (mNGS) test. Methods:The clinical data of three patients with severe Chlamydophila psittaci pneumonia who were successfully treated in the First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, the First People's Hospital of Aksu District, and the First Division Hospital of Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps from October 2020 to June 2021 were retrospectively analyzed, including the rapid assessment of early pathogens by bedside diagnostic bronchoscopy and the use of antibiotics to start anti-infection treatment. These patients were successfully treated. Results:The three patients were male, aged 63, 45 and 58 years old, respectively. Before the onset of the penumonia, they had a clear medical history of bird exposure. The clinical manifestations mainly included fever, dry cough, shortness of breath and dyspnea. One case had abdominal pain and lethargy. The results of laboratory examination indicated that the peripheral blood white blood cell count (WBC) of two patients were high [(10.2-11.9)×10 9/L], the percentage of neutrophils increased (85.2%-94.6%) and the percentage of lymphocytes decreased (3.2%-7.7%) in all 3 patients after admission to hospital and entering into intensive care unit (ICU). The procalcitonin (PCT) of 3 patients increased after admission, and still increased when entering ICU (0.3-4.8 ng/L), so did C-reactive protein (CRP, 58.0-162.0 mg/L) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR, 36.0-90.0 mm/1 h). After admission, serum alanine transaminase (ALT) increased in 2 cases (136.7 U/L, 220.5 U/L), so did aspartate transaminase (AST) in 2 cases (249.6 U/L, 164.2 U/L). ALT (162.2-267.9 U/L) and AST (189.8-223.2 U/L) increased in 3 patients when they entered ICU. The level of serum creatinine (SCr) of 3 patients were normal after admission and entering ICU. The chest computed tomography (CT) findings of 3 patients were acute interstitial pneumonia, bronchopneumonia and lung consolidation, of which 2 cases were accompanied by a small amount of pleural effusion, and 1 case was accompanied by more regular small air sacs. Multiple lung lobes were involved, but mainly one lung lobe. The oxygenation index (PaO 2/FiO 2) of the 3 patients admitting to ICU were 100.0, 57.5 and 105.4 mmHg (1 mmHg ≈ 0.133 kPa), respectively, which met with the diagnostic criteria of moderate and severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). All three patients received endotracheal intubation and mechanical ventilation. Under the bedside bronchoscope, the bronchial mucosa of 3 patients were obviously congested and edematous, without purulent secretion, and there was 1 case with mucosal hemorrhage. Three patients underwent bedside diagnostic bronchoscopy, and the evaluation result of the pathogen was that it might be atypical pathogen infection, so they were given moxifloxacin, cisromet and doxycycline intravenously, respectively, and combined with carbapenem antibiotics intravenously. After 3 days, the detection results of mNGS in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) showed that only Chlamydia psittaci was infected. At this time, the condition was significantly improved, and PaO 2/FiO 2 was significantly increased. Therefore, the antibiotic treatment scheme remained unchanged, and mNGS only served to verify the initial diagnosis. Two patients were extubated on the 7th and 12th day of admission to the ICU, respectively, while one patient was extubated on the 16th day of admission to the ICU due to nosocomial infection. All 3 patients were transferred to the respiratory ward after the condition was stable. Conclusion:The bedside diagnostic bronchoscopy based on clinical characteristics is conducive to not only the rapid assessment of the early pathogens of severe Chlamydia psittaci pneumonia, but also effective anti-infection treatment before the returning of mNGS test results, which can make up for the lag and uncertainty of the mNGS test results.

Epidemiological investigation and management of a case of severe Chlamydia psittaci pneumonia / 上海预防医学

ObjectiveTo identify causal factors of a case of severe Chlamydia psittaci pneumonia in Yangpu District and provide a scientific basis for effective prevention and control. MethodsBasic information and epidemiological data of the patient were collected through telephone interviews and field epidemiological surveys. Specimens from the patient， close contacts and the environment were collected for pathogen detection. Metagenomics next-generation sequencing （mNGS） was used to identify unknown pathogens. ResultsA 65-year-old male patient with a history of hypertension and diabetes was admitted to the hospital with symptoms of fatigue， poor appetite for a week， fever and cough for four days. A chest computer tomography （CT） scan showed scattered inflammation in the left lung with infiltration of multiple lobes. Blood gas analysis showed type I respiratory failure. The results of mNGS on the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid of the patient indicated that he was infected with Chlamydia psittaci. Epidemiological investigation showed a clear history of avian exposure， with an incubation period of 30 days. ConclusionThis serious pneumonia is a zoonotic disease caused by Chlamydia psittaci. A clear history of avian exposure and the use of mNGS technology can help in the timely diagnosis of this disease.

Clinical characteristics analysis of Chlamydia psittaci pneumonia detected by metagenomic next-generation sequencing / 中国热带医学

@#Abstract: Objective　To analyze the clinical characteristics of Chlamydia psittaci pneumonia and improve the diagnosis and treatment skills of clinicians on this disease. Methods The clinical data of thirty-nine Chlamydia psittaci pneumonia cases detected by metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) from September 2020 to January 2022 at the Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University were retrospectively analyzed. Results There was a history of poultry exposure in 89.7%(35 cases) of the patients. The most common clinical manifestations were high fever (92.3%, 36), cough (76.9%,30), muscle soreness (48.7%,19), headache (38.5%,15), etc. Laboratory examinations showed 76.9% of patients had a normal leukocyte count, and 76.9% had decreased lymphocyte count, often accompanied by elevated C-reactive protein (100%), procalcitonin (97.4%), interleukin-6 (95.8%), interleukin-10 (95.8%), alanine aminotransferase (74.4%), and aspartate aminotransferase (84.6%). Univariate analysis indicated that there were statistically significant differences in the levels of aspartate transaminase, blood urea nitrogen, C-reactive protein, and procalcitonin between severe pneumonia patients and non-severe pneumonia patients（P<0.05）. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that an elevated blood urea nitrogen (OR=4.899) had guiding significance for predicting the occurrence of severe pneumonia. Bronchoscopy examination showed no abnormalities in 53.6% of the patients. The imaging manifestations of pulmonary lesions were mainly lobar pneumonia (61.5%) and air bronchograms (94.9%). Therapeutically, it was sensitive to tetracyclines, macrocyclic lactones, and fluoroquinolones. A total of 84.6%(33 cases) of the patients were cured and discharged from the hospital at the end of the treatment. Conclusion Chlamydia psittaci pneumonia is a zoonotic disease that can be detected by mNGS. An elevated blood urea nitrogen level has guiding significance for predicting the occurrence of severe pneumonia. Empirically-selected regimens based on doxycycline are effective for the treatment of Chlamydia psittaci pneumonia.

Clinical analysis of Chlamydia psittaci pneumonia in the elderly / 中华全科医师杂志

Objective:To analyze the clinical characteristics of Chlamydia psittaci pneumonia in the elderly, and factor related to the disease severity. Methods:Clinical data of 32 elderly patients with Chlamydia pneumoniae pneumonia admitted in the First People′s Hospital of Xiaoshan District from January 2019 to January 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. The patients were diagnosed by the second generation sequencing using bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) samples. There were 17 patients in moderate group and 15 patients in severe group; the liver function, muscle enzymes, imaging and lymphocyte subsets of the two groups were compared. Results:There were no significant differences in the age, gender and basic diseases, bird contact history, flaccid fever and dry cough symptoms between two groups, while there were significant differences in mental symptoms and gastrointestinal symptoms between the two groups ( P=0.032, 0.018). There were significant differences in ALT , AST, LDH , CK , CK-MB, CRP, BNP , troponin-T and PCT between the two groups (all P<0.001). The increase of leukocytes was not significant in both groups. The moderate group was dominated by single lobe involvement, while the severe group was dominated by multi lobe involvement and pleural effusion ( P=0.043, 0.015, 0.023). The total lymphocytes, T lymphocytes, CD4 + T cells, CD8 + T cells, CD4 +/CD8 + ratio, NK cells, B cells, CD4 +CD8 + double positive T cells decreased in both groups, while those in the severe group decrease more markedly ( P<0.05). CD4 -CD8 - double negative T cells were higher in the severe group than those in the moderate group ( P<0.001). CD4 +/CD8 + ratio and CD4 -CD8 - double negative T cells were correlated with severity index PSI and CURB-65 ( P<0.05). Conclusions:The liver function, muscle enzyme, lymphocyte immune function in patients with Chlamydia psittaci pneumonia are impaired, which were more markedly in severe patients. The multileaf infiltration and increased procalcitonin may indicate the severe pneumonia. CD4 +/CD8 + ratio and CD4 -CD8 - double negative T cells are correlated with the severity of pneumonia.

Clinical analysis of 26 cases of Chlamydia psittaci pneumonia confirmed using metagenomic next-generation sequencing / 中华传染病杂志

Objective:To explore the clinical characteristics and treatment strategies for Chlamydia psittaci pneumonia confirmed using metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS). Methods:A total of 26 patients with Chlamydia psittaci pneumonia admitted to the Huizhou Municipal Central People′s Hospital and Huizhou First People′s Hospital from January 2020 to December 2021 were enrolled. The clinical data were collected, including basic information, clinical manifestations, laboratory examinations, chest computed tomography (CT) findings, mNGS results, treatment outcomes and prognosis. Results:Twenty (76.9%) of the 26 cases with Chlamydia psittaci pneumonia had a definite bird or poultry contact history. The onset season was mostly in winter (57.7%, 15/26). All 26 cases had symptoms of high fever, chill, fatigue, anorexia and cough, 21 cases (80.8%) had dyspnea, 19 cases (73.1%) had relative infrequent pulse, 12 cases (46.2%) had headache, myalgia, and seven cases (26.9%) had disturbance of consciousness. Among the 26 cases, the white blood cell count was normal in 17 cases (65.4%), and the lymphocyte count was decreased in 21 cases (80.8%). All 26 cases had increased hypersensitive C-reactive protein and procalcitonin. D-dimer was elevated in 24 cases (92.3%), aspartate aminotransferase was elevated in 18 cases (69.2%), and alanine aminotransferase was elevated in 15 cases (57.7%). Chest CT mainly showed lung consolidation, and 20 cases (76.9%) had multiple lobes of the lungs involved, 18 cases (69.2%) had the lower lobe of the lung as the main lesion. Among the results of mNGS of 26 cases, nine cases (34.6%) had only Chlamydia psittaci detected, and 17 cases (65.4%) had other pathogenic microorganisms detected. After targeted anti-infection treatment, two cases died of multiple organ failure and the remaining 24 patients recovered. Conclusions:The common manifestations of Chlamydia psittaci pneumonia are high fever, dyspnea, relative bradycardia, normal white blood cell count, and lung consolidation. mNGS is helpful for early diagnosis of disease, and appropriate treatment can improve the prognosis.

Investigation on the first family cluster of Chlamydia psittaci infection in Wuhan / 公共卫生与预防医学

Objective An epidemiological investigation was carried out on the first family cluster epidemic of psittacosis in Wuhan to provide scientific basis for the prevention and control of Chlamydia psittacosis. Methods Epidemiological data were collected by field epidemiological investigation methods, and pathogenic testing was carried out by collecting cases, suspected exposed persons, and environmental samples. Results The 2 cases in the same family stared with fever, headache and chills. The first case was treated in 5 medical institutions and hospitalized in 2 of them. The results of metagenomic next-generation sequencing in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid of the case indicated that it was infected with Chlamydia psittaci. Thirty environmental samples from cases and 3 pigeon farmers homes, 4 throat swabs from family members of pigeon farmers were collected, and 15 environmental samples were positive by real-time fluorescence quantitative polymerase chain reaction, all of which were in the cases' home and neighbor farmers' homes, including 8 pigeon feces smearing samples, 3 pigeon drinking residual water samples, 1 sand and corn eaten by pigeons, 1 tableware surface smearing sample, and 1 sample of external environment of the patient's home. Conclusions The family cluster epidemic of psittacosis was caused by exposure to the external environment contaminated by Chlamydia psittacosis. Poultry breeding should be regulated to prevent the spread of poultry infection to the human world. At the same time, the awareness of medical staff should be raised, and pathogenic testing should be carried out to confirm the diagnosis for avoiding the occurrence of severe cases and death.

Treatment and pharmaceutical care of one patient with Chlamydia psittaci pneumonia complicated by drug-induced liver injury / 药学实践杂志

Objective To explore the role of clinical pharmacists in rational drug use through the pharmacy care of an elderly pneumonia patient with Chlamydia psittaci infection and drug-induced liver injury. Methods The clinical pharmacists participated in the treatment of one patient with Chlamydia psittaci pneumonia and drug-induced liver injury. Based on the results of second-generation gene sequencing, the characteristics of the pathogen were learned by literature search. The clinical pharmacists monitored the patient’s liver and kidney function, provided a new medication treatment plan to Doctors, and performed patient education during the treatment. Results The initial empirical anti-infective treatment with teicoplanin and imipenem-cilastatin was not effective. After the diagnosis of Chlamydia psittaci and Candida albicans infection, the combination of doxycycline with azithromycin and fluconazole was administered. Drug-induced liver injury was found with this treatment. The clinical pharmacist proposed to switch to doxycycline and clarithromycin with co-administration of magnesium isoglycyrrhizinate and polyene phosphatidylcholine to protect the liver. With this new regime, patient's liver function was improved and the infection was under control. Conclusion Individualized pharmaceutical cares provided by clinical pharmacists helped the safe, rational and effective use of medications.

Analysis of clinical features of 16 cases with Chlamydia psittaci pneumonia / 中华危重病急救医学

Objective:To analyze the clinical characteristics of Chlamydia psittaci pneumonia and to investigate the correlation between serum inflammatory biomarkers and severity of the disease. Methods:Sixteen patients with Chlamydia psittaci pneumonia admitted to the Huizhou Municipal Central Hospital from January 2020 to July 2021 were selected as the study subjects, including 10 severe cases and 6 mild cases. Clinical data were collected and analyzed, such as baseline characteristics, clinical symptoms, laboratory inspection and chest imaging manifestations. Results:① Thirteen Chlamydia psittaci pneumonia were associated with a definite bird or poultry contact history. Common symptoms included high fever, chill, cough, fatigue, and anorexia (16 cases), dyspnoea (12 cases), and other systemic symptoms. ② Laboratory test results showed normal white blood cell count (WBC, 10 cases), decreased lymphocyte count (LYM, 13 cases), increased high sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP, 16 cases), D-dimer (15 cases), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH, 13 cases), aspartate aminotransferase (AST, 16 cases) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT, 12 cases) levels, however, the albumin (Alb, 15 cases) lever was decreased. The numbers of CD3 + T cells and CD4 + T cells decreased in 10 patients. ③ The levels of D-dimer, interleukins (IL-2, IL-6, IL-10) in severe Chlamydia psittaci pneumonia were significantly higher than those in mild Chlamydia psittaci pneumonia [D-dimer (μg/L): 10 257±4 203 vs. 1 085±642, IL-2 (ng/L): 1.1 (0.8, 1.7) vs. 0.3 (0.1, 0.7), IL-6 (ng/L): 315 (182, 505) vs. 75 (18, 131), IL-10 (ng/L): 7.0±4.1 vs. 2.3±0.7], but the LYM was lower (×10 9/L: 0.4±0.1 vs. 1.1±0.4), with significant differences (all P < 0.05). ④ Chest imaging manifestations were exudative lesions and large consolidation of lungs. Large consolidation of both lungs can occur in some critically ill patients. Conclusions:Chlamydia psittaci pneumonia is mainly associated with a bird or poultry contact history. The clinical manifestations usually present high fever, dyspnea, normal or slightly increased leucocytes, and lung consolidation. The levels of LYM, D-dimer, IL-2, IL-6 and IL-10 in serum are expected to predict the severity of the Chlamydia psittaci pneumonia.

Detección y caracterización molecular de Chlamydia psittaci y Chlamydia abortus en psitácidos mascotas en la provincia de Buenos Aires, Argentina / Detection and molecular characterization of Chlamydia psittaci and Chlamydia abortus in psittacine pet birds in Buenos Aires province, Argentina

In order to determine the presence and genetic diversity of Chlamydia spp. in the north-eastern area of Buenos Aires province, Argentina, conjunctival, oropharyngeal, cloacal swab and tissues were collected from a total of 90 psittacine pet birds of different age and clinical manifestations. Through molecular methods, Chlamydiaceae was detected in 30% (27/90) of the samples, out of which 70.3% (19/27) were positive for Chlamydia psittaci and 14.9% (4/27) for Chlamydia abortus. Nine C. psittaci positive samples were genotyped by ompA gene sequences, 8 clustered within genotype A and 1 within genotype B. A significant association was observed between the presence of Chlamydia spp. and the manifestation of clinical signs compatible with chlamydiosis, as well as with the age of the birds (younger than one year old). This report contributes to the improvement of our understanding of chlamydial agents in our country.

Con el objetivo de determinar la presencia de Chlamydia spp. en psitácidos del área noreste de la provincia de Buenos Aires y conocer su diversidad genética, se recolectaron y analizaron mediante métodos moleculares hisopados conjuntivales, orofaríngeos, cloacales y tejidos de un total de 90 psitácidos de diferentes edades y con diversas manifestaciones clínicas. El 30% (27/90) de las muestras procesadas fueron positivas para Chlamydiaceae; el 70,3% (19/27) de estas resultaron positivas para Chlamydia psittaci y el 14,9% (4/27) para Chlamydia abortus. Nueve muestras positivas para C. psittaci fueron genotipificadas por secuenciación del gen ompA: 8 correspondieron al genotipo Ay una al genotipo B. Se observó una asociación significativa entre la presencia de Chlamydia spp. y la manifestación de signos clínicos compatibles con clamidiosis, como así también con la edad de las aves (menores de un ano). Este informe contribuye a mejorar nuestro conocimiento de los agentes clamidiales en nuestro país.

Primera evidencia de Chlamydia psittaci en huron sable (Mustella putorios furo) en Venezuela / First evidence of Chlamydia psittaci in the sable ferret (Mustella putorios furo) in Venezuela

RESUMEN Chlamydia psittaci (Cp) es una bacteria intracelular obligada transmitida a través de aerosoles derivados de secreciones nasales y ópticas, tejidos, heces y plumas. Comúnmente es identificada en aves, sin embargo, han emergido genotipos capaces de infectar nuevos reservorios mamíferos. Por ello, se buscó ADN de Cp en muestras de cinco individuos de Mustella putorios furo y un hisopado cloacal de un individuo de Colinus cristatus en cautiverio en Venezuela a través de la PCR-anidada, amplificando un segmento del gen 16S ADNr. Se demostró la presencia de Cp en un Colinus cristatus con signos de clamidiosis y en cuatro Mustella putorios furo sin signos clínicos de clamidiosis. Se indica un posible nuevo reservorio para Cp, donde el contacto con productos de excreción de Colinus cristatus con manifestaciones clínicas de clamidiosis, hacinamiento, inadecuada ventilación, contacto con productos de excreción de Psittaciformes y condiciones sanitarias deficientes favoreció la infección por Cp. Se desconoce el total de reservorios de Cp, por ello la notificación de los aislados permite el entendimiento, distribución y diversidad de agentes clamidiales en fauna silvestre y en cautiverio.

ABSTRACT Chlamydia psittaci (Cp) is an obligate intracellular bacterium, transmitted through aerosols from nasal and optic secretions, tissues, feces, and feathers. Although commonly identified in birds, genotypes have emerged that can infect new mammalian reservoirs. Therefore, of rectal swabs samples of five Mustella putorios furo individuals and a cloacal swab sample of Colinus cristatus in captivity, in Venezuela, were tested for Cp, using the nested PCR amplifying a segment of the 16S rDNA gene. The presence of Cp was found in four asymptomatic Mustela putorios furo and one symptomatic Colinus cristatus for avian chlamydiosis, indicating a new potential reservoir for Cp. The contact with excretions of infected Colinus cristatus and Psittaciformes, as well as overcrowding, inadequate ventilation, and inadequate sanitary conditions can favor Cp infection. The total number of Cp reservoirs is unknown; therefore, the noting and molecular characterization of isolates enable the understanding, distribution, and diversity of chlamydial agents in wildlife and animals in captivity.

Survey of pathogens in threatened wild red-tailed Amazon parrot (Amazona brasiliensis) nestlings in Rasa Island, Brazil

ABSTRACT The red-tailed Amazon parrot (Amazona brasiliensis) is a threatened species of psittacine bird that inhabit coastal regions of Brazil. In view of the threat of this species, the aim of this study was to perform a health evaluation in wild nestlings in Rasa Island, determining the prevalence of enterobacteria and infectious agents according to type of nest. Blood samples were collected from 64 birds and evaluated for antibodies of Chlamydia psittaci by commercial dot-blot ELISA. Cloacal and oropharyngeal swabs samples were collected from 23 birds from artificial wooden nests, 15 birds from PVC nests and 2 birds from natural nests for microbiological analysis. Swab samples were collected from 58 parrots for C. psittaci detection by PCR and from 50 nestlings for Avian Influenza, Newcastle Disease and West Nile viruses' detection analysis by real-time RT-PCR. Ten bacterial genera and 17 species were identified, and the most prevalent were Escherichia coli and Klebsiella oxytoca. There was no influence of the type of nest in the nestlings' microbiota. All samples tested by ELISA and PCR were negative. There is currently insufficient information available about the health of A. brasiliensis and data of this study provide a reference point for future evaluations and aid in conservation plans.

Chlamydia psittaci EN AVES PSITACIDAS EN DOS PARQUES ZOOLÓGICOS DE VENEZUELA / Chlamydia psittaci in Psitacines Birds in Two Zoological Parks of Venezuela

RESUMEN La determinación de Chlamydia psittaci (Cp) en aves psitácidas en parques zoológicos de Venezuela representa una estrategia de conservación y preservación para este grupo de aves, donde múltiples especies se encuentran amenazadas de extinción y otras han perdido su capacidad de reincorporación a su hábitat natural. A través de la reacción en cadena de la polimerasa anidada (PCR) fue amplificada la subunidad 16S del ADNr de Cp en 50 muestras de hisopado cloacal de aves psitácidas, reportando una frecuencia de 62 %. El trabajo fue realizado en el Parque Zoológico Las Delicias (PZD) 8 % y el Aquarium de Valencia (AV) 54 %. La elevada frecuencia fue asociada a un genotipo de baja concentración y virulencia debido a la ausencia de signos clínicos de clamidiosis aviar. Estos resultados demuestran la necesidad de promover la detección de Cp, principalmente para el AV que actúa como centro de recepción de ejemplares de decomiso, y, al igual que el PZD, poseen otras especies vulnerables a la extinción con riesgo de infección a Cp.

ABSTRACT The determination of Chlamydia psittaci (Cp) in psittacida birds in zoological parks in Venezuela represents a strategy of conservation and preservation for this group of birds, where multiple species are threatened with extinction and others have lost their capacity of reincorporation to their natural habitat. Through the nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) the 16S subunit of Cp DNAr was amplified in 50 cloacal swab samples from psittacine birds, reporting a frequency of 62 %. The work was carried out in the Zoo Park Las Delicias (PZD) 8% and the Aquarium of Valencia (AV) 54%. The high frequency was associated with a genotype of low concentration and virulence due to the absence of clinical signs of avian chlamydiosis. These results demonstrate the need to promote the detection of Cp, mainly for the AV that acts as a center of reception of specimens of confiscation, and, like the PZD, have other species vulnerable to extinction with risk of infection to Cp.

Epidemiological and molecular characteristics of Chlamydia psittaci from 8 human cases of psittacosis and 4 related birds in Argentina / Características epidemiológicas y moleculares de Chlamydia psittaci provenientes de 8 casos humanos de psitacosis y de 4 aves relacionadas en la Argentina

In Argentina, the epidemiological and molecular characteristics of Chlamydia psittaci infections are still not sufficiently known. A total of 846 respiratory and 10 ocular samples from patients with suspected human psittacosis were tested for C. psittaci from January 2010 to March 2015. Four samples of birds related to these patients were also studied. Forty-eight samples were positive for C. psittaci by a nested PCR. The molecular characterization of twelve C. psittaci PCR-positive samples received in the National Reference Laboratory INEI-ANLIS "Dr. Carlos G. Malbrán", Buenos Aires, Argentina was performed. Eight positive samples from humans and four from birds were genotyped by ompA gene sequencing. C. psittaci genotype A was found in all human samples and in the related birds. This report contributes to our increasing knowledge of the epidemiological and molecular characteristics of C. psittaci to conduct effective surveillance of its zoonotic infections.

En la Argentina, aún no se conocen suficientemente las características epidemiológicas y moleculares de las infecciones por Chlamydia psittaci. Entre enero del 2010 y marzo del 2015 se estudiaron 846 muestras respiratorias y 10 oculares de pacientes con sospecha de psitacosis para la búsqueda de C. psittaci. También se estudiaron 4 muestras de aves relacionadas con estos pacientes. De ese total, 48 muestras fueron positivas para C. psittaci mediante una reacción en cadena de la polimerasa (PCR) anidada. Posteriormente, se realizó en el INEI-ANLIS «Dr. Carlos G. Malbrán¼ la caracterización molecular de 12 muestras positivas para C. psittaci, 8 de humanos y 4 de aves, que fueron genotipificadas por secuenciación del gen ompA. C. psittaci genotipo A se encontró en todas esas muestras. Este informe contribuye a mejorar nuestro conocimiento de las características epidemiológicas y moleculares de C. psittaci para lograr una vigilancia efectiva de la zoonosis que produce.

Protective effect of interferon-γ on Chlamydia psittaci acute infection / 中国人兽共患病学报

We investigated the effects of IFN-γ on Chlamydia psittaci (Cps) infection.HeLa cells were treated with different concentrations of recombinant human IFN-γ (5 ng/mL,25 ng/mL,50 ng/mL) after infecting with C.psittaci 6BC,then the number and morphology of C.psittaci inclusion bodies were examined after 48 hours.C57BL/6J mice were intranasally infected with 2 × 106 IFUs C.psittaci 6BC,and intraperitoneally administrated with 10 μg recombinant murine interferon-γ 24 hours prior or post infection,then body weight,activity and survival rate were recorded.The histopathology of mice livers and lungs was analyzed by HE staining on day 5 or day10 post infection.And the chlamydial inclusion bodies were titrated in the lung homogenates of mice sacrificed on day 5 after infection.The inclusion body numbers of recombinant human IFN-γ treated groups (by 5ng/mL,25ng/mL,50ng/mL) were significantly less than that in the control group (23.8±5.1)× 106,(10± 3.58) × 106,(8.0±2.22) × 106,(43.3±11.05)× 106,respectively).And the morphology of inclusion bodies in IFN-γ treated HeLa cells was irregular and much smaller.We also found that IFN-γ could significantly improve the survival rate,reduce acute clinical manifestations and pathological injurery of lung and liver in C.psittaci respiratory tract infected mice model.So we summarized that IFN-γ can mediate strong immunological protection during acute C.psittaci early infection.

Prevalence and genotypes of Chlamydia psittaci in pigeons in Jilin Province, Northeastern China / 中国人兽共患病学报

Chlamydia psittaci is a causative agent of psittacosis,which can infect a wide range of hosts including birds and humans.However,information regarding C.psittaci infection in pigeons is scarce.In the present study,a total of 399 fecal samples from pigeons were collected from Jilin Province,northeastern China,between March and May 2015,and examined by nested PCR amplification of outer membrane protein A (ompA) gene.The overall Chlamydiosis prevalence was 5.01％ (21/399),with 3.19％ in Changchun City and 9.40％ in Jilin City.Furthermore,breed was the major risk factor associated with Chlamydia infection in pigeon,boiler pigeons had a prevalence of 7.49％,whereas no C.psittaci was detected in racing pigeons.Sequence analysis of the ompA gene revealed that all the identified isolates represented C.psittaci genotype B.Our results firstly indicated the presence of zoonotic C.psittaci in boiler pigeons in Jilin Province,northeastern China,and effective measures should be implemented to reduce the risk of C.psittaci transmission from pigeons to humans.

Development of a Novel PmpD-N ELISA for Chlamydia psittaci Infection / 生物医学与环境科学（英文）

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>Chlamydia psittaci is an avian respiratory pathogen and zoonotic agent. The wide prevalence of C. psittaci poses a threat to the poultry industry and its employees. However, few commercial kits are available for detecting avian antibodies excluding the in-house ELISA kit. In this study, we developed a novel ELISA kit for detecting antibodies against C. psittaci based on the N-terminal fragment of polymorphic outer membrane protein D (PmpD-N) as the coating antigen.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>The antigen concentrations, primary antibody, and cut-off value were determined and optimized. The ELISA, designated PmpD-N ELISA, was assessed for sensitivity, specificity, and concordance using sera samples from 48 experimentally infected and 168 uninfected SPF chickens.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>The sensitivity and specificity of PmpD-N ELISA were 97.9%, 100%, respectively, while the concordance was 98.1% as compared to that of MOMP-ELISA. No cross-reaction with positive sera for other avian pathogens was found. Using PmpD-N ELISA, 799/836 clinical samples were positive, including 93.0% and 98.1% positivity in layers and broilers, respectively.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>These data indicate that indirect ELISA with PmpD-N as the antigen candidate is a promising approach for the surveillance of C. psittaci infection.</p>

Eco-epidemiología de las Chlamydia psittaci, Chlamydia pneumoniae y Chlamydia pecorum: impacto en la salud pública / Eco Epidemiology of Chlamydia psittaci, Chlamydia pneumoniae and Chlamydia pecorum: impact on public healthpneumoniae by in vitro neutralization and microimmunofluorescence assays. Zentralbl Bakteriol 1996; 284(1):52-57.20. Phoon MC, Yee GW, Koh WP, Chow VT. Comparative Seroepidemiologic Analysis of Chlamydophila pneumoniae Infection using Microimmunofluorescence, Enzyme Immunoassay and Neutr

ntroducción: Las infecciones zoonóticas son una creciente amenaza para la salud mundial. Varias especies de Chlamydia y sus implicancias son poco conocidas. Objetivo: Profundizar el conocimiento eco-epidemiológico de Chla-mydia en Córdoba.Materiales y métodos: Se implementaron técnicas serológicas y mo-leculares para la detección de Chlamydia en 314 individuos sanos, 44 con nexo epidemiológico asociado a Psitacosis, 505 aves silvestres, 288 aves cautivas, 30 reptiles y 30 equinos. Resultados: En humanos se detectó C. pneumoniae, C. pecorum, C. psittaci, y co-infecciones asociadas a mayor cuantificación bac-teriana. La prevalencia de anticuerpos en indivi-duos sanos fue de 14,3 % y en pacientes 68,2 %. Se evidenció una respuesta inmune exacerbada en trabajadores en contacto con reptiles infectados con C. pneumoniae. En aves cautivas se identificó C. pneumoniae, C. psittaci, C. pecorum, C. galliná-cea y co-infecciones con mayor concentración de ADN. Las aves silvestres no excretaban Chlamydia. En equinos se halló C. pneumoniae, también en Su-ricata suricatta y Atelerix albiventris. El genotipo A se halló en humanos, reptiles, aves, mamíferos no humanos y B en equinos. Conclusiones: C. psittaci genotipo WC se detectó en aves y humanos; en menor frecuencia los genotipos E/B y A. Este hallazgo sugiere que los animales pueden representar una fuente subestimada de C. psittaci. El hallazgo de C. pneumoniae y C. pecorum en pacientes y en animales, plantea posibles ciclos zoonóticos y la necesidad de diagnóstico diferencial. Estos resultados avalaron el decreto de ley provincial de tenencia y comercialización de animales, promovido por la Secretaría de Am-biente de Córdoba

Introduction: Zoonotic infections are a growing threat to global health. Chlamydia and its implications are not well known.The aim of this study was to further the eco-epidemiological knowledge of Chlamydia in Cordoba.Materials and methods: Serological and molecular techniques was implemented for detection of Chlamydia in 314 healthy individuals, 44 individuals associated with Psittacosis, 505 wild birds, 288 captive birds, 30 reptiles and 30 equine.Results: In humans were detected C. pneumoniae, C. pecorum, C. psittaci and co-infections associated with increased bacterial quantification.The prevalence of antibodies in healthy individuals was 14.3% and 68.2% patients. Exacerbated immune response was detected in workers with contact infected with C. pneumoniae evidenced reptiles.In captive birds we detected C. pneumoniae, C. psittaci, C. pecorum, C. gallinácea and co-infections with the highest concentration of DNA. Wild birds did not excrete Chlamydia.In horses we found C. pneumoniae, also in Suricata suricatta and Atelerix albiventris. The genotype was found in humans, reptiles, birds, mammals and non-human equine B.Conclusions: C. psittaci WC genotype was detected in birds and humans; less frequently genotypes E/B and A. This finding suggests that animals can be a source of C. psittaci underestimated.The discovery of C. pneumoniae and C. pecorum in patients and animals raises potential zoonotic cycles and the need for differential diagnosis.These results endorsed the decree of provincial law to possess and marketing of animals, promoted by Secretaría de Ambiente de Córdoba

Cloning and prokaryotic expression of the ompA gene of Chlamydia psittaci in cows / 中国人兽共患病学报

The ompA gene of Chlamyia psittaci in cows was amplified by PCR with primers designed based on those reported in GenBank.The amplified ompA gene was inserted into the bacterial plasmid vector pGEX-4T-1 and then transformed into E.coli BL21(DE3) with IPTG induction. The gene was derived from plasmid pMD18-T vector and then sequenced.It was demonstrated that this recombinant fusion protein of approximately 68kD in molecular mass was highly expressed in inclusion body and more pure proteins would be produced after purification.The fusion protein specifically reacted with positive sera of bovine Chlamydia as demonstrated by Western blotting. These results indicate that this recombinant fusion protein shows good reactivity and could be used to develop the diagnostic kit for bovine Chlamydia and genetic engineering vaccine.

Detecting chlamydia psittaci DNA in patients with ocular adnexal lymphomas / 重庆医科大学学报

Objective:To detect the chlamydia psittaci DNA in patients with ocular adnexal lymphomas,and find out the relationship between chlamydia psittaci infection and ocular adnexal lymphomas.Methods:Tissue samples from 36 patients with ocular adnexal lymphomas were collected,as well as samples from patients with benign lymph disease and patients with eye trauma as controls.Chlamydia psittaci DNA were detected by PCR.Results:The chlamydia psittaci DNA positive rates in patients with ocular adnexal lymphomas,benign lymph diseases and ocular trauma organizations were 47.2%,5.0%,0.0%(?2 = 24.578,P=0.000 1),respectively.The DNA positive rates in patients withⅠ A period were 52.0%,36.4% of Ⅱ A period(?2 =0.749,P=0.387).5,8-year survival rates of all the cases were 90.1%,78.5%,which were the same in Chlamydia psittaci DNA positive group and negative group(?2 = 0.163,P= 0.687).Conclusion:The incidence of ocular adnexal lymphomas may be related with Chlamydia psittaci infection.But there is no evidence of the relationship with Chlamydia psittaci infection and of the ocular adnexal lymphomas stage and prognosis.