Clinicopathological study of parasitic lesions of the eye and ocular adnexa in a tertiary care ophthalmic center in South India

Purpose: To study clinical and pathological features of parasitic lesions in the ocular adnexa in a tertiary care ophthalmic center in south India. Methods: 43 cases of ocular parasitosis were analysed clinically and correlated with the pathological findings (gross morphology and histopathology) over a period of five years (2015–2020). Results: Among the 43 cases, the age group ranged from 9 months to 78 years (mean age of 41.6 years). Female patients were more common than male patients, with a percentage of 63% (27) and 37% (16) respectively. Cystic lesion in the lid or orbit was seen in 23 cases (53.4%); solid mass lesions were seen in 17 cases (39.5%); subconjunctival worms in three cases; and subretinal parasite in one. Gross examination and histopathologic study showed Dirofilaria in 23 cases (53.5%), followed by Cysticercus in six cases (14%) and Microfilariae in four cases (9.3%). Exact species identification was not possible in ten cases (23.25%). Correlation between the type of lesion and type of inflammatory cells with the specific parasite was done. Conclusion: Our study showed that important clinicopathological correlations can be made from the parasitic lesions in the eye and adnexa, which can aid in definitive diagnosis and prompt identification of the parasite for patient management

Immune response induced by 14-3-3.3 recombinant protein vaccine of Taenia solium in mice / 中华地方病学杂志

Objective:To explore the potential of Taenia solium (Ts) 14-3-3.3 protein as a candidate molecule for cysticercosis vaccine. Methods:Sixty Kunming mice with the body weight of 18 - 22 g were selected and divided into 3 groups according to their body weight via the random number table method, including normal saline control group (control group), Ts14-3-3.3 recombinant protein vaccine group (vaccine group), and Ts14-3-3.3 recombinant protein vaccine + adjuvant group (vaccine + adjuvant group), with 20 mice in each group. The multi-point subcutaneous injection method was adopted. After the first immunization at 0 week, the booster immunization was carried out twice, a total of 3 times, with an interval of 2 weeks. Four mice in the three groups were killed at 0, 2, 4, 6 and 8 weeks after the first immunization, and the blood of eyeballs and spleen were collected aseptically for serum separation and preparation of spleen lymphocytes suspension [treatment: cell suspension, antigen-stimulate and concanavalin (Con) A-stimulate], respectively. The levels of mouse serum specific immunoglobulin (Ig) G, IgG2a, IgG1 and IgE were detected by indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The proliferation level of mouse spleen lymphocytes was detected via the CCK-8 method. The levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-12, IL-13 and IL-10 in culture supernatant of mouse spleen lymphocytes were determined by double-antibody sandwich ELISA.Results:The IgG, IgG2a, and IgG1 levels of the vaccine and vaccine + adjuvant groups immunized for 2 to 8 weeks were higher than those of the control group, and the above indicators of the vaccine + adjuvant group were higher than those of the vaccine group ( P < 0.05). With the same treatment between the groups, the proliferation levels of spleen lymphocytes and the levels of TNF-α, IL-12, IL-13, and IL-10 in the culture supernatant after 2 - 8 weeks of immunization were statistically significantly different ( P < 0.05); the proliferation levels of spleen lymphocytes and the levels of TNF-α, IL-12, IL-13 and IL-10 in the culture supernatant of the vaccine and vaccine + adjuvant groups immunized for 2 to 8 weeks were higher than those of the control group, and the above indicators of the vaccine + adjuvant group were higher than those of the vaccine group ( P < 0.05). When treatment was different in the group, the proliferation levels of spleen lymphocytes and the levels of TNF-α, IL-12, IL-13 and IL-10 in the culture supernatant of the antigen-stimulate and ConA-stimulate were higher than those of the cell suspension, and the above indicators of the ConA-stimulate were higher than those of the antigen-stimulate ( P < 0.05). Conclusion:The recombinant protein vaccine of Ts14-3-3.3 can induce an effective immune response in mice.

Construction of prokaryotic expression system of Taenia solium 14-3-3.2 and its expression at the stages of Taenia solium adult and cysticercus / 中华地方病学杂志

Objective:To establish the prokaryotic expression system of Taenia solium (Ts) 14-3-3.2, and observe the expression of Ts14-3-3.2 protein at the stages of Ts adult and cysticercus. Methods:Based on the Ts14-3-3.2 gene sequence obtained by the Department of Parasitology, Zunyi Medical University in the previous study, the whole gene was synthesized by PCR-based accurate synthesis (PAS) method. After double digestion with restriction enzymes Nde Ⅰ and Xba Ⅰ, the plasmid pCzn1 was ligated to construct a recombinant plasmid pCzn1-Ts14-3-3.2. Then it was transformed into Escherichia coli ArcticExpress competent cells to induce the expression of Ts14-3-3.2 protein. The expression products were analyzed and identified by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and coomassie blue staining. The purified Ts14-3-3.2 recombinant protein was obtained by Ni-affinity chromatography. New Zealand rabbits were immunized with the recombinant protein to produce Ts14-3-3.2 polyclonal antibody. Western blotting was used to detect the expression of Ts14-3-3.2 protein at the stages of Ts adult and cysticercus. Results:The recombinant plasmid pCzn1-Ts14-3-3.2 was successfully constructed. After induced expression, Ts14-3-3.2 target protein bands appeared in the supernatant and precipitated at the relative molecular weight of about 29.31 × 10 3. The purified Ts14-3-3.2 recombinant protein with His label could be recognized by anti-His monoclonal antibody, and the Ts14-3-3.2 polyclonal antibody with titer of 1 ∶ 512 000 was obtained. Western blotting showed that Ts14-3-3.2 protein was expressed at the stages of Ts adult and cysticercus. Conclusions:The prokaryotic expression system of Ts14-3-3.2 is successfully established, and the Ts14-3-3.2 polyclonal antibody with relatively higher purity and titer is obtained. The Ts14-3-3.2 protein is expressed at the stages of Ts adult and cysticercus.

Bruns Syndrome Caused by Intraventricular Neurocysticercosis: Literature Review

Bruns syndrome is one of the clinical presentations of intraventricular neurocysticercosis, and it is characterized by episodes of headache, vertigo and vomiting. The intraventricular form of neurocysticercosis occurs in 7% to 20% of the cases, and it is more serious than the intraparenchymal form. The management is primarily surgical, associated with pharmacological therapy with anthelmintic drugs and corticosteroids. We report the case of a patient who presented Bruns syndrome due to neurocysticercosis.

CISTICERCOSE BOVINA: OCORRÊNCIA EM ABATEDOURO DE SERTÃOZINHO, SP, E RELAÇÃO COM A TENÍASE E CISTICERCOSE HUMANA

O presente trabalho teve como objetivo verificar a incidência de cisticercose bovina em 2.519 bovinos, encaminhados ao Departamento de Inspeção Final (D.I.F) de um abatedouro frigorífico, sob inspeção federal, localizado em Sertãozinho-SP. Esses animais eram oriundos de diferentes cidades dos estados de São Paulo, Minas Gerais e Goiás, sendo possível o uso do respectivo abatedouro, durante o período de junho de 2018 a dezembro de 2018, como um recinto de convergência desses bovinos para estudo de caráter epidemiológico e, portanto, servindo para representar a situação sanitária do rebanho nessa região. Foram selecionados os 3 municípios em que se detectaram as maiores incidências de cisticercose bovina para tentar, depois, relacioná-las com as incidências, nos mesmos municípios, de teníase e cisticercose humana. Para tanto, contactou-se as respectivas secretarias de saúde dos aludidos municípios, na tentativa de fechamento do ciclo zoonótico e levantamento da hipótese sobre a causa raiz do complexo nessas áreas. Com foco, sobretudo, em evidenciar o problema aos órgãos de saúde responsáveis pelo devido controle sanitário. Os dados foram obtidos através do Serviço de Inspeção Federal (SIF n° 941), indicando o município de origem, número de diagnosticados e as patologias dos bovinos encaminhados ao D.I.F, para a realização do compilado, que indicou 2357 animais infectados pela cisticercose bovina, sendo as cidades com os maiores níveis de infestação : São Bento do Sapucaí-SP, Agudos-SP e São João da Boa Vista-SP

This study aimed to analyze the prevalence of bovine cysticercosis in 2,519 animals, sent to the Department of Final Inspection (D.I.F) of a slaughterhouse, under federal inspection, located in Sertãozinho-SP. These cattle came from different cities in the states of São Paulo, Minas Gerais and Goiás, making it possible to use the respective slaughterhouse, during the period from June 2018 to December 2018, as a place of convergence of these cattle for an epidemiological study. , showing the zoonosis surveillance itself in its origins. The 3 counties with the highest incidence were selected to establish the relationship and, subsequently, the contact with the human part, health departments, in search for data on human teniasis and cysticercosis, in an attempt to close the zoonotic cycle and raise the hypothesis about the root cause of the complex in those areas. With a focus, above all, on highlighting the problem to the health agencies responsible for the control. The data were obtained through the local SIF (Federal Inspection Service) (941), indicating the animal's origin's county, number of diagnosed and the pathologies of the cattle which were sent to the D.I.F, for the compilation, which indicated 2357 animals infected by cysticercosis, with the cities with the highest levels of infestation. : São Bento do Sapucaí-SP, Agudos-SP and São João da Boa Vista-SP

Cisticercose bovina: ocorrência em abatedouro de Sertãozinho, SP, e relação com a teníase e cisticercose humana

O presente trabalho teve como objetivo verificar a incidência de cisticercose bovina em 2.519 bovinos, encaminhados ao Departamento de Inspeção Final (D.I.F) de um abatedouro frigorífico, sob inspeção federal, localizado em Sertãozinho-SP. Esses animais eram oriundos de diferentes cidades dos estados de São Paulo, Minas Gerais e Goiás, sendo possível o uso do respectivo abatedouro, durante o período de junho de 2018 a dezembro de 2018, como um recinto de convergência desses bovinos para estudo de caráter epidemiológico e, portanto, servindo para representar a situação sanitária do rebanho nessa região. Foram selecionados os 3 municípios em que se detectaram as maiores incidências de cisticercose bovina para tentar, depois, relacioná-las com as incidências, nos mesmos municípios, de teníase e cisticercose humana. Para tanto, contactouse as respectivas secretarias de saúde dos aludidos municípios, na tentativa de fechamento do ciclo zoonótico e levantamento da hipótese sobre a causa raiz do complexo nessas áreas. Com foco, sobretudo, em evidenciar o problema aos órgãos de saúde responsáveis pelo devido controle sanitário. Os dados foram obtidos através do Serviço de Inspeção Federal (SIF n° 941), indicando o município de origem, número de diagnosticados e as patologias dos bovinos encaminhados ao D.I.F, para a realização do compilado, que indicou 2357 animais infectados pela cisticercose bovina, sendo as cidades com os maiores níveis de infestação : São Bento do Sapucaí-SP, Agudos-SP e São João da Boa Vista-SP.

This study aimed to analyze the prevalence of bovine cysticercosis in 2,519 animals, sent to the Department of Final Inspection (D.I.F) of a slaughterhouse, under federal inspection, located in Sertãozinho-SP. These cattle came from different cities in the states of São Paulo, Minas Gerais and Goiás, making it possible to use the respective slaughterhouse, during the period from June 2018 to December 2018, as a place of convergence of these cattle for an epidemiological study. , showing the zoonosis surveillance itself in its origins. The 3 counties with the highest incidence were selected to establish the relationship and, subsequently, the contact with the human part, health departments, in search for data on human teniasis and cysticercosis, in an attempt to close the zoonotic cycle and raise the hypothesis about the root cause of the complex in those areas. With a focus, above all, on highlighting the problem to the health agencies responsible for the control. The data were obtained through the local SIF (Federal Inspection Service) (941), indicating the animal’s origin’s county, number of diagnosed and the pathologies of the cattle which were sent to the D.I.F, for the compilation, which indicated 2357 animals infected by cysticercosis, with the cities with the highest levels of infestation. : São Bento do Sapucaí-SP, Agudos-SP and São João da Boa Vista-SP.

Evaluación del método de ELISA para detección de anticuerpos anti-cisticercos en sueros humanos / Evaluation of the ELISA method for the detection of anti-cysticercus antibodies in human sera / Avaliação do método ELISA para a detecção de anticorpos anti-cisticercos em soros humanos

La neurocisticercosis (NCC) es la localización en el sistema nervioso central (SNC) humano de la parasitosis provocada por el estadio larvario de la Taenia solium, el cisticerco, que prevalece en áreas urbanas y rurales y constituye un problema de salud pública. El diagnóstico puede efectuarse por exploración imagenológica del SNC con resonancia magnética o tomografía axial computarizada, no siempre disponible, y por pruebas de inmunoensayo (EIA) en sangre, que aportan al diagnóstico rapidez, bajo costo y transferibilidad. Para evaluar su capacidad diagnóstica y validar la precisión de la técnica de ELISA (ensayo inmunoabsorbente ligado a enzimas), en la detección de anticuerpos anti-cisticercos en sueros humanos, se diseñó una seroteca en forma aleatoria y en doble ciego, y se realizó el ELISA con las muestras, utilizando placas sensibilizadas con antígenos obtenidos del fluido vesicular de cisticercos de T. solium. Para la validación se realizaron 20 ensayos empleando controles positivos y negativos, por cuadruplicado en diferentes días, y realizados por más de un operador; el punto de corte para este método fue una densidad óptica de 0,325. La precisión intralaboratorio para el control débil (media=0,532±0,09) fue de %CV=17,51±0,09, y un valor de repetibilidad de %CV=7,04±0,04, cifras que se encuentran dentro de los límites esperados para el método. Con estos resultados se puede concluir que la precisión del ELISA para el serodiagnóstico de NCC se encuentra validada. El ensayo validado proporcionó resultados coherentes y repetidos que permitieron discriminar entre dos resultados dicotómicos y establecer con exactitud la condición de una posible infección, con un nivel de certidumbre estadística predeterminado.

Neurocysticercosis (NCC) is the location in the human central nervous system (CNS) of the parasitosis caused by the larval stage of Taenia solium, the cysticercus which prevails in urban and rural areas, constituting a public health problem. Diagnosis can be made by CNS imaging with magnetic resonance or computerized axial tomography, not always available, and by blood immunoassay (EIA) tests, which provide rapidity, low cost and transferability. In order to evaluate its diagnostic capacity and validate the ELISA (Enzyme- Linked ImmunoSorbent Assay) technique in the detection of anti-cysticercus antibodies in human sera, a collection of sera was designed in a randomized and double-blind manner, and the ELISA was performed with the samples, using plates sensitized with antigens obtained from the vesicular fluid of T. solium cysticerci. Twenty trials were conducted, using positive and negative controls, in quadruplicate, on different days, and performed by more than one operator; the cutoff for this method was an optical density of 0.325. The intralaboratory precision for the weak control (mean=0.532±0.09) was %CV=17.51±0.09, and a repeatability value of %CV=7.04±0.04, figures that are within the expected limits for the method, It can be concludedthat the accuracy of the ELISA for serodiagnosis of NCC is validated. The validated test provided consistent and repeated results, which made it possible to discriminate between two dichotomous outcomes, and to establish with accuracy the condition of a possible infection, with a predetermined level of statistical certainty.

A neurocisticercose (NCC) é o local no sistema nervoso central (SNC) humano de parasitose causada pelo estágio larval da Taenia solium, o cisticerco, prevalecente em áreas urbanas e rurais, constituindo um problema de saúde pública. O diagnóstico pode ser feito por varredura imagenológica do SNC com ressonância magnética ou tomografia axial computadorizada, nem sempre disponível, e por testes de imunoensaio (EIA) em sangue, que fornecem ao diagnóstico rapidez, baixo custo e portabilidade. Para avaliar a sua capacidade de diagnóstico e validar a precisão da técnica de ELISA (ensaio imunoabsorvente ligado a enzimas), na detecção de anticorpos anti-cisticercos em soros humanos, um serrarium foi projetado em forma aleatória e em duplo cego, e foi realizado com as amostras o ELISA, utilizando placas sensibilizadas com antígenos derivados do fluido vesicular de cisticercos de T. solium. 20 testes para validação foram realizados, utilizando controles positivos e negativos, em quadruplicado, em dias diferentes, e realizados por mais de um operador; o ponto de corte para este método era uma densidade óptica de 0,325. A precisão intralaboratorial para o controle fraco (média=0,532±0,09) foi de CV%=17,51±0,09, e um valor de repetibilidade de CV%=7,04±0,04, valores que estão dentro dos limites esperados para o método, podendo concluir com esses resultados que a precisão do ELISA para diagnóstico sorológico de NCC é validado. O ensaio validado forneceu resultados consistentes e repetidos, o que permitiu discriminar entre dois resultados dicotômicos e identificar com exatidão a condição de possível infecção com um nível de certeza pré-determinado estatisticamente.

Molecular phylogenetic analysis of Cysticercus ovis from Egypt based on MT-CO1 gene sequences / Análise filogenética molecular de Cysticercus ovis do Egito com base nas sequências do gene MT-CO1

Abstract Cysticercus ovis or sheep measles is the larval stage of Taenia ovis, which is the intestinal tapeworm of dogs. It is found in the cardiac and skeletal muscles of sheep and can be the cause of partial or total condemnation of carcasses at abattoirs. The aim of the current work was to determine the prevalence of C. ovis among sheep in Upper Egypt and to present the molecular and phylogenetic analysis of this using the amplified Mitochondrial Cytochrome Oxidase subunit 1 (MT-CO1) gene. A total of 1885 sheep slaughtered at local abattoirs of 4 different governorates of Upper Egypt (Asuit, Sohag, Qena and Aswan) were carefully examined for C. ovis. The overall prevalence of infection was 2.02%. The highest rate of infection was observed in adult animals over 4 years of age (44.73%). There was no significant effect of animal sex on infection rates. The phylogenic analysis of C. ovis Egyptian isolates showed very close similarity to the New Zealand isolate (AB731675). This is the first report showing the genetic analysis of C. ovis in Egypt, which provides a very powerful tool for taxonomy and definitive diagnosis of C. ovis, which could be helpful for preventive and control programs.

Resumo Cysticercus ovis "sheep measles" é o estágio larval da Taenia ovis, encontrada nos músculos de carneiros, causado pela ingestão de ovos de Taenia ovis, parasita de cães. O objetivo do presente trabalho foi determinar a prevalência de C. ovis entre ovinos no Alto Egito e apresentar as análises moleculares e filogenéticas, utilizando o gene da subunidade mitocondrial citocromo-oxidase amplificada 1 (MT-CO1). Um total de 1885 ovinos abatidos em matadouros locais de 4 províncias diferentes do Alto Egito (Asuit, Sohag, Qena e Aswan) foram cuidadosamente examinados para C. ovis. A prevalência geral de infecção foi de 2,02%. A maior taxa de infecção foi observada em animais adultos com mais de 4 anos de idade (44,73%). Não houve efeito significativo do sexo nas taxas de infecção. A análise filogenética de isolados egípcios de C. ovis mostrou uma similaridade muito próxima ao isolado da Nova Zelândia (AB731675). Este é o primeiro relato mostrando a análise genética de C. ovis no Egito, fornecendo uma ferramenta para taxonomia e diagnóstico definitivo de C. ovis, podendo ser útil para programas preventivo e de controle.

Research progress of immunological pathogenesis of cysticercosis / 中华地方病学杂志

Taenia solium is one of the most important human parasites and its cysticercus and adult worms are both pathogenic.Cysticercosis caused by cysticercus is the most serious.In recent years,a large number of studies have been conducted on the immunological pathogenesis at cellular and molecular levels in local and abroad.The relation between cysticercus invasiveness and host immune effects and immunological pathogenesis has been preliminarily clarified.This article reviews the immunological pathogenesis of cysticercosis to provide new ideas for the immunoprevention and treatment of this disease.

Incidence of seizures due to degenerative phase of neurocysticercosis: A study in a cohort of primary school children in south India

@#Objective: To study the incidence of seizures due to degenerative phase of neurocysticercosis (NCC) in a cohort of primary school children in south India. Methods: The study cohort included 7,408 (age 5-15 years, boys 44.5% and girls 55.5%) children registered on roles on the date of start of study. The children were followed through first to fifth standard for new-onset of seizures. The data collected included demographic data, date of seizure, any antecedent events, seizure semiology, neurologic findings, 40 minutes EEG findings, and contrast CT brain findings. This analysis is limited to seizures due to degenerative phase of NCC. The average annual incidence rates (AAIR) and 95% confidential intervals (CI) were calculated. Results: During the study period, of the 58 children with new-onset seizure, 19 (32.7%) had seizure due to degenerative phase of NCC [mean age 9.42 years; range7-13 years; 8 boys and 11 girls]. Contrast CT scans in all the 19 children showed solitary cysticercus granuloma (SCG). The common seizure type by mode of onset was focal. The AAIR of seizure disorder was 36.64 (95%CI 22.1-57.2) per 100,000. All the children received antiepileptic drug treatment and four weeks of albendazole and steroids. The seizure disorder resolved with the resolution of the lesion on follow-up CT scan and AEDs were withdrawn. Conclusions: In this highly selective cohort of primary school children from low economic strata, the AAIR of seizure disorder due to degenerative phase of NCC, SCG was high. Seizure disorder due to SCG has an enduring predisposition for seizure recurrence and need AEDs for the period of resolution of lesion and AEDs could safely be withdrawn with the resolution of the lesion.

Diagnostic Performance Characteristics of Serum Chemistry in the Detection of Cysticercus fasciolaris in Brown Rats (Rattus norvegicus)

Aim: Brown rats (R. norvegicus), a natural intermediate host for Cysticercus fasciolaris, are widely distributed in Grenada. C. fasciolaris causes cysts in a number of organs, but with greater frequency in the liver. The purpose of this study was to investigate the alterations of serum chemistry particularly serum proteins and activity of liver enzymes associated with liver cysts in brown rats infected with C. fasciolaris, as well as to assess their performance in the diagnosis of Cysticercus fasciolaris. Study Design: In this cross sectional study, 170 brown rats were anesthetized and blood was obtained directly from the heart and collected in red-top tubes. The rats were then euthanized, and dichotomously classified as positive or negative for Cysticercus fasciolaris based on the presence or absence of Cysticercus fasciolaris-associated cysts, grossly and/or histopathologically. Methodology: For both groups of rats (positive or negative), the concentrations of each specific protein (g/dL), selected liver and pancreatic enzymes (U/L), metabolic waste products (mg/dL) and electrolytes (mg/dL) were measured using Vet Test (IDEXX, USA). Cut-off points for test values of liver enzymes were set at 2-fold or greater than upper reference limit. For all other analytes, test values that were outside the reference interval were considered to be diagnostically relevant. In order to determine the diagnostic performance and agreement between liver enzymes and Cysticercus fasciolaris-associated liver cysts, predictive values and Cohen’s kappa statistics, respectively were calculated. Results: The activity of AST significant increased among the infected brown rat population. The sensitivity and specificity of AST in detecting Cysticercus fasciolaris in brown rats was 76% and 59%, respectively. The positive and negative predictive values of AST were (80%) and (35%) respectively. Based on Cohen’s kappa, AST showed good agreement to gross/histopathology [0.4, 95% CI 0.16 – 0.53, SEkappa 0.42] in the detection of Cysticercus fasciolaris-associated liver cysts. Conclusion: AST is the most reliable enzyme in detecting Cysticercus fasciolaris in brown rats, and thus C. fasciolaris should be included among the differential diagnoses whenever increased serum activity of AST are observed in brown rats.

Economic losses due to the occurrence of cysticercosis in cattle from cities located in Minas Gerais, Brazil / Perdas econômicas devido à ocorrência de cisticercose em bovinos procedentes de municípios localizados em Minas Gerais, Brasil

ABSTRACT: Cysticercosis represents an important public health problem that can cause significant economic losses to the beef industry. The present study aimed to determine the prevalence rate of cysticercosis in cattle and estimate the economic losses to producers associated with this parasitic disease. Data were collected from the official sanitary inspection service of a slaughterhouse located in the city of Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, southeast Brazil, from 2009 to 2016. A total of 358,383 cattle from 46 cities in Minas Gerais, Brazil, were slaughtered, of which 4,243 were infected with cysticercosis (1.18%). A total of 5,194 cysticerci were detected in these carcasses, of which 4,548 (87.56%) were alive and 646 (12.44%) were calcified. Most of the cysticerci were located in the masseter and pterygoid masticatory muscles (72.41%). As to the classification of cysticercosis according to the degree of infection of organs and/or parts affected, mild infection was the most frequently observed (92.36%). Rural producers had a total of R$ 1,755,204.20 (US$ 537,526.80) of economic losses due to bovine cysticercosis during the time span of eight years covered by this retrospective study. The importance of the sanitary inspection of meat in the control of this major zoonotic diseases is emphasized.

RESUMO: A cisticercose representa um importante problema de saúde pública que pode causar prejuízos econômicos impactantes para a cadeia da carne bovina. Objetivou-se com este estudo determinar a frequência da ocorrência de cisticercose em bovinos e as perdas econômicas aos produtores. Foram coletados dados do serviço de inspeção sanitária oficial de um abatedouro frigorífico de Uberlândia, Estado de Minas Gerais, Brasil, no período de 2009 a 2016. Foram abatidos 358.383 bovinos, provenientes de 46 municípios de Minas Gerais, sendo que destes, 4.243 estavam infectados com cisticercose (1,18%). Foram detectados um total de 5.194 cisticercos, sendo 4.548 (87,56%) vivos e 646 (12,44%) calcificados. A maioria dos cisticercos estava localizada nos músculos mastigatórios masseteres e pterigóides (72,41%). Quanto à classificação da cisticercose, de acordo com o grau de infecção dos órgãos e/ou partes, a infecção discreta foi a que mais ocorreu (92,36%). Verificou-se que os produtores rurais tiveram um total de R$ 1.755.204,20 (US$ 537.526,80) de perdas econômicas durante o período analisado de oito anos devido à ocorrência de cisticercose no rebanho bovino. Destacou-se a importância da inspeção sanitária de carnes, no controle desta importante zoonose.

Aspectos macroscópicos e histológicos da cisticercose bovina / Macroscopic and histological findings of bovine cysticercosis

Cisticercose bovina é uma importante doença parasitária de caráter zoonótico, com elevada ocorrência em algumas regiões do Brasil. Considerando a possibilidade de erro na identificação das lesões, bem como a dificuldade de classificação dos cistos e a necessidade de melhorar o diagnóstico, o objetivo desse trabalho foi caracterizar e correlacionar as lesões macroscópicas e microscópicas da cisticercose bovina, além de utilizar a técnica da PCR para auxiliar na identificação do agente. Amostras de lesões císticas e nodulares de bovinos, compatíveis macroscopicamente com cisticercose, foram coletadas em abatedouros frigoríficos do Estado do Rio Grande do Sul. Os cistos foram divididos em três grupos: Grupo 1, cisticercos vivos (viáveis); Grupo 2 (subdividido em 2a e 2b), cisticercos degenerados com potencial escólex viável; e Grupo 3 cisticercos mortos (mineralizados). Após a obtenção das lâminas histológicas dos cisticercos de cada grupo, foi realizada a correlação macroscópica e microscópica. Para a realização da técnica da PCR foram utilizadas lesões císticas de 26 bovinos. Foram analisados cisticercos de 127 bovinos, totalizando 232 cistos. Dos 127, 46 bovinos (36,2%) apresentaram mais de um cisticerco e 81 (63,8%) um cisticerco cada. Em relação a localização anatômica dos cistos, o coração demonstrou o maior envolvimento (55,9%), seguido do músculo masseter (22,8%). Quando houve o envolvimento de dois órgãos em um mesmo bovino, coração e músculo masseter juntos, totalizaram 11 casos (8,6%). De maneira geral a média da frequência de cisticercose foi de 10% a 15% de bovinos acometidos por lote. Entretanto, a média isolada de alguns lotes demonstrou condenações acima de 50%, 80% e 90%. Morfologicamente, os 232 cisticercos foram classificados dentro de três grupos. No Grupo 1, 23 cistos (9,9%) foram considerados como vivos (viáveis), e eram caracterizados por lesões císticas com parede translúcida ou levemente opaca, contendo líquido claro e um ponto esbranquiçado no interior (escólex). Na histologia, os cistos eram compostos por uma membrana de onde invaginava um escólex de Taenia saginata. No segundo grupo (Grupo 2), foram incluídos 156 (67,2%) cisticercos degenerados com potencial escólex viável e macroscopicamente os cistos demonstraram dois padrões morfológicos distintos. No primeiro deles (Grupo 2a), visualizado em 111 casos (71,1%), observaram-se lesões nodulares com aspecto caseoso. Microscopicamente, os cistos caracterizavam-se por formações nodulares compostas por área central contendo escólex e membrana, ambos degenerados, e necrose caseosa. No segundo padrão (Grupo 2b), observado em 45 cisticercos (28,9%), as lesões também eram caseosas, entretanto ao corte os cistos demonstravam na área central um orifício em meio ao material caseoso. Os aspectos microscópicos dos 45 cistos incluídos no segundo padrão macroscópico assemelhavam-se aos cisticercos do primeiro padrão. Entretanto, oito cistos (17,8%) demonstraram somente a membrana parasitária viável e em um cisto notou-se a membrana com o escólex viável. No restante dos 36 cistos (80%), observou-se área central contendo escólex e membrana, ambos degenerados, e necrose caseosa. No terceiro grupo de classificação morfológica dos cisticercos (Grupo 3), foram inseridos os cistos mineralizados (mortos), totalizando 53 cistos (22,9%). O aspecto macroscópico desses cisticercos caracterizava-se por lesões nodulares, amarelas, firmes ao corte, que se fragmentavam. Histologicamente observaram-se formações nodulares com área central de acentuada mineralização, rodeadas por infiltrado inflamatório granulomatoso. Dos 127 bovinos, foi realizado PCR a partir do DNA extraído dos cisticercos de 26 bovinos, no qual 24 foram positivos para cisticercose. Em relação aos dois cisticercos negativos, um deles fazia parte do Grupo 2a e o outro do Grupo 3. A correlação entre os aspectos macroscópicos e microscópicos do segundo padrão morfológico observado dentro do Grupo 2, demonstrou que esse subgrupo representa o maior problema na interpretação, pois alguns cistos apresentaram características de viabilidade. Macroscopicamente esses cisticercos podem ser identificados quando cortados, porque possuem um orifício na área central que pode auxiliar no diagnóstico.(AU)

Bovine cysticercosis is an important zoonotic parasitic disease with high prevalence in several regions of Brazil. Considering the need of improvement of the accuracy of diagnosis of these lesions, as well as the difficulty of classification of the cysts, this study aimed to correlate gross and histopathological changes of bovine cysticercosis and to use polymerase chain reaction (PCR) as an aid in their identification. Cystic and nodular lesions from cattle, grossly compatible with cysticercosis, were sampled in slaughterhouses from Rio Grande do Sul State. Lesions were allotted in one of the following groups. Group 1: viable cysticercus; Group 2 (subdivided 2a e 2b): degenerating cysticercus with a potentially viable scolex; and Group 3: dead cysticercus (mineralized). The gross and microscopic aspects of every cysticerci of each group were compared. Two hundred and thirty two cysts and nodules compatible with cysticercus were sampled from 127 bovine. Twenty six of those lesions were tested with PCR. Out of 127 cattle, 46 (36.2%) had more than one cyst and the remaining 81 (63.8%) had on cyst each. Myocardium was the most frequently involved anatomical site (55.9%), followed by masseter muscle (22.8%). When there was more than one organ involved in the same bovine, myocardium a master muscle sum up 11 cases (8.6%). In general, the average of cysticercosis frequency was 10-15%. However the average in some cattle lots was in excess of 50%, 80% and 90%. Morphologically, 232 cysticerci were classified in three groups. In Group 1, 23 cysticerci (9.9%) were considered viable and were characterized by cysts of translucent or slightly opaque wall, containing clear and a white point (scolex) within the cyst. Histologically, the cysts consisted of a membrane from which a scolex of Taenia saginata invaginated. One hundred and fifty six cysts (67.2%) were allotted in Group 2; grossly these cysts revealed two different morphological patterns. In 111 (71.1%) cases of Group 2 (Group 2a) nodular caseous lesions were observed. Histologically, the cysts were characterized by nodules consisting by a central area containing the scolex and membrane, both degenerated, and caseous necrosis. In the remaining 45 (28.9%) cases of Group 2 (Group 2b), lesions were also caseous; however, at cut surface the cysts had a central hole amidst the caseous material. The microscopic aspect of the 45 cysts included in the second was similar to that of the first pattern. However in eight (17.8%) of the 45 cysts only a viable parasitic membrane was observed and in one cyst the membrane and viable scolex were observed. In the remaining 36 cases (80%), the cysts consisted of a central area containing both degenerated membrane and scolex, and caseous necrosis. In Group 3, 53 dead cysts (mineralized) (22.9%) were found among the total of 232 cysts. The gross aspect of these cysticerci was characterized by yellow form nodules which crumbled when cut. Histologically nodules were observed with marked central area of mineralization surrounded by granulomatous inflammatory response. Twenty four of the twenty cysts examined by PCR were positive for Cysticercus bovis and two of them were negative. One of the negatives was part of Group 2 (degenerated cysts) and the other one of the Group 3 (dead mineralized cysts). The correlation between gross and microscopic aspects of the second morphologic aspect of the Group 2 demonstrated that this subset represents a major complicating factor in interpretation, since a large number of these cysts reveal characteristics of viability. Grossly, these cysticerci might be identified when cut, since a hole in the central area will be observed aiding in recognizing his lesions.(AU)

Report of cysticercosis in sheep of Ballesta, Bolivar, Colombia / Reporte de cisticercosis en ovinos faenados en el corregimiento de Ballesta, Bolívar, Colombia / Relatório cisticercose em ovinos abatidos na aldeia de Ballesta, Bolívar, Colombia

Sheep are the intermediate hosts of Cysticercus tenuicollis, the metacestode of Taenia hydatigena. Cysticercosis produces economic losses associated with loss of condition and offal condemnation at slaughter. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of C. tenuicollis cysts in sheep, the most common sites and the histology of livers affected by this parasite in Bolivar, Colombia. This study included 23 sheep (4 females and 19 males) and it was carried out between August and November 2015. The prevalence of C. tenuicollis cysts was 39.13% (9/23). Fifty six percent (5/9) of the animals had body condition (BC: scale of 1 to 5) of 2; 22% (2/9) 3, and 22% (2/9) 4. A single cyst was found in 78% (7/9) of the animals, and 22% (2/9) had two cysts. Cysts were located in the rumen serosa: 44% (4/9); abomasal serosa: 22% (2/9); liver: 22% (2/9); bladder serosa 22% (2/9); and diaphragm: 11% (1/9). The C. tenuicollis metacestodes belonged to the species Taenia hydatigena. Lesions in the liver of all affected animals consisted of severe infiltration of eosinophils, lymphocytes and plasma cells. Also present were areas of periportal fibrosis. In conclusion, cysticercosis damages the liver of sheep and potentially have a deleterious effect on the productivity of the flock. This is the first report describing post-mortem diagnosis of Cysticercus tenuicollis infection in sheep in Colombia.

Los ovinos son los hospederos intermediaros de Taenia hydatigena y su forma de presentación es el Cysticercus tenuicollis. Produce pérdidas económicas asociadas a la disminución de peso y al decomiso de los órganos afectados. El objetivo de este estudio fue determinar la prevalencia de quistes por cisticercos en canales de ovejas, hacer la clasificación taxonómica, describir las localizaciones más frecuentes, estudiar la histología de la hepatitis por cisticerco en ovinos destinados al beneficio provenientes del corregimiento de Ballesta, Bolívar y poblaciones aledañas, Colombia. Se estudiaron 23 ovinos (4 hembras y 19 machos) entre agosto y noviembre de 2015. La prevalencia puntual fue del 39.13% (9/23). El 56% de los animales (5/9) tenían condición corporal (C.C) 2; el 22% (2/9) C.C 3, y el 22% (2/9) C.C 4. El 78% de los animales (7/9) presentaron un solo quiste, y el 22% (2/9), dos quistes. Los quistes se localizaron en la serosa del rumen: 44% (4/9); serosa del abomaso: 22% (2/9); hígado: 22% (2/9); vejiga: 22% (2/9); y diafragma: 11% (1/9). El metacéstodo identificado fue Cysticercus tenuicollis perteneciente al estado larval de la tenia Taenia hidatigena. Las lesiones diagnosticadas en hígado fueron infiltrado severo de eosinófilos, linfocitos y células plasmáticas; fibrosis hepática y colangiohepatitis mixta multifocal. En conclusión, la cisticercosis afecta el hígado de los ovinos y tiene un efecto potencialmente perjudicial sobre la productividad del rebaño. Este es el primer informe que describe en ovejas el diagnóstico post mortem de la infección por C. tenuicollis en Colombia.

Os carneiros sã o os anfitriões de intermediários Taenia hydatigena e sua apresentaçã o é a Cysticercus tenuicollis. Ela produz prejuízos económicos associados com reduçã o de peso e a apreensã o dos órgã os afetados. O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar a prevalência de cistos cisticercos em canais de ovelhas, tornar a classificaçã o taxonô mica, descrever os locais mais comuns, estudar a histologia dos cisticercos hepatite em ovinos destinados a beneficiar da populações circundante de Ballesta, Bolívar, Colômbia. Forum estudados 23 ovelhas (4 mulheres e 19 homens) entre agosto e novembro de 2015. A prevalência pontual foi 39,13% (9/23). 56% dos animais (5/9) tinha condiçã o corporal (C.C.) 2; 22% (09/02) 3 CC, e 22% (2/9) CC 4. 78% dos animais (7/9) tinha um único cisto, e 22% (09/02), dois cistos. Cistos foram localizados na serosa do rúmen: 44% (4/9); abomaso serosa: 22% (09/02); hepática: 22% (2/9); bexiga: 22% (09/02); e diafragma: 11% (09/01). O metacestóide foi identificado Cysticercus tenuicollis pertencentes ao estágio larval da tênia Taenia hydatigena. As lesões hepáticas graves foram diagnosticados infiltrados de eosinófilos, linfócitos e células de plasma; fibrose hepática e colangiohepatitis misturado multifocal. Em conclusã o, cisticercose afecta o fígado de carneiro e tem um efeito potencialmente nocivo sobre a produtividade do rebanho. Este é o primeiro relatório que descreve no diagnóstico postmortem ovelhas de infecçã o por C. tenuicollis na Colô mbia..

Cutaneous Cysticercosis - A Rare Case Report.

Cysticercosis is caused by Cysticercus Cellulosae, which is the larval stage of a tapeworm, Taenia Solium in humans. This larva commonly affects the central nervous system, but it can involve eyes, muscles, lungs, liver, subcutaneous tissues and heart with variable clinical manifestations. Here we report a rare case of cutaneous Cysticercosis of the left scapular region without any associated neurological or eye involvement in a 50 year old male patient. He was managed with albendazole and steroids with complete recovery.

Incidental findings of Cysticercus tenuicollis metacestodes in five oryx species

Objective: To determine the prevalence of Cysticercus tenuicollis (C. tenuicollis) metacestodes in five oryx species kept in Al Ain Zoo animal collection. Methods: This study was based on a retrospective analysis of post-mortem records covering a four year period (July 2010 to July 2014). Results: A total of 213 individual animals were recorded dead during the four year period (July 2010 to July 2014). Out of this, 12 (5.6%) were recorded with C. tenuicollis. More females (8) than males (4) were recorded to have C. tenuicollis, although this was not statistically significant (P = 0.373. 7). Conclusions: This study shows that, Arabian oryx, beisa oryx, fringe-eared oryx, gemsbok and scimitar-horned oryx are susceptible to C. tenuicollis. Based on the epidemiology and the life cycle of this parasite, it is possible that these captive animals ingested the parasite through contaminated feed which could have happened in the pasture land or stray dogs and wild canidae (e.g. fox) visited the zoo contaminating the oryx feed. Stray dogs and wild canidae should be prevented from visiting pasture land and a captive animal facility.

Molecular characterization of Cysticercus tenuicollis of slaughtered livestock in Upper Egypt governorates

Objective To present the molecular characterization of Cysticercus tenuicollis (C. tenuicollis) of Taenia hydatigena (T. hydatigena) from livestock isolates in Egypt, and to introduce a detailed image of C. tenuicollis infection in ruminant animals in Upper Egypt. Methods The prevalence rates of C. tenuicollis infections among the slaughtered animals from different organs were determined using the amplification of sequencing of the MT-CO1 gene. Results In the present study the infection rates of C. tenuicollis were found to be 16% and 19% in sheep and goat samples respectively. Firstly we report one larval stage of T. hydatigena detected in the camel liver in Egypt. C. tenuicollis infection manifested a higher prevalence in females than in males. Those above two years of age manifested a higher infection rate than younger animals. The preferred site for the infection was the omentum: a 70% preference in sheep and a 68% preference in goats. The molecular characterization using the MT-CO1 gene of isolates from sheep, goats and camels corresponded to T. hydatigena. For this study, molecular characterizations of T. hydatigena were done for the first time in Egypt. Molecular tools are of great assistance in characterizing the C. tenuicollis parasite especially when the morphological character cannot be detected, because the metacestodes are frequently confused with infection by the hydatid cyst, especially when these occur in the visceral organs. In the present study, C. tenuicollis manifested high identity in the goat and sheep samples, while differences were found more frequently in the camel samples (10 base pair). Conclusions Clearly molecular diagnosis for C. tenuicollis infection significantly helps to differentiate it from such other metacestodes as hydatidosis, which manifests a completely different pathogenicity and requires different control programs.

Incidental findings of Cysticercus tenuicollis metacestodes in five oryx species

Objective: To determine the prevalence of Cysticercus tenuicollis (C. tenuicollis) met-acestodes in five oryx species kept in Al Ain Zoo animal collection. Methods: This study was based on a retrospective analysis of post-mortem records covering a four year period (July 2010 to July 2014). Results: A total of 213 individual animals were recorded dead during the four year period (July 2010 to July 2014). Out of this, 12 (5.6%) were recorded with C. tenuicollis. More females (8) than males (4) were recorded to have C. tenuicollis, although this was not statistically significant (P = 0.3737). Conclusions: This study shows that, Arabian oryx, beisa oryx, fringe-eared oryx, gemsbok and scimitar-horned oryx are susceptible to C. tenuicollis. Based on the epidemiology and the life cycle of this parasite, it is possible that these captive animals ingested the parasite through contaminated feed which could have happened in the pasture land or stray dogs and wild canidae (e.g. fox) visited the zoo contaminating the oryx feed. Stray dogs and wild canidae should be prevented from visiting pasture land and a captive animal facility.

Inmunidad anti-cisticerco en una comunidad indígena del occidente venezolano / Anti-Cysticercus Immunity in an Amerindian Community from Western Venezuela

Para determinar la presencia de anticuerpos anti-cisticerco en una comunidad indígena del occidente venezolano, 93 individuos entre 1-78 años de edad fueron estudiados. La detección de anticuerpos anti cisticerco se realizó mediante la técnica inmunoenzimática de ELISA con extractos antigénicos de fluido vesicular de Taenia crassiceps. Los sueros fueron considerados positivos a diluciones ≥ 1:256 y las heces fueron estudiadas mediante examen parasitológico directo y concentrado. El 27,9% de la población presentó inmunidad anti-cisticerco y todos los grupos etarios fueron positivos. No se observaron diferencias estadísticamente significativas en relación al sexo, ni entre los grupos etarios. En el examen físico y en la historia clínica, no se encontraron datos relevantes de una probable alteración funcional en relación a cisticercosis. El porcentaje general de infección parasitaria fue de un 81,5%, con un marcado poliparasitismo de un 64,6%, con predominio de infección por protozoarios. No se detectaron huevos de Taenia spp. Este es el primer estudio sobre la prevalencia de anticuerpos anti-cisticerco en una comunidad indígena del occidente venezolano, con un alto porcentaje de la prevalencia desde la infancia, sugiriendo una exposición temprana a la cisticercosis. Además, una alta prevalencia de protozoarios y helmintos intestinales, lo que supone un riesgo sanitario considerable en esta población.

To determine the presence of anti-cysticercus antibodies in an Amerindian community in western Venezuela, ninety-three individuals between 1-78 years of age were studied. Anti-cysticercus antibodies were detected using the ELISA immune-enzymatic technique with antigenic extracts of vesicular fluid of Taenia crassiceps. Sera were considered positive at 1:256 dilutions; feces were studied by direct and concentrate parasitological examination. A 27.9% of the population had anti-cysticercus immunity, and all age groups were positives. No statistically significant differences in relation to sex or between age groups were observed. In the physical examination and medical history, no data relevant to a probable functional impairment related to cysticercosis were found. The overall percentage of parasitic infection was 81.5%, with a marked polyparasitism of 64.6% and a predominance of protozoan infection. No Taenia spp eggs were detected. This is the first study on the prevalence of anti-cysticercus antibodies in an indigenous community of western Venezuela with a high percentage of prevalence from childhood, suggesting early exposure to cysticercosis. In addition, a high prevalence of intestinal protozoa and helminthes were found, which supposes a significant health risk in this population.