ORCID Profile
0000-0002-0006-8262
Current Organisation
Murdoch University
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Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2014
DOI: 10.1016/J.EXPPARA.2014.07.004
Abstract: Little is known about the prevalence and pathogenesis of trypanosomes in Australian monotremes, and few genetic characterisation studies have been conducted with these haemoparasites. During the present investigation, molecular and microscopic methods were used to screen peripheral blood (n=28) and ectoparasites (n=10 adult ticks n=5 tick nymphs n=1 leech and n>500 tick eggs) collected from wild Tasmanian platypuses (Ornithorhynchus anatinus), for the presence of trypanosomatid-specific DNA and/or trypomastigotes. The genes for the small ribosomal subunit RNA (18S rDNA) and glycosomal glyceraldehyde phosphate dehydrogenase (gGAPDH) were lified and sequenced, prior to conducting phylogenetic analyses. The detection rate of the parasite-specific 18S rDNA in platypus blood was 85.7% (n=24/28), and the leech was also positive at both loci. Microscopically, high parasitaemia and the presence of abundant trypomastigotes, morphologically consistent with Trypanosoma binneyi Mackerras (1959), were observed in the blood films. Phylogenetic analyses at the 18S locus revealed the existence of four trypanosomatid-like genotypes, with variable similarity to two previously-described genotypes of T. binneyi (range of genetic p-distance: 0.0-0.5%). For the gGAPDH locus, for which only one T. binneyi sequence is available in GenBank, three genotypes closely related T. binneyi were identified (range of genetic p-distance: 0.1-0.4%). The leech-derived trypanosome isolate was virtually identical (at the two loci studied) to the other parasites sequenced from infected platypuses however, the molecular or morphological identification of the leech species was not possible. Although further studies are required, the molecular detection of trypanosomes in an aquatic leech removed from a platypus, suggests the possibility that these haematophagous hirudineans may be a vector for T. binneyi (and closely related genotypes).
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2007
DOI: 10.1016/J.VETPAR.2006.09.022
Abstract: Canine piroplasmosis is an emerging disease worldwide, with multiple species of piroplasm now recognised to infect dogs. A nested polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) assay was developed for the detection and differentiation of each of the piroplasm species currently known to infect dogs on the basis of the 18S ribosomal RNA gene. The assay can potentially lify and discriminate between Theileria annae, Theileria equi, Babesia conradae, Babesia gibsoni, Babesia sp. (Coco) and each of the Babesia canis subspecies. Non-canine piroplasm species can also potentially be detected using the described assay, however lification of Neospora caninum was also observed. The PCR was found to have a high detection limit, capable of detecting a 2.7x10(-7)% parasitaemia or the equivalent of 1.2 molecules of target DNA when using DNA extracted from whole EDTA blood and detected a parasitaemia of 2.7x10(-5)% using blood applied to both Flinders Technology Associates (FTA) cards and IsoCodetrade mark Stix. The application of blood s les to filter paper may greatly assist in piroplasm identification in regions of the world where local technologies for molecular characterisation are limited. The assay reported here has the potential to be standardised for routine screening of dogs for piroplasmosis.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 2010
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 10-09-2014
DOI: 10.1007/S00436-014-4118-Z
Abstract: Blood and ectoparasitic ticks were collected from migratory seabirds in New Zealand, including Australasian gannets (n = 13) from two sites and red-billed gulls (n = 9) and white-fronted terns (n = 2) from a third location. Blood smears were screened for parasite presence by microscopy, while DNA from blood s les was subjected to PCR for the presence of tick-transmitted protozoan haemoparasites belonging to the order Piroplasmida. Parasites were identified by comparing small subunit ribosomal RNA (18S rDNA) gene sequences to related sequences on GenBank. Analyses indicated that nine birds were infected with unknown variants of a Babesia poelea-like parasite (recorded as genotypes I and II), while four harboured a piroplasm that was genetically similar to Babesia kiwiensis. There was no parasite stratification by bird species both the gannets and gulls were positive for all three parasites, while the terns were positive for the B. kiwiensis-like and the B. poelea-like (genotype I) parasites. The B. kiwiensis-like parasite found in the birds was also found in two species of ticks: Carios capensis and Ixodes eudyptidis. This represents the first report of Babesia-positive ticks parasitising seabirds in New Zealand. The lack of host specificity and evidence of wide ranging distributions of the three piroplasm genotypes suggests there is a high degree of haemoparasite transmission occurring naturally between New Zealand seabird populations and species.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2000
DOI: 10.1016/S0020-7519(00)00134-X
Abstract: Pets offer in iduals and the community significant benefits, however cognisance must be taken of the potential for transmission of infectious agents from these animals to humans. The prevalence of many parasites, such as Giardia and Cryptosporidium, has increased over the past few decades while others, such as Toxocara and Ancylostoma, have decreased. These changes could be real, associated with the ready availability of efficacious anthelmintic products or could be artificial due to the type of surveys conducted, the animals surveyed and the diagnostic tests used. Immunocompromised people, in particular, must be aware of the potential risk of acquiring parasitic infections from their pets. However, with the adoption of good hygiene and a thorough knowledge of the transmission of these parasites, immunocompromised people should be able to continue to enjoy the significant benefits of pet ownership. As many owners are not aware of the zoonotic parasites that could be carried by their pets or their mode of transmission, it is concluded that veterinarians need to play a greater role in the education of their clients.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2023
Abstract: Tick-borne diseases (TBDs) are a growing global health concern. Despite extensive studies, ill-defined tick-associated pathologies remain with unknown aetiologies. Human immunological responses after tick bite, and inter-in idual variations of immune-response phenotypes, are not well characterised. Current reductive experimental methodologies limit our understanding of more complex tick-associated illness, which results from the interactions between the host, tick, and microbes. An unbiased, systems-level integration of clinical metadata and biological host data - obtained via transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics - offers to drive the data-informed generation of testable hypotheses in TBDs. Advanced computational tools have rendered meaningful analysis of such large data sets feasible. This review highlights the advantages of integrative system biology approaches as essential for understanding the complex pathobiology of TBDs.
Publisher: American Society of Parasitologists
Date: 04-2008
DOI: 10.1645/GE-1344.1
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2004
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.EXPPARA.2015.08.002
Abstract: Babesia gibsoni is a haemoprotozoan parasite of emerging global importance. The clinical presentation of babesial infections is erse and the systemic inflammatory response induced by infection is considered to be a major feature of the pathophysiology of canine babesiosis. An experimental case-controlled longitudinal study was conducted to assess the clinical, haematological, cytokine and acute phase protein changes that occur during experimental B. gibsoni infection of beagle puppies. Infected dogs became transiently pyrexic and anaemic, intermittently neutropenic and transiently, but profoundly, thrombocytopenic, although this had no apparent adverse clinical effect. Experimental B. gibsoni infection also induced an acute phase response, characterised by a marked increase in the concentration of C-reactive protein, which was delayed in onset following infection but preceded the detection of peripheral parasitaemia. Experimental B. gibsoni infection was also associated with marked increases in the concentration of multiple cytokines which were also delayed in onset following infection and occurred subsequent to the detection of peripheral parasitaemia and the acute phase response. This study furthers our understanding of the immune response that occurs during babesial infections and the role that systemic inflammation plays in the pathophysiology of canine babesiosis.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 08-04-2010
Abstract: A serological survey for Dirofilaria immitis , Anaplasma phagocytophilum , Ehrlichia canis , and Borrelia burgdorferi infections in rural hunting and urban shelter dogs mainly from southwestern regions of the Republic of Korea (South Korea) was conducted. From a total of 229 wild boar or pheasant hunting dogs, the number of serologically positive dogs for any of the four pathogens was 93 (40.6%). The highest prevalence observed was D. immitis (22.3%), followed by A. phagocytophilum (18.8%), E. canis (6.1%) and the lowest prevalence was B. burgdorferi (2.2%). In contrast, stray dogs found within the city limits of Gwangju showed seropositivity only to D. immitis (14.6%), and none of the 692 dogs responded positive for A. phagocytophilum , E. canis or B. burgdorferi antibodies. This study indicates that the risk of exposure to vector-borne diseases in rural hunting dogs can be quite high in Korea, while the urban environment may not be suitable for tick infestation on dogs, as evidenced by the low infection status of tick-borne pathogens in stray dogs.
Publisher: American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)
Date: 08-2016
Abstract: OBJECTIVE To assess platelet closure time (CT), mean platelet component (MPC) concentration, and platelet component distribution width (PCDW) in dogs with subclinical chronic valvular heart disease. ANIMALS 89 Cavalier King Charles Spaniels (CKCSs) and 39 control dogs (not CKCSs). PROCEDURES Platelet count, MPC concentration, PCDW, and Hct were measured by use of a hematology analyzer, and CT was measured by use of a platelet function analyzer. Murmur grade and echocardiographic variables (mitral valve regurgitant jet size relative to left atrial area, left atrial-to-aortic diameter ratio, and left ventricular internal dimensions) were recorded. Associations between explanatory variables (sex, age, murmur grade, echocardiographic variables, platelet count, and Hct) and outcomes (CT, MPC concentration, and PCDW) were examined by use of multivariate regression models. RESULTS A model with 5 variables best explained variation in CT (R 2 , 0.74), with 60% of the variance of CT explained by mitral valve regurgitant jet size. The model of best fit to explain variation in MPC concentration included only platelet count (R 2 , 0.24). The model of best fit to explain variation in PCDW included platelet count and sex ( R 2 , 0.25). CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE In this study, a significant effect of mitral valve regurgitant jet size on CT was consistent with platelet dysfunction. However, platelet activation, as assessed on the basis of the MPC concentration and PCDW, was not a feature of subclinical chronic valvular heart disease in CKCSs.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 20-03-2019
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 2010
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 07-2008
DOI: 10.1111/J.1748-5827.2008.00253.X
Abstract: A five-month-old female Jack Russell terrier was presented for investigation of acute lethargy, anorexia, coughing, respiratory distress and weakness. Examination findings included cyanosis, a grade 3 of 6 systolic heart murmur and prolonged capillary refill time. Radiography and echocardiography revealed severe pulmonary hypertension, cor pulmonale and right-sided heart failure. Indirect measurement of the systolic pulmonary artery pressure estimated pressures over 100 mmHg. Despite treatment the patient died. Post-mortem examination did not identify a congenital cardiovascular anomaly. Histopathology confirmed acute necrotising pulmonary arteritis and immunohistochemistry failed to identify any immune complex or complement deposition.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 26-03-2014
DOI: 10.1111/AVJ.12154
Abstract: Canine leishmaniosis (CL) caused by Leishmania infantum is a disease of worldwide importance, not only because it causes severe and potentially fatal disease in dogs, but also because of its zoonotic relevance. The parasite is the causative agent of human visceral leishmaniosis, a severe, debilitating disease that causes an estimated 59,000 deaths annually. Australia is considered to be free of zoonotic leishmaniosis. A retrospective case series of five imported dogs diagnosed with CL between 2000 and 2011. Cases were identified by word-of-mouth and by referral. The dogs were diagnosed with CL between 2000 and 2011 clinical, clinicopathological, and serological data are presented, together with a review of the disease and its biosecurity implications for Australia. Because of the unique immunopathology and diagnostic challenges associated with CL, the importance of obtaining a travel history is reinforced because some dogs imported prior to 2006 may develop clinical signs of this disease and present for veterinary examination. Furthermore, it is possible for leishmaniosis to become established within Australia under certain circumstances.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.PARINT.2016.03.004
Abstract: The present study describes the first report of Trypanosoma vegrandis in koalas using morphology and sequence analysis of the 18S rRNA gene. The prevalence of T. vegrandis in koalas was 13.6% (6/44). It is likely that the small size of T. vegrandis (<10μm in length), coupled with the difficulties in lifying DNA of this parasite in mixed infections using trypanosome generic primers, are the reason why this organism has not been identified in koalas until now. This study highlights the importance of further research comprising a larger s le size to determine the prevalence of T. vegrandis in koalas as well as its potential impacts upon this marsupial species' health.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 06-2004
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 28-10-2007
DOI: 10.1111/J.1751-0813.2007.00220.X
Abstract: This study reports on the epidemiology of Babesia gibsoni in American Pit Bull Terriers living in a region of western Victoria in southern Australia. Both American Pit Bull Terriers (n = 100) and other dog breeds (n = 51) were screened for B gibsoni using immunofluorescent antibody testing (IFAT) and/or polymerase chain reaction restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP). A questionnaire was also completed by each dog owner, ascertaining the husbandry and habits of the dogs s led. Fourteen dogs were positive for B gibsoni using IFAT and/or PCR-RFLP and all were American Pit Bull Terriers. Dogs that were male and/or had been bitten by or were biters of other American Pit Bull Terriers were more likely to be B gibsoni positive, thus suggesting that blood-to-blood transmission contributes to the spread of this disease between dogs.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 14-06-2016
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 03-2004
DOI: 10.1111/J.1751-0813.2004.TB12638.X
Abstract: The clinical, radiographic and echocardiographic features of two cases of pulmonic stenosis in cats are presented. A rarely reported combination of pulmonic stenosis and tricuspid valve dysplasia is described.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2002
DOI: 10.1016/S0020-7519(01)00361-7
Abstract: In recent years there have been many changes to the ways that clinical veterinary science is conducted and nowhere is this more evident than in companion animal practice. Veterinarians working with pet dogs and cats are facing new challenges associated with the emergence and re-emergence of parasitic diseases. Some, such as Neospora caninum, have been recently recognised others like Giardia and Cryptosporidium have been reported with increasing frequency, in part as a result of laboratory tests with improved sensitivity and specificity. In many regions, the emergence of parasitic diseases has been a consequence of pet travel and exotic diseases pose a unique diagnostic challenge for the veterinarian, as the index of suspicion for these conditions may be absent. The ranges of certain vector-borne diseases such as babesiosis, hepatozoonosis, ehrlichiosis, leishmaniasis and dirofilariasis are extending due to ecological and climatic changes and enhanced by animals with subclinical infection returning home from endemic areas. In companion animal practice, veterinarians have the additional responsibility of providing accurate information about the zoonotic transmission of parasite infections from pets, especially to those most vulnerable such as children, the elderly and the immunocompromised. Effective education is vital to allay public concerns and promote responsible pet ownership.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 11-2014
DOI: 10.1136/INP.G6312
Publisher: University of Toronto Press Inc. (UTPress)
Date: 03-2006
DOI: 10.3138/JVME.33.1.93
Abstract: A historical perspective of the development of interpersonal communication and consultation skills workshops within the veterinary curriculum at Murdoch University is presented, along with plans for the future in this area. Videos have been found to be valuable teaching tools for triggering discussion in workshops on communication issues and in reviewing real client consultations. More use could be made of role plays with actors involving challenging consultations, and changes in the curriculum could allow for aspects of professional and applied interpersonal skills to be incorporated at an earlier stage of the program. An overview of the professional communication programs in other Australian veterinary schools is also presented. Most programs involve interaction with veterinary practitioners and consultants such as counselors and psychologists, and most veterinary schools offer a program of professional development spanning five years of the curriculum.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2012
DOI: 10.1016/J.EXPPARA.2012.03.013
Abstract: The woylie or brush-tailed bettong (Bettongia penicillata) is a medium-sized native Australian marsupial that has undergone a dramatic decline in numbers in recent years. Trypanosome parasites have been identified in the woylie but little is known about the prevalence and clinical impact of other haemoprotozoan parasites in these marsupials. In the present study, the occurrence and molecular phylogeny of a piroplasm was studied in woylies from six different sites in Western Australia (WA). Blood s les were screened by PCR at the 18S rRNA locus and 80.4% (123/153) of the blood s les were positive for piroplasm DNA. Sequence and phylogenetic analysis of 12 of these positives identified them as Theileria penicillata, and sequencing of cloned PCR products indicated that no other species of Theileria were present. Infected woylies had a lower body weight but microscopic evaluation of the blood films indicated that T. penicillata did not appear to cause red cell injury or anaemia. Further studies are required to determine the clinical significance of T. penicillata in woylies.
Publisher: Mary Ann Liebert Inc
Date: 04-2016
Abstract: Bacteria of the genus Bartonella have been described in multiple mammalian hosts with many species capable of causing disease in humans. Cats and various species of rats have been reported to play a role as vertebrate hosts to a number of Bartonella spp. This study aimed to identify Bartonella spp. in Western Australia, Dirk Hartog Island (DHI), and Christmas Island (CI) and to investigate the presence of potential arthropod vectors. Feral cats were collected from CI (n = 35), DHI (n = 23) and southwest Western Australia (swWA n = 58), and black rats were collected from CI (n = 48). In iduals were necropsied, ectoparasites were collected by external examination of carcasses, and splenic tissue was collected for polymerase chain reaction analysis to detect Bartonella DNA. Bartonella henselae DNA was detected from two cats and Bartonella koehlerae DNA from one cat in southwest WA, but Bartonella DNA was not identified in cats on DHI or CI. Bartonella phoceensis (28/48 = 58.3%) and a novel Bartonella genotype (8/48 = 16.7%) based on the internal transcribed space region were detected in the spleens of black rats on CI. Detection of Bartonella spp. in each location corresponded to the presence of ectoparasites. Cats from southwest WA harbored four species of fleas, including Ctenocephalides felis, and black rats on CI were infested with multiple species of ectoparasites, including mites, fleas, and lice. Conversely, cats on Dirk Hartog and CI were free of ectoparasites. This study has identified the DNA of Bartonella species from island and mainland swWA with some (B. henselae and B. koehlerae) of known zoonotic importance. This study further extends the geographical range for the pathogenic B. koehlerae. The association of Bartonella with ectoparasites is unsurprising, but little is known about the specific vector competence of the ectoparasites identified in this study.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2007
DOI: 10.1016/J.EXPPARA.2007.03.016
Abstract: Babesia gibsoni is a protozoan parasite of dogs worldwide yet both an effective treatment and a reliable method for detecting subclinical cases of this emerging infection remain elusive. Experimental B. gibsoni infections were established in vivo to investigate the efficacy of combined atovaquone and azithromycin drug therapy and to determine the detection limits of a nested-PCR, IFAT and microscopy during various stages of infection. While atovaquone and azithromycin produced a reduction in parasitaemia, it did not eliminate the parasite and drug resistance appeared to develop in one dog. Polymerase chain reaction was found to be most useful in detecting infection in the pre-acute and acute stages, while IFAT was most reliable during chronic infections. Microscopy is suggested to be only effective for detecting acute stage infections. This study also describes the detection of B. gibsoni in tissue s les during chronic infections for the first time, suggesting possible sequestration of this parasite.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 23-03-2015
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2011
DOI: 10.1016/J.CIMID.2011.07.002
Abstract: A variety of Bartonella species were detected in two species of ticks and three species of fleas collected from marsupial hosts brush-tailed bettong or woylie (Bettongia penicillata) and western barred bandicoots (Perameles bougainville) and from a rodent host Rattus fuscipes in Western Australia. Bartonella species were detected using nested-PCR of the gltA gene and the 16S-23S ribosomal internal transcribed spacer region (ITS), and species were characterized using DNA sequencing of the 16S rRNA, gltA, rpoB, ftsZ genes and the ITS region. Bartonella rattaustraliani and B. coopersplainsensis were detected in Ixodes spp. ticks and fleas (Stephanocircus pectinipes) respectively collected from rodents. Two novel Bartonella species were detected from marsupials Candidatus Bartonella woyliei n. sp. was detected in both fleas (Pygiopsylla hilli) and ticks (Ixodes australiensis) collected from woylies and Candidatus Bartonella bandicootii n. sp. was detected in fleas (Pygiopsylla tunneyi) collected from western barred bandicoots. Concatenated phylogenetic analysis of all 5 loci clarified the marsupial cluster of Bartonella species in Australia and confirmed the species status of these two Bartonella species in ticks and fleas from woylies and western barred bandicoots, which are classified as threatened species and are vulnerable to extinction.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 05-2009
DOI: 10.1111/J.1550-7408.2009.00398.X
Abstract: The morphology and genetic characterisation of a new species of piroplasm identified in the blood of the Gilbert's potoroo (Potorous gilbertii) from the Two Peoples Bay Nature Reserve near Albany, Western Australia, is described from blood and tissue s les from 16 Gilbert's potoroos. Microscopy of blood showed these parasites are highly pleomorphic with a mean length of 1.8 mum and mean width of 0.85 mum. Phylogenetic analysis of 18S rRNA sequence data identified the piroplasm as a new species of Theileria that is closely related to other Australian marsupial piroplasm species. Based on biological and molecular data, it is proposed that the parasite from Gilbert's potoroo be given the name Theileria gilberti n. sp.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2021
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 23-10-2020
Abstract: The impact of emerging infectious diseases is increasingly recognised as a major threat to wildlife. Wild populations of the endangered Tasmanian devil, Sarcophilus harrisii, are experiencing devastating losses from a novel transmissible cancer, devil facial tumour disease (DFTD) however, despite the rapid decline of this species, there is currently no information on the presence of haemoprotozoan parasites. In the present study, 95 Tasmanian devil blood s les were collected from four populations in Tasmania, Australia, which underwent molecular screening to detect four major groups of haemoprotozoa: (i) trypanosomes, (ii) piroplasms, (iii) Hepatozoon, and (iv) haemosporidia. Sequence results revealed Trypanosoma infections in 32/95 in iduals. Trypanosoma copemani was identified in 10 Tasmanian devils from three sites and a second Trypanosoma sp. was identified in 22 in iduals that were grouped within the poorly described T. cyclops clade. A single blood s le was positive for Babesia sp., which most closely matched Babesia lohae. No other blood protozoan parasite DNA was detected. This study provides the first insight into haemoprotozoa from the Tasmanian devil and the first identification of Trypanosoma and Babesia in this carnivorous marsupial.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2006
DOI: 10.1016/J.VETPAR.2006.01.018
Abstract: Neospora caninum was isolated and established in vitro from the skin lesion of a naturally infected dog. The identity of the parasite was evaluated by immunofluorescent antibody test (IFAT), microscopy, Western blotting and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). N. caninum DNA was detected in the whole blood, serum, skin lesion, rectal scrapings and faeces of the infected dog utilising a nested PCR targeting the Nc-5 gene of N. caninum. Antigenic and genetic characterisation of the isolate, designated WA-K9, at a number of loci including the Nc-5 gene, heat shock protein 70 (HSP-70) gene, alpha-tubulin and beta-tubulin genes revealed no variation between this isolate and two N. caninum isolates from different geographic areas. Clinical aspects of this case, which included cutaneous and neurological disease, are also discussed.
Publisher: Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory
Date: 05-11-2019
DOI: 10.1101/819060
Abstract: Invasive rodent species are known hosts for a erse range of infectious microorganisms and have long been associated with the spread of disease globally. The present study describes molecular evidence for the presence of a Trypanosoma sp. from black rats ( Rattus rattus ) in northern Sydney, Australia. Sequences of the 18S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) locus were obtained in two out of eleven (18%) blood s les with subsequent phylogenetic analysis confirming the identity within the Trypanosoma lewisi clade.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2012
DOI: 10.1016/J.EXPPARA.2012.02.021
Abstract: Piroplasms, which include the genera Theileria and Babesia, are blood-borne parasites transmitted mainly by tick vectors. Relatively little is known about their prevalence and clinical impact in Australian marsupials. In the present study the occurrence and molecular phylogeny of these parasites were studied in both wild and captive marsupials from Western Australia (WA) and Queensland (QLD). Blood s les were screened by microscopy and molecular methods, using PCR and DNA sequencing of the 18S ribosomal RNA gene (18S rDNA). Overall, 7.1% of the blood s les (8/113) were positive for piroplasm 18S rDNA. Theileria and Babesia rDNA was detected in 0.9% (1/113) and 6.2% (7/113) of the animals, respectively. The single Theileria positive was identified in one of three boodies (Bettongia lesueur) screened from a wildlife rehabilitation centre in WA, while all seven Babesia positives were detected in WA in wild captured woylies (Bettongia penicillata ogilbyi). Small intraerythrocytic inclusions were observed in blood films made from six of these in iduals. This is the first report of a Babesia sp. in woylies, and Theileria sp. in boodies. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that the woylie-derived Babesia was genetically distinct and most closely related to Babesia occultans, the causative agent of a benign form of cattle babesiosis (genetic similarity 98.4%). The Theileria identified was most closely related to the marsupial-derived species Theileria penicillata from the woylie, Theileria brachyuri from the quokka (Setonix brachyurus), and Theileria sp. from the long-nosed potoroo (Potorous tridactylus).
Publisher: American Society of Parasitologists
Date: 04-2003
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 27-11-2007
DOI: 10.1111/J.1751-0813.2007.00232.X
Abstract: Non-radioactive assay methods are widely used in commercial laboratories to measure canine blood cortisol concentrations, despite a paucity of published validity data of these tests compared with the traditional 'gold standard' radioimmunoassay. To compare a commercial chemiluminescence assay with radioimmunoassay for blood cortisol measurement, determine the effect of storage on the radioimmunoassay, and determine the impact of any differences on clinical decisions. The study included 54 client owned dogs undergoing adrenal function testing. Fresh plasma or serum s les (n=170) were assayed for cortisol using radioimmunoassay (RIA1). S les (n=196) were also frozen and stored in batches, and assayed by chemiluminescence and radioimmunoassay (RIA2). Overall, there was a strong correlation (r2=0.967, P 400 nmol/L (r2=0.869, P<0.001), <100 nmol/L (r2=0.790, P<0.001), and <40 nmol/L (r2=0.738, P<0.001). Significant differences between means were present for RIA2 and chemiluminescence concentrations in the <100 nmol/L, and <40 nmol/L (P<0.001) groups. Despite a significant difference in RIA1 and RIA2 results overall, there was no significant difference between RIA1 and RIA2 for any of the concentration groups. In seven cases, discrepant RIA2 and chemiluminescence results may have altered clinical decisions. Although RIA and chemiluminescence cortisol concentrations appear highly correlated, a significant difference may exist for concentrations less than 100 nmol/L in stored canine sera. Results of chemiluminescence cortisol assays should be interpreted with caution unless the specific assay method in the laboratory has been adequately validated in dogs.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2011
DOI: 10.1016/J.VETMIC.2010.12.003
Abstract: Bartonella are fastidious, Gram-negative, aerobic bacilli belonging to the Alphaproteobacteria group. In the last ten years, the discovery of new Bartonella species from a variety of mammalian hosts, arthropod vectors and geographical areas has increased. More than 20 species of Bartonella have been identified, of which approximately thirteen are associated with disease in humans and animals. Recently, four novel species of Bartonella were isolated from mammalian hosts in Australia: Bartonella australis from eastern grey kangaroos (Macropus giganteus) and Bartonella rattaustraliani, Bartonella queenslandensis and Bartonella coopersplainsensis from rodents. Bartonella-like organisms have also been detected from Ixodes tasmani ticks collected from koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus). However, very little is known about Bartonella spp. in other marsupials in Australia. We report the identification of a novel Bartonella species detected from fleas (Acanthopsylla jordani) and ticks (Ixodes antechini) collected from a small carnivorous marsupial, Antechinus flavipes (Mardos or Yellow-footed antechinus) in the southwest of Western Australia. New nested-PCRs targeting the gltA gene and the ribosomal ITS region were developed as part of the present study. DNA sequencing of the 16S rRNA, gltA, ftsZ and rpoB genes and the ribosomal ITS region revealed that this detection is a distinct Bartonella species and is related to B. australis isolated from kangaroos. This is the first report of two different possible arthropod vectors in Australia (ticks and fleas) being infected with the same species of Bartonella. We propose the name Candidatus Bartonella antechini n. sp. for the recently characterized organism.
Publisher: Microbiology Society
Date: 16-12-2021
Abstract: Advances in sequencing technologies have revealed the complex and erse microbial communities present in ticks (Ixodida). As obligate blood-feeding arthropods, ticks are responsible for a number of infectious diseases that can affect humans, livestock, domestic animals and wildlife. While cases of human tick-borne diseases continue to increase in the northern hemisphere, there has been relatively little recognition of zoonotic tick-borne pathogens in Australia. Over the past 5 years, studies using high-throughput sequencing technologies have shown that Australian ticks harbour unique and erse bacterial communities. In the present study, free-ranging wildlife ( n =203), representing ten mammal species, were s led from urban and peri-urban areas in New South Wales (NSW), Queensland (QLD) and Western Australia (WA). Bacterial metabarcoding targeting the 16S rRNA locus was used to characterize the microbiomes of three s le types collected from wildlife: blood, ticks and tissue s les. Further sequence information was obtained for selected taxa of interest. Six tick species were identified from wildlife: Amblyomma triguttatum , Ixodes antechini , Ixodes australiensis , Ixodes holocyclus , Ixodes tasmani and Ixodes trichosuri . Bacterial 16S rRNA metabarcoding was performed on 536 s les and 65 controls, generating over 100 million sequences. Alpha ersity was significantly different between the three s le types, with tissue s les displaying the highest alpha ersity ( P .001). Proteobacteria was the most abundant taxon identified across all s le types (37.3 %). Beta ersity analysis and ordination revealed little overlap between the three s le types ( P .001). Taxa of interest included Anaplasmataceae , Bartonella , Borrelia , Coxiellaceae , Francisella , Midichloria , Mycoplasma and Rickettsia . Anaplasmataceae bacteria were detected in 17.7% (95/536) of s les and included Anaplasma , Ehrlichia and Neoehrlichia species. In s les from NSW, ‘ Ca . Neoehrlichia australis’, ‘ Ca . Neoehrlichia arcana’, Neoehrlichia sp. and Ehrlichia sp. were identified. A putative novel Ehrlichia sp. was identified from WA and Anaplasma platys was identified from QLD. Nine rodent tissue s les were positive for a novel Borrelia sp. that formed a phylogenetically distinct clade separate from the Lyme Borrelia and relapsing fever groups. This novel clade included recently identified rodent-associated Borrelia genotypes, which were described from Spain and North America. Bartonella was identified in 12.9% (69/536) of s les. Over half of these positive s les were obtained from black rats ( Rattus rattus ), and the dominant bacterial species identified were Bartonella coopersplainsensis and Bartonella queenslandensis . The results from the present study show the value of using unbiased high-throughput sequencing applied to s les collected from wildlife. In addition to understanding the sylvatic cycle of known vector-associated pathogens, surveillance work is important to ensure preparedness for potential zoonotic spillover events.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 31-01-2023
DOI: 10.1111/MVE.12643
Abstract: Ticks (Acari: Ixodidae) are major disease vectors globally making it increasingly important to understand how altered vertebrate communities in urban areas shape tick population dynamics. In urban landscapes of Australia, little is known about which native and introduced small mammals maintain tick populations preventing host‐targeted tick management and leading to human–wildlife conflict. Here, we determined (1) larval, nymphal, and adult tick burdens on host species and potential drivers, (2) the number of ticks supported by the different host populations, and (3) the proportion of medically significant tick species feeding on the different host species in Northern Sydney. We counted 3551 ticks on 241 mammals at 15 sites and found that long‐nosed bandicoots ( Perameles nasuta ) hosted more ticks of all life stages than other small mammals but introduced black rats ( Rattus rattus ) were more abundant at most sites (33%–100%) and therefore important in supporting larval and nymphal ticks in our study areas. Black rats and bandicoots hosted a greater proportion of medically significant tick species including Ixodes holocyclus than other hosts. Our results show that an introduced human commensal contributes to maintaining urban tick populations and suggests ticks could be managed by controlling rat populations on urban fringes.
Publisher: CABI Publishing
Date: 05-04-2006
Abstract: Parasitic, infectious and vector-borne diseases of humans and animals thrive in the typically hot and humid environment of the tropics. Many countries in these regions of the world remain underdeveloped with limited resources at their disposal to effectively combat the tremendous disease burdens borne by their human populations. Research, surveillance and control of veterinary diseases have been given priority only when those diseases have an impact on poverty alleviation or if they pose a significant zoonotic threat to the community. In some societies however, in Asia in particular, economic growth and increasing affluence has resulted in changing attitudes towards companion animal ownership and with this has come increasingly higher expectations and demands on veterinary surgeons for improved knowledge in canine and feline medicine and surgery. Yet despite expanding access to information technology, regionally pertinent information for veterinarians concerning the epidemiology, diagnosis and management of tropical diseases of these companion animals is scarce. The paper aims to redress this imbalance by providing, for the first time, a comprehensive review of the parasitic diseases of cats and dogs in the tropics. The first section discusses diseases and parasites of zoonotic importance echinococcosis, toxocariasis, ancylostomiasis, the liver and intestinal flukes, gnathostomiasis, toxoplasmosis, leishmaniasis and American trypanosomiasis. In the second section the parasitic diseases of clinical importance for the animals themselves are considered, including babesiosis, dirofilariasis, hepatozoonosis, ectoparasitic diseases, angiostrongylosis and spirocercosis, with information provided on the diagnosis and treatment of these diseases.
Publisher: Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory
Date: 17-10-2019
DOI: 10.1101/807131
Abstract: Ticks (Acari: Ixodida) transmit a greater variety of pathogens than any other blood-feeding group of arthropods. While numerous microbes have been identified inhabiting Australian Ixodidae, some of which are related to globally important tick-borne pathogens, little is known about the bacterial communities within ticks collected from Australian wildlife. In this study, 1,019 ticks were identified on 221 hosts spanning 27 wildlife species. Next-generation sequencing was used to lify the V1-2 hypervariable region of the bacterial 16S rRNA gene from 238 ticks Amblyomma triguttatum (n=6), Bothriocroton auruginans (n=11), Bothriocroton concolor (n=20), Haemaphysalis bancrofti (n=10), Haemaphysalis bremneri (n=4), Haemaphysalis humerosa (n=13) , Haemaphysalis longicornis (n=4), Ixodes antechini (n=29), Ixodes australiensis (n=26), Ixodes fecialis (n=13), Ixodes holocyclus (n=37), Ixodes myrmecobii ( n =1), Ixodes ornithorhynchi (n=10), Ixodes tasmani (n=51) and Ixodes trichosuri (n=3). After bioinformatic analyses, over 14 million assigned bacterial sequences revealed the presence of recently described bacteria ‘ Candidatus Borrelia tachyglossi’, ‘ Candidatus Neoehrlichia australis’, ‘ Candidatus Neoehrlichia arcana’ and ‘ Candidatus Ehrlichia ornithorhynchi’. Furthermore, three novel Anaplasmataceae species were identified in the present study including a Neoehrlichia sp. in I. australiensis and I. fecialis collected from quenda ( Isoodon fusciventer ) (Western Australia), an Anaplasma sp. from one B. concolor from echidna ( Tachyglossus aculeatus ) (New South Wales), and an Ehrlichia sp. from a single I. fecialis parasitising a quenda (WA). This study highlights the ersity of bacterial genera harboured within wildlife ticks, which may prove to be of medical and/or veterinary importance in the future.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2014
DOI: 10.1016/J.EXPPARA.2014.03.004
Abstract: In 2012, the first autochthonous Australian case of human babesiosis was reported, after microscopic examinations of blood s les revealed intra-erythrocytic parasites in a hospitalized 56year-old man from NSW, who died in 2011 (Senanayake et al., 2012). Independent molecular analyses carried out in Australia and the USA, identified Babesia microti at the 18S ribosomal RNA (18S rRNA), and the beta-tubulin (β-tubulin) gene loci. Here we present the details of a novel PCR-based assay for the β-tubulin gene that was developed, during the original study, to corroborate the results obtained from the analysis of the 18S rDNA. The complete phylogenetic reconstruction, based on the two loci sequenced from the Australian clinical isolate, is also shown here for the first time.
Publisher: American Society for Microbiology
Date: 05-2000
DOI: 10.1128/AEM.66.5.2220-2223.2000
Abstract: Genetic and phylogenetic characterization of Cryptosporidium isolates at two loci (18S rRNA gene and heat shock gene) from both Australian and United States dogs demonstrated that dog-derived Cryptosporidium isolates had a distinct genotype which is conserved across geographic areas. Phylogenetic analysis provided support for the idea that the “dog” genotype is, in fact, a valid species.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2007
DOI: 10.1016/J.VETPAR.2006.09.042
Abstract: The prevalence of hematozoan infections (Hepatozoon canis and Babesia sp., particularly Babesia canis vogeli) in canids from Venezuela, Thailand and Spain was studied by lification and sequencing of the 18S rRNA gene. H. canis infections caused simultaneously by two different isolates were confirmed by RFLP analysis in s les from all the geographic regions studied. In Venezuela, blood s les from 134 dogs were surveyed. Babesia infections were found in 2.24% of the dogs. Comparison of sequences of the 18S rRNA gene indicated that protozoan isolates were genetically identical to B. canis vogeli from Japan and Brazil. H. canis infected 44.77 per cent of the dogs. A representative s le of Venezuelan H. canis isolates (21.6% of PCR-positives) was sequenced. Many of them showed 18S rRNA gene sequences identical to H. canis Spain 2, albeit two less frequent genotypes were found in the s le studied. In Thailand, 20 dogs were analyzed. No infections caused by Babesia were diagnosed, whereas 30 per cent of the dogs were positive to hematozoan infection. Two protozoa isolates showing 99.7-100% identity to H. canis Spain 2 were found. In Spain, 250 dogs were studied. B. canis vogeli infected 0.01% of the animals. The sequence of the 18S rRNA gene in Spanish isolates of this protozoa was closely related to those previously deposited in GenBank (> 99% identity). Finally, 20 red foxes were screened for hematozoans employing semi-nested PCR and primers designed to detect Babesia/Theileria. Fifty percent of the foxes were positive to Theileria annae. In addition, it was found that the PCR assay was able as well to detect Hepatozoon infections. Thirty five percent of the foxes were infected with two different H. canis isolates showing 99.8-100% identity to Curupira 1 from Brazil.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 26-11-2008
DOI: 10.1111/J.1751-0813.2008.00373.X
Abstract: A 12-year-old male neutered Miniature Poodle with confirmed pituitary-dependent hyperadrenocorticism was treated with trilostane. After three doses, it developed clinical and laboratory changes suggestive of isolated hypocortisolism ('atypical hypoadrenocorticism'), which persisted and progressed for more than 3 months despite immediate withdrawal of the trilostane. The clinical signs of hyperadrenocorticism resolved without further trilostane. After 3 months, prednisolone treatment was started and the clinical signs of hypocortisolism resolved. Prednisolone therapy was required for more than 1 year. Ultrasonography initially demonstrated large hypoechoic adrenal cortices, typical of dogs with hyperadrenocorticism, which then became small and heteroechoic, consistent with the development of adrenal necrosis. Persistent isolated hypocortisolism has not been reported previously as a complication of trilostane therapy. The case is also remarkable for the very short duration of trilostane therapy that elicited this complication. Clinicians should be aware that trilostane therapy may result in adrenal necrosis, even in the very earliest stages of therapy, but prompt action can prevent a life-threatening situation.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2003
DOI: 10.1016/S0034-5288(02)00179-0
Abstract: DNA methylation is an epigenetic modification in which a methyl group is added usually to the fifth carbon position of a cytosine residue. Dysregulation of this process is an important molecular event which has been shown to be associated with neoplastic transformation and tumour progression in humans and mice. Features of methylation dysregulation in many different types of neoplasms include general genomic hypomethylation, focal hypermethylation, and altered expression of genes which encode a series of DNA (cytosine-5) methyltransferases. Interestingly, many types of neoplasia that are recognised in humans also develop spontaneously in the dog. By comparing the restriction patterns of MspI and HpaII, this study demonstrates that as in human, genomic hypomethylation is a feature of neoplastic cells in the majority of canine lymphoma cases and approximately one-third of canine leukemia cases confirming that dysregulation of the DNA methylating machinery is implicated in malignant transformation of lymphoid cells in some dogs.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 22-07-2011
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 19-07-2011
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2014
Abstract: Canine vector-borne diseases (CVBDs) comprise a erse group of viral, bacterial, protozoal, and helminth pathogens, transmitted predominantly by ticks and fleas, and cause significant health problems for dogs worldwide. Growing numbers of reports indicate that CVBDs are emerging in regions where they previously did not exist and this, combined with pathogens that are inherently difficult to detect, is providing companion animal veterinarians with some significant diagnostic challenges. This review discusses six paradigms concerning the diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and zoonotic implications of CVBDs from a veterinary clinical perspective.
Publisher: Mary Ann Liebert Inc
Date: 12-2011
Abstract: Bartonella are arthropod-borne, fastidious, Gram-negative, and aerobic bacilli distributed by fleas, lice, sand flies, and, possibly, ticks. The zoonotic Bartonella species, Bartonella henselae and Bartonella clarridgeiae, which are the causes of cat scratch disease and endocarditis in humans, have been reported from cats, cat fleas, and humans in Australia. However, to date, there has been no report of B. henselae or B. clarridgeiae in Australian wild animals and their ectoparasites. B. henselae and B. clarridgeiae were detected in fleas (Ctenocephalides felis) from red foxes (Vulpes vulpes), an introduced pest animal species in Australia, and only B. clarridgeiae was detected in blood from one red fox. Phylogenetic analysis of the ribosomal intergenic spacer region revealed that the B. henselae detected in the current study were related to B. henselae strain Houston-1, a major pathogenic strain in humans in Australia, and confirmed the genetic distinctness of B. clarridgeiae. The identification and characterization of Bartonella species in red foxes in the Southwest of Western Australia suggests that red foxes may act as reservoirs of infection for animals and humans in this region.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2016
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2004
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 2014
DOI: 10.1111/AVJ.12135
Abstract: A nearly 4-year-old neutered male Australian Terrier was referred for a nodular pyogranulomatous mass of the right axilla. It had been poorly responsive to antibiotic therapy. Based on filamentous Gram-positive organisms identified in earlier biopsy material, infection by an Actinomyces sp. was suspected and the dog showed clinical improvement on a trial of potentiated sulfonamides. Recurrence 5 months later prompted euthanasia, with Streptomyces cyaneus being cultured and confirmed by genetic sequencing of part of the 16 s ribosomal RNA gene. Invasive Streptomyces spp. infections are uncommon in humans and animals, and isolations are sometimes considered to be contaminants, but the demonstration of the organism within the lesion in this instance indicates that the isolation of a Streptomyces sp. from veterinary cases should not always be considered as contamination, because this genus is clearly pathogenic.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 28-12-2015
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2005
Abstract: Although well recognized and studied in developed countries, canine parasitic zoonoses pose a lowly prioritized public health problem in developing countries such as India, where conditions are conducive for transmission. A study of the most recent parasite survey determining prevalence and epidemiology of canine parasitic zoonoses among tea-growing communities of northeast India demonstrated the endemicity of the problem. This particular study serves as a model using conventional, as well as molecular parasitological, tools to provide novel insights into the role of dogs as mechanical transmitters of human parasites such as Ascaris and Trichuris, and discusses the risks dogs pose with regards to zoonotic transmission of hookworms and Giardia.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 2009
DOI: 10.1080/13693780802512519
Abstract: A retrospective study of cryptococcosis in domestic animals residing in Western Australia was conducted over an 11-year-period (from 1995 to 2006) by searching the data base of Murdoch University Veterinary Teaching hospital and the largest private clinical pathology laboratory in Perth. Cryptococcosis was identified in 155 animals: 72 cats, 57 dogs, 20 horses, three alpacas, two ferrets and a sheep. There was no seasonal trend apparent from the dates of diagnosis. Taking into account the commonness of accessions to Murdoch University, cats were five to six times more likely to develop this disease than dogs, and three times more likely than horses, while horses were almost twice as likely as dogs to become infected. Amongst the feline cohort, Ragdoll and Birman breeds were over-represented, while in dogs several pedigree breeds were similarly overrepresented. Dogs and horses tended to develop disease at an early age (one to five years), while cats were presented over a much wider range of ages. In cats and dogs the upper respiratory tract was the most common primary site of infection, while horses and alpacas tended to have lower respiratory involvement. The most striking finding of the study was the high frequency with which C. gattii was identified, with infections attributable to this species comprising 5/9 cats, 11/22 dogs, 9/9 horses and 1/1 alpaca, where appropriate testing was conducted. Preliminary molecular genotyping suggested that most of the C. gattii infections in domestic animals (9/9 cases) were of the VGII genotype. This contrasts the situation on the eastern seaboard of Australia, where disease attributable to C. gattii is less common and mainly due to the VGI genotype. C. gattii therefore appears to be an important cause of cryptococcosis in Western Australia.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 2009
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 2007
DOI: 10.1080/13693780601187158
Abstract: Systemic protothecosis was diagnosed in 17 Australian dogs between 1988 and 2005. There was a preponderance of young-adult (median 4 years), medium- to large-breed dogs. Females (12/17 cases) and Boxer dogs (7 cases, including 6 purebreds and one Boxer cross) were over-represented. Sixteen of 17 dogs died, with a median survival of four months. A disproportionate number of cases were from coastal Queensland. In most patients, first signs were referable to colitis (11/17 cases), which varied in severity, and was often present for many months before other symptoms developed. Subsequent to dissemination, signs were mostly ocular (12 cases) and/or neurologic (8 cases). Two dogs had signs due to bony lesions. Once dissemination was evident, death or euthanasia transpired quickly. Prototheca organisms had a tropism for the eye, central nervous system (CNS), bone, kidneys and myocardium, tissues with a good blood supply. Microscopic examination and culture of urine (5 cases), cerebrospinal fluid (CSF case), rectal scrapings (4 cases), aspirates or biopsies of eyes (5 cases) and histology of colonic biopsies (6 cases) as well as skin and lymph nodes (2 cases) helped secure a diagnosis. Of the cases where culture was successful, P wickerhamii was isolated from two patients, while P zopfii was isolated from five. P zopfii infections had a more aggressive course. Treatment was not attempted in most cases. Combination therapy with hotericin B and itraconazole proved effective in two cases, although in one of these treatment should have been for a longer duration. One surviving dog is currently still receiving itraconazole. Protothecosis should be considered in all dogs with refractory colitis, especially in female Boxers.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 08-2006
DOI: 10.1111/J.1751-0813.2006.00015.X
Abstract: To evaluate the clinico-pathological findings, response to treatment and prevalence of complications in dogs with primary hypoparathyroidism. Retrospective study of 17 dogs presenting to the University of Melbourne Veterinary Clinical Centre and Murdoch University Veterinary Hospital over a 15 year period (1990 to 2004). Case records were evaluated for signalment, body weight, diet type, historical and clinical findings, serum total calcium, phosphate, albumin and parathyroid hormone concentrations, urinary fractional excretion ratios of calcium and phosphate, electrocardiogram (ECG) results, treatments administered, outcome and period of follow-up. The most common breeds identified were St Bernard (three dogs), Chihuahua (two dogs), German Shepherd (two dogs) and Jack Russell Terrier (two dogs). Three dogs were cross bred. Seizures, muscle tremors and fasciculations, stiff gait, tetany, muscle cr ing, behavioural change and hyperventilation were the most common clinical signs. Vomiting, inappetence, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, hyperthermia, facial pruritus, ataxia, weakness, cataracts, and circling also occurred with less frequency. The mean duration of observed clinical signs preceding diagnosis was 33 days (median 13 days, range 1 to 173 days). All dogs had marked hypocalcaemia with normal or mildly increased serum albumin concentrations. Mean phosphate concentrations were significantly higher in inappetent dogs (P = 0.049). Mean serum calcium concentrations were significantly lower in dogs with cataracts compared to those without (P = 0.046). There were no other significant relationships between serum calcium or phosphate concentrations and the clinical presentation or outcome. No significant correlations were identified between the presence of a particular clinical sign and the duration of clinical signs. ECGs were obtained in four dogs and all exhibited QT interval prolongation due to a ST-segment prolongation. Sixteen of 17 dogs were treated successfully for hypocalcaemia and discharged from hospital. Acute management included parenteral calcium gluconate (10 dogs) and intravenous anticonvulsants (five dogs). Chronic therapy included oral vitamin D analogues and calcium supplementation. Treatment complications occurred in two dogs and included acute renal failure (one dog) and iatrogenic tissue necrosis following subcutaneous calcium administration (one dog). The mean follow-up period was 14.5 months (median 13 months, range 0 to 39 months). Twelve dogs were alive at the last follow up and two dogs were euthanased for unrelated reasons. The type of vitamin D analogue used was not associated with outcome. Primary hypoparathyroidism was an uncommon diagnosis in dogs. Saint Bernards, cross bred dogs, German Shepherd dogs and Terrier breeds were most commonly affected. Neurological signs were the most common presenting clinical signs, although alimentary signs may have been more common than previously reported. Dogs with primary hypoparathyroidism appeared to have a good prognosis following initiation of calcium supplementation and vitamin D therapy. Complications of treatment were uncommon and could be minimised with regular monitoring.
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 03-2004
DOI: 10.1017/S0031182003004505
Abstract: Giardia duodenalis isolates recovered from humans and dogs living in the same locality in a remote tea-growing community of northeast India were characterized at 3 different loci the SSU-rDNA, elongation factor 1-alpha (ef1-α) and triose phosphate isomerase (tpi) gene. Phylogenetic analysis of the SSU-rDNA and ef1-α genes provided poor genetic resolution of the isolates within various assemblages, stressing the importance of using multiple loci when inferring genotypes to Giardia . Analysis of the tpi gene provided better genetic resolution and placed canine Giardia isolates within the genetic groupings of human isolates (Assemblages A and B). Further evidence for zoonotic transmission was supported by epidemiological data showing a highly significant association between the prevalence of Giardia in humans and presence of a Giardia -positive dog in the same household (odds ratio 3·01, 95% CI, 1·11, 8·39, P =0·0000).
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 03-2004
DOI: 10.1111/J.1740-8261.2004.04022.X
Abstract: A 1-year-old working Kelpie developed pneumothorax and focal peritonitis after inhalation of a grass awn that migrated from the lung, through the diaphragm, into the peritoneal cavity. Radiographic evidence of sternal lymph node enlargement was fundamental in the diagnosis of intraperitoneal disease and prompted abdominal ultrasound leading to definitive diagnosis.
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 10-07-2015
DOI: 10.1017/S0031182015000785
Abstract: Trypanosomes are blood-borne parasites that can cause severe disease in both humans and animals, yet little is known of the pathogenicity and life-cycles of trypanosomes in native Australian mammals. Trypanosoma copemani is known to be infective to a variety of Australian marsupials and has recently been shown to be potentially zoonotic as it is resistant to normal human serum. In the present study, in vivo and in vitro examination of blood and cultures from Australian marsupials was conducted using light microscopy, immunofluorescence, scanning electron microscopy and fluorescence in situ hybridization. Promastigote, sphaeromastigote and amastigote life-cycle stages were detected in vivo and in vitro . Novel trypanosome-like stages were also detected both in vivo and in vitro representing an oval stage, an extremely thin stage, an adherent stage and a tiny round stage. The tiny round and adherent stages appeared to adhere to erythrocytes causing potential haematological damage with clinical effects similar to haemolytic anaemia. The present study shows for the first time that trypomastigotes are not the only life-cycle stages circulating within the blood stream of trypanosome infected Australian native marsupials and provides insights into possible pathogenic mechanisms of this potentially zoonotic trypanosome species.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 19-03-2008
DOI: 10.1111/J.1751-0813.2008.00276.X
Abstract: Generalised paresis, severe hypokalaemia and kaliuresis, metabolic alkalosis and hypertension, characteristic of mineralocorticoid excess, were identified in a dog with hyperadrenocorticism due to a functional adrenocortical carcinoma. Aldosterone concentration was decreased and deoxycorticosterone concentration increased in the presence of hypokalaemia. These metabolic abnormalities resolved with resection of the carcinoma. Mineralocorticoid excess in dogs with hyperadrenocorticism is generally considered to be of little clinical significance but resulted in the acute presentation of this patient. The possible pathogenesis of mineralocorticoid excess in this case of canine hyperadrenocorticism is discussed.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 03-2012
DOI: 10.5694/MJA11.11378
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2006
DOI: 10.1016/J.VETPAR.2006.07.004
Abstract: As a continuation of our studies on molecular epizootiology of piroplasmosis in Spain and other countries, we present in this contribution the finding of new hosts for some piroplasms, as well as information on their 18S rRNA gene sequences. Genetic data were complemented with sequences of apocytochrome b gene (whenever possible). The following conclusions were drawn from these molecular studies: Theileria annulata is capable of infecting dogs, since it was diagnosed in a symptomatic animal. According to cytochrome b sequences, isolates from cows and dog present slight differences. The same isolates showed, however, identical sequence in the 18S rRNA gene. This exemplifies well the usefulness of the mitochondrial gene for examining infra-specific variation. Babesia bovis is an occasional parasite of equines, since it was detected in two symptomatic horses. We found evidence of genetic polymorphism occurring in the 18S rRNA gene of Spanish T. equi-like and B. ovis isolates. B. bennetti from Spanish seagull is loosely related to B. ovis, and might represent a genetically distinct branch of babesids. A partial sequence of a cytochrome b pseudogene was obtained for the first time in Babesia canis rossi from South Africa. The pseudogene is distantly related to B. bigemina cytochrome b gene. These new findings confirm the ability of some piroplasms to infect multiple hosts, as well as the existence of a relatively wide genetic polymorphisms with respect to the cytochrome b gene. On the other hand, the existence of mtDNA-like pseudogenes of possible nuclear location in piroplasms is interesting due to their possible impact on molecular phylogeny studies.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2010
DOI: 10.1016/J.CVSM.2010.08.001
Abstract: Babesiosis continues to pose a threat to dogs worldwide as a cause of anemia, thrombocytopenia, and a wide variety of clinical signs, ranging from mild, nonspecific illness to peracute collapse and death. Practitioners should be alert to the importance of collecting travel and fight history for a patient and should be aware of new piroplasm species that have been described. Asymptomatic infections necessitate careful screening of potential blood donors using a combination of diagnostic testing procedures. Current treatment strategies for babesiosis often ameliorate the clinical signs of infection, but these hemoparasites are seldom completely eliminated, and when immunocompromised, recrudescence may occur.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.PROTIS.2015.10.001
Abstract: Piroplasms, tick-transmitted Apicomplexa of the genera Theileria, Babesia and Cytauxzoon, are blood-borne parasites of clinical and veterinary importance. The order Piroplasmida shows a puzzling systematics characterized by multiple clades, soft polytomies and paraphyletic olyphyletic genera. In the present study, screening of platypuses (Ornithorhynchus anatinus), was performed to infer the parasite molecular phylogeny. DNA was extracted from blood, ectoparasites and tick eggs and the 18S rRNA- hsp70-genes were used for the phylogenetic reconstructions. Microscopic analyses detected pleomorphic intra-erythrocytic organisms and tetrads consistent with previous descriptions of Theileria ornithorhynchi Mackerras, 1959, but observation of possible schizonts could not be confirmed. DNA sequences obtained from blood and ticks allowed resolving the systematics of the first piroplasm infecting a monotreme host. Molecularly, T. ornithorhynchi formed a novel monophyletic group, basal to most known piroplasms' clades. The ancestral position of this clade, isolated from an ancient lineage of mammalian host appears particularly fascinating. The present paper discusses the inadequacies of the current molecular systematics for the Piroplasmida and the consequences of incomplete s ling, morphology-based classification and ambiguous microscopic identifications. Likely when the current s ling bias is rectified and more sequence data is made available, the phylogenetic position of T. ornithorhynchi will be further contextualized without ambiguity.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 25-06-2015
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 03-11-2022
DOI: 10.3390/PATHOGENS11111290
Abstract: In Australia, there is a paucity of data about the extent and impact of zoonotic tick-related illnesses. Even less is understood about a multifaceted illness referred to as Debilitating Symptom Complexes Attributed to Ticks (DSCATT). Here, we describe a research plan for investigating the aetiology, pathophysiology, and clinical outcomes of human tick-associated disease in Australia. Our approach focuses on the transmission of potential pathogens and the immunological responses of the patient after a tick bite. The protocol is strengthened by prospective data collection, the recruitment of two external matched control groups, and sophisticated integrative data analysis which, collectively, will allow the robust demonstration of associations between a tick bite and the development of clinical and pathological abnormalities. Various laboratory analyses are performed including metagenomics to investigate the potential transmission of bacteria, protozoa and/or viruses during tick bite. In addition, multi-omics technology is applied to investigate links between host immune responses and potential infectious and non-infectious disease causations. Psychometric profiling is also used to investigate whether psychological attributes influence symptom development. This research will fill important knowledge gaps about tick-borne diseases. Ultimately, we hope the results will promote improved diagnostic outcomes, and inform the safe management and treatment of patients bitten by ticks in Australia.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 07-2003
DOI: 10.1007/S00436-003-0925-3
Abstract: Canine parasitic zoonoses pose a continuing public health problem, especially in developing countries and communities that are socioeconomically disadvantaged. Our study combined the use of conventional and molecular epidemiological tools to determine the role of dogs in transmission of gastrointestinal (GI) parasites such as hookworms, Giardiaand Ascarisin a parasite endemic tea-growing community in northeast India. A highly sensitive and specific PCR-RFLP was developed to detect and differentiate the zoonotic species of canine hookworm eggs directly from faeces. This allowed epidemiological screening of canine hookworm species in this community to be conducted with ease and accuracy. Seventy two percent of dogs were found to harbour A. caninum, 60% A. braziliense and 37% harboured mixed infections with both hookworms. No A. ceylanicum was detected in the dog population. The zoonotic potential of canine Giardiawas also investigated by characterising Giardia duodenalisrecovered from humans and dogs living in the same locality and households, at three different loci. Phylogenetic and epidemiological analysis provided compelling evidence to support the zoonotic transmission of canine Giardia. Molecular tools were also used to identify the species of Ascarisegg present in over 30% of dog faecal s les. The results demonstrated the role of dogs as a significant disseminator and environmental contaminator of Ascaris lumbricoidesin communities where promiscuous defecation practices exist. Our study demonstrated the usefulness of combining conventional and molecular parasitological and epidemiological tools to help solve unresolved relationships with regards to parasitic zoonoses.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2020
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2011
DOI: 10.1016/J.MEEGID.2011.07.021
Abstract: Fleas are important arthropod vectors for a variety of diseases in veterinary and human medicine, and bacteria belonging to the genus Bartonella are among the organisms most commonly transmitted by these ectoparasites. Recently, a number of novel Bartonella species and novel species candidates have been reported in marsupial fleas in Australia. In the present study the genetic ersity of marsupial fleas was investigated 10 species of fleas were collected from seven different marsupial and placental mammal hosts in Western Australia including woylies (Bettongia penicillata), western barred bandicoots (Perameles bougainville), mardos (Antechinus flavipes), bush rats (Rattus fuscipes), red foxes (Vulpes vulpes), feral cats (Felis catus) and rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus). PCR and sequence analysis of the cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) and the 18S rRNA genes from these fleas was performed. Concatenated phylogenetic analysis of the COI and 18S rRNA genes revealed a close genetic relationship between marsupial fleas, with Pygiopsylla hilli from woylies, Pygiopsylla tunneyi from western barred bandicoots and Acanthopsylla jordani from mardos, forming a separate cluster from fleas collected from the placental mammals in the same geographical area. The clustering of Bartonella species with their marsupial flea hosts suggests co-evolution of marsupial hosts, marsupial fleas and Bartonella species in Australia.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 10-05-2016
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 2007
DOI: 10.1111/J.1751-0813.2006.00085.X
Abstract: This report describes a case of Angiostonglyus vasorum infection, sometimes referred to as French heartworm disease, in a dog imported into Western Australia from the United Kingdom. Diagnosis was made by identification of first stage larvae on fine needle aspiration of a consolidated lung lobe. First stage larvae were also identified in the faeces by the Baermann technique. The main clinical signs in this case were coughing and tachypnoea. The dog was treated successfully with fenbendazole at 50 mg/kg once daily for 10 days.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 10-04-2015
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 13-05-2015
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2011
DOI: 10.1016/J.VETPAR.2011.07.009
Abstract: In the present study, the occurrence and molecular phylogeny of trypanosome parasites were studied in both wild and captive marsupials from Western Australia and Queensland. Blood s les were screened by PCR at the 18S rDNA locus, and the glycosomal glyceraldehyde phosphate dehydrogenase gene. Overall, 5.3% of the blood s les were positive at the 18S rDNA locus. All positives belonged to wild-captured Western Australian in iduals, where trypanosome-specific DNA was detected in 9.8% of the screened s les from wild marsupials, in common brushtail possums, and woylies. The detection rate of trypanosome DNA in these two host species was 12.5% and 20%, respectively. Phylogenetic analyses based on two loci, indicated that the possum-derived trypanosome isolates were genetically distinct, and most closely related to the Australian marsupial trypanosomes H25 from a kangaroo, and BRA2 from a bush rat. This is the first study to genetically characterise trypanosome isolates from possums. The analysis of the woylie-derived isolates demonstrated that this marsupial host can harbour multiple genotypes within the same geographical location and furthermore multiple genotypes within the same host, indicative of mixed infections. All the woylie-derived genotypes grouped with trypanosomes found in Australian marsupials, suggesting that they are more likely to belong to an endemic or Australasian trypanosome species. This is the first study to genetically characterise trypanosome isolates from possums (Trichosurus vulpecula). Although the clinical significance of these infections is currently unknown, the identification of these novel sequences may support future investigations on transmission, threats to endangered wildlife, and evolutionary history of the genus Trypanosoma.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2021
Location: United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
No related grants have been discovered for Peter Irwin.