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Heli Nordgren - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.
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comparison of streptococcus halichoeri isolates from canine and Fur Animal infections biochemical patterns molecular characteristics and genetic relatedness
Acta Veterinaria Scandinavica, 2020Co-Authors: Marjut Eklund, Heli Nordgren, Olli Vapalahti, Kirsi Aaltonen, Tarja Sironen, Mirja Rauniosaarnisto, Thomas Gronthal, Anna Pitkala, Merja RantalaAbstract:Background Streptococcus halichoeri infections have been reported in grey seals, a European badger, a Stellar sea lion and humans, but its presence in companion and Fur Animals is unknown. Since 2010, S. halichoeri-like bacteria (SHL) have been isolated from Fur Animals and dogs in Finland. Our aim was to retrospectively investigate laboratory records for SHL from canine and Fur Animal infections, characterize the isolates and compare their genetic relatedness in relation to three reference strains: CCUG 48324T, originating from a grey seal, and strains 67100 and 61265, originally isolated from humans. Results A total of 138 and 36 SHLs from canine and Fur Animal infections, respectively, were identified in the laboratory records. SHL was commonly associated with skin infections, but rarely as the only species. A set of 49 canine and 23 Fur Animal SHLs were Further characterized. MALDI-TOF confirmed them as being S. halichoeri. The growth characteristics were consistent with the original findings, but isolates were catalase positive. In total, 17 distinct API 20 Strep patterns were recorded among all 75 isolates tested, of which pattern 5563100 was the most common (n = 30). Antimicrobial resistance to erythromycin and clindamycin was common in canine isolates, but rare in Fur Animal isolates. Three clusters were observed by PFGE, and 16S rRNA sequencing revealed 98.1-100% similarities with the human strains and 98.1-99.5% with the seal strain. A phylogenetic tree of concatenated 16S rRNA and rpoB revealed closely related isolates with two clades. Fifteen canine isolates were identical to the human strains based on concatenated 16S rRNA and rpoB sequencing. Conclusions Streptococcus halichoeri appears to be quite a common bacterial species in the skin of dogs and Fur Animals. The clinical significance of S. halichoeri is uncertain, as it was rarely isolated as a monoculture. No apparent temporal or spatial clustering was detected, but isolates from different sources were genetically very similar. Because many canine isolates were genetically similar to the human reference strains, transmission between dogs and humans may be possible. WGS sequencing of strains from different sources is needed to Further investigate the epidemiology and virulence of S. halichoeri.
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Questionnaire survey of detrimental Fur Animal epidemic necrotic pyoderma in Finland
Acta Veterinaria Scandinavica, 2017Co-Authors: Heli Nordgren, Katariina Vapalahti, Olli Vapalahti, Antti Sukura, Anna-maija VirtalaAbstract:Background In 2007, a previously unrecorded disease, Fur Animal epidemic necrotic pyoderma (FENP), was detected in farmed mink ( Neovision vision ), foxes ( Vulpes lagopus ) and Finnraccoons ( Nyctereutes procyonoides ) in Finland. Symptoms included severe pyoderma with increased mortality, causing both Animal welfare problems and economic losses. In 2011, an epidemiologic questionnaire was mailed to all members of the Finnish Fur Breeders’ Association to assess the occurrence of FENP from 2009 through the first 6 months of 2011. The aim was to describe the geographical distribution and detailed clinical signs of FENP, as well as sources of infection and potential risk factors for the disease. Results A total of 239 farmers (25%) returned the questionnaire. Clinical signs of FENP were observed in 40% (95% CI 34–46%) of the study farms. In addition, the survey clarified the specific clinical signs for different Animal species. The presence of disease was associated with the importation of mink, especially from Denmark (OR 9.3, 95% CI 2.6–33.0). The transmission route between Finnish farms was associated with Fur Animal purchases. Some risk factors such as the farm type were also indicated. As such, FENP was detected more commonly on farms with more than one species of Fur Animal in comparison to farms with, for example, only foxes (OR 4.6, 95% CI 2.4–8.6), and the incidence was higher on farms with over 750 breeder mink compared to smaller farms (OR 3.8, 95% CI 1.6–9.0). Contact between Fur Animals and birds and other wildlife increased the risk of FENP on farms. Responses also indicated that blocking the entry of wildlife to the Animal premises protected against FENP. Conclusions FENP was most likely introduced to Finland by imported mink and spread Further within the country via domestically purchased Fur Animals. Some potential risk factors, such as the type and size of the farm and contact with wildlife, contributed to the spread of FENP. Escape-proof shelter buildings block the entry of wildlife, thus protecting Fur Animals against FENP.
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Questionnaire survey of detrimental Fur Animal epidemic necrotic pyoderma in Finland.
Acta veterinaria Scandinavica, 2017Co-Authors: Heli Nordgren, Katariina Vapalahti, Olli Vapalahti, Antti Sukura, Anna-maija VirtalaAbstract:In 2007, a previously unrecorded disease, Fur Animal epidemic necrotic pyoderma (FENP), was detected in farmed mink (Neovision vision), foxes (Vulpes lagopus) and Finnraccoons (Nyctereutes procyonoides) in Finland. Symptoms included severe pyoderma with increased mortality, causing both Animal welfare problems and economic losses. In 2011, an epidemiologic questionnaire was mailed to all members of the Finnish Fur Breeders’ Association to assess the occurrence of FENP from 2009 through the first 6 months of 2011. The aim was to describe the geographical distribution and detailed clinical signs of FENP, as well as sources of infection and potential risk factors for the disease. A total of 239 farmers (25%) returned the questionnaire. Clinical signs of FENP were observed in 40% (95% CI 34–46%) of the study farms. In addition, the survey clarified the specific clinical signs for different Animal species. The presence of disease was associated with the importation of mink, especially from Denmark (OR 9.3, 95% CI 2.6–33.0). The transmission route between Finnish farms was associated with Fur Animal purchases. Some risk factors such as the farm type were also indicated. As such, FENP was detected more commonly on farms with more than one species of Fur Animal in comparison to farms with, for example, only foxes (OR 4.6, 95% CI 2.4–8.6), and the incidence was higher on farms with over 750 breeder mink compared to smaller farms (OR 3.8, 95% CI 1.6–9.0). Contact between Fur Animals and birds and other wildlife increased the risk of FENP on farms. Responses also indicated that blocking the entry of wildlife to the Animal premises protected against FENP. FENP was most likely introduced to Finland by imported mink and spread Further within the country via domestically purchased Fur Animals. Some potential risk factors, such as the type and size of the farm and contact with wildlife, contributed to the spread of FENP. Escape-proof shelter buildings block the entry of wildlife, thus protecting Fur Animals against FENP.
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Experimental Infection of Mink Enforces the Role of Arcanobacterium phocae as Causative Agent of Fur Animal Epidemic Necrotic Pyoderma (FENP).
PloS one, 2016Co-Authors: Heli Nordgren, Olli Vapalahti, Antti Sukura, Kirsi Aaltonen, Mirja Raunio-saarnisto, Tarja SironenAbstract:Fur Animal Epidemic Necrotic Pyoderma (FENP) is a severe, often lethal infectious disease affecting all three Fur Animal species: mink (Neovision vision), foxes (Vulpes lagopus) and finnraccoons (Nyctereutes procyonoides). Previous studies showed an association between Arcanobacterium phocae and FENP. An experimental infection was conducted to confirm the ability of A. phocae to infect mink either alone or concurrently with a novel Streptococcus sp. found together with A. phocae in many cases of FENP. Different inoculation methods were tested to study possible routes of transmission. Typical signs, and gross- and histopathological findings for FENP were detected when naive mink were infected with the tissue extract of mink with FENP, using a subcutaneous/ intradermal infection route. Edema, hemorrhage, necrosis and pus formation were detected in the infection site. A pure culture preparation of A. phocae alone or concurrently with the novel Streptococcus sp. caused severe acute signs of lethargy, apathy and anorexia and even mortality. The histopathological findings were similar to those found in naturally occurring cases of FENP. In contrast, the perorally infected mink presented no clinical signs nor any gross- or histopathological lesions. This study showed that A. phocae is able to cause FENP. The study also indicated that predisposing factors such as the environment, the general condition of the Animals, temperature and skin trauma contribute to the development of the disease.
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Characterization of a New Epidemic Necrotic Pyoderma in Fur Animals and Its Association with Arcanobacterium phocae Infection
PloS one, 2014Co-Authors: Heli Nordgren, Kirsi Aaltonen, Tarja Sironen, Mirja Raunio-saarnisto, Paula M. Kinnunen, Ilkka Kivistö, Anna-maria Moisander-jylhä, Johanna Korpela, Ulla-maija Kokkonen, Udo HetzelAbstract:A new type of pyoderma was detected in Finnish Fur Animals in 2007. The disease continues to spread within and between farms, with severe and potentially fatal symptoms. It compromises Animal welfare and causes considerable economic losses to farmers. A case-control study was performed in 2010–2011 to describe the entity and to identify the causative agent. Altogether 99 Fur Animals were necropsied followed by pathological and microbiological examination. The data indicated that the disease clinically manifests in mink (Neovison vison) by necrotic dermatitis of the feet and facial skin. In finnraccoons (Nyctereutes procyonoides), it causes painful abscesses in the paws. Foxes (Vulpes lagopus) are affected by severe conjunctivitis and the infection rapidly spreads to the eyelids and facial skin. A common finding at necropsy was necrotic pyoderma. Microbiological analysis revealed the presence of a number of potential causative agents, including a novel Streptococcus sp. The common finding from all diseased Animals of all species was Arcanobacterium phocae. This bacterium has previously been isolated from marine mammals with skin lesions but this is the first report of A. phocae isolated in Fur Animals with pyoderma. The results obtained from this study implicate A. phocae as a potential causative pathogen of Fur Animal epidemic necrotic pyoderma (FENP) and support observations that the epidemic may have originated in a species -shift of the causative agent from marine mammals. The variable disease pattern and the presence of other infectious agents (in particular the novel Streptococcus sp.) suggest a multifactorial etiology for FENP, and Further studies are needed to determine the environmental, immunological and infectious factors contributing to the disease.
Tarja Sironen - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.
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comparison of streptococcus halichoeri isolates from canine and Fur Animal infections biochemical patterns molecular characteristics and genetic relatedness
Acta Veterinaria Scandinavica, 2020Co-Authors: Marjut Eklund, Heli Nordgren, Olli Vapalahti, Kirsi Aaltonen, Tarja Sironen, Mirja Rauniosaarnisto, Thomas Gronthal, Anna Pitkala, Merja RantalaAbstract:Background Streptococcus halichoeri infections have been reported in grey seals, a European badger, a Stellar sea lion and humans, but its presence in companion and Fur Animals is unknown. Since 2010, S. halichoeri-like bacteria (SHL) have been isolated from Fur Animals and dogs in Finland. Our aim was to retrospectively investigate laboratory records for SHL from canine and Fur Animal infections, characterize the isolates and compare their genetic relatedness in relation to three reference strains: CCUG 48324T, originating from a grey seal, and strains 67100 and 61265, originally isolated from humans. Results A total of 138 and 36 SHLs from canine and Fur Animal infections, respectively, were identified in the laboratory records. SHL was commonly associated with skin infections, but rarely as the only species. A set of 49 canine and 23 Fur Animal SHLs were Further characterized. MALDI-TOF confirmed them as being S. halichoeri. The growth characteristics were consistent with the original findings, but isolates were catalase positive. In total, 17 distinct API 20 Strep patterns were recorded among all 75 isolates tested, of which pattern 5563100 was the most common (n = 30). Antimicrobial resistance to erythromycin and clindamycin was common in canine isolates, but rare in Fur Animal isolates. Three clusters were observed by PFGE, and 16S rRNA sequencing revealed 98.1-100% similarities with the human strains and 98.1-99.5% with the seal strain. A phylogenetic tree of concatenated 16S rRNA and rpoB revealed closely related isolates with two clades. Fifteen canine isolates were identical to the human strains based on concatenated 16S rRNA and rpoB sequencing. Conclusions Streptococcus halichoeri appears to be quite a common bacterial species in the skin of dogs and Fur Animals. The clinical significance of S. halichoeri is uncertain, as it was rarely isolated as a monoculture. No apparent temporal or spatial clustering was detected, but isolates from different sources were genetically very similar. Because many canine isolates were genetically similar to the human reference strains, transmission between dogs and humans may be possible. WGS sequencing of strains from different sources is needed to Further investigate the epidemiology and virulence of S. halichoeri.
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Streptococcus halichoeri: Comparative Genomics of an Emerging Pathogen.
International journal of genomics, 2020Co-Authors: Kirsi Aaltonen, Olli Vapalahti, Marjut Eklund, Thomas Gronthal, Merja Rantala, Mirja Raunio-saarnisto, Ravi Kant, Lars Paulin, Tarja SironenAbstract:Streptococcus halichoeri is an emerging pathogen with a variety of host species and zoonotic potential. It has been isolated from grey seals and other marine mammals as well as from human infections. Beginning in 2010, two concurrent epidemics were identified in Finland, in Fur Animals and domestic dogs, respectively. The Fur Animals suffered from a new disease Fur Animal epidemic necrotic pyoderma (FENP) and the dogs presented with ear infections with poor treatment response. S. halichoeri was isolated in both studies, albeit among other pathogens, indicating a possible role in the disease etiologies. The aim was to find a possible common origin of the Fur Animal and dog isolates and study the virulence factors to assess pathogenic potential. Isolates from seal, human, dogs, and Fur Animals were obtained for comparison. The whole genomes were sequenced from 20 different strains using the Illumina MiSeq platform and annotated using an automatic annotation pipeline RAST. The core and pangenomes were formed by comparing the genomes against each other in an all-against-all comparison. A phylogenetic tree was constructed using the genes of the core genome. Virulence factors were assessed using the Virulence Factor Database (VFDB) concentrating on the previously confirmed streptococcal factors. A core genome was formed which encompassed approximately half of the genes in Streptococcus halichoeri. The resulting core was nearly saturated and would not change significantly by adding more genomes. The remaining genes formed the pangenome which was highly variable and would still evolve after additional genomes. The results highlight the great adaptability of this bacterium possibly explaining the ease at which it switches hosts and environments. Virulence factors were also analyzed and were found primarily in the core genome. They represented many classes and functions, but the largest single category was adhesins which again supports the marine origin of this species.
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Experimental Infection of Mink Enforces the Role of Arcanobacterium phocae as Causative Agent of Fur Animal Epidemic Necrotic Pyoderma (FENP).
PloS one, 2016Co-Authors: Heli Nordgren, Olli Vapalahti, Antti Sukura, Kirsi Aaltonen, Mirja Raunio-saarnisto, Tarja SironenAbstract:Fur Animal Epidemic Necrotic Pyoderma (FENP) is a severe, often lethal infectious disease affecting all three Fur Animal species: mink (Neovision vision), foxes (Vulpes lagopus) and finnraccoons (Nyctereutes procyonoides). Previous studies showed an association between Arcanobacterium phocae and FENP. An experimental infection was conducted to confirm the ability of A. phocae to infect mink either alone or concurrently with a novel Streptococcus sp. found together with A. phocae in many cases of FENP. Different inoculation methods were tested to study possible routes of transmission. Typical signs, and gross- and histopathological findings for FENP were detected when naive mink were infected with the tissue extract of mink with FENP, using a subcutaneous/ intradermal infection route. Edema, hemorrhage, necrosis and pus formation were detected in the infection site. A pure culture preparation of A. phocae alone or concurrently with the novel Streptococcus sp. caused severe acute signs of lethargy, apathy and anorexia and even mortality. The histopathological findings were similar to those found in naturally occurring cases of FENP. In contrast, the perorally infected mink presented no clinical signs nor any gross- or histopathological lesions. This study showed that A. phocae is able to cause FENP. The study also indicated that predisposing factors such as the environment, the general condition of the Animals, temperature and skin trauma contribute to the development of the disease.
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Characterization of a New Epidemic Necrotic Pyoderma in Fur Animals and Its Association with Arcanobacterium phocae Infection
PloS one, 2014Co-Authors: Heli Nordgren, Kirsi Aaltonen, Tarja Sironen, Mirja Raunio-saarnisto, Paula M. Kinnunen, Ilkka Kivistö, Anna-maria Moisander-jylhä, Johanna Korpela, Ulla-maija Kokkonen, Udo HetzelAbstract:A new type of pyoderma was detected in Finnish Fur Animals in 2007. The disease continues to spread within and between farms, with severe and potentially fatal symptoms. It compromises Animal welfare and causes considerable economic losses to farmers. A case-control study was performed in 2010–2011 to describe the entity and to identify the causative agent. Altogether 99 Fur Animals were necropsied followed by pathological and microbiological examination. The data indicated that the disease clinically manifests in mink (Neovison vison) by necrotic dermatitis of the feet and facial skin. In finnraccoons (Nyctereutes procyonoides), it causes painful abscesses in the paws. Foxes (Vulpes lagopus) are affected by severe conjunctivitis and the infection rapidly spreads to the eyelids and facial skin. A common finding at necropsy was necrotic pyoderma. Microbiological analysis revealed the presence of a number of potential causative agents, including a novel Streptococcus sp. The common finding from all diseased Animals of all species was Arcanobacterium phocae. This bacterium has previously been isolated from marine mammals with skin lesions but this is the first report of A. phocae isolated in Fur Animals with pyoderma. The results obtained from this study implicate A. phocae as a potential causative pathogen of Fur Animal epidemic necrotic pyoderma (FENP) and support observations that the epidemic may have originated in a species -shift of the causative agent from marine mammals. The variable disease pattern and the presence of other infectious agents (in particular the novel Streptococcus sp.) suggest a multifactorial etiology for FENP, and Further studies are needed to determine the environmental, immunological and infectious factors contributing to the disease.
Kirsi Aaltonen - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.
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comparison of streptococcus halichoeri isolates from canine and Fur Animal infections biochemical patterns molecular characteristics and genetic relatedness
Acta Veterinaria Scandinavica, 2020Co-Authors: Marjut Eklund, Heli Nordgren, Olli Vapalahti, Kirsi Aaltonen, Tarja Sironen, Mirja Rauniosaarnisto, Thomas Gronthal, Anna Pitkala, Merja RantalaAbstract:Background Streptococcus halichoeri infections have been reported in grey seals, a European badger, a Stellar sea lion and humans, but its presence in companion and Fur Animals is unknown. Since 2010, S. halichoeri-like bacteria (SHL) have been isolated from Fur Animals and dogs in Finland. Our aim was to retrospectively investigate laboratory records for SHL from canine and Fur Animal infections, characterize the isolates and compare their genetic relatedness in relation to three reference strains: CCUG 48324T, originating from a grey seal, and strains 67100 and 61265, originally isolated from humans. Results A total of 138 and 36 SHLs from canine and Fur Animal infections, respectively, were identified in the laboratory records. SHL was commonly associated with skin infections, but rarely as the only species. A set of 49 canine and 23 Fur Animal SHLs were Further characterized. MALDI-TOF confirmed them as being S. halichoeri. The growth characteristics were consistent with the original findings, but isolates were catalase positive. In total, 17 distinct API 20 Strep patterns were recorded among all 75 isolates tested, of which pattern 5563100 was the most common (n = 30). Antimicrobial resistance to erythromycin and clindamycin was common in canine isolates, but rare in Fur Animal isolates. Three clusters were observed by PFGE, and 16S rRNA sequencing revealed 98.1-100% similarities with the human strains and 98.1-99.5% with the seal strain. A phylogenetic tree of concatenated 16S rRNA and rpoB revealed closely related isolates with two clades. Fifteen canine isolates were identical to the human strains based on concatenated 16S rRNA and rpoB sequencing. Conclusions Streptococcus halichoeri appears to be quite a common bacterial species in the skin of dogs and Fur Animals. The clinical significance of S. halichoeri is uncertain, as it was rarely isolated as a monoculture. No apparent temporal or spatial clustering was detected, but isolates from different sources were genetically very similar. Because many canine isolates were genetically similar to the human reference strains, transmission between dogs and humans may be possible. WGS sequencing of strains from different sources is needed to Further investigate the epidemiology and virulence of S. halichoeri.
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Streptococcus halichoeri: Comparative Genomics of an Emerging Pathogen.
International journal of genomics, 2020Co-Authors: Kirsi Aaltonen, Olli Vapalahti, Marjut Eklund, Thomas Gronthal, Merja Rantala, Mirja Raunio-saarnisto, Ravi Kant, Lars Paulin, Tarja SironenAbstract:Streptococcus halichoeri is an emerging pathogen with a variety of host species and zoonotic potential. It has been isolated from grey seals and other marine mammals as well as from human infections. Beginning in 2010, two concurrent epidemics were identified in Finland, in Fur Animals and domestic dogs, respectively. The Fur Animals suffered from a new disease Fur Animal epidemic necrotic pyoderma (FENP) and the dogs presented with ear infections with poor treatment response. S. halichoeri was isolated in both studies, albeit among other pathogens, indicating a possible role in the disease etiologies. The aim was to find a possible common origin of the Fur Animal and dog isolates and study the virulence factors to assess pathogenic potential. Isolates from seal, human, dogs, and Fur Animals were obtained for comparison. The whole genomes were sequenced from 20 different strains using the Illumina MiSeq platform and annotated using an automatic annotation pipeline RAST. The core and pangenomes were formed by comparing the genomes against each other in an all-against-all comparison. A phylogenetic tree was constructed using the genes of the core genome. Virulence factors were assessed using the Virulence Factor Database (VFDB) concentrating on the previously confirmed streptococcal factors. A core genome was formed which encompassed approximately half of the genes in Streptococcus halichoeri. The resulting core was nearly saturated and would not change significantly by adding more genomes. The remaining genes formed the pangenome which was highly variable and would still evolve after additional genomes. The results highlight the great adaptability of this bacterium possibly explaining the ease at which it switches hosts and environments. Virulence factors were also analyzed and were found primarily in the core genome. They represented many classes and functions, but the largest single category was adhesins which again supports the marine origin of this species.
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Experimental Infection of Mink Enforces the Role of Arcanobacterium phocae as Causative Agent of Fur Animal Epidemic Necrotic Pyoderma (FENP).
PloS one, 2016Co-Authors: Heli Nordgren, Olli Vapalahti, Antti Sukura, Kirsi Aaltonen, Mirja Raunio-saarnisto, Tarja SironenAbstract:Fur Animal Epidemic Necrotic Pyoderma (FENP) is a severe, often lethal infectious disease affecting all three Fur Animal species: mink (Neovision vision), foxes (Vulpes lagopus) and finnraccoons (Nyctereutes procyonoides). Previous studies showed an association between Arcanobacterium phocae and FENP. An experimental infection was conducted to confirm the ability of A. phocae to infect mink either alone or concurrently with a novel Streptococcus sp. found together with A. phocae in many cases of FENP. Different inoculation methods were tested to study possible routes of transmission. Typical signs, and gross- and histopathological findings for FENP were detected when naive mink were infected with the tissue extract of mink with FENP, using a subcutaneous/ intradermal infection route. Edema, hemorrhage, necrosis and pus formation were detected in the infection site. A pure culture preparation of A. phocae alone or concurrently with the novel Streptococcus sp. caused severe acute signs of lethargy, apathy and anorexia and even mortality. The histopathological findings were similar to those found in naturally occurring cases of FENP. In contrast, the perorally infected mink presented no clinical signs nor any gross- or histopathological lesions. This study showed that A. phocae is able to cause FENP. The study also indicated that predisposing factors such as the environment, the general condition of the Animals, temperature and skin trauma contribute to the development of the disease.
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Characterization of a New Epidemic Necrotic Pyoderma in Fur Animals and Its Association with Arcanobacterium phocae Infection
PloS one, 2014Co-Authors: Heli Nordgren, Kirsi Aaltonen, Tarja Sironen, Mirja Raunio-saarnisto, Paula M. Kinnunen, Ilkka Kivistö, Anna-maria Moisander-jylhä, Johanna Korpela, Ulla-maija Kokkonen, Udo HetzelAbstract:A new type of pyoderma was detected in Finnish Fur Animals in 2007. The disease continues to spread within and between farms, with severe and potentially fatal symptoms. It compromises Animal welfare and causes considerable economic losses to farmers. A case-control study was performed in 2010–2011 to describe the entity and to identify the causative agent. Altogether 99 Fur Animals were necropsied followed by pathological and microbiological examination. The data indicated that the disease clinically manifests in mink (Neovison vison) by necrotic dermatitis of the feet and facial skin. In finnraccoons (Nyctereutes procyonoides), it causes painful abscesses in the paws. Foxes (Vulpes lagopus) are affected by severe conjunctivitis and the infection rapidly spreads to the eyelids and facial skin. A common finding at necropsy was necrotic pyoderma. Microbiological analysis revealed the presence of a number of potential causative agents, including a novel Streptococcus sp. The common finding from all diseased Animals of all species was Arcanobacterium phocae. This bacterium has previously been isolated from marine mammals with skin lesions but this is the first report of A. phocae isolated in Fur Animals with pyoderma. The results obtained from this study implicate A. phocae as a potential causative pathogen of Fur Animal epidemic necrotic pyoderma (FENP) and support observations that the epidemic may have originated in a species -shift of the causative agent from marine mammals. The variable disease pattern and the presence of other infectious agents (in particular the novel Streptococcus sp.) suggest a multifactorial etiology for FENP, and Further studies are needed to determine the environmental, immunological and infectious factors contributing to the disease.
Olli Vapalahti - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.
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comparison of streptococcus halichoeri isolates from canine and Fur Animal infections biochemical patterns molecular characteristics and genetic relatedness
Acta Veterinaria Scandinavica, 2020Co-Authors: Marjut Eklund, Heli Nordgren, Olli Vapalahti, Kirsi Aaltonen, Tarja Sironen, Mirja Rauniosaarnisto, Thomas Gronthal, Anna Pitkala, Merja RantalaAbstract:Background Streptococcus halichoeri infections have been reported in grey seals, a European badger, a Stellar sea lion and humans, but its presence in companion and Fur Animals is unknown. Since 2010, S. halichoeri-like bacteria (SHL) have been isolated from Fur Animals and dogs in Finland. Our aim was to retrospectively investigate laboratory records for SHL from canine and Fur Animal infections, characterize the isolates and compare their genetic relatedness in relation to three reference strains: CCUG 48324T, originating from a grey seal, and strains 67100 and 61265, originally isolated from humans. Results A total of 138 and 36 SHLs from canine and Fur Animal infections, respectively, were identified in the laboratory records. SHL was commonly associated with skin infections, but rarely as the only species. A set of 49 canine and 23 Fur Animal SHLs were Further characterized. MALDI-TOF confirmed them as being S. halichoeri. The growth characteristics were consistent with the original findings, but isolates were catalase positive. In total, 17 distinct API 20 Strep patterns were recorded among all 75 isolates tested, of which pattern 5563100 was the most common (n = 30). Antimicrobial resistance to erythromycin and clindamycin was common in canine isolates, but rare in Fur Animal isolates. Three clusters were observed by PFGE, and 16S rRNA sequencing revealed 98.1-100% similarities with the human strains and 98.1-99.5% with the seal strain. A phylogenetic tree of concatenated 16S rRNA and rpoB revealed closely related isolates with two clades. Fifteen canine isolates were identical to the human strains based on concatenated 16S rRNA and rpoB sequencing. Conclusions Streptococcus halichoeri appears to be quite a common bacterial species in the skin of dogs and Fur Animals. The clinical significance of S. halichoeri is uncertain, as it was rarely isolated as a monoculture. No apparent temporal or spatial clustering was detected, but isolates from different sources were genetically very similar. Because many canine isolates were genetically similar to the human reference strains, transmission between dogs and humans may be possible. WGS sequencing of strains from different sources is needed to Further investigate the epidemiology and virulence of S. halichoeri.
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Streptococcus halichoeri: Comparative Genomics of an Emerging Pathogen.
International journal of genomics, 2020Co-Authors: Kirsi Aaltonen, Olli Vapalahti, Marjut Eklund, Thomas Gronthal, Merja Rantala, Mirja Raunio-saarnisto, Ravi Kant, Lars Paulin, Tarja SironenAbstract:Streptococcus halichoeri is an emerging pathogen with a variety of host species and zoonotic potential. It has been isolated from grey seals and other marine mammals as well as from human infections. Beginning in 2010, two concurrent epidemics were identified in Finland, in Fur Animals and domestic dogs, respectively. The Fur Animals suffered from a new disease Fur Animal epidemic necrotic pyoderma (FENP) and the dogs presented with ear infections with poor treatment response. S. halichoeri was isolated in both studies, albeit among other pathogens, indicating a possible role in the disease etiologies. The aim was to find a possible common origin of the Fur Animal and dog isolates and study the virulence factors to assess pathogenic potential. Isolates from seal, human, dogs, and Fur Animals were obtained for comparison. The whole genomes were sequenced from 20 different strains using the Illumina MiSeq platform and annotated using an automatic annotation pipeline RAST. The core and pangenomes were formed by comparing the genomes against each other in an all-against-all comparison. A phylogenetic tree was constructed using the genes of the core genome. Virulence factors were assessed using the Virulence Factor Database (VFDB) concentrating on the previously confirmed streptococcal factors. A core genome was formed which encompassed approximately half of the genes in Streptococcus halichoeri. The resulting core was nearly saturated and would not change significantly by adding more genomes. The remaining genes formed the pangenome which was highly variable and would still evolve after additional genomes. The results highlight the great adaptability of this bacterium possibly explaining the ease at which it switches hosts and environments. Virulence factors were also analyzed and were found primarily in the core genome. They represented many classes and functions, but the largest single category was adhesins which again supports the marine origin of this species.
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Questionnaire survey of detrimental Fur Animal epidemic necrotic pyoderma in Finland
Acta Veterinaria Scandinavica, 2017Co-Authors: Heli Nordgren, Katariina Vapalahti, Olli Vapalahti, Antti Sukura, Anna-maija VirtalaAbstract:Background In 2007, a previously unrecorded disease, Fur Animal epidemic necrotic pyoderma (FENP), was detected in farmed mink ( Neovision vision ), foxes ( Vulpes lagopus ) and Finnraccoons ( Nyctereutes procyonoides ) in Finland. Symptoms included severe pyoderma with increased mortality, causing both Animal welfare problems and economic losses. In 2011, an epidemiologic questionnaire was mailed to all members of the Finnish Fur Breeders’ Association to assess the occurrence of FENP from 2009 through the first 6 months of 2011. The aim was to describe the geographical distribution and detailed clinical signs of FENP, as well as sources of infection and potential risk factors for the disease. Results A total of 239 farmers (25%) returned the questionnaire. Clinical signs of FENP were observed in 40% (95% CI 34–46%) of the study farms. In addition, the survey clarified the specific clinical signs for different Animal species. The presence of disease was associated with the importation of mink, especially from Denmark (OR 9.3, 95% CI 2.6–33.0). The transmission route between Finnish farms was associated with Fur Animal purchases. Some risk factors such as the farm type were also indicated. As such, FENP was detected more commonly on farms with more than one species of Fur Animal in comparison to farms with, for example, only foxes (OR 4.6, 95% CI 2.4–8.6), and the incidence was higher on farms with over 750 breeder mink compared to smaller farms (OR 3.8, 95% CI 1.6–9.0). Contact between Fur Animals and birds and other wildlife increased the risk of FENP on farms. Responses also indicated that blocking the entry of wildlife to the Animal premises protected against FENP. Conclusions FENP was most likely introduced to Finland by imported mink and spread Further within the country via domestically purchased Fur Animals. Some potential risk factors, such as the type and size of the farm and contact with wildlife, contributed to the spread of FENP. Escape-proof shelter buildings block the entry of wildlife, thus protecting Fur Animals against FENP.
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Questionnaire survey of detrimental Fur Animal epidemic necrotic pyoderma in Finland.
Acta veterinaria Scandinavica, 2017Co-Authors: Heli Nordgren, Katariina Vapalahti, Olli Vapalahti, Antti Sukura, Anna-maija VirtalaAbstract:In 2007, a previously unrecorded disease, Fur Animal epidemic necrotic pyoderma (FENP), was detected in farmed mink (Neovision vision), foxes (Vulpes lagopus) and Finnraccoons (Nyctereutes procyonoides) in Finland. Symptoms included severe pyoderma with increased mortality, causing both Animal welfare problems and economic losses. In 2011, an epidemiologic questionnaire was mailed to all members of the Finnish Fur Breeders’ Association to assess the occurrence of FENP from 2009 through the first 6 months of 2011. The aim was to describe the geographical distribution and detailed clinical signs of FENP, as well as sources of infection and potential risk factors for the disease. A total of 239 farmers (25%) returned the questionnaire. Clinical signs of FENP were observed in 40% (95% CI 34–46%) of the study farms. In addition, the survey clarified the specific clinical signs for different Animal species. The presence of disease was associated with the importation of mink, especially from Denmark (OR 9.3, 95% CI 2.6–33.0). The transmission route between Finnish farms was associated with Fur Animal purchases. Some risk factors such as the farm type were also indicated. As such, FENP was detected more commonly on farms with more than one species of Fur Animal in comparison to farms with, for example, only foxes (OR 4.6, 95% CI 2.4–8.6), and the incidence was higher on farms with over 750 breeder mink compared to smaller farms (OR 3.8, 95% CI 1.6–9.0). Contact between Fur Animals and birds and other wildlife increased the risk of FENP on farms. Responses also indicated that blocking the entry of wildlife to the Animal premises protected against FENP. FENP was most likely introduced to Finland by imported mink and spread Further within the country via domestically purchased Fur Animals. Some potential risk factors, such as the type and size of the farm and contact with wildlife, contributed to the spread of FENP. Escape-proof shelter buildings block the entry of wildlife, thus protecting Fur Animals against FENP.
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Experimental Infection of Mink Enforces the Role of Arcanobacterium phocae as Causative Agent of Fur Animal Epidemic Necrotic Pyoderma (FENP).
PloS one, 2016Co-Authors: Heli Nordgren, Olli Vapalahti, Antti Sukura, Kirsi Aaltonen, Mirja Raunio-saarnisto, Tarja SironenAbstract:Fur Animal Epidemic Necrotic Pyoderma (FENP) is a severe, often lethal infectious disease affecting all three Fur Animal species: mink (Neovision vision), foxes (Vulpes lagopus) and finnraccoons (Nyctereutes procyonoides). Previous studies showed an association between Arcanobacterium phocae and FENP. An experimental infection was conducted to confirm the ability of A. phocae to infect mink either alone or concurrently with a novel Streptococcus sp. found together with A. phocae in many cases of FENP. Different inoculation methods were tested to study possible routes of transmission. Typical signs, and gross- and histopathological findings for FENP were detected when naive mink were infected with the tissue extract of mink with FENP, using a subcutaneous/ intradermal infection route. Edema, hemorrhage, necrosis and pus formation were detected in the infection site. A pure culture preparation of A. phocae alone or concurrently with the novel Streptococcus sp. caused severe acute signs of lethargy, apathy and anorexia and even mortality. The histopathological findings were similar to those found in naturally occurring cases of FENP. In contrast, the perorally infected mink presented no clinical signs nor any gross- or histopathological lesions. This study showed that A. phocae is able to cause FENP. The study also indicated that predisposing factors such as the environment, the general condition of the Animals, temperature and skin trauma contribute to the development of the disease.
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Rabies Viruses in Specific Wild Fur Animals in Northern China, 2017–2019
Transboundary and emerging diseases, 2020Co-Authors: Hao Liu, Xiaoqing Yuan, Maolin Zhang, Ming Duan, Ning ShiAbstract:In recent years, rabies virus (RABV) has been detected in numerous specific wild Fur Animals in northern China. Therefore, we performed an epidemiologic investigation of RABV in the main Fur Animal farming provinces during 2017-2019. The results showed that brain tissue samples from eight Animals that presented with central nervous symptoms were positive for rabies virus according to direct fluorescent antibody assays and RT-PCR. The phylogenetic relationships and distributions of the viruses were determined, and the results indicated that they belonged to Cosmopolitan and Arctic-related lineages. Serological investigations revealed a RABV positivity rate of 2.78% (34/1,222) in Fur Animals. A total of 79 unimmunized breeders were negative for serum antibodies, and 9.62% of 52 immunized breeders (5/52) were not seroconverted. The results emphasize that specific wild Fur Animals are potential sources of RABV and that the current vaccination programme for Animals and breeders is deficient, indicating the need for mandatory rabies vaccination to eliminate rabies transmission from dogs to farmed Fur Animals.
