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Séverine Tasker - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.
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Haemoplasmosis in cats: European guidelines from the ABCD on prevention and management
Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery, 2018Co-Authors: Séverine Tasker, Regina Hofmann-lehmann, Sándor Belák, Tadeusz Frymus, Diane Addie, Maria Grazia Pennisi, Corine Boucraut-baralon, Herman Egberink, Katrin Hartmann, Margaret J HosieAbstract:Overview:Haemoplasmas are haemotropic bacteria that can induce anaemia in a wide range of mammalian species.Infection in cats:Mycoplasma haemofelis is the most pathogenic of the three main feline haemoplasma species known to infect cats. ‘Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum’ and ‘Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis’ are less pathogenic but can result in disease in immunocompromised cats. Male, non-pedigree cats with outdoor access are more likely to be haemoplasma infected, and ‘Candidatus M haemominutum’ is more common in older cats. All three haemoplasma species can be carried asymptomatically.Transmission:The natural mode of transmission of haemoplasma infection is not known, but aggressive interactions and vectors are possibilities. Transmission by blood transfusion can occur and all blood donors should be screened for haemoplasma infection.Diagnosis and treatment:PCR assays are the preferred diagnostic method for haemoplasma infections. Treatment with doxycycline for 2–4 weeks is usually effective for M ...
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Follow-up monitoring in a cat with leishmaniosis and coinfections with Hepatozoon felis and ‘Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum’:
Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery Open Reports, 2017Co-Authors: Charalampos Attipa, Kyriaki Neofytou, Christos Yiapanis, Pamela Martínez-orellana, Gad Baneth, Yaarit Nachum-biala, Harriet Brooks-brownlie, Laia Solano-gallego, Séverine TaskerAbstract:Case summary A 6-year-old female neutered domestic shorthair cat from Cyprus was presented with multiple ulcerated skin nodules. Cytology and histopathology of the lesions revealed granulomatous dermatitis with intracytoplasmic organisms, consistent with amastigotes of Leishmania species. Biochemistry identified a mild hyperproteinaemia. Blood extraction and PCR detected Leishmania species, Hepatozoon species and ‘Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum’ (CMhm) DNA. Subsequent sequencing identified Hepatozoon felis. Additionally, the rRNA internal transcribed spacer 1 locus of Leishmania infantum was partially sequenced and phylogeny showed it to cluster with species derived from dogs in Italy and Uzbekistan, and a human in France. Allopurinol treatment was administered for 6 months. Clinical signs resolved in the second month of treatment with no deterioration 8 months post-treatment cessation. Quantitative PCR and ELISA were used to monitor L infantum blood DNA and antibody levels. The cat had high L infantum DNA levels pretreatment that gradually declined during treatment but increased 8 months post-treatment cessation. Similarly, ELISA revealed high levels of antibodies pretreatment, which gradually declined during treatment and increased slightly 8 months post-treatment cessation. The cat remained PCR positive for CMhm and Hepatozoon species throughout the study. There was no clinical evidence of relapse 24 months post-treatment. Relevance and novel information To our knowledge, this is the first clinical report of a cat with leishmaniosis with H felis and CMhm coinfections. The high L infantum DNA levels post-treatment cessation might indicate that although the lesions had resolved, prolonged or an alternative treatment could have been considered
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Follow-up monitoring in a cat with leishmaniosis and coinfections with and ‘ Mycoplasma haemominutum’
SAGE Publishing, 2017Co-Authors: Charalampos Attipa, Kyriaki Neofytou, Christos Yiapanis, Pamela Martínez-orellana, Gad Baneth, Yaarit Nachum-biala, Harriet Brooks-brownlie, Laia Solano-gallego, Séverine TaskerAbstract:Case summary A 6-year-old female neutered domestic shorthair cat from Cyprus was presented with multiple ulcerated skin nodules. Cytology and histopathology of the lesions revealed granulomatous dermatitis with intracytoplasmic organisms, consistent with amastigotes of Leishmania species. Biochemistry identified a mild hyperproteinaemia. Blood extraction and PCR detected Leishmania species, Hepatozoon species and ‘ Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum’ (CMhm) DNA. Subsequent sequencing identified Hepatozoon felis . Additionally, the rRNA internal transcribed spacer 1 locus of Leishmania infantum was partially sequenced and phylogeny showed it to cluster with species derived from dogs in Italy and Uzbekistan, and a human in France. Allopurinol treatment was administered for 6 months. Clinical signs resolved in the second month of treatment with no deterioration 8 months post-treatment cessation. Quantitative PCR and ELISA were used to monitor L infantum blood DNA and antibody levels. The cat had high L infantum DNA levels pretreatment that gradually declined during treatment but increased 8 months post-treatment cessation. Similarly, ELISA revealed high levels of antibodies pretreatment, which gradually declined during treatment and increased slightly 8 months post-treatment cessation. The cat remained PCR positive for CMhm and Hepatozoon species throughout the study. There was no clinical evidence of relapse 24 months post-treatment. Relevance and novel information To our knowledge, this is the first clinical report of a cat with leishmaniosis with H felis and CMhm coinfections. The high L infantum DNA levels post-treatment cessation might indicate that although the lesions had resolved, prolonged or an alternative treatment could have been considered
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Infection with haemoplasma species in 22 cats with anaemia.
Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery, 2015Co-Authors: Christiane Weingart, Séverine Tasker, Barbara KohnAbstract:ObjectivesInformation regarding the clinical course of natural infection with feline haemotropic Mycoplasmas (haemoplasmas) is limited. The objective of the study was to describe the clinical findings and course of disease in naturally infected cats with haemoplasmosis and anaemia.MethodsA retrospective analysis was performed on patient data from cats presenting with anaemia and haemoplasma infection regarding signalment, clinical signs, laboratory data and course of infection. The diagnosis was confirmed by conventional haemoplasma PCR analysis.ResultsHaemoplasma infection was found in 22 anaemic (haematocrit 5–25% [median 17%]; reference interval 30–44%) cats (‘Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum’, n = 12; Mycoplasma haemofelis, n = 3; ‘Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis’, n = 2; species not determined, n = 4; coinfection with all three species, n = 1) between 2005 and 2014. Thirteen of the cats had concurrent diseases. All cats underwent antibiotic treatment; 15 cats received blood products. Six cats were...
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Prevalence and risk factor analysis of feline haemoplasma infection in New Zealand domestic cats using a real-time PCR assay.
Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery, 2013Co-Authors: Kathryn S Jenkins, Keren E. Dittmer, Jonathan C. Marshall, Séverine TaskerAbstract:Haemotropic Mycoplasmas (haemoplasmas) are small epierythrocytic bacteria that have the potential to cause severe, life-threatening haemolytic anaemia. The aim of the current study was to evaluate feline haemoplasma prevalence using real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) from a convenience sample of New Zealand domestic cats, including blood film examination and a risk factor analysis. DNA was extracted from 200 blood samples submitted to a diagnostic laboratory for routine haematology over a 12-month period. Species-specific real-time PCR assays identified 62 cats that were positive for haemoplasma DNA, giving an overall prevalence of 31%. Twelve of the positive cats had dual infections. The prevalence of the three feline haemoplasmas was 25% for ‘Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum’, 7.5% for Mycoplasma haemofelis and 4.5% for ‘Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis’ (CMt). All samples were positive for an internal control (feline 28S rDNA) by real-time PCR. Sensitivity and specificity of blood smear examin...
Michael R. Lappin - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.
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Assessment of the ability of Aedes species mosquitoes to transmit feline Mycoplasma haemofelis and ' Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum'.
Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery, 2016Co-Authors: Krystle L. Reagan, Lorelei L. Clarke, Jennifer R. Hawley, Phillip Lin, Michael R. LappinAbstract:ObjectivesThe objective of this study was to evaluate wild-caught mosquitoes for evidence of hemotropic Mycoplasma species DNA and to determine whether the feline hemoplasmas, Mycoplasma haemofelis (Mhf) and ‘Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum’ (Mhm), can be transmitted by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes in a laboratory setting.MethodsWild-caught mosquito pools (50 mosquitoes per pool, 84 pools) utilized in routine public health department disease surveillance programs were tested for hemotropic Mycoplasma species DNA using PCR with primers designed to amplify all known hemoplasmas. Additionally, mosquitoes were trapped in the vicinity of known feral cat colonies, pooled (50 mosquitoes per pool) and tested (84 pools). Purpose-bred cats housed in a research facility were infected with Mhf or Mhm and then colonized laboratory A aegypti were fed upon the bacteremic cats. After a 7 day incubation period, mosquitoes previously fed on infected cats were allowed to feed again on naive cats, which were monitored for bac...
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Prevalence of Bartonella species, hemoplasmas, and Rickettsia felis DNA in blood and fleas of cats in Bangkok, Thailand.
Research in Veterinary Science, 2012Co-Authors: S. Assarasakorn, Melissa Brewer, Jennifer R. Hawley, Julia K. Veir, Arianne K. Morris, Ashley E. Hill, Michael R. LappinAbstract:Flea infestations are common in Thailand, but little is known about the flea-borne infections. Fifty flea pools and 153 blood samples were collected from client-owned cats between June and August 2009 from veterinary hospitals in Bangkok, Thailand. Total DNA was extracted from all samples, and then assessed by conventional PCR assays. The prevalence rates of Bartonella spp. in blood and flea samples were 17% and 32%, respectively, with DNA of Bartonella henselae and Bartonella clarridgeiae being amplified most commonly. Bartonella koehlerae DNA was amplified for the first time in Thailand. Hemoplasma DNA was amplified from 23% and 34% of blood samples and flea pools, respectively, with ‘Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum’ and Mycoplasma haemofelis being detected most frequently. All samples were negative for Rickettsia felis. Prevalence rate of B. henselae DNA was increased 6.9 times in cats with flea infestation. Cats administered flea control products were 4.2 times less likely to be Bartonella-infected.
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Effect of Doxycycline or Orbifloxacin Administration on Bartonella spp and Hemoplasma Assay Results in Naturally Exposed Cats
2012Co-Authors: Michael R. Lappin, Whitney MillerAbstract:The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of successful treatment for Bartonella spp, Mycoplasma hemofelis or Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum infection of cats on results of diagnostic test results commonly available to veterinary practitioners through commercial diagnostic laboratories. Evidence of infection or exposure to Bartonella spp, M hemofelis or Candidatus M. haemominutum was detected
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Prevalence of selected infectious agents in cats in Ireland
Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery, 2010Co-Authors: Florence Juvet, Michael R. Lappin, S. F. Brennan, Carmel T. MooneyAbstract:Vector-borne bacterial and rickettsial agents and Toxoplasma gondii, are common organisms in cats. Some are potentially zoonotic or may be transmitted via blood transfusion. The current study investigated the prevalence of these agents in cats from Dublin, Ireland, for which no published data exists. Whole blood (n = 116) and sera (n = 83) samples were obtained from 121 cats. DNA was extracted from blood and assayed using polymerase chain reaction techniques for Anaplasma species, Bartonella species, Ehrlichia species, Mycoplasma haemofelis, ‘Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum’, ‘Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis’ and Rickettsia species. IgG and T gondii IgG and IgM serum antibodies were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. DNA consistent with B henselae (3.4%), B clarridgeiae (0.8%), both Bartonella species (0.8%), C M haemominutum (12.9%), or M haemofelis (2.5%) was amplified from 24/116 blood samples (20.6%). Antibodies to T gondii and Bartonella species were detected in 28 (33.7%) and 22 (26.5%) of 83 sera, respectively.
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Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum" infections in 21 client-owned cats.
Journal of The American Animal Hospital Association, 2007Co-Authors: Caryn A. Reynolds, Michael R. LappinAbstract:Medical records were reviewed for 21 clinically ill cats testing positive for deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) of “Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum” in their blood. Fever, anorexia, lethargy, and anem...
Regina Hofmann-lehmann - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.
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Haemoplasmosis in cats: European guidelines from the ABCD on prevention and management
Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery, 2018Co-Authors: Séverine Tasker, Regina Hofmann-lehmann, Sándor Belák, Tadeusz Frymus, Diane Addie, Maria Grazia Pennisi, Corine Boucraut-baralon, Herman Egberink, Katrin Hartmann, Margaret J HosieAbstract:Overview:Haemoplasmas are haemotropic bacteria that can induce anaemia in a wide range of mammalian species.Infection in cats:Mycoplasma haemofelis is the most pathogenic of the three main feline haemoplasma species known to infect cats. ‘Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum’ and ‘Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis’ are less pathogenic but can result in disease in immunocompromised cats. Male, non-pedigree cats with outdoor access are more likely to be haemoplasma infected, and ‘Candidatus M haemominutum’ is more common in older cats. All three haemoplasma species can be carried asymptomatically.Transmission:The natural mode of transmission of haemoplasma infection is not known, but aggressive interactions and vectors are possibilities. Transmission by blood transfusion can occur and all blood donors should be screened for haemoplasma infection.Diagnosis and treatment:PCR assays are the preferred diagnostic method for haemoplasma infections. Treatment with doxycycline for 2–4 weeks is usually effective for M ...
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Genome Sequence for “Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum, ” a Low-Pathogenicity Hemoplasma Species
2016Co-Authors: Felicitas S Boretti, Regina Hofmann-lehmann, Séverine TaskeraAbstract:We present the genome sequence of “CandidatusMycoplasma haemominutum ” strain Birmingham 1, a low-pathogenicity fe-line hemoplasma strain. Hemoplasmas are uncultivatable hemotropic bacteria withinthe genusMycoplasma (8). “CandidatusMycoplasma haemo-minutum ” was identified as being distinct from Mycoplasma hae-mofelis on the basis of 16S rRNA gene sequence data comparison (12). “Ca. Mycoplasma haemominutum ” is the most prevalent of the feline-infecting hemoplasmas (10), and infection doesn’t usu-ally result in clinical disease in immunocompetent cats, but de-creases in hematocrit have been reported (11, 17). Genomic DNA from “Ca. Mycoplasma haemominutum” strain Birmingham 1 was purified from blood taken from an ex-perimentally infected specific-pathogen-free cat at high para-sitemia, as described previously (2). This low-passage strain, de-rived from a naturally infected cat (15), has been used in previous infection kinetics studies (9, 14, 16, 17). Whole shotgun pyro-sequencing was performed by generating a standard DNA library with a 3-kb insert size using the 454 library preparation kit (Roche Applied Sciences, Indianapolis, IN) and sequenced on a GS-FLX using Titanium chemistry (454 Life Sciences, Roche Applied Sci-ences). The 454 reads were assembled with Newbler (Augus
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Quantification of the humoral immune response and hemoplasma blood and tissue loads in cats coinfected with ‘Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum’ and feline leukemia virus
Microbial Pathogenesis, 2012Co-Authors: Godelind A. Wolf-jäckel, Marilisa Novacco, Felicitas S Boretti, Marina L. Meli, Hans Lutz, Valentino Cattori, C. P. Geret, Barbara Riond, Regina Hofmann-lehmannAbstract:'Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum' (CMhm) is a hemotropic Mycoplasma (aka hemoplasma) of domestic cats and wild felids. In a transmission study, we exposed eight specified pathogen-free cats to blood from Iberian lynxes (Lynx pardinus) infected with CMhm. The cats were coinfected with feline leukemia virus (FeLV) from an Iberian lynx or with a prototype FeLV. The goal of the present study was to quantify the humoral immune response to CMhm and to identify potential target tissues and sequestration sites. Antibodies were measured by a recombinant antigen-based enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and blood and tissue loads were quantified using real-time PCR. Seven out of eight cats became CMhm-infected; all of these cats seroconverted between 3 and 13 weeks after inoculation. Antibody levels correlated with the CMhm blood loads. The peak CMhm blood loads were inversely correlated with the incubation period. PCR-positive results were found in all 24 tissues tested but not for all samples. Although all tissues were PCR-positive in one cat euthanized ten weeks after infection, many tissues tested negative in six cats euthanized at week 20 after infection. In several cats, the spleen, lung, liver, heart and aorta contained more copies than expected given the tissue's blood supply, but most tissues contained fewer copies than expected. In conclusion, this is the first study to quantify the humoral immune response and tissue loads in CMhm-FeLV-coinfected cats. The tissue loads appeared to correlate with the duration of infection and with the blood loads, but no evidence of significant CMhm tissue sequestration was found.
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Genome sequence for "Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum," a low-pathogenicity hemoplasma species
Journal of Bacteriology, 2012Co-Authors: Emily N. Barker, Alistair C. Darby, Christopher R Helps, Iain R. Peters, Margaret Hughes, Alan D Radford, Marilisa Novacco, Felicitas S Boretti, Regina Hofmann-lehmann, Séverine TaskerAbstract:We present the genome sequence of "Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum" strain Birmingham 1, a low-pathogenicity feline hemoplasma strain.
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Detection of humoral response using a recombinant heat shock protein 70, DnaK, of Mycoplasma haemofelis in experimentally and naturally hemoplasma-infected cats.
Clinical and Vaccine Immunology, 2010Co-Authors: Emily N. Barker, Christopher R Helps, Iain R. Peters, Regina Hofmann-lehmann, Kate J. Heesom, Christopher J. Arthur, Séverine TaskerAbstract:Hemoplasmas is the trivial name given to a group of erythrocyte-parasitizing bacteria of the genus Mycoplasma. Of the feline hemoplasmas, Mycoplasma haemofelis is the most pathogenic, while "Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum" and "Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis" are less pathogenic. Shotgun libraries of fragmented M. haemofelis genomic DNA were constructed, and random colonies were selected for DNA sequencing. In silico-translated amino acid sequences of putative open reading frames were compared to mass spectrometry data from M. haemofelis protein spots identified as being immunogenic by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis and Western blotting. Three of the spots matched the predicted sequences of a heat shock protein 70 (DnaK) homolog, elongation factor Ts, and a fragment of phosphoglycerate kinase found during library screening. A full-length copy of the M. haemofelis dnaK gene was cloned into Escherichia coli and recombinantly expressed. Recombinant M. haemofelis DnaK was purified and then used in Western blotting and an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to investigate the humoral immune response during acute infection in cats experimentally infected with M. haemofelis, "Ca. Mycoplasma haemominutum," or "Ca. Mycoplasma turicensis". The recombinant M. haemofelis DnaK ELISA also was used to screen clinical samples submitted for hemoplasma PCR testing to a commercial laboratory (n = 254). Experimentally infected cats became seropositive following infection, with a greater and earlier antibody response seen in cats inoculated with M. haemofelis than those seen in cats inoculated with "Ca. Mycoplasma haemominutum" or "Ca. Mycoplasma turicensis," by both Western blotting and ELISA. Of the clinical samples, 31.1% had antibodies detected by the ELISA but only 9.8% were positive by PCR for one or more hemoplasmas.
Hans Lutz - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.
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Quantification of the humoral immune response and hemoplasma blood and tissue loads in cats coinfected with ‘Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum’ and feline leukemia virus
Microbial Pathogenesis, 2012Co-Authors: Godelind A. Wolf-jäckel, Marilisa Novacco, Felicitas S Boretti, Marina L. Meli, Hans Lutz, Valentino Cattori, C. P. Geret, Barbara Riond, Regina Hofmann-lehmannAbstract:'Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum' (CMhm) is a hemotropic Mycoplasma (aka hemoplasma) of domestic cats and wild felids. In a transmission study, we exposed eight specified pathogen-free cats to blood from Iberian lynxes (Lynx pardinus) infected with CMhm. The cats were coinfected with feline leukemia virus (FeLV) from an Iberian lynx or with a prototype FeLV. The goal of the present study was to quantify the humoral immune response to CMhm and to identify potential target tissues and sequestration sites. Antibodies were measured by a recombinant antigen-based enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and blood and tissue loads were quantified using real-time PCR. Seven out of eight cats became CMhm-infected; all of these cats seroconverted between 3 and 13 weeks after inoculation. Antibody levels correlated with the CMhm blood loads. The peak CMhm blood loads were inversely correlated with the incubation period. PCR-positive results were found in all 24 tissues tested but not for all samples. Although all tissues were PCR-positive in one cat euthanized ten weeks after infection, many tissues tested negative in six cats euthanized at week 20 after infection. In several cats, the spleen, lung, liver, heart and aorta contained more copies than expected given the tissue's blood supply, but most tissues contained fewer copies than expected. In conclusion, this is the first study to quantify the humoral immune response and tissue loads in CMhm-FeLV-coinfected cats. The tissue loads appeared to correlate with the duration of infection and with the blood loads, but no evidence of significant CMhm tissue sequestration was found.
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Identification, Characterization, and Application of a Recombinant Antigen for the Serological Investigation of Feline Hemotropic Mycoplasma Infections
Clinical and Vaccine Immunology, 2010Co-Authors: Godelind A. Wolf-jäckel, Séverine Tasker, Hans Lutz, Christian Jäckel, Kristina Museux, Katharina Hoelzle, Regina Hofmann-lehmannAbstract:In felids, three hemotropic Mycoplasma species (hemoplasmas) have been described: Mycoplasma haemofelis, "Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum," and "Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis." In particular, M. haemofelis may cause severe, potentially life-threatening hemolytic anemia. No routine serological assays for feline hemoplasma infections are available. Thus, the goal of our project was to identify and characterize an M. haemofelis antigen (DnaK) that subsequently could be applied as a recombinant antigen in a serological assay. The gene sequence of this protein was determined using consensus primers and blood samples from two naturally M. haemofelis-infected Swiss pet cats, an experimentally M. haemofelis-infected specific-pathogen-free cat, and a naturally M. haemofelis-infected Iberian lynx (Lynx pardinus). The M. haemofelis DnaK gene sequence showed the highest identity to an analogous protein of a porcine hemoplasma (72%). M. haemofelis DnaK was expressed recombinantly in an Escherichia coli DnaK knockout strain and purified using Ni affinity, size-exclusion, and anion-exchange chromatography. It then was biochemically and functionally characterized and showed characteristics typical for DnaKs (secondary structure profile, thermal denaturation, ATPase activity, and DnaK complementation). Moreover, its immunogenicity was assessed using serum samples from experimentally hemoplasma-infected cats. In Western blotting or enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, it was recognized by sera from cats infected with M. haemofelis, "Ca. Mycoplasma haemominutum," and "Ca. Mycoplasma turicensis," respectively, but not from uninfected cats. This is the first description of a full-length purified recombinant feline hemoplasma antigen that can readily be applied in future pathogenesis studies and may have potential for application in a diagnostic serological test.
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Haemotropic Mycoplasmas of cats and dogs: transmission, diagnosis, prevalence and importance in Europe
Schweizer Archiv Fur Tierheilkunde, 2010Co-Authors: Barbara Willi, Marilisa Novacco, Felicitas S Boretti, Marina L. Meli, Hans Lutz, Godelind A. Wolf-jäckel, Nicole Wengi, Regina Hofmann-lehmannAbstract:Haemotropic Mycoplasmas (or haemoplasmas) are the causative agents of infectious anaemia in many mammalian species. They were previously known as Haemobartonella and Eperythrozoon species. The development of sensitive, specific PCR assays has expanded our knowledge of these agents and PCR is the method of choice to diagnose and differentiate haemoplasma infections. In felids, Mycoplasma haemofelis, 'Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum' and 'Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis' have been described. They vary strongly in their pathogenic potential and co-factors may influence the disease severity. In dogs, Mycoplasma haemocanis and 'Candidatus Mycoplasma haematoparvum' are known; clinical signs are mainly found in immunocompromised dogs. Transmission of haemoplasmas may occur via infected blood (aggressive interaction, transfusion) or blood-sucking arthropods. Infections can be treated with Doxycycline, although it is disputable whether the infection is completely eliminated. Feline haemoplasmas must be expected in cats all over Europe, while canine haemoplasmas are mainly encountered in dogs in Mediterranean countries but should also be considered in Swiss dogs with a travel history.
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First molecular identification of 'Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum' from a cat with fatal haemolytic anaemia in Hungary.
Acta Veterinaria Hungarica, 2008Co-Authors: Sándor Hornok, Marina L. Meli, Eniko Gönczi, Eva Ignits, Barbara Willi, Hans Lutz, Regina Hofmann-lehmannAbstract:Although haemobartonellosis was previously reported in Hungary, until now the diagnosis (based on morphological identification in blood smears) has only been suggestive of the occurrence of the large species, recently reclassified as Mycoplasma haemofelis . However, in July 2007 a cat was presented at a small animal clinic with severe haemolytic anaemia, icterus and haemoglobinuria. While biochemical parameters were within the reference range, the cat had leukocytosis and rapidly decreasing haematocrit values, and eventually died 7 days after the sudden onset of aggravating clinical signs. From blood samples of the cat ‘ Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum’ was identified by molecular methods, according to its 100% 16S rRNA gene sequence homology with two Swiss isolates and one isolate from the UK. The rapid termination of the disease and the high pathogenicity of the causative agent observed in this case are unusual, taking into account that PCR results were negative for immunosuppressive viruses. This is the first record of this feline haemoplasma species in Hungary.
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Molecular detection of haemotropic Mycoplasma species in Rhipicephalus sanguineus tick species collected on lions (Panthera leo) from Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania
South African Journal of Wildlife Research, 2008Co-Authors: Robert D. Fyumagwa, Regina Hofmann-lehmann, Marina L. Meli, Barbara Willi, Pascale Simmler, Armin Sutter, Richard Hoare, Gottfried Dasen, Hans LutzAbstract:Abstract Haemotropic Mycoplasma species are pathogens that can cause haemolytic anaemia in susceptible mammalian species worldwide. The cause of haemolysis is due to membrane damage through stimulation of IgM cold agglutinins production, which induces autoimmune haemolysis of infected erythrocytes. A study was conducted to establish the prevalence of Mycoplasma haemofelis, ‘Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum’ and ‘Candidatus M. turicensis’in ticks and the diversity of tick species that are possible vectors of the pathogens that can transmit the infection to wildlife in Ngorongoro Crater. Three real-time PCR assays were used for the analysis of DNA pools (n = 507) derived from 11 tick species. Mycoplasma haemofelis and ‘Candidatus M. haemominutum’ were detected in Rhipicephalus sanguineus. On average 19.7% and 12.9% of R. sanguineus were PCR-positive for M. haemofelis and ‘Candidatus M. haemominutum’, respectively. This tick species therefore represent an important reservoir for feline haemotropic Mycoplas...
Barbara Willi - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.
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Haemotropic Mycoplasmas of cats and dogs: transmission, diagnosis, prevalence and importance in Europe
Schweizer Archiv Fur Tierheilkunde, 2010Co-Authors: Barbara Willi, Marilisa Novacco, Felicitas S Boretti, Marina L. Meli, Hans Lutz, Godelind A. Wolf-jäckel, Nicole Wengi, Regina Hofmann-lehmannAbstract:Haemotropic Mycoplasmas (or haemoplasmas) are the causative agents of infectious anaemia in many mammalian species. They were previously known as Haemobartonella and Eperythrozoon species. The development of sensitive, specific PCR assays has expanded our knowledge of these agents and PCR is the method of choice to diagnose and differentiate haemoplasma infections. In felids, Mycoplasma haemofelis, 'Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum' and 'Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis' have been described. They vary strongly in their pathogenic potential and co-factors may influence the disease severity. In dogs, Mycoplasma haemocanis and 'Candidatus Mycoplasma haematoparvum' are known; clinical signs are mainly found in immunocompromised dogs. Transmission of haemoplasmas may occur via infected blood (aggressive interaction, transfusion) or blood-sucking arthropods. Infections can be treated with Doxycycline, although it is disputable whether the infection is completely eliminated. Feline haemoplasmas must be expected in cats all over Europe, while canine haemoplasmas are mainly encountered in dogs in Mediterranean countries but should also be considered in Swiss dogs with a travel history.
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First molecular identification of 'Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum' from a cat with fatal haemolytic anaemia in Hungary.
Acta Veterinaria Hungarica, 2008Co-Authors: Sándor Hornok, Marina L. Meli, Eniko Gönczi, Eva Ignits, Barbara Willi, Hans Lutz, Regina Hofmann-lehmannAbstract:Although haemobartonellosis was previously reported in Hungary, until now the diagnosis (based on morphological identification in blood smears) has only been suggestive of the occurrence of the large species, recently reclassified as Mycoplasma haemofelis . However, in July 2007 a cat was presented at a small animal clinic with severe haemolytic anaemia, icterus and haemoglobinuria. While biochemical parameters were within the reference range, the cat had leukocytosis and rapidly decreasing haematocrit values, and eventually died 7 days after the sudden onset of aggravating clinical signs. From blood samples of the cat ‘ Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum’ was identified by molecular methods, according to its 100% 16S rRNA gene sequence homology with two Swiss isolates and one isolate from the UK. The rapid termination of the disease and the high pathogenicity of the causative agent observed in this case are unusual, taking into account that PCR results were negative for immunosuppressive viruses. This is the first record of this feline haemoplasma species in Hungary.
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Molecular detection of haemotropic Mycoplasma species in Rhipicephalus sanguineus tick species collected on lions (Panthera leo) from Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania
South African Journal of Wildlife Research, 2008Co-Authors: Robert D. Fyumagwa, Regina Hofmann-lehmann, Marina L. Meli, Barbara Willi, Pascale Simmler, Armin Sutter, Richard Hoare, Gottfried Dasen, Hans LutzAbstract:Abstract Haemotropic Mycoplasma species are pathogens that can cause haemolytic anaemia in susceptible mammalian species worldwide. The cause of haemolysis is due to membrane damage through stimulation of IgM cold agglutinins production, which induces autoimmune haemolysis of infected erythrocytes. A study was conducted to establish the prevalence of Mycoplasma haemofelis, ‘Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum’ and ‘Candidatus M. turicensis’in ticks and the diversity of tick species that are possible vectors of the pathogens that can transmit the infection to wildlife in Ngorongoro Crater. Three real-time PCR assays were used for the analysis of DNA pools (n = 507) derived from 11 tick species. Mycoplasma haemofelis and ‘Candidatus M. haemominutum’ were detected in Rhipicephalus sanguineus. On average 19.7% and 12.9% of R. sanguineus were PCR-positive for M. haemofelis and ‘Candidatus M. haemominutum’, respectively. This tick species therefore represent an important reservoir for feline haemotropic Mycoplas...
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Real-Time PCR Investigation of Potential Vectors, Reservoirs, and Shedding Patterns of Feline Hemotropic Mycoplasmas
Applied and Environmental Microbiology, 2007Co-Authors: Barbara Willi, Felicitas S Boretti, Marina L. Meli, Valentino Cattori, Marco V. Bernasconi, Simona Casati, Daniel Hegglin, M Puorger, Harold Neimark, Nicole WengiAbstract:Three hemotropic Mycoplasmas have been identified in pet cats: Mycoplasma haemofelis, “Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum,” and “Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis.” The way in which these agents are transmitted is largely unknown. Thus, this study aimed to investigate fleas, ticks, and rodents as well as saliva and feces from infected cats for the presence of hemotropic Mycoplasmas, to gain insight into potential transmission routes for these agents. DNA was extracted from arthropods and from rodent blood or tissue samples from Switzerland and from salivary and fecal swabs from two experimentally infected and six naturally infected cats. All samples were analyzed with real-time PCR, and some positive samples were confirmed by sequencing. Feline hemotropic Mycoplasmas were detected in cat fleas and in a few Ixodes sp. and Rhipicephalus sp. ticks collected from animals but not in ticks collected from vegetation or from rodent samples, although the latter were frequently Mycoplasma coccoides PCR positive. When shedding patterns of feline hemotropic Mycoplasmas were investigated, “Ca. Mycoplasma turicensis” DNA was detected in saliva and feces at the early but not at the late phase of infection. M. haemofelis and “Ca. Mycoplasma haemominutum” DNA was not amplified from saliva and feces of naturally infected cats, despite high hemotropic Mycoplasma blood loads. Our results suggest that besides an ostensibly indirect transmission by fleas, direct transmission through saliva and feces at the early phase of infection could play a role in the epizootiology of feline hemotropic Mycoplasmas. Neither the investigated tick nor the rodent population seems to represent a major reservoir for feline hemotropic Mycoplasmas in Switzerland.
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Phylogenetic Analysis of “Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis” Isolates from Pet Cats in the United Kingdom, Australia, and South Africa, with Analysis of Risk Factors for Infection
Journal of Clinical Microbiology, 2006Co-Authors: Barbara Willi, Felicitas S Boretti, Séverine Tasker, Marina L. Meli, Valentino Cattori, Claudia E Reusch, Richard Malik, Marcus G. Doherr, Remo G. Lobetti, Hans LutzAbstract:Two hemotropic Mycoplasmas have been recognized in cats, Mycoplasma haemofelis and "Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum." We recently described a third feline hemoplasma species, designated "Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis," in a Swiss cat with hemolytic anemia. This isolate induced anemia after experimental transmission to two specific-pathogen-free cats and analysis of the 16S rRNA gene revealed its close relationship to rodent hemotropic Mycoplasmas. The agent was recently shown to be prevalent in Swiss pet cats. We sought to investigate the presence and clinical importance of "Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis" infection in pet cats outside of Switzerland and to perform the molecular characterization of isolates from different countries. A "Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis"-specific real-time PCR assay was applied to blood samples from 426 United Kingdom (UK), 147 Australian, and 69 South African pet cats. The 16S rRNA genes of isolates from different countries were sequenced and signalment and laboratory data for the cats were evaluated for associations with "Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis" infection. Infections were detected in samples from UK, Australian, and South African pet cats. Infection was associated with the male gender, and "Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum" and M. haemofelis coinfection. Coinfected cats exhibited significantly lower packed cell volume (PCV) values than uninfected cats. Phylogenetic analyses revealed that some Australian and South African "Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis" isolates branched away from the remaining isolates. In summary, "Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis" infection in pet cats exists over a wide geographical area and significantly decreased PCV values are observed in cats coinfected with other feline hemoplasmas.
