Anatrichosoma infection in two white-handed gibbons.

Multiple nodular lesions of the nematode Anatrichosoma were observed on the ears, lips, nares, and eyelids of 2 adult gibbons (Hylobates lar). The lesions were 4 to 7 mm in diameter, gray to pink, and firm on palpation. Microscopically, the nodules consisted of thickened epidermis having intraepidermal cysts containing the nematode and eggs. Live female nematodes were recovered from fresh biopsy specimens. Because male specimens were not obtained, the species could not be identified.     

Prevalence of fecal contamination in sandpits in public parks in Sapporo City, Japan

A total of 107 sandpits in public parks in Sapporo City were examined, 9 and 73 were contaminated with helminth eggs and fecal coliforms, respectively. Of the nine in which eggs were detected, eight were contaminated with Toxocara spp. and one with Capillaria spp. eggs. The contamination rate of sandpits of more than 30 m2 ranged from 43 to 50%, while in those 30 m2 or less it was between 73 and 92%. Although helminth eggs were evenly distributed throughout all layers of the sandpits, fecal coliforms were localized on the sandpit surfaces. Recovered Toxocara eggs were identified according to their size and surface structures, and almost all eggs were T. cati. Based on these results, and given the inherent habits of cats, measures to prevent their defecation in sandpits are needed, especially ones of smaller size.     

Babesia spp. infection in Boophilus microplus engorged females and eggs in Sao Paulo State, Brazil

Babesia spp. infections were investigated in Bos taurus x Bos indicus dairy cows and calves and in Boophilus microplus engorged female ticks and eggs. Blood samples and engorged female ticks were collected from 25 cows and 27 calves. Babesia spp. was detected in ticks by microscopic examination of hemolymph of engorged female and by squashes of egg samples. Cattle infection was investigated in blood thin smears and by DNA amplification methods (PCR and nested PCR), using specific primers for Babesia bovis and Babesia bigemina. Merozoites of B. bovis (3 animals) and B. bigemina (12 animals) were detected exclusively in blood smears of calves. DNA amplification methods revealed that the frequency of B. bigemina infection in calves (92.6%) and in cows (84%) and of B. bovis in calves (85.2%) and in cows (100%) did not differ significantly (P > 0.05). Babesia spp. infection was more frequent in female ticks and eggs collected from calves (P < 0.01) than from cows, especially in those which had patent parasitemia. Hatching rates of B. microplus larvae were assessed according to the origin of engorged females, parasitemia of the vertebrate host, frequency and intensity of infection in engorged female tick, and frequency of egg infection. Hatching rate was lower in samples collected from calves (P < 0.01) than from cows, and in those in which Babesia spp. was detected in egg samples (P < 0.01).     

Occurrence of gram-negative bacteria in hens' eggs depending on their source and storage conditions

The aim of this study was to analyse the qualitative composition of Gram-negative microbes, mainly of the family Enterobacteriaceae, including pathogenic bacteria such as Salmonella, in the albumens and yolks and on the shells of hens' eggs, depending on their source and on the temperature and duration of their storage. A total of 375 table eggs were studied, from a large-scale poultry farm, a small-scale poultry farm and a supermarket. Each group was divided into 5 subgroups according to the temperature and duration of their storage during the study. Two serotypes of bacteria of the genus Salmonella were identified: S. Enteritidis and S. Arizonae. Strains of Salmonella spp. were also isolated. Apart from Salmonella and Escherichia coli, among the most frequently isolated bacteria of the family Enterobacteriaceae were Enterobacter spp., Klebsiella spp. and Citrobacter freundii. Qualitative analysis of the bacterial microflora of the eggs also showed the presence of other Gram negative bacteria, including Acinetobacter spp., Pseudomonas spp., Tatumella ptyseos, Providencia stuartii, Serratia liquefaciens, Flavimonas oryzihabitans, Vibrio metschnikovii, Leclercia adecarboxylata, Kluyvera spp., Rahnella aquatilis, Proteus mirabilis, and Achromobacter spp. The study demonstrated that the conditions applied, i.e., the temperature and duration of storage, did not significantly influence the prevalence of particular species of Gram-negative bacteria in the eggs. However, based on the analysis of contamination of eggs with Salmonella depending on their source, it can be concluded that the system in which the hens are housed affects the risk of contamination of eggs with these pathogens.     

Prevalence of Toxocara spp. eggs in the soil of public parks in Ankara, Turkey

One hundred and seventy soil samples from forty-six public parks in Ankara area were examined to determine the level of contamination with Toxocara spp. eggs. 30.6% of the 170 soil samples were contaminated with Toxocara spp. eggs. The number of eggs in the positive soil samples varied from 1 to 10. A high proportion of the eggs was fully embryonated. The findings demonstrate the common occurrence of these eggs in locations likely to be important in the transmission of visceral larva migrans. Of 19 fecal collected, 5 (26.3%) contained Toxocara spp. eggs. Eggs of Ancylostomidae, Toxascaris leonina, Trichuris spp., Taenia spp. and Enterobius vermicularis were also recovered from 17.6, 4.1, 2.4, 1.8 and 1.2% of soil samples, respectively.     

P-60 Hypercalcaemia associated with disseminated Lagenidium spp. infection in a dog: case report

Opportunistic dermatoses can occur in case of immunosuppressive diseases. The first case was a 12-year-old domestic short-haired cat suffering from diabetes with a phaeohyphomycosis due to Scytalidium spp. associated with cutaneous hemangiosarcoma. A painless and ulcerated nodule was observed on a digit with fistulous tracts over the metatarsal joint. Histopathological examination of the nodule revealed a hemangiosarcoma in which brownish fungal colonies were found. Itraconazole (5 mg/kg twice daily), then amputation, allowed 12 months of survival (pulmonary metastases). The second case concerned a 13-year-old Siamese cat with cheyletiellosis associated with spontaneous Cushing's disease and diabetes mellitus. This cat exhibited scales and miliary dermatitis on the trunk associated with polyuria, polydipsia and a pot-belly. Acetate tape impression showed Cheyletiella blakei mites and eggs. Blood analysis revealed diabetes mellitus and spontaneous hyperadrenocorticism. The owner refused treatment. The third case was a 14-year-old domestic short-haired cat with generalized demodicosis associated with iatrogenic Cushing's disease and diabetes mellitus. Long-acting glucocorticoids had been used for treatment of plasma cell stomatitis for 5 years. This cat exhibited erythema, scales, self-induced alopecia, thin skin and moderate pruritus associated with polyuria and polydipsia. Cutaneous lesions principally developed on the abdomen and flanks. Skin scrapings and trichogram showed numerous Demodex cati mites. Routine blood work demonstrated diabetes mellitus and iatrogenic Cushing's disease. Treatment was based on insulin therapy, milbemycin oxime (1 mg/kg once daily) and chlorambucil (0.2 mg/kg once daily). The demodicosis was cured after 4 months, but the cat died of cutaneous and ocular herpesvirus infection 10 months later.
Funding: Self-funded.     

An Investigation of Variables in a Fecal Flotation Technique

Several variables in a standard vial fecal gravitational flotation technique were investigated. These were the specific gravity of the sodium nitrate flotation solution, duration of flotation and mesh sizes of strainers. The number of eggs which floated and adhered to a coverslip were counted and estimates of the number of eggs remaining in the strained fecal suspension and in the feces trapped on the strainer were made. Eggs from hookworms, Trichuris vulpis and Toxocara canis in feces from dogs, Nematodirus spp. from sheep and Parascaris equorum from horses floated equally well in solutions with specific gravities (SpGr) ranging from 1.22-1.38. Taenia spp. from dogs had a slightly narrower range (SpGr 1.27-1.38) for best recovery. Eggs from Haemonchus contortus from sheep appeared to float best between SpGr 1.22- 1.32. Strongyles from one horse floated best with SpGr 1.27-1.32 and from another with SpGr 1.11-1.38. Coccidial oocysts from sheep floated best in a narrow range of SpGr from 1.22-1.27. However, as the SpGr of the solution was increased the recognition of eggs under the coverslip was increasingly difficult and especially so at SpGr 1.38 with sheep feces. This was due to the increasing amount of debris and the more rapid formation of crystals with evaporation with solutions of higher SpGr. It appeared, therefore, that solutions with SpGr of 1.22-1.35 would be best for routine laboratory use. At specific gravity 1.27, there appeared to be no difference in the number of eggs recovered for a four, eight and 12 min flotation period.

Only 3-7% of the eggs in 4 g of feces were counted under the coverslip. This poor efficacy resulted first because approximately 50% of the eggs were trapped in the feces and retained on the strainer. Secondly, only one half of the strained fecal suspension, containing approximately 25% of the eggs, was placed in the vial for examination. Thirdly, of those eggs in the vial only 16-29% were counted under the coverslip. When the second half of the strained fecal suspension was placed in another vial, the amount of debris and air bubbles adhering to the coverslip was much less than that for the first vial. Egg counts for both vials appeared similar and it may be that when debris is excessive the fecal examination should involve counts from a second vial. The use of strainers finer than the standard tea strainer and the addition of minimal amounts of detergent did not increase the egg count.

     

Repeated dehelminthization and its effect on the course of the natural infestation, of sheep by roundworms

Long-continued use of levamizole for the control of gastrointestinal roundworms in sheep kept on pasture showed that the discrepancy in the results obtained in experiments and in the terrain is associated with the physiology of host and parasites. In practical use in the terrain, the preparation had an 85% effect in one case; otherwise the average effect was 61.1% and persisted five to six weeks in all flocks including those in which the animals were treated five times a year. Treatment performed later than in October did not destroy larvae in the mucous membrane because they already were in their anabiosis; only the imagoes were positively influenced. The larvae from the mucosa begin to maturate in February and eggs are produced hastily ("spring rise phenomenon"); the use of the drug in April mostly fails to reduce this abundant production of eggs. The roundworms Bunostomum phlebotomum, Oesophagostomum spp., Cooperia spp. and Trichostrongylus spp. almost disappeared from the flock after three-year treatment. Chabertia ovina, Ostertagia spp. and Strongyloides papillosus showed the highest resistance.     

Presence and persistence of intestinal parasites in canine fecal material collected from the environment in the Province of Chubut, Argentine Patagonia

We investigated the presence of intestinal parasites in canine feces collected from public squares in Comodoro Rivadavia, Chubut, Argentina (45 degrees S, 68 degrees W) and determined the persistence of Echinococcus granulosus eggs in those droppings under natural environmental conditions in that region. In the first experiment, we analyzed 163 fecal samples collected from urban squares during 8 months time and found parasitic elements in 46.6%. The presence of parasites was independent of the condition of the feces (fresh or dried; P>0.05). Parasites potentially pathogenic in man were present, such as Toxocara species (spp.), Taenia spp./Echinococcus spp., Uncinarias spp., and Entamoeba spp. In the second experiment, we analyzed two canine fecal samples contaminated with E. granulosus eggs, deposited for 41 months within the natural environment. These parasitic elements persisted during the entire study as attested by light microscopy and the ELISA coproantigen test. We propose the study of the presence of intestinal parasites in canine feces within the environment as a general strategy for identifying and monitoring areas of risk for canine-related zoonoses since we were able to demonstrate the persistence of E. granulosus eggs in deposited canine feces for over 3 years within the area studied.     

Helminth parasites of dogs from two resource-limited communities in South Africa

Biological samples were collected from dogs in resource-limited communities in the North-West and Gauteng Provinces of South Africa to assess the prevalence of helminth parasitism. These samples included adhesive tape peri-anal skin swabs and fresh faecal samples for helminth examination, and thick and thin blood films (smears) and whole-blood samples in anticoagulant for examination of filarial nematode microfilariae and haemoprotozoa. The eggs of Ancylostoma caninum, Toxocara canis, Toxascaris leonina, Dipylidium caninum and taeniids were identified. None of the blood samples and smears tested positive for microfilariae of Dirofilaria immitis or Dipetalonema spp. or for haemoprotozoa. The adhesive tape swabs were negative for cestode eggs and segments. Most of the helminth parasites identified in this study are zoonotic and consequently are regarded as a public health hazard.     

Ulcerative pododermatitis in a cat associated with Anatrichosoma sp.

A 9-year-old castrated male Chartreaux cat was presented for an ulcerative pododermatitis of all 4 paws. A clinical exam was inconclusive and supportive therapy did not improve the condition. Histologic examination revealed an ulcerative and eosinophilic dermatitis associated with epidermal and dermal nematodes and ova consistent with the aphasmid Anatrichosoma sp. Treatment with ivermectin completely resolved the skin lesions. Anatrichosomiasis should be included in the differential diagnosis of ulcerative pododermatitis in cats, at least in the southwestern United States.     

Studies on flotation techniques for the recovery of helminth eggs from soil and the prevalence of eggs of Toxocara spp in some Kansas public places

A technique for extracting Toxocara spp eggs from soil had a recovery efficiency ranging from 53% to 68%. Using the technique, 50 of 232 (22%) soil samples from city and university properties were found to be contaminated with eggs of Toxocara spp. Of 50 samples from highway rest areas, 8 (16%) were contaminated. From a public health standpoint, it was particularly noteworthy that 9 of 23 (39%) samples from sandboxes in student family quarters were contaminated with Toxocara spp eggs.     

A cross-sectional study of Leishmania spp. infection in clinically healthy dogs with polymerase chain reaction and serology in Greece

The prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in stray dogs, and dogs with owners was investigated by fecal examinations from 271 dogs employing sedimentation, simple flotation and centrifugation-flotation methods. The centrifugation-flotation method, when compared to simple flotation or sedimentation methods was generally more accurate in the diagnosis of all intestinal parasites, but statistical differences were detected only in relation to Giardia spp. and Cystoisospora spp. (synonym Isospora spp.). The following parasites, with their respective prevalence, were diagnosed in the fecal samples: Ancylostoma spp. (23.6%); Toxocara canis (5.5%); Trichuris vulpis (4.8%); Spirocerca lupi (1.9%); Dipylidium caninum (0.7%); Giardia spp. (12.2%); Hammondia heydorni (2.6%); Cystoisospora spp. (8.5%); and Sarcocystis spp. (2.2%). The prevalence of most parasites was similar for dogs of mixed-breed and for dogs of a defined-breed, except for Cystoisospora spp. and T. canis which showed a significantly higher prevalence in mixed-breed dogs. The prevalence of Ancylostoma spp. (17.1%) was significantly lower in stray dogs than in those with an owner (31.9%) and the prevalence of Giardia spp. and Cystoisospora spp. was higher in stray dogs (P < 0.05). No effect of season on the occurrence of the different parasite genera could be observed, except for Ancylostoma spp., for which an increase in the percentage of dogs shedding eggs was observed at the beginning of Summer with a peak occurrence during April and May (Autumn). The prevalence of Ancylostoma spp., T. canis, T. vulpis, Giardia spp. and Cystoisospora spp. was higher in adult males than in adult females, but significant differences between the two groups occurred only with Giardia spp. Young animals were found to more frequently shed Nematode eggs in feces than adult animals.     

P‐59 Three cases of opportunistic dermatoses associated with internal diseases in cats

Opportunistic dermatoses can occur in case of immunosuppressive diseases. The first case was a 12‐year‐old domestic short‐haired cat suffering from diabetes with a phaeohyphomycosis due to Scytalidium spp.associated with cutaneous hemangiosarcoma. A painless and ulcerated nodule was observed on a digit with fistulous tracts over the metatarsal joint. Histopathological examination of the nodule revealed a hemangiosarcoma in which brownish fungal colonies were found. Itraconazole (5 mg/kg twice daily), then amputation, allowed 12 months of survival (pulmonary metastases). The second case concerned a 13‐year‐old Siamese cat with cheyletiellosisassociated with spontaneous Cushing's disease and diabetes mellitus. This cat exhibited scales and miliary dermatitis on the trunk associated with polyuria, polydipsia and a pot‐belly. Acetate tape impression showed Cheyletiella blakei mites and eggs. Blood analysis revealed diabetes mellitus and spontaneous hyperadrenocorticism. The owner refused treatment. The third case was a 14‐year‐old domestic short‐haired cat with generalized demodicosis associated with iatrogenic Cushing's disease and diabetes mellitus. Long‐acting glucocorticoids had been used for treatment of plasma cell stomatitis for 5 years. This cat exhibited erythema, scales, self‐induced alopecia, thin skin and moderate pruritus associated with polyuria and polydipsia. Cutaneous lesions principally developed on the abdomen and flanks. Skin scrapings and trichogram showed numerous Demodex cati mites. Routine blood work demonstrated diabetes mellitus and iatrogenic Cushing's disease. Treatment was based on insulin therapy, milbemycin oxime (1 mg/kg once daily) and chlorambucil (0.2 mg/kg once daily). The demodicosis was cured after 4 months, but the cat died of cutaneous and ocular herpesvirus infection 10 months later. Funding: Self‐funded.     

Environmental contamination by eggs of Toxocara species

A study was conducted to determine the level of contamination with Toxocara spp. eggs in parks and playgrounds in several central Illinois communities. A total of 135 composite 50-g soil samples were collected from 23 parks and public places in three cities in central Illinois. Of these soil samples, 22 (16.3%) contained from one to thirteen Toxocara spp. eggs. A total of 40 fecal samples were collected from the same parks. Toxocara spp. eggs were found in two (5%) of the samples.     

Contamination of public children's playgrounds in Hannover with helminth eggs

Fifty-two public sand pits on children playgrounds in Hannover were investigated for the presence of parasites. A large proportion (63.5%) of these playgrounds were contaminated with parasite eggs. Eggs from Toxocara spp., Toxascaris leonina and other common helminth parasites were found in 55.8%, 9.6% and 26.1% of these playgrounds, respectively. A total of 208 sand samples were collected, and 30.8% of them contained eggs from Toxocara spp. (24.5%), Toxascaris leonina (2.4%) or other common helminths (9.1%). In 45.1% of the Toxocara positive samples, the eggs were embryonated. Eggs from Toxocara spp. were found in 33.0%, 31.0% or 14.0% of samples from districts with low, medium or high numbers of dogs per hectare, respectively.     

Reduction of bacterial infections in newly hatched chicks by the use of antimicrobial dips: preliminary approaches

Bacteriological examination of hatchery waste eggs, identification of the isolated bacteria, and susceptibility testing against seven antimicrobial agents were used in an attempt to establish a rational basis for reducing bacterial infections in newly hatched chicks. Chloramphenicol at 1000 ppm was selected as the antibiotic for preliminary dipping trials and 0.45% iodophore (Wescodyne) was added for later trials. The control treatment consisted of formaldehyde fumigation. The following conclusions can be drawn: Hatchery waste eggs are highly contaminated (69.1%) and enterobacteriaceae predominate (26.6%). Chloramphenicol is the most effective antimicrobial tested. Dip treatments with either chloramphenicol alone or chloramphenicol plus Wescodyne result in a reduced percentage of abnormal navels (8.4% and 10.4%), as compared with 21.9% for the control treatment. Hatchability of either group of dipped eggs is reduced in comparison with fumigated eggs. Dip treatment with chloramphenicol plus Wescodyne significantly reduces the anal carrier rates for Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella spp., and Staphylococcus aureus. This treatment reduces the incidence of bacterial infection in abnormal navels to zero.     

Examination of Australian backyard poultry for Salmonella,Campylobacter and Shigella spp., and related risk factors

Worldwide, foodborne illness is a significant public health issue in both developed and developing countries. Salmonellosis, campylobacteriosis and shigellosis are common foodborne gastrointestinal illnesses caused by the bacteria Salmonella spp., Campylobacter spp. and Shigella spp. respectively. These zoonotic diseases are frequently linked to eggs and poultry products. The aim of this study was to investigate the presence of these pathogens in Australian backyard poultry flocks and to determine risk factors for these pathogens. Poultry faeces samples were collected from 82 backyards and screened for Salmonella spp., Campylobacter spp. and Shigella spp. using qPCR. A questionnaire was administered to the backyard poultry owners to assess their knowledge regarding management of poultry and eggs and to identify potential risk factors that may contribute to the presence of zoonotic pathogens in the flocks. One composite faecal sample was collected from each backyard (82 samples). Composite sampling here means taking one or more grab samples from a backyard to make up approximately 10 grams. Four per cent of samples, that is 4% backyards tested, were positive for Salmonella spp., 10% were positive for Campylobacter spp. and none were positive for Shigella spp. A higher infection rate was seen in multi-aged flocks (24%) compared with the single-aged flocks (3%). The survey found that many participants were engaging in risky food safety behaviours with 46% of participants responding that they washed their eggs with running water or still water instead of wiping the dirt off with a damp cloth to clean the eggs and 19% stored their eggs at room temperature. This study demonstrated that backyard poultry may pose a potential risk for salmonellosis and campylobacteriosis. Additionally, Australian public health and food safety regulations should be modified and effectively implemented to address the risks associated with backyard poultry husbandry.     

Chlamydia-induced septic polyarthritis in a dog

A systemic disease associated with pyrexia, lymphadenopathy, and arthropathy of several joints of the appendicular skeleton in a dog is described. Chlamydia-like organisms were detected on light-microscopic examination of a smear made from joint fluid aspirated from one of the affected joints. A group-specific lipopolysaccharide antigen shared by all Chlamydia spp. was demonstrated by direct fluorescent antibody staining of joint fluid, which also proved positive for chlamydia by means of the relevant polymerase chain reaction test. An indirect fluorescent antibody test on serum was also positive, although the complement fixation test was negative. Attempts to grow the organism from joint aspirates in the yolk sac of embryonating hens' eggs and on appropriate tissue cultures, however, failed. Chlamydia spp. are considered to have played an aetiological role in this case, making it the first substantiated case of naturally-occurring arthropathy in a dog due to chlamydiosis. The origin of the infection could not be traced.