Parasites In Fecal Samples Research Articles

Preliminary studies on parasites in faecal samples scavenged from open markets in parts of Ijebu-Ode Local Government Area, Ogun State, South-West Nigeria

Parasites are a global health problem that endanger the total well-being of humans and animals. This survey was conducted to assess parasites in faecal samples sourced from two open markets (Olabisi Onabanjo Market and Oke-Aje Market) in Ijebu-Ode, Ijebu-Ode Local Government Area, Ogun State, Southwestern Nigeria. A total of 121 samples were obtained and examined for parasites using the sodium acetate-acetic acid-formalin method. The collected data were entered into an Excel spreadsheet and the prevalence of parasites was calculated. Chi square was used to assess the relationship between the location of markets in the study area and the parasites detected in them, with a significance level set at 0.05. Results revealed that out of 121 faecal samples scavenged, 65(53.7%) were from Oke-Aje market, with faeces from humans 34(28.1%) being the most common. Overall, 74 (61.2%) samples were positive for parasites, with 44 (67.7%) being from Oke-Aje Market. Of the ten (10) parasites detected, Eimeria spp. 20(16.5%) had the highest prevalence with 11(19.6%) isolated from Oke-Aje Market. The least common parasite was Entamoeba histolytica with a prevalence of 1(1.5%). There was no significant relationship between the parasites found in the faecal samples collected and the Market locations (p>0.05). In conclusion, traders should endeavor to engage in daily sanitation in or around the environment of their marketplaces as faeces found in their surroundings could be parasite-infected.

Comparative study of a broad qPCR panel and centrifugal flotation for detection of gastrointestinal parasites in fecal samples from dogs and cats in the United States

BackgroundFor decades, zinc sulfate centrifugal fecal flotation microscopy (ZCF) has been the mainstay technique for gastrointestinal (GI) parasite screening at veterinary clinics and laboratories. Elsewhere, PCR has replaced microscopy because of generally increased sensitivity and detection capabilities; however, until recently it has been unavailable commercially. Therefore, the primary aim of this study was to compare the performance of real-time PCR (qPCR) and ZCF for fecal parasite screening. Secondary aims included further characterization of markers for hookworm treatment resistance and Giardia spp. assemblages with zoonotic potential and qPCR optimization.MethodsA convenience sampling of 931 canine/feline fecal samples submitted to a veterinary reference laboratory for routine ZCF from the Northeast US (11/2022) was subsequently evaluated by a broad qPCR panel following retention release. Detection frequency and agreement (kappa statistics) were evaluated between ZCF and qPCR for seven GI parasites [hookworm/(Ancylostoma spp.), roundworm/(Toxocara spp.), whipworm/(Trichuris spp.), Giardiaduodenalis, Cystoisospora spp., Toxoplasmagondii, and Tritrichomonasblagburni] and detections per sample. Total detection frequencies were compared using a paired t-test; positive sample and co-infection frequencies were compared using Pearson’s chi-squared test (p ≤ 0.05 significant) and qPCR frequency for hookworm benzimidazole (BZ) resistance (F167Y) and zoonotic Giardia spp. assemblage markers calculated. Confirmatory testing, characterization, and qPCR optimization were carried out with Sanger sequencing.ResultsqPCR detected a significantly higher overall parasite frequency (n = 679) compared to ZCF (n = 437) [p = < 0.0001, t = 14.38, degrees-of-freedom (df) = 930] and 2.6 × the co-infections [qPCR (n = 172) vs. ZCF (n = 66)], which was also significant (p = < 0.0001, X2 = 279.49; df = 1). While overall agreement of parasite detection was substantial [kappa = 0.74; (0.69–0.78], ZCF-undetected parasites reduced agreement for individual and co-infected samples. qPCR detected markers for Ancylostomacaninum BZ resistance (n = 5, 16.1%) and Giardia with zoonotic potential (n = 22, 9.1%) as well as two parasites undetected by ZCF (T.gondii/T.blagburni). Sanger sequencing detected novel roundworm species, and qPCR optimization provided detection beyond ZCF.ConclusionsThese results demonstrate the statistically significant detection frequency advantage offered by qPCR compared to routine ZCF for both single and co-infections. While overall agreement was excellent, this rapid, commercially available qPCR panel offers benefits beyond ZCF with detection of markers for Giardia assemblages with zoonotic potential and hookworm (A.caninum) BZ resistance.Graphical

Prevalence of Intestinal Parasites in Dogs and Cats from the Kvarner Region in Croatia

Abstract Intestinal parasites of dogs and cats may affect their health with a significant zoonotic risk to public health. Therefore, establishing an efficient control program should pass through the determination of the diversity, prevalence, and pathogenicity of those parasites. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasites in dogs and cats and proceed to infection comparisons between young and adult animals. The detection of parasites in fecal samples was determined using flotation and immunofluorescent methods across 320 dogs and 64 cats from the Kvarner region in Croatia. The prevalence was calculated for each detected parasite in its host. Differences in prevalence between young animals and adults were analyzed. Parasites were detected in 32 dogs and 34.4% of cats. In total, 12 different genera were detected; Giardia spp. was the most prevalent parasite in both species, infecting 24.7% and 18.8% of investigated dogs and cats, respectively. Cryptosporidium spp. and Toxocara cati had a prevalence of (18.4%) and (6.3%), respectively. Prevalences of Giardia spp., Cryptosporidium spp., and Cystoisospora spp. were significantly (P &lt; 0.05) higher in puppies compared to adult dogs. Pentatrichomonas hominis (P. hominis) was detected in one puppy. In addition to the first report of P. hominis, a relatively high prevalence of intestinal parasites in dogs and cats in the Kvarner region of Croatia was recorded, posing a potential zoonotic risk.

Prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in bovines along the elevation gradients of Annapurna Landscape, Nepal

Gastrointestinal (GI) parasitic infection is a great concern for livestock management in Nepal, which may vary with the age and sex of the animals, feeding practices, habitat types, and interaction with other domestic and wild animals. As a consequence of growing environmental changes, it is anticipated that temperature and precipitation variation in altitudinal gradients will influence parasite communities and their hosts with unpredictable impacts. In light of this, the current study aimed to explore the pattern of prevalence and factors affecting GI parasites in bovines along the altitudinal and environmental gradients of Chitwan Annapurna Landscape. A total of 600 faecal specimens of bovines were collected from six different blocks and examined microscopically in the Zoology laboratory of Birendra Multiple Campus, Bharatpur, Nepal in between 2019 to 2020. The presence of cysts, oocysts and eggs of parasites in faecal samples were detected morphometrically using standard qualitative and quantitative methods. Out of 600 faecal samples of cattle and buffaloes examined, 64.8% were found positive for one or more species of GI parasites. The prevalence of parasitic infection was significantly higher in cattle (68.8%) as compared to the buffaloes (62.7%, p=0.007). A total of 16 species (5 protozoans, 11 helminths) were reported. The prevalence of GI parasites was significantly lower with increasing annual rainfall, elevation, distance from the forest and water resources (p=0.0001) but significantly higher with increasing temperature (p=0.001). The calf (p=0.028) and sub-adults (p=0.028) were significantly infected than the adults. Despite the fact that a large number of the herders used veterinary drugs for deworming, GI parasites were still rampant in the cows and buffaloes. We conclude that GI parasites are serious problems in the cattle and buffaloes of Chitwan Annapurna Landscape. Hence, regular health checkups, deworming, cleanliness of the sheds, and water resources are suggested regularly.

Seasonal Prevalence of Gastrointestinal Parasites in Macaques (Macaca thibetana) at Mount Emei Scenic Area in China.

Simple SummaryGastrointestinal parasites may affect the health of macaques directly or indirectly, thereby exposing primates to conservational risks. Gastrointestinal parasites cause various health conditions such as apathy, diarrhea, malaise and weight loss. However, there is still a dearth of knowledge about the population of intestinal parasites in the macaques kept in the Mount Emei scenic spot. Therefore, using the microscopic detection method, the population of gastrointestinal parasites in fecal samples of monkeys at the Mount Emei scenic spot was estimated. The results showed that Gongylonema spp. and Entamoeba spp. were dominant gastrointestinal parasites in the fecal samples of monkeys at the Mount Emei scenic spot. This is the first reported study on gastrointestinal parasites in monkeys at the Mount Emei Scenic and will help in designing a future road map for parasitic disease monitoring and control in wild-life habitats, as well as provide epidemiological data on parasites in monkeys in the Mt. Emei Scenic Area at Sichuan, China.The aim of the study was to elucidate the prevalence of intestinal parasites in macaques at the Mt. Emei Scenic Area of Sichuan, China. A total of 168 fecal samples were collected from yellow (n = 31), black (n = 19), new (n = 57), Leidongping (n = 57) and Wuxiangang (n = 4) macaques from 2019 to 2020. The fecal samples were tested for various gastrointestinal parasites following the microscopic detection method. The results showed that the total prevalence rate of the intestinal parasite was 51.19% (86/168), whereas the intestinal parasite with the highest prevalence was Gongylonema spp. (26.79%) for helminth and Entamoeba spp. (18.45%) for protozoa. Interestingly, the highest prevalence of intestinal parasites was observed during the summer season (86.21%), and the lowest was observed during the winter season (7.14%). There was a positive correlation observed between the human contact frequency and total prevalence rate of the intestinal parasites (p < 0.05); however, there was no correlation between the human contact frequency and total prevalence of the intestinal parasites at different seasons (p > 0.05). In conclusion, the dominant parasites Gongylonema spp. and Entamoeba spp. cause various diseases that may be transmitted to humans and other animals; therefore, there is a need for a proper management system, such as parasite control measures and population protection in the Mt. Emei Scenic Area of Sichuan, China.

A Comparative Study of Some Intestinal Parasites in Fecal Samples of Domestic and Stray Cats in Baghdad, Iraq

Some feline intestinal parasites such as Toxocara, Giardia, and Cryptosporidium can spread to humans through feces. Therefore, it is important to prevent exposure of family members by screening cat fecal samples twice per year for potential treatment regimes. This study was initiated to compare and identify gastrointestinal parasites of domestic and stray cats (Felis domesticus) in Baghdad City, Iraq. Parasite eggs and oocysts were identified under light microscopy by applying standard laboratory techniques (flotation and sedimentation). Overall, 59 of 121 (48.7%) fecal samples were positive for intestinal parasites. The rate of infection by Toxoplasma gondii was (3.31%), Isospora spp. (6.61%), Cryptosporidium spp. (31.4%), and Toxocara spp. (1.65%). Four percent of domestic and stray cats were infected with Isospora and Cryptosporidium and 2% were infected with Isospora, Cryptosporidium, and Toxoplasma. The prevalence of infected males (37%) was higher than for females (12%) during October and November. The prevalence of stray cats (30.5%) was higher than for domestic cats (18.8%) in February (45.4%). The diversity of parasites found during this study suggests that additional surveys and proper control programs are necessary to decrease the risk of zoonotic disease transmission.

Automated Diagnostics: Advances in the Diagnosis of Intestinal Parasitic Infections in Humans and Animals.

The increasingly close proximity between people and animals is of great concern for public health, given the risk of exposure to infectious diseases transmitted through animals, which are carriers of more than 60 zoonotic agents. These diseases, which are included in the list of Neglected Tropical Diseases, cause losses in countries with tropical and subtropical climates, and in regions with temperate climates. Indeed, they affect more than a billion people around the world, a large proportion of which are infected by one or more parasitic helminths, causing annual losses of billions of dollars. Several studies are being conducted in search for differentiated, more sensitive diagnostics with fewer errors. These studies, which involve the automated examination of intestinal parasites, still face challenges that must be overcome in order to ensure the proper identification of parasites. This includes a protocol that allows for elimination of most of the debris in samples, satisfactory staining of parasite structures, and a robust image database. Our objective here is therefore to offer a critical description of the techniques currently in use for the automated diagnosis of intestinal parasites in fecal samples, as well as advances in these techniques.

Risk factor analysis for the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites found in large ruminants in Lower Dir Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Pakistan.

The present study was designed to investigate the prevalence of gastrointestinal (GI) parasites in cattle and buffaloes of Lower Dir Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. The presence of the eggs, cysts, and oocysts of GI parasites in fecal samples were detected using direct smear methods and concentration techniques including floatation, centrifugation, and sedimentation. Identification of recovered fecal stages were determined by morphology using size and appearance of the recovered eggs, cysts, and oocysts. A total of 314 fecal samples were collected from the different Tehsils (Administrative Districts) and analyzed through microscopy. A higher prevalence was observed in the buffalo than the cow population. A total of 184 samples were positive for GI parasites of which 109/196 (55.61%) were from cattle, whereas 75/118 (63.55%) were from buffaloes. The minimum number of strongyle eggs detected in all the samples were 136.39 eggs/g (EPG). The mean EPG in cattle was 143.30 and 122.56 in buffaloes. The open-source water prevalence of GI parasites was higher than the other sources in cattle and the second highest after tap water in buffaloes. The seasonal prevalence of GI parasites ranged from 32.39% (23/71), in spring to 68.8% (86/125) in summer in cattle. In was For buffaloes the infection prevalence was 52.94% (27/51) and 71.64% (48/67) in spring and summer, respectively. Gastrointestinal parasites are a serious problem in cattle and buffaloes in the lower district of Dir Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Pakistan. In general, the burden of parasitic infection was low in most animals that received previous anti-parasitic treatment.

Investigation on Parasites and Some Causes of Mortality in Captive Punjab urial (Ovis vignei punjabiensis), Pakistan.

Background:The present study was conducted in Jul 2019 and Jan 2020 in two wildlife parks of the Nowshera district, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, where the endangered Punjab urial (Ovis vignei punjabiensis) is successfully bred in captivity. We determined diversity of internal and external parasites that take advantage of the situation of congestion, resulting in massive mortalities of wild animals in captivity.Methods:Internal parasites of living urial were determined by direct wet smear and flotation methods, while dead urial was necropsied for any pertaining observation.Results:All examined fecal samples were found infected with gastrointestinal parasites, which had significant difference in the total abundance in winter and summer. S. papillosus and H.contortus, and a single protozoan, Eimeria spp. were the dominant parasites in fecal samples. Ticks collected from urial enclosures and dead animals were of single species H. anatolicum. Theileria spp. was observed in blood, while hydatid cysts were found in lungs and liver of necropsied urial.Conclusion:The study indicates that internal parasites such as Haemonchus contortus and Strongyloides papillosus, while external parasites as Hyalomma anatolicum ticks played major role in the population decline. Strict veterinary control of infectious diseases, provision of hygienic and supplementary diet, and proper maintenance of urial population are necessary measures for the control of mortalities.

Occurrence of gastrointestinal parasites in dogs and cats domiciliated in Santos, SP, Brazil

Abstract Helminths and protozoa are major causes of diseases in domestic animals, and many can also cause infections in humans. Knowledge of intestinal parasitoses affecting domestic animals is important for the implementation of appropriate preventive measures. The objective of this study was to evaluate the occurrence of gastrointestinal parasites in fecal samples of dogs and cats attended at the Veterinary Hospital of the Metropolitan University of Santos, SP, Brazil. We also attempted to determine whether such infection was associated with sex, age, or the presence of diarrhea. We analyzed 100 fecal samples: 85 from dogs and 15 from cats. Among the dogs, 31.8% of the samples were positive, and to 40.0% among the cats. Infection was not associated with sex or age. However, among the dogs, parasitism showed a significant association with the presence of diarrhea (P = 0.013). The helminths Ancylostoma spp. and the protozoa Giardia duodenalis were the most frequent parasites in this research. Although they present unknown species and assemblages, they are parasites with a zoonotic potential of great importance in public health. Therefore, it is essential that pets are properly diagnosed and treated against gastrointestinal parasitic infection to prevent the spread of diseases.

Current Status in Intestinal Parasitic Infections: A Reference Laboratory Results

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the results of examination for intestinal parasites in fecal samples sent to our laboratory by obtaining from patients applied to the hospital because of various complaints. Methods: 12 239 stool samples were examined by one or several methods such as direct wet mount using 1:5 dilution […]

Prevalence of Cryptosporidium spp. and Blastocystis hominis in faecal samples among diarrheic HIV patients in Medan, Indonesia.

Aim To investigate the prevalence of Cryptosporidium sp. and B. hominis among human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) positive patients in two different outpatient clinics, Haji Adam Malik General Hospital and Primary Care Centre of Padang Bulan, Medan, Indonesia, between two interval periods. Method Cryptosporidium spp. microscopic examination, as well as Jones' medium for B. hominis, were conducted in the Parasitology Laboratory, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was done in the Multidisciplinary Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Sumatera Utara. This was a cross-sectional study, involving 54 diarrheic HIV positive patients (44 males, 10 females). The data were analysed by Spearmen rank correlation, interrater agreement, and 2 tests. Results Infection rate for Cryptosporidium spp. and B. hominis was 24% (13 patients) and 9% (five patients), respectively. The prevalence of CD4 cell count below 200 cell/mm3 was relatively high, 29.6% (16 patients). There was a significant relationship between cryptosporidiosis and CD4 cell count (p=0.01; OR 1.57; 95% CI 1.25-1.99). Microscopic examination was superior over ELISA, whose diagnostic value for sensitivity and specificity was 46.15% and 100.0%, respectively, and Kappa (K) coefficient of 0.56. Conclusion The prevalence of cryptosporidiosis among HIV patients was still relatively high. CD4 count showed a significant relationship with Cryptosporidium spp. infection, but not with Blastocystic hominis. Microscopic examination is still the most reliable technique to diagnose the parasites in faecal samples.

Prevalence of intestinal parasites in fecal samples and estimation of parasite contamination from dog parks in central Oklahoma.

Domestic dogs commonly harbor intestinal parasites in Oklahoma and throughout the world. We tested fecal samples from dog parks to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasites and reported use of parasite control in park-attending dogs and assess potential health risks posed by fecal contamination of public dog parks in this region. Fecal samples (n=359) were collected from five public access dog parks in central Oklahoma from February to July 2019. Fecal samples were collected immediately after defecation with a corresponding canine lifestyle questionnaire completed by the owner (n=134) or collected from the ground from unknown animals to assess potential parasitic contamination of the parks (n=225). Sugar centrifugal flotation and saline sedimentation were performed on all samples for parasite diagnosis. Group comparisons were conducted using the Χ2 test and 95% binominal confidence intervals were calculated for each proportion. One or more parasites were identified in 24.0% (86/359) of samples, including 38/134 (28.4%) fresh samples and 48/225 (21.3%) environmental samples; 6.1% were co-infected. Parasites detected included Ancylostoma spp. (14.5%), Trichuris vulpis (6.7%), Cystoisospora spp. (3.6%), Sarcocystis spp. (1.7%), and Giardia duodenalis (1.4%). A small number of samples had Cryptosporidium spp., Toxocara canis, Alaria sp., Taeniidae eggs, or Heterobilharzia americana. Owners reported 73.1% (98/134) of dogs were maintained on heartworm preventive. Intestinal nematodes, but not all parasites, were significantly less commonly detected in dogs reportedly on heartworm preventive (11.2%) compared to dogs not on heartworm preventive (27.8%; P=.0194). These data suggest dogs and people visiting dog parks are at risk of parasite exposure and that an owner-reported history of heartworm preventive use is associated with decreased prevalence of intestinal nematodes.

A low-cost, automated parasite diagnostic system via a portable, robotic microscope and deep learning.

Manual hand counting of parasites in fecal samples requires costly components and substantial expertise, limiting its use in resource-constrained settings and encouraging overuse of prophylactic medication. To address this issue, a cost-effective, automated parasite diagnostic system that does not require special sample preparation or a trained user was developed. It is composed of an inexpensive (~US$350), portable, robotic microscope that can scan over the size of an entire McMaster chamber (100 mm2 ) and capture high-resolution (~1 μm lateral resolution) bright field images without need for user intervention. Fecal samples prepared using the McMaster flotation method were imaged, with the imaging region comprising the entire McMaster chamber. These images are then automatically segmented and analyzed using a trained convolution neural network (CNN) to robustly separate eggs from background debris. Simple postprocessing of the CNN output yields both egg species and egg counts. The system was validated by comparing accuracy with hand-counts by a trained operator, with excellent performance. As a further demonstration of utility, the system was used to conveniently quantify drug response over time in a single animal, showing residual disease due to Anthelmintic resistance after 2 weeks.

Prevalence of Endoparasites in Urban Stray Dogs from Brazil Diagnosed with Leishmania, with Potential for Human Zoonoses.

In tropical environments, abandoned animals can be an important source for human zoonotic infections, such as human visceral leishmaniasis and other vector-borne diseases. Here, we report the frequency of protozoan and helminth intestinal parasites in stray dogs, which might have an implication for human health in urban Brazilian settings. We performed necropsies on 93 animals, euthanized due to canine visceral leishmaniasis control program, and examined their intestines looking for the presence of helminths; we determined the parasite load, and the elimination of eggs and cysts of protozoan parasites in fecal samples. Further, we performed serology tests for the detection of specific antibodies against Toxoplasma gondii. Overall, a high prevalence of intestinal parasites with potential for human zoonoses resulted and only 8.6% of examined intestinesremained negative. The most prevalent helminths were Ancylostoma caninum and Dipylidium caninum. For nematodes, high worm burdens were detected for A. caninum and Trichuris vulpis. Additionally, we analyzed worm burdens and quantitative stool examinations, but found no significant association between positive serology for Leishmania infection and intestinal parasite burden. Interestingly, serology for T. gondii infection revealed a prevalence of 33.3% and a positive result was significantly associated with a higher A. caninum adult worm recovery (p = 0.0087). Our results showed stray dogs living in urban areas are heavily parasitized, which presents a potential risk for humans. Beyond the control of canine visceral leishmaniasis, we propose an improvement of the controlprogram to reduce the risk for other parasiticdiseases in dogs and humans.

Easyscreen™ Enteric Protozoa Assay for the Detection of Intestinal Parasites: A Retrospective Bi-Center Study

Gastroenteritis caused by single or multiple pathogens remains a major diagnostic challenge for the laboratory, as diagnosis is achieved using different techniques with variable sensitivity and specificity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the EasyScreen™ Enteric Protozoa Detection Kit, a multiplex PCR assay for the detection and identification of the 5 most common protozoan parasites in fecal samples. A total of 632 fecal samples, submitted for routine screening to 2 centers in north-eastern Italy, was included in the study. The results of the molecular assay were compared to those of the standard diagnostic procedures, represented by microscopy and immunoassays. Out of 32 samples testing positive by conventional tools, 31 were detected as concordantly positive using the EasyScreen Kit. Additionally, 91 out of 632 samples only tested positive by the molecular test, therefore increasing the positive detection rate by 275%. Finally, the EasyScreen assay detected 14 co-infections compared to 3 co-infections identified by conventional methods. The EasyScreen Kit provided a rapid and sensitive simultaneous identification of the most important diarrhea-causing protozoa that infect humans. Additionally, this molecular assay presents several advantages compared to conventional tools, such as the standardization and near-total automation of the process. Although critical issues related to the employment of molecular assays are still evident, the system is suitable for clinical parasitological diagnosis as long as it is used in association with conventional tools.

Intestinal Protozoa in Hiv-Infected Patients: A Retrospective Analysis.

Intestinal parasitic infections are common in immunodeficient patients. In developing countries, the incidence of diarrhea due to parasitic infections in HIV (human immunodeficiency virus)-positive individuals is reported to be over 90%. The present study aimed to investigate the presence of intestinal protozoa in HIV-positive patients with gastrointestinal complaints. The fecal samples of 65 HIV-positive patients (14 women, 51 men) were included. Clinical data obtained from patients' files and laboratory results were retrospectively scanned using laboratory information system. Age, sex, parasite positivity, CD4+ count, HIV RNA level, and antiretroviral therapy information were recorded. Fourteen Cryptosporidium spp. (21.5%), 2 Cyclospora spp. (3.1%), 7 Blastocystis spp. (10.8%), and 1 Cryptosporidium spp.+Blastocystis spp. (1.5%) were detected. The median duration of antiretroviral treatment was 3 months and 12 months in patients with and without parasites in fecal samples, respectively. The duration of antiretroviral treatment was significantly higher in non-infected patients (p=0.002). No significant correlations were found between parasite presence and CD4+ T cell counts or HIV RNA levels. Our findings suggest that positive effects of antiretroviral therapy on the immune system of HIV-infected patients reduce the risk of intestinal parasitic infection, and thus, this treatment may play an important role in protection.

Molecular detection of Cryptosporidium spp. and the occurrence of intestinal parasites in fecal samples of naturally infected dogs and cats.

Cats and dogs are hosts of a large number of gastrointestinal parasites and can shed helminth eggs and protozoan oocysts in their feces. The close relationship between companion animals and humans intensifies human exposure to zoonosis caused by parasites. In this study, 177 fecal samples were collected: 128 from dogs and 49 from cats of both sexes and varied ages. One or more intestinal parasites were observed in 56.2% (72/128) of the dog fecal samples and in 53.0% (26/49) of the cat fecal samples. Parasitic monoinfection was present in 70.8% (51/72) of dog samples and in 46.1% (12/26) of cat samples, whereas multi-infection was observed in 29.2% (21/72) and 53.8% (14/26) of dog and cat samples, respectively. The detection frequency of Cryptosporidium spp. was 22.6% (40/177) using Ziehl-Neelsen staining. DNA was extracted from all samples and the Cryptosporidium small subunit ribosomal ribonucleic acid (SSU rRNA) gene was amplified from 5.6% (10/177) of the fecal samples using nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Amplification was achieved in 4.6% (6/128) of the dog samples and in 8.2% (4/49) of the cat samples. DNA sequencing of the nested PCR positive samples identified Cryptosporidium canis in 66.6% (4/6) and Cryptosporidium parvum in 33.3% (2/6) of the dog samples and Cryptosporidium felis in 75% (3/4) and Cryptosporidium parvum in 25% (1/4) in the cat samples. The present study thus demonstrated significant levels of gastrointestinal parasite infection in companion animals and highlighted the presence of zoonosis agents.

Occurrence of health-compromising protozoan and helminth infections in tortoises kept as pet animals in Germany

BackgroundExotic reptiles such as tortoises, have become increasingly common domestic pets worldwide and are known to host different gastrointestinal parasites. Some of these parasites bear zoonotic potential. In the present survey, we parasitologically examined tortoise faecal samples (n = 1005) from 19 different species held as pets in private German households and German zoological gardens.MethodsSaline faecal smears were used to generate prevalence data for potentially health-compromising gastrointestinal parasites. In addition, we performed complete parasitological dissections of dead tortoises (n = 49) to estimate endoparasite burdens precisely.ResultsAnalysed tortoise faecal samples contained a broad spectrum of endoparasites. We detected ten taxa of endoparasites; oxyurid nematodes (e.g. Tachygonetria spp.) were the most prevalent parasites in faecal samples (43.18%), followed by ascarids (Angusticaecum spp.) (0.01%), Hexamita spp. (0.007%), Balantidium spp. (0.007%), trichomonads (0.004%), Strongyloides spp. (0.003%), Entamoeba spp. (0.005%), Hartmanella spp. (0.001%), Blastocystis spp. (0.002%), heterakids (0.001%) and Trimitus spp. (0.001%). Additionally, we investigated dead tortoise individuals (n = 49; of 10 different species) for aetiological diagnosis and estimation of endoparasite burden. Of these individuals, 38 (77.6%) were infected with parasites and 14 (28.6%) of them died most probably due to severe parasitic infection. Oxyurid infections correlated positively with calcium deficiency and metabolic bone disease (MBD) as well as nephrosis/nephritis, mainly occurring in juvenile tortoises (< 5 years of age).ConclusionsThe saline faecal smear technique proved to be efficient in detecting different metazoan and protozoan parasite stages in tortoise faeces. The prevalence of oxyurid infections was particularly high. In combination with pathological findings in clinical oxyuridosis obtained from necropsied animals, our findings call for further, detailed investigations on pathogenesis and immunology of oxyurids in pet reptiles. Coprological analyses for parasite detection should be mandatory before tortoises are transferred to a new owner, animal group, or public and private enclosures such as zoos. We advocate for regular health screenings in pet tortoises and, if parasitic infections are diagnosed, adequate medication or alternative hygiene management should be considered to improve and maintain individual and population health.

Occurrence of gastrointestinal parasites in wild animals in State of Paraná, Brazil.

The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence and diversity of gastrointestinal parasites in fecal samples from wild birds and mammals from the State of Paraná. In total, 220 stool samples were sent to Parasitic Diseases Laboratory of the Federal University of Paraná during 13 months (Jan/2013-Jan/2014). A total of 52.7% (116/220) of the animals were positive for cysts, oocysts, eggs and/or trophozoites. In birds, the positivity rate was 37.9% (25/66) and mammals was 59.1% (91/154). Strongyloidea superfamily eggs were observed in 37.3% (82/220) of the samples, Eimeria spp. in 10% (22/220), and Trichuris spp. in 4.5% (10/220). The most frequent mammal species were llamas (Lama glama), and dromedaries (Camelus bactrianus) with infection rate of 70.1% (54/77) and 60.8% (14/23), respectively. In other hand, cockatiels (Nymphicus hollandicus) and ring necks (Psittacula krameri), were the most researched birds, with infection rate of 20% (40/50) and 100% (6/6), respectively. A high prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites was observed in most of wildlife animals. Further investigations should be conducted focusing on parasite control strategies and the conservation measurements for harmonizing the human-animal interaction on the long-term, reducing associated health risks.