High Prevalence of Bovine Cardiac Cysticercosis in Upper Egypt: An Epidemiological and Histopathological Study.

Bovine cysticercosis is categorized as a serious parasitic zoonotic infestation. The infection is mainly caused by the tapeworm Taenia saginata, which infects cattle and humans. The larval stage, Cysticercus bovis (C. bovis), is found in the skeletal and cardiac muscles of infected cattle. Despite its potential public health concern, few studies have been conducted on cardiac cysticercosis in Upper Egypt. This study investigates the prevalence, epidemiology, and impact of cardiac cysticercosis in Upper Egypt, emphasizing how histopathological changes in cardiac muscle and physiological parameters might be associated with the infection. From December 2022 to October 2023, a total of 941 animals from Assiut province, Upper Egypt, were slaughtered and their cardiac muscles were examined for the presence of C. bovis. Cysts were classified as viable or degenerated through macroscopic inspection. The overall prevalence of C. bovis infected hearts made up 10.8% of the total examined. The highest prevalence rate was in the summer season followed by spring; winter had the lowest infections. The histopathological examination of infected tissues revealed immune cell infiltration around Cysticercus-infected areas. Additionally, Bax immunostaining demonstrated the apoptotic effect of cysticercosis. Regarding the measured physiological parameters, there were non-significant changes in plasma levels of total protein and albumin in cattle infected with cysticercosis compared with control animals. Moreover, there was a significant decrease in total antioxidant capacity (TAC) combined with a significant increase in lipid peroxide (Malondialdehyde) (MDA), troponin T, and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity in infected animals. The present work documented a set of epidemiological and pathological findings, revealing that C. bovis is a potentially harmful parasite and can cause significant health problems in both cattle and humans.

Bovine cysticercosis epidemiology and the economic impact of the triceps brachii incision in a South African export abattoir.

Taenia saginata is a zoonotic tapeworm of humans with bovines as its intermediate host (bovine cysticercosis). Traditional meat inspection is the main measure to identify the larval stage in carcasses and prevent human infection, but has a notoriously low sensitivity, especially in low prevalence settings. The legislation in multiple African countries mandates an incision in both triceps brachii muscles to detect the parasite as part of the normal post-mortem inspection, but this has an economic cost and is not universally mandated in other countries. The primary aim of this study was to investigate the epidemiology of bovine cysticercosis at an export abattoir in South Africa and determine the validity and cost of the triceps incision. Risk factors were investigated, and the effect of additional heart incisions on the current inspection. Four incisions were made into the heart in addition to the normal post-mortem inspection in 3353 carcasses. The proportion of positive animals with and without the cardiac and triceps incisions were compared using McNemar's chi-square tests, while risk factors were assessed using binary logistic regression. The economic impact of the triceps incision was estimated using a stochastic economic cost model. Thirty-three positive carcasses were identified for an apparent prevalence of 0.98 % (95 %CI, 0.69-1.36 %), while the true prevalence was estimated at 6.6 % (95 %CI, 4.3-8.8 %). All cysts were confirmed as T. saginata on histopathology with 70 % (95 %CI, 53-83 %) located in the heart. The additional cardiac incisions resulted in the detection of significantly more cases compared to the normal inspection method prevalence of 0.72 % (95 %CI, 0.47-1.05 %; P < 0.001). The apparent prevalence of T. saginata when omitting the triceps incision was not significantly lower compared to the prevalence when included in the inspection (P = 0.480). External feedlots (OR= 4.17, 95 %CI: 2.04-8.54, P < 0.001) and older animals (OR=3.90, 95 %CI: 1.17-13.03, P = 0.027) were associated with a positive detection. The current median annual financial cost to the food business operator from the triceps incision was estimated at $30387 (95 %CI: $0-$130696), with the proportion of deboned meat exported identified as the most important factor affecting cost (Spearman's rho=0.853). The identification of risk factors could aid in the development of a more effective risk-based inspection system. The current inspection should be modified to increase exposure of the heart and remove the triceps incisions. The latter should especially be considered given the minimal contribution to cysticercosis detection, the unsupported requirement for its inclusion specifically in Africa, and its economic impact, especially as beef exports increase.

The prevalence and molecular detection of bovine cysticercosis and its impact on slaughtered cattle in Egypt.

Cysticercus bovis is the metacestode of the commonly defined foodborne cestode, Taenia saginata. It infects heart, masseter muscles and other muscular sites of cattle causing bovine cysticercosis. So, a retrospective study using archival documents from authorized agencies is done during the period of 2018-2020 with estimating economic losses. Cysts were collected from municipal Beni-Suef and Basatin abattoirs. Molecular approach including cPCR and sequencing analysis is used to prove the species. The prevalence was 0.34% in Beni-Suef abattoir and 5.70% in Basatin abattoir including heads, hearts or all carcasses condemned. Among 27 provinces surveyed, the highest prevalence was recorded in Aswan followed by Cairo, Suez and Red Sea. Moreover, 19 provinces (Cairo, Alexandria, Suez, Dakahlia, Sharkia, Qalyobia, Kafrelsheikh, Gharbia, Menofiya, Ismailia, Giza, Beni-Suef, Assiut, Sohag, Qena, Aswan, Red Sea, South Sinai and El-Wadi El-Gadid) recorded bovine cysticercosis in 2018, 2019 and 2020. On the other hand, Luxor and North Sinai had no infections. The percentages of condemnation among slaughtered cattle were 1.38, 1.49 and 0.87% in 2018, 2019 and 2020, respectively. Condemnations significantly varied among north, middle and south districts of Egypt, and also varied annually. Molecularly, a diagnostic band at an amplicon size 253 bp targeting the COI gene specific for Cycticercus bovis was revealed. The obtained sequences showed 100% identity with the different Taenia saginata COI GB sequence isolates in many countries worldwide. The phylogenetic analysis method showed that the obtained sequences originating from the same clade of Taenia saginata GB isolates globally. Careful meat inspection as well as strict hygienic measures is recommended for both veterinarians and public.

Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors of Cysticercosis bovis in Bishoftu Municipal Abattoir, Central Ethiopia.

Background: Cysticercus bovis has zoonotic implications with economic losses from organ contamination and treatment costs. In developing countries such as Ethiopia, where hygienic standards are low and residents customarily eat raw or undercooked meat, the disease is prevalent. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out from December 2021 to June 2022 to determine the prevalence of Cysticercus bovis in cattle slaughtered at the Bishoftu municipal abattoir, in central Ethiopia. Study populations for the active abattoir survey were cattle presented to the abattoir for slaughtering and routine meat inspection conditions. The organ namely the tongue, masseter muscle, liver, and triceps muscle were inspected for the presence of C. bovis. Results: From a total of 330 cattle, 14 were found to be positive for C. bovis, with an overall prevalence of 4.24%. Based on the origin of the animals, the highest prevalence was recorded at Adama (7.27%), followed by Bishoftu (5.45%), Mojo (5.45%), Borana (3.63%), Dukem (3.63%), and Kaliti (0.00%). Similarly, out of 111 adults and 219 old-aged cattle slaughtered and examined at the abattoir, 4.5%, and 4.11% were positive for C. bovis, respectively. Among tested independent variables, sex, body condition score, age, and origin of animals had no relationships with the prevalence of C. bovis. From the detected organ, the tongue ranks first for the highest number of cysts, followed by the masseter muscle, liver, and triceps muscle, with total cysts of 6, 4, 3, and 1, respectively. Conclusion: C. bovis is a prevalent zoonotic parasite disease that causes carcass condemnation; an enhanced understanding of the health consequences of teniasis is required to protect the community.

Updated spatial analysis of areas of occurrence of bovine cysticercosis in the state of Espírito Santo, Brazil.

The risk of bovine cysticercosis is mutable over time, since population habits, local infrastructure, and bovine herd size change through the years. Hence, the aim of this study was to update the risk map of bovine cysticercosis occurrence in Espírito Santo State, Brazil, by choosing the following risk factors: inadequate sewer service; bovine population per municipality; risk of flooding; and land use and occupation, examined with a mathematical model using the GIS program ArcGis 10.5. The risk map of occurrence demonstrated that the state is composed of 12.8, 24.5, 36.2 and 26.5% of areas of very high, high, medium, and low risk, respectively. The northern area stood out for areas of very high risk, with the cities of Linhares and São Mateus accounting for 99% of the area with this classification. Of the state's 78 municipalities, 15 had a portion of their territory with very high risk, 11 had over 50% of the territory with high risk and all except Irupi (100% of low risk) had some percentage of medium risk. These findings demonstrate the areas where actions to prevent bovine cysticercosis should be preferentially conducted.

O risco de cisticercose bovina é mutável ao longo do tempo, uma vez que os hábitos populacionais, a infraestrutura local e o tamanho do rebanho bovino mudam ao longo dos anos. Assim, o objetivo deste estudo foi atualizar o mapa de risco da ocorrência da cisticercose bovina no Estado do Espírito Santo, Brasil, escolhendo os seguintes fatores de risco: saneamento sanitário inadequado; população bovina por município; risco de inundação; e uso e ocupação do solo, examinados com um modelo matemático usando o programa SIG ArcGis 10.5. O mapa de risco de ocorrência demonstrou que o estado é composto por 12,8, 24,5, 36,2 e 26,5% de áreas de risco muito alto, alto, médio e baixo, respectivamente. A zona norte destacou-se como área de risco muito alto, com os municípios de Linhares e São Mateus respondendo por 99% da área com essa classificação. Dos 78 municípios do estado, 15 tinham uma parcela de seu território com risco muito alto, 11 tinham mais de 50% do território com risco alto e todos exceto Irupi (100% de risco baixo) tinham algum percentual de risco médio. Esses achados demonstram as áreas onde as ações de prevenção da cisticercose bovina devem ser preferencialmente realizadas.

Risk Factors for Bovine Cysticercosis in North-West Italy: A Multi-Year Case-Control Study.

Taenia saginata is the causative agent of bovine cysticercosis, a zoonotic parasitic disease with a worldwide distribution. Bovine cysticercosis is considered to be an important food safety issue responsible for human taeniasis and a major economic concern since infected carcasses undergo condemnation, freezing and downgrading. The aim of the current investigation was to assess the presence of farm-level risk factors for bovine cysticercosis in an endemic area in North-West Italy. A questionnaire was designed to collect information relating to several farm structural features, as well as management practices, environmental characteristics and attitudes of farmers. The questionnaire was administered in two separate time intervals by direct interview to previously selected case and control farms. Overall, 32 case farms and 131 control farms were included between 2005 and 2011 and 50 case farms and 192 control farms were included between 2014 and 2020. The present survey showed a significant association between the detection of bovine cysticercosis cases at slaughter and farm proximity to picnic spots, closeness of wastewater treatment plant effluents, loose-housing systems and presence of employees along with the family members, highlighting the need for targeted awareness raising policies.

Cysticercus bovis in cattle slaughtered in North Egypt: Overestimation by the visual inspection method.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: The World Health Organization and the Food and Agriculture Organization list Taenia saginata, a foodborne cestode, as the most widely distributed human tapeworm worldwide. The larval stage of T. saginata, Cysticercus bovis, causes cysticercosis in bovines and infects humans who eat raw or undercooked beef. The existing detection methods of C. bovis in cattle depend on the visual inspection of meat. This study aimed to confirm the identification of C. bovis through visual inspection at the slaughterhouses in North Egypt with a molecular diagnosis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 687 locally bred cattle (Baladi), including 428 cows and 259 buffaloes, slaughtered in four slaughterhouses in North Egypt from April 2018 to February 2019 were inspected for C. bovis using the traditional meat inspection method. Positive samples were verified through polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification and HDP2 gene sequencing. RESULTS: Through visual inspection, C. bovis was detected in 4.2% and 12.4% of the slaughtered cows and buffaloes, respectively. Molecular analysis confirmed that 1.9% of the animals, all of which were cows, had C. bovis infection. DNA sequencing verified the identity of the PCR-amplified product. CONCLUSION: The rate of C. bovis infection in slaughterhouses detected through meat inspection is overestimated compared with that through PCR. Although meat inspection can be used as a primary screening tool for C. bovis, a more specific molecular method is required to achieve an accurate diagnosis.

Investigation of Cysticercosis bovis prevalence using passive abattoir post-mortem inspection and active administration of structured non-participatory questionnaire to farmers in Botswana.

Most government published statistics of C. bovis prevalence in Botswana emanate mainly from records available at the Botswana Meat Commission (BMC), the country's national export abattoir. Although BMC slaughters 44% of Botswana's annual cattle slaughter, prevalence data arising from BMC does not reflect prevalence from lower throughput abattoirs and potential hotspots. Thus, reporting national prevalence rate using solely BMC statistics may not be very informative and reflective of the bigger picture. It therefore became imperative to probe prevalence of bovine cysticercosis using a cross-sectional study through passive abattoir inspection, covering a wider scope (more regions) and some lower throughput abattoirs previously not accounted for. Furthermore, non-participatory interview using structured questionnaires was employed to actively elicit prevalence information directly from meat industry stake holders. Prevalence arising from survey was used to compare and query results from statutory (traditional) passive abattoir method. Abattoir prevalence was 17.17% (SE = 1.70027), and survey prevalence was 42.35%; both of which were higher than published prevalence of 13.5% and BMC prevalence of 10% (SE = 0.006576). Survey method was more holistic than passive abattoir method, by covering more frontiers thus yielding higher prevalence. At p = 025, abattoir and survey prevalence were significantly different from each other. In addition to delimitating novel hotspots in Botswana, this study showed significant difference, p = 0.002 in prevalence within districts and regions. Kalagadi district's prevalence differed significantly from other districts: differed from North East at p = 0.042, Central district at p = 0.002 and Ghanzi at p = 0.004. The results which arise from this methodological approach have been able to provide a more all-inclusive and reliable prevalence rate.

Bovine cysticercosis in feedlot cattle in central region of Iran.

The cestode, Taenia saginata is a zoonotic tapeworm that it's larval stage which known as Cysticercus bovis cause cyst formation in cattle's organs such as heart, lung, liver, tongue, esophagus and diaphragm muscle, despite the infected cattle may show no clinical signs. Antemortem diagnosis of bovine cysticercosis can be made by antigen detecting ELISA. In a feedlot near city of Arak, beef cattle had different degrees of lethargy, dullness, unthriftiness and were reluctant to move. In postmortem examination of cattle, samples were collected from heart tissue and stained by H&E method for light microscopic examination. 10 ml of blood samples were taken from jugular veins of 90 cattle that were going to be sent to slaughterhouse. Serums obtained from blood samples were investigated for presence of C. bovis antigen by ELISA assay. Soils and dusts from farm yard, pen's floor, feed store and both toilets of workers and employer were sampled and evaluated for presence of parasite eggs by floating method. Cysticercus bovis antigen were identified in serums of 18 cattle; and also, samples from workers toilet was contaminated by eggs of T. saginata. This study showed that serologic methods in conjunction with meat inspection can be used for diagnosis of bovine cysticercosis. The aim of this study is to identify infected cattle with C. bovis by serologic methods before slaughter and determine microscopic characteristics of lesions on postmortem examination in central area of Iran.

Cisticercose bovina: ocorrência em abatedouro de Sertãozinho, SP, e relação com a teníase e cisticercose humana

O presente trabalho teve como objetivo verificar a incidência de cisticercose bovina em 2.519 bovinos, encaminhados ao Departamento de Inspeção Final (D.I.F) de um abatedouro frigorífico, sob inspeção federal, localizado em Sertãozinho-SP. Esses animais eram oriundos de diferentes cidades dos estados de São Paulo, Minas Gerais e Goiás, sendo possível o uso do respectivo abatedouro, durante o período de junho de 2018 a dezembro de 2018, como um recinto de convergência desses bovinos para estudo de caráter epidemiológico e, portanto, servindo para representar a situação sanitária do rebanho nessa região. Foram selecionados os 3 municípios em que se detectaram as maiores incidências de cisticercose bovina para tentar, depois, relacioná-las com as incidências, nos mesmos municípios, de teníase e cisticercose humana. Para tanto, contactouse as respectivas secretarias de saúde dos aludidos municípios, na tentativa de fechamento do ciclo zoonótico e levantamento da hipótese sobre a causa raiz do complexo nessas áreas. Com foco, sobretudo, em evidenciar o problema aos órgãos de saúde responsáveis pelo devido controle sanitário. Os dados foram obtidos através do Serviço de Inspeção Federal (SIF n° 941), indicando o município de origem, número de diagnosticados e as patologias dos bovinos encaminhados ao D.I.F, para a realização do compilado, que indicou 2357 animais infectados pela cisticercose bovina, sendo as cidades com os maiores níveis de infestação : São Bento do Sapucaí-SP, Agudos-SP e São João da Boa Vista-SP.

This study aimed to analyze the prevalence of bovine cysticercosis in 2,519 animals, sent to the Department of Final Inspection (D.I.F) of a slaughterhouse, under federal inspection, located in Sertãozinho-SP. These cattle came from different cities in the states of São Paulo, Minas Gerais and Goiás, making it possible to use the respective slaughterhouse, during the period from June 2018 to December 2018, as a place of convergence of these cattle for an epidemiological study. , showing the zoonosis surveillance itself in its origins. The 3 counties with the highest incidence were selected to establish the relationship and, subsequently, the contact with the human part, health departments, in search for data on human teniasis and cysticercosis, in an attempt to close the zoonotic cycle and raise the hypothesis about the root cause of the complex in those areas. With a focus, above all, on highlighting the problem to the health agencies responsible for the control. The data were obtained through the local SIF (Federal Inspection Service) (941), indicating the animal’s origin’s county, number of diagnosed and the pathologies of the cattle which were sent to the D.I.F, for the compilation, which indicated 2357 animals infected by cysticercosis, with the cities with the highest levels of infestation. : São Bento do Sapucaí-SP, Agudos-SP and São João da Boa Vista-SP.

CISTICERCOSE BOVINA: OCORRÊNCIA EM ABATEDOURO DE SERTÃOZINHO, SP, E RELAÇÃO COM A TENÍASE E CISTICERCOSE HUMANA

O presente trabalho teve como objetivo verificar a incidência de cisticercose bovina em 2.519 bovinos, encaminhados ao Departamento de Inspeção Final (D.I.F) de um abatedouro frigorífico, sob inspeção federal, localizado em Sertãozinho-SP. Esses animais eram oriundos de diferentes cidades dos estados de São Paulo, Minas Gerais e Goiás, sendo possível o uso do respectivo abatedouro, durante o período de junho de 2018 a dezembro de 2018, como um recinto de convergência desses bovinos para estudo de caráter epidemiológico e, portanto, servindo para representar a situação sanitária do rebanho nessa região. Foram selecionados os 3 municípios em que se detectaram as maiores incidências de cisticercose bovina para tentar, depois, relacioná-las com as incidências, nos mesmos municípios, de teníase e cisticercose humana. Para tanto, contactou-se as respectivas secretarias de saúde dos aludidos municípios, na tentativa de fechamento do ciclo zoonótico e levantamento da hipótese sobre a causa raiz do complexo nessas áreas. Com foco, sobretudo, em evidenciar o problema aos órgãos de saúde responsáveis pelo devido controle sanitário. Os dados foram obtidos através do Serviço de Inspeção Federal (SIF n° 941), indicando o município de origem, número de diagnosticados e as patologias dos bovinos encaminhados ao D.I.F, para a realização do compilado, que indicou 2357 animais infectados pela cisticercose bovina, sendo as cidades com os maiores níveis de infestação : São Bento do Sapucaí-SP, Agudos-SP e São João da Boa Vista-SP

This study aimed to analyze the prevalence of bovine cysticercosis in 2,519 animals, sent to the Department of Final Inspection (D.I.F) of a slaughterhouse, under federal inspection, located in Sertãozinho-SP. These cattle came from different cities in the states of São Paulo, Minas Gerais and Goiás, making it possible to use the respective slaughterhouse, during the period from June 2018 to December 2018, as a place of convergence of these cattle for an epidemiological study. , showing the zoonosis surveillance itself in its origins. The 3 counties with the highest incidence were selected to establish the relationship and, subsequently, the contact with the human part, health departments, in search for data on human teniasis and cysticercosis, in an attempt to close the zoonotic cycle and raise the hypothesis about the root cause of the complex in those areas. With a focus, above all, on highlighting the problem to the health agencies responsible for the control. The data were obtained through the local SIF (Federal Inspection Service) (941), indicating the animal's origin's county, number of diagnosed and the pathologies of the cattle which were sent to the D.I.F, for the compilation, which indicated 2357 animals infected by cysticercosis, with the cities with the highest levels of infestation. : São Bento do Sapucaí-SP, Agudos-SP and São João da Boa Vista-SP

Occurrence of Bovine Cysticercosis in Two Regions of the State of Tocantins-Brazil and the Importance of Pathogen Identification.

Bovine cysticercosis, caused by Taenia saginata metacestodes, is the cause of significant economic losses to the meat production chain by condemnation and downgrading of infected carcasses. It is also a public health issue causing human taeniasis. This study evaluated the occurrence of bovine cysticercosis at the meat inspection procedures in slaughterhouses of south and north regions of the Tocantins State in Brazil. Specimens identified as cysts of T. saginata were collected and analyzed by molecular (PCR) and histopathological techniques. The cysts were collected from March to December of 2010 in slaughterhouses located in the cities of Alvorada (South) and Araguaína (North). The frequency of cystic lesions during the study was 0.033% (53/164,091) with 69.81% of calcified lesions and 30.9% of live cysts at meat inspection. From 14 samples submitted to molecular analysis, 28.57% (4/14) were positive for T. saginata. The histopathological analysis of the non-T. saginata samples showed lesions suggestive of granuloma and hydatid disease. The results indicated that the identification of the etiological agent is difficult by macroscopic inspection, emphasizing the need to associate specific diagnostic methods at meat inspection in abattoirs. In addition, species-specific PCR would be an effective tool for diagnosis, monitoring, and identifying cysticercosis, assisting the conventional tests.

Zoonotic metacestodes and associated financial loss from cattle slaughtered at Yabello municipal abattoir, Borana-Oromia, Ethiopia.

Cross-sectional study was carried out to determine the prevalence and estimate financial losses associated with zoonotic metacestodes in cattle originated from Borana Pastoral Farming System and slaughtered at Yabello Municipal Abattoir, Ethiopia. A total of 384 cattle were randomly selected at the abattoir. Detailed postmortem examination, cyst count and fertile test were conducted. Significantly higher prevalence of Cystic echinococcosis (CE) (33.3%) with 5.3 times (OR 95% 3.5-8.1) than Cysticercus bovis (8.6%) was observed. Significant difference (p < 0.05) in prevalence of both CE and C. bovis were observed among the animal body condition, but not in other factors of the study. From total examined animals, 32.8%, 8.1% and 0.5% were infected by CE only, C. bovis only and both as concurrent infections, respectively. Significantly higher CE (p < 0.05) than C. bovis were observed within studied categories of risk factors. Tissue level cyst prevalence of 83.1% CE and 26.6% C. bovis were observed. High CE counts on the lungs (42.7%), liver (32.8%) and kidney (5.2%) but high C. bovis count in triceps muscle and masseter muscles (7.3% each) and heart (3.64%) were observed. Concurrent infections were observed in heart and liver. Out of the 347 counted CE cysts, fertile and viable were 34.0% and 23.1%, respectively. Of the counted C. bovis, 30.4% were both fertile and viable. A total of 301,139.6ETB (11,155.52USD) annual financial losses were calculated during the study period. The Borana Pastoral Farming System characterized by seasonal animal movement needs awareness creation on the elders and leaders regarding parasitic epidemiology and control strategies.

Antibody immunoglobulin G1 and immunoglobulin G2a responses against some cystic fluid proteins of Cysticercus bovis in Balb/c mice.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Immunoglobulin (Ig) G1 and IgG2a are the surrogate markers respectively for humoral and cellular immune responses of hosts against antigens including cystic fluid proteins of Cysticercus bovis. A study was conducted to investigate the IgG1 and IgG2a responses of Balb/c mice against some individual cystic fluid proteins of C. bovis in an effort to determine the roles of each protein in inducing the humoral and cellular immune responses in host. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Individual p71, p31, and p14 proteins of C. bovis were purified by separation of the proteins using sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and elution of individual proteins from the gel. Six female Balb/c mice were immunized 4 times at 10-day intervals with the crude cystic fluid proteins, and sera were collected for the measurement of IgG1 and IgG2a levels against the individual proteins. Sera samples collected before the first immunization were used as negative antibody control, sera samples collected after the fourth immunization were used as positive antibody control, and crude cystic fluid protein was used as positive antigen control. RESULTS: All immunized mice were immune to p71, p31, p14, and crude cystic fluid proteins of C. bovis. The crude cystic fluid proteins of C. bovis induced a higher IgG2a than IgG1 level following the first and the second immunizations but switched into a higher IgG1 than IgG2a level following the fourth immunization. Protein 71 kDa (p71) induced a higher IgG2a than IgG1 level following the fourth immunization. In contrast, p14 induced a higher IgG1 than IgG2a level following the fourth immunization. Low and balance IgG1 and IgG2a levels against p31 were observed following the first to the fourth immunizations. CONCLUSION: Using IgG1 and IgG2a levels as the surrogate markers, it appears that cystic fluid antigens of C. bovis induce both humoral and cellular immune responses in Balb/c mice. The p71 appears to be a better inducer of cellular immune response, whereas p14 is a better inducer of humoral immune response of mice.

Aspectos macroscópicos e histológicos da cisticercose bovina / Macroscopic and histological findings of bovine cysticercosis

Cisticercose bovina é uma importante doença parasitária de caráter zoonótico, com elevada ocorrência em algumas regiões do Brasil. Considerando a possibilidade de erro na identificação das lesões, bem como a dificuldade de classificação dos cistos e a necessidade de melhorar o diagnóstico, o objetivo desse trabalho foi caracterizar e correlacionar as lesões macroscópicas e microscópicas da cisticercose bovina, além de utilizar a técnica da PCR para auxiliar na identificação do agente. Amostras de lesões císticas e nodulares de bovinos, compatíveis macroscopicamente com cisticercose, foram coletadas em abatedouros frigoríficos do Estado do Rio Grande do Sul. Os cistos foram divididos em três grupos: Grupo 1, cisticercos vivos (viáveis); Grupo 2 (subdividido em 2a e 2b), cisticercos degenerados com potencial escólex viável; e Grupo 3 cisticercos mortos (mineralizados). Após a obtenção das lâminas histológicas dos cisticercos de cada grupo, foi realizada a correlação macroscópica e microscópica. Para a realização da técnica da PCR foram utilizadas lesões císticas de 26 bovinos. Foram analisados cisticercos de 127 bovinos, totalizando 232 cistos. Dos 127, 46 bovinos (36,2%) apresentaram mais de um cisticerco e 81 (63,8%) um cisticerco cada. Em relação a localização anatômica dos cistos, o coração demonstrou o maior envolvimento (55,9%), seguido do músculo masseter (22,8%). Quando houve o envolvimento de dois órgãos em um mesmo bovino, coração e músculo masseter juntos, totalizaram 11 casos (8,6%). De maneira geral a média da frequência de cisticercose foi de 10% a 15% de bovinos acometidos por lote. Entretanto, a média isolada de alguns lotes demonstrou condenações acima de 50%, 80% e 90%. Morfologicamente, os 232 cisticercos foram classificados dentro de três grupos. No Grupo 1, 23 cistos (9,9%) foram considerados como vivos (viáveis), e eram caracterizados por lesões císticas com parede translúcida ou levemente opaca, contendo líquido claro e um ponto esbranquiçado no interior (escólex). Na histologia, os cistos eram compostos por uma membrana de onde invaginava um escólex de Taenia saginata. No segundo grupo (Grupo 2), foram incluídos 156 (67,2%) cisticercos degenerados com potencial escólex viável e macroscopicamente os cistos demonstraram dois padrões morfológicos distintos. No primeiro deles (Grupo 2a), visualizado em 111 casos (71,1%), observaram-se lesões nodulares com aspecto caseoso. Microscopicamente, os cistos caracterizavam-se por formações nodulares compostas por área central contendo escólex e membrana, ambos degenerados, e necrose caseosa. No segundo padrão (Grupo 2b), observado em 45 cisticercos (28,9%), as lesões também eram caseosas, entretanto ao corte os cistos demonstravam na área central um orifício em meio ao material caseoso. Os aspectos microscópicos dos 45 cistos incluídos no segundo padrão macroscópico assemelhavam-se aos cisticercos do primeiro padrão. Entretanto, oito cistos (17,8%) demonstraram somente a membrana parasitária viável e em um cisto notou-se a membrana com o escólex viável. No restante dos 36 cistos (80%), observou-se área central contendo escólex e membrana, ambos degenerados, e necrose caseosa. No terceiro grupo de classificação morfológica dos cisticercos (Grupo 3), foram inseridos os cistos mineralizados (mortos), totalizando 53 cistos (22,9%). O aspecto macroscópico desses cisticercos caracterizava-se por lesões nodulares, amarelas, firmes ao corte, que se fragmentavam. Histologicamente observaram-se formações nodulares com área central de acentuada mineralização, rodeadas por infiltrado inflamatório granulomatoso. Dos 127 bovinos, foi realizado PCR a partir do DNA extraído dos cisticercos de 26 bovinos, no qual 24 foram positivos para cisticercose. Em relação aos dois cisticercos negativos, um deles fazia parte do Grupo 2a e o outro do Grupo 3. A correlação entre os aspectos macroscópicos e microscópicos do segundo padrão morfológico observado dentro do Grupo 2, demonstrou que esse subgrupo representa o maior problema na interpretação, pois alguns cistos apresentaram características de viabilidade. Macroscopicamente esses cisticercos podem ser identificados quando cortados, porque possuem um orifício na área central que pode auxiliar no diagnóstico.(AU)

Bovine cysticercosis is an important zoonotic parasitic disease with high prevalence in several regions of Brazil. Considering the need of improvement of the accuracy of diagnosis of these lesions, as well as the difficulty of classification of the cysts, this study aimed to correlate gross and histopathological changes of bovine cysticercosis and to use polymerase chain reaction (PCR) as an aid in their identification. Cystic and nodular lesions from cattle, grossly compatible with cysticercosis, were sampled in slaughterhouses from Rio Grande do Sul State. Lesions were allotted in one of the following groups. Group 1: viable cysticercus; Group 2 (subdivided 2a e 2b): degenerating cysticercus with a potentially viable scolex; and Group 3: dead cysticercus (mineralized). The gross and microscopic aspects of every cysticerci of each group were compared. Two hundred and thirty two cysts and nodules compatible with cysticercus were sampled from 127 bovine. Twenty six of those lesions were tested with PCR. Out of 127 cattle, 46 (36.2%) had more than one cyst and the remaining 81 (63.8%) had on cyst each. Myocardium was the most frequently involved anatomical site (55.9%), followed by masseter muscle (22.8%). When there was more than one organ involved in the same bovine, myocardium a master muscle sum up 11 cases (8.6%). In general, the average of cysticercosis frequency was 10-15%. However the average in some cattle lots was in excess of 50%, 80% and 90%. Morphologically, 232 cysticerci were classified in three groups. In Group 1, 23 cysticerci (9.9%) were considered viable and were characterized by cysts of translucent or slightly opaque wall, containing clear and a white point (scolex) within the cyst. Histologically, the cysts consisted of a membrane from which a scolex of Taenia saginata invaginated. One hundred and fifty six cysts (67.2%) were allotted in Group 2; grossly these cysts revealed two different morphological patterns. In 111 (71.1%) cases of Group 2 (Group 2a) nodular caseous lesions were observed. Histologically, the cysts were characterized by nodules consisting by a central area containing the scolex and membrane, both degenerated, and caseous necrosis. In the remaining 45 (28.9%) cases of Group 2 (Group 2b), lesions were also caseous; however, at cut surface the cysts had a central hole amidst the caseous material. The microscopic aspect of the 45 cysts included in the second was similar to that of the first pattern. However in eight (17.8%) of the 45 cysts only a viable parasitic membrane was observed and in one cyst the membrane and viable scolex were observed. In the remaining 36 cases (80%), the cysts consisted of a central area containing both degenerated membrane and scolex, and caseous necrosis. In Group 3, 53 dead cysts (mineralized) (22.9%) were found among the total of 232 cysts. The gross aspect of these cysticerci was characterized by yellow form nodules which crumbled when cut. Histologically nodules were observed with marked central area of mineralization surrounded by granulomatous inflammatory response. Twenty four of the twenty cysts examined by PCR were positive for Cysticercus bovis and two of them were negative. One of the negatives was part of Group 2 (degenerated cysts) and the other one of the Group 3 (dead mineralized cysts). The correlation between gross and microscopic aspects of the second morphologic aspect of the Group 2 demonstrated that this subset represents a major complicating factor in interpretation, since a large number of these cysts reveal characteristics of viability. Grossly, these cysticerci might be identified when cut, since a hole in the central area will be observed aiding in recognizing his lesions.(AU)

Spatial distribution, prevalence and epidemiological risk factors of cysticercosis in cattle from state of São Paulo, Brazil, slaughtered for human consumption.

This present research focused on establishing the prevalence, geospatial distribution and epidemiological risk factors for bovine cysticercosis in the state of São Paulo, Brazil, in cattle slaughtered for human comsumption. Data about the inspection of 104,180 bovine carcasses from 215 farms and from 70 municipalities were gathered between January and December of 2012. A cluster analysis was performed in order to correlate some variables: prevalence of bovine cysticercosis, total coffee harvesting area (hectares), orange producing areas (hectares) and Human Development Index. Afterwards, distribution maps were created in order to help the results interpretation. An average prevalence of 2.9% was established in the state of São Paulo during the studied period. The Administrative regions of São José do Rio Preto and Campinas had higher risk for cysticercosis (OR >1 and 95% CI >1). The cluster analysis showed a grouping (G1 cluster) of the variables: prevalence of bovine cysticercosis, total area of sugar cane harvested, total area of orange harvested and total area of coffee harvested. This agrroupment allows us to infer that cyticercosis cases in this region are correlated with those variables distribution. Such aspects indicate that the presence of temporary rural workers and other socioeconomic and cultural features in each region can contribute to bovine cysticercosis dissemination in some areas.

Spatial analysis on the risk of bovine cysticercosis occurrence in the state of Espírito Santo, Brazil.

A map of the risk of bovine cysticercosis occurrence was developed for the state of Espírito Santo, Brazil, and it was based in a mathematic model based on following variables: inadequate sewage, bovine population by county, use and occupation of the land and flood risks in GIS environ by means of the ArcGIS/ArcINFO 10.1 program. The work aims to spatially analyze the risk of bovine cysticercosis occurrence in the state of Espírito Santo, by means of risk factors related to cysticercosis and compare with the prevalence obtained from slaughterhouses in the same area. The map of risk showed areas high risk and very high risk located mainly in Ecoporanga, Linhares, counties, where the prevalence from slaughterhouses are low, and in two counties of south macro-region, Presidente Kennedy and Itapemirim, where prevalence from slaughterhouses are higher.

Prevalência, distribuição espacial e fatores de risco para cisticercose bovina no estado de São Paulo / Prevalence, spatial distribution and risk factors for cattle cysticercosis in the state of São Paulo, Brazil

This study aimed to determine the prevalence and geographical distribution as well as the factors and areas of risk associated with bovine cysticercosis in the State of São Paulo. 34.443 cattle, males and females with ages from 18 to 60 months were inspected. The animals were from 97 cities in the state of São Paulo and identified and slaughtered in the period October 2010 to August 2011, in a refrigerator located in Ipuã - SP, under the supervision of SIF 1387. The state of São Paulo was divided into regional centers, and the data of the municipalities belonging to its core, were grouped according to the Department of Agriculture and Food Supply of São Paulo, totaling 13 cores studied. Based on these results, we can conclude that of the 97 cities analyzed, cattle were found positive for the disease in 86. The average prevalence of bovine cysticercosis in the state of São Paulo was 4.80 %, while the core inflation Franca and Barretos were the ones with the highest number of cases illness during the analysis period. Moreover, the largest number of cases in these core coincided with the lowest human development index covering education, with the largest acreage of coffee (core Franca) and also as the largest area of cane sugar grown (core Barretos) in these locations, which in turn may indicate that the presence of labor, temporary labor in rural areas , combined with socioeconomic/cultural factors might contribute to the spread and establishment of bovine cysticercosis in these áreas.

O presente trabalho teve como objetivos determinar a prevalência, a distribuição geográfica bem como os fatores e áreas de risco associados à cisticercose bovina no Estado de São Paulo. Foram inspecionados 34.443 animais, machos e fêmeas e com faixas etárias variando entre 18 a 60 meses. Os bovinos eram procedentes de 97 municípios do Estado de São Paulo, devidamente identificados e abatidos no período de outubro de 2010 a agosto de 2011, em um frigorífico localizado na cidade de Ipuã-SP, sob supervisão do SIF 1387. O estado de São Paulo foi dividido em núcleos regionais, e os dados dos municípios pertencentes ao respectivo núcleo, foram agrupados, conforme a Secretaria de Abastecimento e Agropecuária de São Paulo, totalizando 13 núcleos estudados. Com base nos resultados encontrados, pode-se concluir que dos 97 municípios analisados, foi possível encontrar bovinos positivos para a enfermidade em questão em 86. A prevalência média de cisticercose bovina no estado de São Paulo foi de 4,80%, sendo que os núcleos de Franca e Barretos foram os que tiveram maior número de casos da enfermidade durante o período analisado. Além disso, o maior número de casos nestes núcleos coincidiu com o menor índice de desenvolvimento humano referente à educação, com a maior área de plantio de café (núcleo de Franca) e também como a maior área de cana-de-açúcar cultivada (núcleo de Barretos) nestes locais, o que por sua vez pode indicar que a presença da mão-de-obra temporária no meio rural, aliado a aspectos socioeconômico/cultural, pode estar contribuindo para a disseminação e estabelecimento da cisticercose bovina nestas áreas.

Epidemiological survey of the taeniasis/cysticercosis complex in cattle farms in Viçosa County, Minas Gerais, Brazil / Inquérito epidemiológico sobre o complexo teníase-cisticercose bovina no município de Viçosa, Minas Gerais

Despite the importance of human taeniasis/bovine cysticercosis for public and animal health and the economy, its actual epidemiological status in Brazil is not well-studied. We sought to assess the epidemiological profile of this zoonosis in the rural area of Viçosa County, Minas Gerais, Brazil. The prevalence of bovine cysticercosis was 0.42%, whereas no case of human taeniasis was diagnosed. Factors favoring the persistence of zoonosis were identified. These included the supply of untreated water to animals, animals raised for slaughter without sanitary supervision, poor mechanization of raising techniques, and the use of untreated water for human consumption. Bovine meat for human consumption acquired in the city or from the farm itself was characterized as a risk factor for bovine cysticercosis (Odds Ratio (OR) =16.77; p<0.05). Nevertheless, the families on the investigated farms did apply several appropriate measures to control this disease, such as the virtual lack of open sewers and the consumption of well-cooked meat. The presence of bovine cysticercosis cases, and the factors favoring its persistence, point to the need for constant epidemiological and sanitary surveillance in this county.

Apesar da importância do complexo teníase-cisticercose bovina para a saúde pública, animal e para a economia, a realidade epidemiológica da ocorrência dessas zoonoses no Brasil é pouco conhecida. Este estudo foi realizado com o objetivo de avaliar o perfil epidemiológico desta zoonose na zona rural do município de Viçosa, MG. A prevalência encontrada de cisticercose bovina foi de 0,42%, e nenhum caso de teníase humana foi diagnosticado. Foi verificada presença de fatores favoráveis a manutenção dessa zoonose, como fornecimento de água sem tratar aos animais, criação de animais destinados ao abate sem inspeção sanitária, criação de bovinos com baixa adoção de tecnologia, e utilização de água sem tratamento. O consumo de carne bovina oriunda da propriedade e da cidade foi caracterizado como variável de risco (OR=16,77; p<0,05) para a cisticercose bovina. Apesar disso, as famílias das propriedades pesquisadas possuíam hábitos favoráveis como medida de controle para o desenvolvimento desta parasitose, como a quase ausência de esgoto a céu aberto e a ingestão de carne bovina bem passada. A presença de caso de cisticercose bovina e de fatores considerados favoráveis a manutenção dessa parasitose, mostra a necessidade da contínua vigilância epidemiológica e sanitária neste município.

A change in the epidemiology of bovine cysticercosis in Israel between 1973 and 2008 due to import of live cattle.

Bovine cysticercosis (BC) is an important disease because of its zoonotic nature. There is a significant variation in the prevalence of BC in different countries, ranging from <0.01% to more than 20%. In this study, we followed the changes of BC prevalence in Israel during the last four decades and examined its association with import of live cattle. During 1973-2007, 629,549 cattle were subjected to post-mortem inspection conducted in 'Marbek' slaughterhouse located in the south of Israel. A specific comparison was made between the prevalence of BC in local and imported cattle during 2003-2007. Of 629,549 cattle, 2568 were infected with Cysticercus bovis (0.4%). From 1980, there was a gradual decrease in the prevalence of BC (R(2) = 0.53) with exceptional peaks. Moreover, from 1973 to 1998, only 4% of the documented cases appeared in outbreaks as opposed to 38% after 1998 when mass importation of live cattle to Israel was initiated. All of these late outbreak cases appeared in imported cattle of which 95% originated from Australia. During the years 2002-2007, importation from Australia was found as a significant risk factor for infection with BC, with prevalence in these cattle reaching 1.8% in 2006. The time from importation to BC detection suggests that infection occurred either in Australia or during the transport into Israel. We conclude that despite a reduction in the prevalence of BC as a result of a possible improvement in sanitary conditions at the farms, meticulous meat inspection is still essential in Israel and possibly in other developed countries exporting and importing live cattle.