Oxyurid nematodes of pet rodents in Slovakia - a neglected zoonotic threat / Nematódeos oxiurídeos de roedores de estimação na Eslováquia - uma ameaça zoonótica negligenciada

Abstract The role of rodents as reservoirs of helminths of public health importance is not well known. The zoonotic potential of Syphacia spp. has been confirmed; therefore, the study aimed to estimate the occurrence of oxyurid nematodes in small rodents from pet shops and breeding clubs in Slovakia. Fecal samples of 586 pet rodents kept in 133 cages were collected between 2016 and 2018 and examined by Faust´s flotation method. Four species of oxyurid nematodes, Syphacia muris, S. obvelata, Aspiculuris tetraptera and Paraspidodera uncinata were detected. A. tetraptera was found in the faecal samples of all rodent species included in this survey. The number of positive boxes varied from 5.4% in hamsters to 70.0% with mice. The prevalence of Syphacia muris was highest in Mongolian gerbils where up to 75.0% boxes were positive; S. obvelata was found in 26.7% of boxes with mice, 25.0% of boxes with Mongolian gerbils and 3.2% of boxes with rats. The high prevalence of Syphacia spp. in all animal species points out the infection risk for humans. Animals offered for sale are often in close contact with human beings; therefore they should be regularly tested for parasites and then effectively dewormed.

Resumo O papel dos roedores como reservatórios de helmintos de importância para a saúde pública não é bem conhecido. O potencial zoonótico de Syphacia spp. foi confirmado; portanto, o estudo teve como objetivo estimar a ocorrência de nematóides oxiurídeos em pequenos roedores de pet shops e clubes de reprodução na Eslováquia. Amostras fecais de 586 roedores mantidos em 133 gaiolas foram coletadas entre 2016 e 2018 e examinadas pelo método de flotação de Faust. Foram detectadas quatro espécies de nematódeos oxiurídeos, Syphacia muris, S. obvelata, Aspiculuris tetraptera e Paraspidodera uncinata, A. tetraptera foi encontrado nas amostras fecais de todas as espécies de roedores incluídas nesta pesquisa. O número de gaiolas positivas variou de 5,4% em hamsters a 70,0% em camundongos. A prevalência de Syphacia muris foi maior nos gerbilos da Mongólia, onde até 75,0% das gaiolas foram positivas; S. obvelata foi encontrada em 26,7% das gaiolas com camundongos, 25,0% das gaiolas com gerbilos da Mongólia e 3,2% das gaiolas com ratos. A alta prevalência de Syphacia spp. em todas as espécies animais aponta o risco de infecção para os seres humanos. Animais oferecidos para venda estão frequentemente em contato próximo com seres humanos; portanto, eles devem ser regularmente testados quanto a parasitas e, então, efetivamente desparasitados.

Estudio histopatológico de tejido cardiaco de roedores infectados con Trypanosoma cruzi capturados en barrios suburbanos de Mérida, México / Histopathological study in cardiac tissue of rodents infected with Trypanosoma cruzi, captured in suburbs of Mérida, México

Resumen Introducción. Trypanosoma cruzi es el agente causal de la tripanosomiasis americana, enfermedad endémica en México. Los roedores Mus musculus y Rattus rattus son reservorios del parásito, el cual invade las fibras cardiacas y desarrolla nidos parasitarios produciendo diversas lesiones. Los estudios histopatológicos en roedores naturalmente infectados son escasos. Objetivo. Describir los tipos y las frecuencias de las lesiones microscópicas en muestras de tejido cardiaco de M. musculus y R. rattus infectados con T. cruzi capturados en Mérida, México. Materiales y métodos. Los roedores se capturaron en los barrios suburbanos de Mérida. Se extrajo el tejido cardiaco y se procesó por la técnica de inclusión en parafina y tinción con hematoxilina y eosina. Su examen se hizo con un microscópico convencional y se determinaron todas las lesiones y su grado de afección. Resultados. Se trabajaron ocho muestras de tejido de M. musculus y siete de R. rattus. Se encontraron nidos parasitarios en siete del total de las muestras: en 3 de las 8 de M. musculus y en 4 de las 7 de R. rattus. Se observaron infiltrados inflamatorios en todas las muestras. Otras lesiones fueron la degeneración de las fibras cardiacas (8/15), la congestión de los vasos sanguíneos (6/15) y la necrosis (5/15). Discusión. Las lesiones observadas están descritas en los modelos animales experimentales y en los humanos con tripanosomiasis americana. Los infiltrados inflamatorios se han descrito como la lesión más significativa en los humanos y en los reservorios en la etapa crónica de la enfermedad. Conclusión. Las lesiones observadas están asociadas con la infección con T. cruzi, lo cual confirma que los roedores estudiados son reservorios de este parásito.

Abstract Introduction: Trypanosoma cruzi is the causal agent of the American trypanosomiasis, an endemic disease in México. The commensal rodents Mus musculus and Rattus rattus are reservoirs of this parasite, which invades cardiac fibers and develops parasite nests causing various lesions. Histopathological studies in naturally infected rodents are scarce. Objective: To describe the types and frequencies of microscopic lesions in cardiac tissue of M. musculus and R. rattus infected with T. cruzi captured in Mérida, México. Materials and methods: The rodents were captured in suburban environments of Mérida. Cardiac tissue was extracted and processed by the paraffin inclusion technique and hematoxylin and eosin stained. The observation was made with a conventional microscope and all the lesions, as well as their degree, were identified. Results: Eight tissue samples of M. musculus and seven of R. rattus were studied. Parasite nests were found in 7/15, specifically 3/8 in M. musculus and 4/7 in R. rattus. The inflammatory infiltrate was the most frequent lesion. Other lesions were: Degeneration of cardiac fibers (8/15), congestion of blood vessels (6/15), and necrosis (5/15). Discussion: The lesions we observed have been described in experimental animal models and in humans with American trypanosomiasis. The inflammatory infiltrate has been identified as the most significant lesion in humans and reservoirs in the chronic stage of the disease. Conclusion: The lesions we described are associated with T. cruzi infection, which confirms that the rodents studied are reservoirs of this parasite.

Angiostrongylus (Parastrongylus) cantonensis en huéspedes intermediarios y definitivos en Ecuador, 2014-2017 / Angiostrongylus (Parastrongylus) cantonensis on intermediate and definitive hosts in Ecuador, 2014-2017

Resumen Introducción. Angiostrongylus cantonensis es un serio problema de salud pública y está ampliamente distribuido en el país. Cuando el parásito infecta a los caracoles terrestres Achatina, se enquista en su interior y puede infectar accidentalmente a las personas y otros mamíferos. Objetivo. Establecer la distribución geográfica de A. cantonensis en huéspedes intermediarios (Achatina fulica) y definitivos (Rattus spp.) en Ecuador entre el 2014 y el 2017. Materiales y métodos. Se recolectaron 2.908 ejemplares de A. fulica en 16 provincias utilizando el método de captura por unidad de esfuerzo durante 30 minutos. Se capturaron 211 ejemplares de las especies huéspedes, de los cuales 20 eran Rattus rattus y 191 R. norvegicus. Los ejemplares fueron transportados para su análisis al Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública e Investigación en Guayaquil. En los tejidos del caracol se identificaron y se contabilizaron larvas L3 que luego se inocularon en ratas de laboratorio para reproducir el ciclo de vida. En los roedores se disecaron los cerebros, los corazones, las arterias pulmonares y los pulmones, y se identificaron los parásitos por morfología taxonómica. Resultados. De los caracoles recolectados se encontraron 441 positivos para A. cantonensis (15,2 %) y un total de 6.166 larvas L3. En los ejemplaresRattus spp. capturados (211), 77 (36,5 %) estaban infectados con A. cantonensis, con un total de 220 parásitos (larvas L4-L5 y adultos). Conclusiones. Se constató la presencia de A. cantonensis en varias provincias, lo que confirma el carácter endémico de esta zoonosis en el territorio nacional. La presencia de Rattus spp., huésped definitivo del parásito, y de huéspedes intermediarios, indica el potencial zoonótico de esta infección parasitaria.

Abstract Introduction: Angiostrongylus cantonensis is a serious public health problem and is widely distributed in the country. When the parasite infects the snails, it becomes deeply embedded in their interior and accidentally, it can infect people and other mammals. Objective: To establish the geographical distribution of A. cantonensis intermediate hosts (Achatina fulica) and definitive hosts (Rattus spp.) in Ecuador from 2014 to 2017. Materials and methods: We collected 2,908 A. fulica specimens in 16 provinces using the capture method per unit of effort for 30 minutes. We captured 211 hosts of which 20 were Rattus rattus and 191 R. norvegicus. The specimens were transported to the Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública e Investigación in Guayaquil where the larvae L3 were identified and counted in the tissues of the snail, which were then inoculated in laboratory rats to reproduce the life cycle. In the rodents, the brains, hearts, lung arteries and lungs were dissected, and the parasites were identified by taxonomic morphology. Results: Of the snails harvested, 441 were positive for A. cantonensis (15.2%) and a total of 6,166 L3 larvae were found; 77 (36.5%) specimens of Rattus spp., were infected with A. cantonensis and a total of 220 parasites (L4-L5 larvae and adult worms) were collected. Conclusions: We confirmed the presence of A. cantonensis in several provinces, which ratifies the endemic nature of this zoonosis in the national territory. Rattus spp. specimens constitute the definitive hosts of the parasite, which together with the presence of intermediate hosts, indicates the zoonotic potential of this parasitic infection.

Helminthic infection in three native rodent species from a semiarid Mediterranean ecosystem / Infecção por helmintos em três espécies de roedores nativos em um ecossistema mediterrâneo

Abstract Helminth parasites are still not a well-known component of animal biodiversity. In this study, we describe and compare the endoparasite assemblages of three native rodent species from a semiarid Mediterranean ecosystem. A total of eight species of gastrointestinal helminth parasites were detected. The endoparasitic communities of the rodents Phyllotis darwini (5 species), Octodon degus (4 species), and Abrothrix olivaceus (3 species) were described in terms of their prevalence and mean abundance. In addition, endoparasite records by rodent species were submitted to rarefaction analyses to verify sampling robustness and used to compare richness and similarity among rodent species. O. degus presented the highest prevalence and parasitic load, but was of low diversity, while P. darwini presented the highest diversity, but had a low prevalence rate. Conversely, A. olivaceus presented the lowest prevalence and diversity. This study contributes to the existing knowledge of the endoparasitic fauna of rodent species from semiarid Mediterranean zones.

Resumo Os helmintos parasitas não são um componente ainda bem conhecido da biodiversidade animal. Neste trabalho, descreveu-se e comparou-se as redes de endoparasitas de três espécies de roedores nativos de um ecossistema mediterrâneo semiárido. No estudo foram detectadas um total de oito de espécies de helmintos gastrointestinais parasitas. As comunidades endoparasíticas dos roedores Phyllotis darwini (5 espécies), Octodon degus (4 espécies) e Abrothrix olivaceus (3 espécies) foram descritas por meio da sua prevalência e abundância média. Além disso, os registros de endoparasitas achados nas diferentes espécies de roedores foram submetidos a uma análise de rarefação para verificar a robustez da amostragem, e utilizados para comparar a riqueza e a similaridade entre espécies de roedores. Octodon degus apresentou a maior prevalência e carga parasitária, menor diversidade, enquanto P. darwini apresentou a maior diversidade, mas uma baixa prevalência. Porém, A. olivaceus apresentou a menor prevalência e diversidade de parásitas. Este estudo representa uma contribuição ao conhecimento da fauna endoparasitária das espécies de roedores próprias das zonas semi-áridas do Mediterrâneo chileno.

Helminth metacommunity structure of wild rodents in a preserved area of the Atlantic Forest, Southeast Brazil / Estrutura da metacomunidade de helmintos de roedores silvestres em uma área preservada da Floresta Atlântica, sudeste do Brasil

Abstract The helminth fauna and metacommunity structure of eight sympatric sigmodontine rodents were investigated at the Serra dos Órgãos National Park, an Atlantic Forest reserve located in the State of Rio de Janeiro, southeast Brazil. Rodents of the species Abrawayaomys ruschii, Akodon montensis, Blarinomys breviceps , Delomys dorsalis, Oligoryzomys flavescens, Oligoryzomys nigripes, Oxymycterus quaestor and Thaptomys nigrita were found infected with helminths. Akodon montensis presented the highest total helminth species richness, with six different species of helminths. The nematode Stilestrongylus lanfrediae was the most abundant and prevalent helminth species observed. The host-parasite network analysis showed little interactions among host species. Akodon montensis seems to act as a keystone-species in the rodent community. This species shared the nematodes Stilestrongylus aculeata with A. ruschii and Protospirura numidica criceticola with T. nigrita, and the cestode Rodentolepis akodontis with D. dorsalis. The congeners host species O. flavescens and O. nigripes shared the nematodes Guerrerostrongylus zetta and S. lanfrediae. The rodents B. breviceps and O. quaestor did not share any helminths with other hosts. The helminth metacommunity showed a random pattern on both infracommunity and component community levels, indicating different responses by each helminth species to the environmental gradient.

Resumo Foram investigadas a helmintofauna e suas estruturas da metacomunidade em oito roedores sigmodontíneos simpátricos ao longo do Parque Nacional da Serra dos Órgãos, uma reserva de Mata Atlântica no estado do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil. Roedores das espécies Abrawayaomys ruschii, Akodon montensis, Blarinomys breviceps, Delomys dorsalis, Oligoryzomys flavescens, Oligoryzomys nigripes, Oxymycterus quaestor e Thaptomys nigrita foram infectados por helmintos. Akodon montensis apresentou a maior riqueza total de espécies de helmintos, com seis espécies. O nematoide Stilestrongylus lanfrediae foi a espécie de helminto com maior abundância e prevalência. A análise de rede parasito-hospedeiro mostrou poucas interações entre as espécies hospedeiras e A. montensis atuou como uma espécie-chave na comunidade de roedores. Esta espécie compartilhou os nematoides Stilestrongylus aculeata com A. ruschii e Protospirura numidica criceticola com T. nigrita, e o cestoide Rodentolepis akodontis com D. dorsalis. As espécies congêneres O. flavescens e O. nigripes compartilharam os nematoides Guerrerostrongylus zetta e S. lanfrediae. Os roedores B. breviceps e O. quaestor não compartilharam helmintos com outros hospedeiros. A metacomunidade de helmintos mostrou um padrão aleatório em ambos os níveis, comunidade componente e infracomunidade, indicando diferentes respostas de cada espécie de helminto ao gradiente ambiental.

Gastrointestinal parasites in feral cats and rodents from the Fernando de Noronha Archipelago, Brazil / Parasitos gastrointestinais em gatos ferais e roedores do Arquipélago de Fernando de Noronha, Brasil

Abstract Gastrointestinal parasites are important pathogens affecting animals, some of them are of medical and veterinary concern. Although the dynamic of parasitic infections is a complex phenomenon that has been studied under experimental conditions, it shows several gaps in knowledge, especially in insular regions where a confined population of animals and parasites co-exists. In this study was assessed the parasitism by endoparasite gastrointestinal in feral cats (n = 37) and rodents (n = 30) from the Fernando de Noronha Archipelago; in addition, the risk of human infection and ecological implications of these findings were discussed. Out of all samples analysed, 100% scored positive for the presence of gastrointestinal parasites in both feral cats and rodents. A total 17 genera and/or species of endoparasite gastrointestinal were identified, Ancylostoma sp., Strongyloides sp., Trichuris campanula and Toxocara cati were the parasites more frequently in feral cats. In rodents Eimeria sp., Strongyloides sp. and Trichuris muris were parasites more frequently herein detected. Human population living in this area are at risk of parasite infections due to the population of rodents and feral cats in the archipelago.

Resumo Parasitas gastrointestinais são importantes agentes patogênicos que afetam os animais, sendo alguns destes de interesse médico e veterinário. Embora a dinâmica das infecções parasitárias seja um fenômeno complexo que tem sido estudado sob condições experimentais, existem várias lacunas no conhecimento, especificamente em regiões insulares onde existem populações confinadas de animais e parasitas. Neste estudo foi avaliado o parasitismo por endoparasitas gastrointestinais em gatos ferais (n = 37) e roedores (n = 30) do Arquipélago de Fernando de Noronha. Além disso, discutiu-se o risco de infecção humana e implicações ecológicas desses achados. De todas as amostras analisadas, 100% obtiveram resultados positivos para a presença de parasitos gastrointestinais tanto em gatos ferais quanto em roedores. Um total de 17 gêneros e/ou espécies de endoparasitos gastrointestinais foram identificados, Ancylostoma sp., Strongyloides sp., Trichuris campanula e Toxocara cati foram os parasitos mais frequentes em gatos ferais. Em roedores Eimeria sp., Strongyloides sp. e Trichuris muris foram os mais detectados. A população humana que vive nesta área corre o risco de infecções parasitárias, devido à população de roedores e gatos ferais no arquipélago.

New morphological data of Litomosoides chagasfilhoi (Nematoda: Filarioidea) parasitizing Nectomys squamipes in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil / Novos dados morfológicos de Litomosoides chagasfilhoi (Nematoda: Filarioidea): parasitando Nectomys squamipes no Rio de Janeiro, Brasil

Abstract Litomosoides chagasfilhoi, originally described by Moraes Neto, Lanfredi & De Souza (1997) parasitizing the abdominal cavity of the wild rodent, Akodon cursor (Winge, 1887), was found in the abdominal cavity of Nectomys squamipes (Brants, 1827), from the municipality of Rio Bonito, Rio de Janeiro State, Brazil. This study led to addition of new morphological data and a new geographical distribution for this filarioid in Brazil. Several characters were detailed and emended to previous records of L. chagasfilhoi in N. squamipes, and confirming the original description in A. cursor: buccal capsule longer than wide with walls thinner than the lumen, right spicule slightly sclerotized, with membranous distal extremity slender, with a small tongue-like terminal portion, left spicule with handle longer than the blade, whose edges form large membranous wings folded longitudinally.

Resumo Litomosoides chagasfilhoi, originalmente descrito por Moraes Neto, Lanfredi & De Souza (1997) parasitando a cavidade abdominal do roedor silvestre Akodon cursor (Winge, 1887), foi encontrado na cavidade abdominal de Nectomys squamipes (Brants, 1827), no município de Rio Bonito, Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil. Este estudo propiciou a adição de novos dados morfológicos e uma nova distribuição geográfica deste filarídeo no Brasil. Vários caracteres foram detalhados e adicionados ao registro anterior de L. chagasfilhoi em N. squamipes, e confirmando a descrição original em A. cursor: cápsula bucal mais alta do que larga com paredes mais finas que o lúmen, espículo direito ligeiramente esclerotizado, com extremidade distal membranosa mais estreita, com uma pequena porção terminal em forma de língua, espículo esquerdo com cabo mais longo do que a lâmina, cujas bordas formam grandes asas membranosas dobradas longitudinalmente.

Occurrence of Fasciola hepatica (Linnaeus, 1758) in capybara (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris) (Linnaeus, 1766) in Minas Gerais, Brazil / Ocorrência de Fasciola hepatica (Linnaeus, 1758) em capivara (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris) (Linnaeus, 1766) em Minas Gerais, Brasil

Abstract Fasciola hepatica is a parasite that affects the hepatic ducts of several species of domestic and wild vertebrates, causing huge economic losses to livestock rearing worldwide. Reports on occurrences of F. hepatica in capybaras are an important epidemiological aspect of this disease, since these rodents can be a source of contamination for other animals and humans. In the present study, conducted in a rural area of the municipality of Confins, Minas Gerais, fresh feces from capybaras were collected from the ground near a lagoon at the edge of the Ribeirão da Mata river. These were examined using the technique of four metal sieves. F. hepatica eggs were recovered. This trematode species was confirmed by observing morphological characteristics and measuring the eggs recovered from the capybara feces, and through experimental infection of Lymnaea columella (Say, 1817) by miracidia from these eggs and subsequent infection of C57/BL06 mice with metacercariae originating from these infected mollusks. The data suggest the occurrence of natural cycle of F. hepatica in this region and provide a warning that expansion of the geographical distribution of this parasite by means of this rodent is possible. It is therefore important to adopting measures for epidemiological control of this helminthiasis.

Resumo Fasciola hepatica é um parasito que acomete os ductos hepáticos de diversas espécies de vertebrados domésticos e silvestres, causando grandes perdas econômicas na pecuária global. Relatos sobre a ocorrência de F. hepatica em capivaras constituem um importante aspecto epidemiológico dessa parasitose, visto que esses roedores podem ser fonte de contaminação para outros animais e humanos. No presente estudo realizado em área rural do município de Confins, Minas Gerais, foram coletadas no solo, próximo à lagoa marginal do rio Ribeirão da Mata, fezes frescas de capivaras. Essas foram examinadas pela técnica de quatro tamises metálicos. Foram recuperados ovos de F. hepatica. A confirmação da espécie desse trematódeo foi realizada por observação de características morfológica e mensuração dos ovos recuperados das capivaras, infecção experimental de moluscos Lymnaea columella (Say, 1817) por miracídios oriundos desses ovos e pela infecção de camundongos C57/BL06 com metacercárias oriundas desses moluscos infectados. Os dados obtidos sugerem a ocorrência do ciclo natural de F. hepatica na região, alertando que a expansão da distribuição geográfica deste parasito por esse roedor é possível. Portanto, é importante a adoção de medidas para o controle epidemiológico desta helmintíase.

New host, geographic records, and histopathologic studies ofAngiostrongylus spp (Nematoda: Angiostrongylidae) in rodents from Argentina with updated summary of records from rodent hosts and host specificity assessment

To date, 21 species of the genus Angiostrongylus (Nematoda: Angiostrongylidae) have been reported around the world, 15 of which are parasites of rodents. In this study, new host, geographic records, and histopathologic studies of Angiostrongylus spp in sigmodontine rodents from Argentina, with an updated summary of records from rodent hosts and host specificity assessment, are provided. Records of Angiostrongylus costaricensis from Akodon montensis andAngiostrongylus morerai from six new hosts and geographical localities in Argentina are reported. The gross and histopathologic changes in the lungs of the host species due to angiostrongylosis are described. Published records of the genus Angiostrongylus from rodents and patterns of host specificity are presented. Individual Angiostrongylusspecies parasitise between one-19 different host species. The most frequent values of the specificity index (STD) were between 1-5.97. The elevated number of host species (n = 7) of A. morerai with a STD = 1.86 is a reflection of multiple systematic studies of parasites from sigmodontine rodents in the area of Cuenca del Plata, Argentina, showing that an increase in sampling effort can result in new findings. The combination of low host specificity and a wide geographic distribution of Angiostrongylus spp indicates a troubling epidemiological scenario although, as yet, no human cases have been reported.

Surveillance of Trypanosoma SPP of rodents and studies in their transmission probability by fleas in some rural Egyptian areas

A new public health problem arises from animal trypanosomes that afflict human by a disease called atypical human trypanosomiasis. Although humans have an innate protection against most Trypanosoma species, nineteen cases of atypical human trypanosomiasis caused by the animal trypanosome as T. b. brucei , T. vivax, T. congolense , T. evansi and T. lewisi have been recorded. Some of theserecorded cases were transient, six required trypanocidal treatments however two patients died. Rodent trypanosome, T.lewisi is transmitted via ingestion of fleas or their feces containing the infective stage, the metacyclic trypomastigote. Because of the high densities of various species of rodents and their distribution all over the country especially in rural areas, the present work aimed to evaluate the trypanosomiasis among rodents collected from November to March 2016 and study transmission probability by their fleas in some rural areas in Abu Alnomros Center, Giza. The overall trypanosomiasis prevalence among the different rodent species was [21 rats] 24.7%. All the infected rats belonged to Rattus r. spp where the prevalence of infection with Trypanosoma lewisi among that species was very high 51.2% while none of rats belonged to Rattus norvegicus were infected. That may be attributed to the solid immunity gained by the R. norvegicus where most of the collected norvegicus were aged and weighed more than 200 grams. There was an inverse significant correlation between the densities of parasites and the weights of the hosts. The rat which recorded the highest parasite density [60,000 parasites/ microliter] was a female Rattus r. captured indoor [inside house]. As to sex of Rattus rattus spp no significant difference was found between males and females in trypanosomiasis. Also there was no significant correlation between the densities of parasites and the number of white blood cells among Rattus rattus spp. All positive rats were collected indoors [from houses] and all the rats which were captured from outdoors [farms] were negative for T. lewisi. The difference between infections with trypanosomiasis among rats inhabited the houses and that found in farms was highly significant

Only two species of fleas were found on rats, Xenopsylla cheopis and Leptopsylla segnis. The oriental fleas, X. cheopis, were found mainly on R. norvegicus where 57.5% of R. norvegicus were positive for X. cheopis while only one rat was positive for L. segnis. On other hand the rat fleas, L.segnis, were found mainly on Rattus rattus spp where 39% of these rats were positive for L. segnis. The present work revealed a significant correlation between the infection with T. lewisi and the presence of L. segnis on the rats however that correlation regarding X. cheopis was not significant

Study of the prevalence of capillaria hepatica in humans and rodents in an urban area of the city of Porto Velho, Rondônia, Brazil / Estudo da prevalência da Capillaria hepatica em humanos e roedores em área urbana da cidade de Porto Velho, Rondônia, Brasil

Introduction: Hepatic capillariosis, caused by Capillaria hepatica (Calodium hepaticum) (Bancroft, 1893), Travassos, 1915 (Nematoda, Trichinelloidea, Capillariidae), is a common zoonosis in rodents but is rare in humans. Seventy-two cases in humans have been reported worldwide since the first case was described by MACARTHUR in 192417,27. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of Capillaria hepatica in humans and rodents in an urban area of Porto Velho, the capital of Rondônia, in Brazil. Methods: After conducting a census of the area, 490 residents were randomly selected, and, after signing a term of consent, provided blood samples that were screened for anti-Capillaria hepatica antibodies. Simultaneously, rats were captured to assess the prevalence of this parasite in rodents by histopathological examination in liver sections. Results: A prevalence of 1.8% was found among residents who had specific antibodies at a dilution of 1:150, indicating exposure to parasite eggs; 0.8% of the subjects also had positive titers at a dilution of 1:400, indicating true infection. The prevalence in rats was 2%. Conclusions: The prevalence of infection with this parasite among humans and rats was low. While the prevalence encountered among humans was within the limits reported in the literature, the prevalence among rodents was much lower.

Introdução: Capilaríase hepática é causada pela Capillaria hepatica (syn. Calodium hepaticum) (Bancroft, 1893), Travassos, 1915 (Nematoda, Trichinelloidea, Capillariidae), sendo uma zoonose comum entre roedores, porém rara em humanos. Setenta e dois casos humanos foram relatados na literatura mundial desde o primeiro caso descrito por MACARTHUR em 192417,27. O objetivo desse estudo é determinar a prevalência da Capillaria hepatica em humanos e roedores de área urbana da cidade de Porto Velho, capital de Rondônia, Brasil. Método: Após realizar um censo da área, 490 moradores foram aleatoriamente selecionados e assinaram termo de consentimento, foram colhidas amostras de sangue para testar anticorpos anti-Capillaria hepatica. Simultaneamente, ratos foram capturados para determinação da prevalência deste parasita através do exame histopatológico em cortes de fígado. Resultados: Foi encontrada entre humanos prevalência de 1,8% de positividade para anticorpos específicos em diluição de 1:150, indicando exposição aos ovos do parasito; 0,8% desses também deram testes positivos quando seus soros sofreram diluição de 1:400, indicando infecção verdadeira. Nos ratos, a prevalência foi de 2%. Conclusão: A prevalência encontrada para o parasito entre homens e roedores foi baixa. Enquanto a prevalência encontrada entre humanos esteve dentro dos limites encontrados na literatura, a prevalência entre roedores foi bem menor.

Metagonimus yokogawai (Trematoda: Heterophyidae): From Discovery to Designation of a Neotype

Metagonimus yokogawai (Katsurada, 1912) Katsurada, 1912 (Trematoda: Heterophyidae) is parasitic in the small intestine of mammals including man and birds in Far Eastern Russia, Korea, Japan, China, and Taiwan. In the present study, the metacercariae and adults of M. yokogawai were redescribed to designate a neotype of this fluke together with reviews of previous studies including study histories from the first discovery to now. We particularly, attempted to review the study histories and morphological descriptions of M. yokogawai for the species validity, and compared with the morphological characteristics and life cycles of the closely related species, Metagonimus takahashii and Metagonimus miyatai. Finally, we proposed a differential key for the 8 known Metagonimus species distributed in East Asia. Metacercariae were obtained from the body muscles of sweetfish (Plecoglossus altivelis) collected in the Asahi River at Takebe-cho, Kita-ku, Okayama City, Okayama Prefecture, Japan. Adults were recovered from the small intestine of Syrian golden hamsters, to which the metacercariae had been fed 14 days before. A neotype was selected out of the present adult specimens. The Asahi River at Takebo-cho became the type locality of M. yokogawai. In conclusion, the present review shows that M. yokogawai, M. takahashii, and M. miyatai are valid and discriminated by means of morphological characteristics.

Detection and Molecular Characterization of Cryptosporidium spp. from Wild Rodents and Insectivores in South Korea

In order to examine the prevalence of Cryptosporidium infection in wild rodents and insectivores of South Korea and to assess their potential role as a source of human cryptosporidiosis, a total of 199 wild rodents and insectivore specimens were collected from 10 regions of South Korea and screened for Cryptosporidium infection over a period of 2 years (2012-2013). A nested-PCR amplification of Cryptosporidium oocyst wall protein (COWP) gene fragment revealed an overall prevalence of 34.2% (68/199). The sequence analysis of 18S rRNA gene locus of Cryptosporidium was performed from the fecal and cecum samples that tested positive by COWP amplification PCR. As a result, we identified 4 species/genotypes; chipmunk genotype I, cervine genotype I, C. muris, and a new genotype which is closely related to the bear genotype. The new genotype isolated from 12 Apodemus agrarius and 2 Apodemus chejuensis was not previously identified as known species or genotype, and therefore, it is supposed to be a novel genotype. In addition, the host spectrum of Cryptosporidium was extended to A. agrarius and Crosidura lasiura, which had not been reported before. In this study, we found that the Korean wild rodents and insectivores were infected with various Cryptosporidium spp. with large intra-genotypic variationa, indicating that they may function as potential reservoirs transmitting zoonotic Cryptosporidium to livestock and humans.

The existence of only one haplotype of Leishmania major in the main and potential reservoir hosts of zoonotic cutaneous leishmaniasis using different molecular markers in a focal area in Iran

Introduction Leishmania major is the causative agent of zoonotic cutaneous leishmaniasis (ZCL), and great gerbils are the main reservoir hosts in Iran. Abarkouh in central Iran is an emerging focal point for which the reservoir hosts of ZCL are unclear. This research project was designed to detect any Leishmania parasites in different wild rodent species. Methods All rodents captured in 2011 and 2012 from Abarkouh district were identified based on morphological characteristics and by amplification of the rodent cytochrome b (Cyt b) gene. To detect Leishmania infection in rodents, deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) of each ear was extracted. Internal transcribed spacer-ribosomal deoxyribonucleic acid (ITS-rDNA), microsatellites, kinetoplast deoxyribonucleic acid (kDNA) and cytochrome b genes of Leishmania parasites were amplified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) and sequencing were employed to confirm the Leishmania identification. Results Of 68 captured rodents in the region, 55 Rhombomys opimus were identified and nine Leishmania infections (9/55) were found. In addition, eight Meriones libycus and two Tatera indica were sampled, and one of each was confirmed to be infected. Two Meriones persicus and one Mus musculus were sampled with no infection. Conclusions The results showed that all 11 unambiguously positive Leishmania infections were Leishmania major. Only one haplotype of L. major (GenBank access No. EF413075) was found and at least three rodents R. opimus, M. libycus and T. indica—appear to be the main and potential reservoir hosts in this ZCL focus. The reservoir hosts are variable and versatile in small ZCL focal locations. .

A New Species of Chigger Mite (Acari: Trombiculidae) from Rodents in Southwest China

This paper describes a new species of chigger mite (Acari: Trombiculidae), Gahrliepia cangshanensis n. sp., from rodents in southwest China. The specimens were collected from Yunnan red-backed voles, Eothenomys miletus (Thomas, 1914), and a Chinese white-bellied rat, Niviventer confucianus (Milne-Edwards, 1871) in Yunnan Province. The new species is unique mainly in its number of dorsal setae (n=21), and it has the following features: fT (formula of palpotarsus)=4B (B=branched), fp (formula of palpal seta)=B/N/N/N/B (N=naked), a broad tongue-shaped scutum with an almost straight posterior margin, and 17 PPLs (posterior posterolateral seta) with a length of 36-43 microm. This chigger mite may also infect other rodent hosts and may be distributed in other localities.

The First Case of Capillaria hepatica Infection in a Nutria (Myocastor coypus) in Korea

This study reports the first case of Capillaria hepatica infection in a nutria in Korea. Ten nutrias, captured near the Nakdong River, were submitted to our laboratory for necropsy. White-yellowish nodules were found in the liver of 1 of the nutrias at necropsy. Histologically, the lesions were granulomatous, and infiltrations of lipid-laden macrophages, eosinophils, and several multinucleated giant cells were observed. The lesions consisted of numerous eggs and necrotic hepatocytes. The eggs were lemon-shaped and had polar plugs at the ends of both long sides. The eggs were morphologically identified as those of C. hepatica. Worldwide, C. hepatica infection in nutrias is very rare. Nutrias are a kind of livestock, as well as wildlife; therefore, an epidemiological study for parasitic infections needs to be conducted.

Susceptibility of Laboratory Rodents to Trichinella papuae

Members of the genus Trichinella are small nematodes that can infect a wide range of animal hosts. However, their infectivity varies depending on the parasite and host species combination. In this study, we examined the susceptibility of 4 species of laboratory rodents, i.e., mice, rats, hamsters, and gerbils to Trichinella papuae, an emerging non-encapsulated Trichinella species. Trichinella spiralis and Trichinella pseudospiralis were also included in this study for comparison. Fifteen animals of each rodent species were infected orally with 100 muscle larvae of each Trichinella species. Intestinal worm burden was determined at day 6 and 10 post-inoculation (PI). The numbers of muscle larvae were examined at day 45 PI. The reproductive capacity index (RCI) of the 3 Trichinella species in different rodent hosts was determined. By day 6 PI, 33.2-69.6% of the inoculated larvae of the 3 Trichinella species became adult worms in the small intestines of the host animals. However, in rats, more than 96% of adult worms of all 3 Trichinella species were expelled from the gut by day 10 PI. In gerbils, only 4.8-18.1% of adult worms were expelled by day 10 PI. In accordance with the intestinal worm burden and the persistence of adults, the RCI was the highest in gerbils with values of 241.5+/-41.0 for T. papuae, 432.6+/-48 for T. pseudospiralis, and 528.6+/-20.6 for T. spiralis. Hamsters ranked second and mice ranked third in susceptibility in terms of the RCI, Rats yielded the lowest parasite RCI for all 3 Trichinella species. Gerbils may be an alternative laboratory animal for isolation and maintenance of Trichinella spp.

Rattus norvegicus como indicador de la circulación de Capillaria hepatica y Taenia taeniaeformis en la Plaza Minorista de Medellín, Colombia / Rattus norvegicus as an indicator of circulation of Capillaria hepatica and Taenia taeniaeformis on a groceries trade center of Medellín, Colombia

Introducción. Rattus norvegicus cumple un papel epidemiológico en el mantenimiento y dispersión de agentes zoonóticos bacterianos, virales y parasitarios de interés en salud pública. La presencia de infección por helmintos en especies Rattus cercanas a poblaciones expuestas en condiciones ambientales propicias, puede convertirse en un factor de riesgo de transmisión. Objetivo. Reportar la frecuencia de infección con Capillaria hepatica y formas larvarias de Taenia taeniaeformis en ratas silvestres (R. norvegicus) capturadas en una zona urbana de Medellín. Materiales y métodos. Se capturaron 254 ejemplares de R. norvegicus. Los hígados de 54 ejemplares que presentaron lesión hepática macroscópica durante la necropsia, fueron examinados por histopatología convencional. Resultados. La frecuencia de infección por C. hepatica fue de 20,1 % (51/254). Seis hígados fueron también positivos para larvas de T. taeniaeformis con una frecuencia de 2,4 % (6/254). Los hígados infestados con C. hepatica exhibían parásitos en el estadio adulto o juvenil y huevos ovalados con opérculos bipolares, asociados con hepatitis granulomatosa leve a moderada multifocal y acompañada por infiltrado leucocitario. Se observaron lesiones granulomatosas en resolución y fibrosis residual o calcificada que contenía huevos. Donde se encontraron cisticercos de T. taeniaeformis, el hallazgo más frecuente fueron quistes hepáticos que contenían larvas, y lesiones inflamatorias y fibróticas. Conclusión. Estos resultados indican que helmintos de potencial zoonótico circulan en R. norvegicus de ambientes urbanos. Debe investigarse la verdadera distribución de estos parásitos, para determinar el riesgo potencial que corren las poblaciones animales y humanas expuestas a adquirir este tipo de infecciones.

Introduction. Rattus norvegicus, the Norway rat, plays a pivotal role in the maintenance and spread of several zoonotic bacterial, viral and parasitic pathogens of public health interest. The presence of helminthic infections near susceptible human populations can, under appropriate environmental conditions, become a risk factor for their transmission. Objective. Frequencies of infection were reported for Capillaria hepatica and larval forms of Taenia taeniaeformis in wild rats (R. norvegicus) captured in an urban area. Materials and methods. Two hundred and fifty-four adult specimens of R. norvegicus were collected in an urban zone of Medellín, Colombia. The livers of 54 specimens that showed macroscopic hepatic lesions during necropsy were examined by conventional histopathology. Results. The frequency of infestation with C. hepatica was 20.1% (51/254). Six livers (2.4%) were also positive for larvae of T. taeniaeformis. Livers infested with C. hepatica exhibited adult or juvenile parasites and oval eggs with bipolar opercula, and were associated with mild to moderate multifocal granulomatous hepatitis with leucocyte infiltrate. Granulomatous lesions and calcified residual fibroses were found with eggs but without adult parasites. Those animals with cysticerci of T. taeniaeformis showed a high frequency of hepatic cysts containing larvae as well as inflammed and fibrotic lesions. Conclusion. Zoonotic helminths circulate at high frequency in R. norvegicus that occur in urban environments. Further research about the distribution of these parasites will determine the level of health threat they present for susceptible human and domestic animal populations.

Helminth communities in three sympatric rodents from the Brazilian Atlantic Forest: contrasting biomass and numerical abundance / Comunidades de helmintos de três roedores simpátricos da Mata Atlântica brasileira: contrastando biomassa e abundância numérica

The study of parasite body size is an important approach to understand the different patterns of helminth community structure, once it is usually analysed using only numerical descriptors which do not capture size heterogeneity among parasite species. In the present study, we compared the pattern in the helminth community of three sympatric wild rodent species Akodon cursor, A. montensis and Oligoryzomys nigripes using numerical abundance and biomass approaches. The cestode Rodentolepis akodontis was the worm with highest biomass in the three rodents. The trichostrongylid Stilestrongylus lanfrediae presented highest biomass in O. nigripes and represented 70% of the total numeric abundance of parasites. Interestingly, for Akodon spp. the species with more biomass represented less than 10% of the total numerical abundance. Parasites with the higher numeric abundance do not have the largest body size. Although the biomass pattern is different from numeric abundance, this difference does not influence in the helminth distribution community among the three sympatric hosts. The status change of a helminth species within the community due to its volumetric dominance might justify a new approach since parasites belonging to different taxa obtain resources from the host in different ways.

A utilização do tamanho do corpo do parasita é uma importante abordagem para compreender diferentes padrões na estrutura da comunidade helmíntica, uma vez que são utilizados apenas descritores numéricos que não necessariamente detectam a heterogeneidade no tamanho entre as espécies de parasitos. No presente estudo, comparou-se o padrão da comunidade helmíntica de três roedores silvestres simpátricos (Akodon cursor, A. montensise e Oligoryzomys nigripes), usando uma abordagem com abundância numérica e biomassa. O cestoide Rodentolepis akodontis foi o helminto com maior biomassa nos três roedores. O tricostrongilídeo Stilestrongylus lanfrediae apresentou uma alta biomassa em O. nigripes e representou 70% da abundância numérica total dos parasitas. Interessantemente, em Akodon spp., a espécie com maior biomassa, representou menos de 10% da abundância total. Parasitas com maior abundância numérica não foram aqueles com maior tamanho do corpo. Embora o padrão de biomassa determinado tenha sido diferente da abundância numérica, essa diferença não influenciou na distribuição das comunidades de helmintos nos três hospedeiros simpátricos. A mudança do status de uma espécie de helminto dentro da comunidade em função da sua dominância volumétrica pode justificar uma nova abordagem, uma vez que parasitas pertencentes a diferentes táxons podem obter recursos de seu hospedeiro de forma diferente.

Relación entre la morfofisiología y la carga de ectoparásitos en dos poblaciones de ratas (Rattus sp.) de La Habana / Association of the morphophysiology and the ectoparasite load found in two rat populations (Rattus sp.) in La Habana province

Introducción: algunas respuestas fisioecológicas en roedores se pueden registrar a través del estudio de los índices morfológicos, lo cual constituye un factor de importancia para el control de los múridos. Objetivos: comparar las variables morfofisiológicas en dos poblaciones de ratas y relacionarlas con la carga de ectoparásitos. Métodos: el estudio se realizó entre 2007 y 2008 en dos localidades de La Habana. Para apresar los animales se utilizaron trampas de captura viva previamente cebadas. Se estudiaron cuatro índices morfofisiológicos que fueron comparados entre las dos localidades por un análisis de varianza. Resultados: se analizó un total de 104 roedores identificados como Rattus rattus (83,6 %) y Rattus norvegicus (16,4 %). El índice de riñón relativo presentó diferencias altamente significativas entres las poblaciones. Los valores de los índices morfofisiológicos resultaron inferiores en los animales parasitados. La importancia ecológica y su implicación para el control de los resultados obtenidos son discutidas en el trabajo. Conclusiones: el análisis morfofisiológico demostró que en el puerto de La Habana existe disponibilidad de recursos necesarios para la supervivencia de estas especies, lo cual favorece que los dos sexos soporten mejor la carga de ectoparásitos y constituyan reservorios de estos, así como riesgo de transmisión permanente.

Introduction: some physioecological responses from rodents may be registered through the study of morphological indexes, which is an important factor for the control of rodents. Objectives: to compare the morphophysiological variables in two rat populations and relate them to the ectoparasite loads. Methods: this study was carried out from 2007 to 2008 in two sites of La Habana province. Specially prepared traps to catch rats alive were used. Four morphophysiological indexes were studied and then compared through a variance analysis for the two sites. Results: one hundred four Rattus rattus (83.6 %) and Rattus norvegicus (16.4 %) were analyzed. The relative kidney index showed highly significant different between the rat populations. The morphophysiological indexes were lower in parasitized animals. The ecological importance and the implications of these indexes for the control of obtained results were discussed in this paper. Conclusions: the morphophysiological analysis proved that the necessary resources for the survival of these species are available, which favors that both rat sexes bear the ectoparasite load in a better way, and thus they represent parasite reservoirs and a permanent transmission risk.