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Dr. Richard Malik
Centrefor veteriary Education, University of Sydney

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Journal article
Published: 07 August 2021 in Journal of Comparative Pathology
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In a histopathological study of the renal crest (RC) of kidneys of cats with chronic kidney disease (CKD), 58/90 (64%) had epithelial proliferation. Of these, 33 cats had hyperplasia of the collecting duct (CD) epithelium (CDH) alone, eight had hyperplasia of the urothelium covering the RC (RCUH), of which one had concurrent abaxial renal pelvic urothelial hyperplasia (UH), and eight had both CDH and RCUH. CDH or RCUH were present in five cats with marked dysplasia of the CD epithelium (CDD) and four cats with invasive carcinomas, which also had epithelial dysplasia. All nine cats with marked dysplasia or neoplasia of the RC also had substantially altered RC contours due to focal haemorrhage, papillary necrosis or fibrosis. Three of the carcinomas had a strong desmoplastic response. In control cats, both urothelial (RC and renal pelvis) and tubular (CD and distal tubular) cells were immunopositive for cytokeratin (CK; AE1/AE3), tubular epithelial cells were positive for vimentin (Vim) and aquaporin 2 (Aq2), while urothelial cells were positive for p63. PAX8 immunolabelling was difficult to validate. CD and UH labelling was similar to control tissue. While urothelial dysplasia had the same immunolabelling pattern as UH and control tissue, CDD was generally immunonegative for Aq2. As immunolabelling of the four carcinomas did not distinguish between tubular and urothelial origin, with three positive for both Vim and p63, all were broadly designated as RC carcinomas. Overall, proliferative epithelial lesions are common in cats with CKD and form a continuum from simple hyperplasia to neoplasia of the urothelium or CD of the RC.

ACS Style

Joanna D. White; Katrina L. Bosward; Jacqueline M. Norris; Richard Malik; Scott A. Lindsay; Paul J. Canfield. Renal Crest Proliferative Lesions in Cats with Chronic Kidney Disease. Journal of Comparative Pathology 2021, 187, 52 -62.

AMA Style

Joanna D. White, Katrina L. Bosward, Jacqueline M. Norris, Richard Malik, Scott A. Lindsay, Paul J. Canfield. Renal Crest Proliferative Lesions in Cats with Chronic Kidney Disease. Journal of Comparative Pathology. 2021; 187 ():52-62.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Joanna D. White; Katrina L. Bosward; Jacqueline M. Norris; Richard Malik; Scott A. Lindsay; Paul J. Canfield. 2021. "Renal Crest Proliferative Lesions in Cats with Chronic Kidney Disease." Journal of Comparative Pathology 187, no. : 52-62.

Journal article
Published: 01 June 2021 in Current Research in Parasitology & Vector-Borne Diseases
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Both Angiostrongylus cantonensis and Angiostrongylus mackerrasae have been identified along the east coast of Australia. A lack of A. mackerrasae genomic data until 2019, however, has precluded the unequivocal identification of the Angiostrongylus species responsible for neuroangiostrongyliasis in accidental hosts such as dog and man. The availability of a whole-genome data for A. mackerrasae, including mtDNA and ITS2 rDNA, enables discrimination of A. cantonensis from A. mackerrasae. The aim of this study was to develop diagnostic PCR assays to determine the species of Angiostrongylus based on the detection of Angiostrongylus DNA sequences in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of canine patients with eosinophilic meningitis. An in silico workflow utilising available cytochrome c oxidase 1 (cox1) primers streamlined the laboratory work into empirical steps, allowing optimisation and selection of a PCR assay that met the required criteria for discrimination of A. cantonensis and A. mackerrasae DNA in low-template CSF samples. The adopted cox1 qPCR assay specifically amplified and enabled the differentiation of A. cantonensis from A. mackerrasae DNA and confirmed the presence of A. cantonensis DNA in 11/50 archived CSF samples. The DNA sequences demonstrated the presence of two distinct A. cantonensis cox1 haplotypes in dogs from eastern Australia. Species identification was further confirmed via the adoption of an ITS2 rDNA assay, providing confirmation of only A. cantonensis ITS2 rDNA in the CSF samples. To our knowledge, this is the first study to unequivocally demonstrate the antemortem presence of A. cantonensis DNA in CSF from clinically affected dogs. The study confirmed the long-held assumption that A. cantonensis is the causal agent of neuroangiostrongyliasis but refutes the dogma that there was a single introduction of A. cantonensis into Australia by the demonstration of two distinct A. cantonensis cox1 haplotypes.

ACS Style

Jeevitheswara Thammannaya Mallaiyaraj Mahalingam; Nichola Eliza Davies Calvani; Rogan Lee; Richard Malik; Jan Šlapeta. Using cerebrospinal fluid to confirm Angiostrongylus cantonensis as the cause of canine neuroangiostrongyliasis in Australia where A. cantonensis and Angiostrongylus mackerrasae co-exist. Current Research in Parasitology & Vector-Borne Diseases 2021, 1, 100033 .

AMA Style

Jeevitheswara Thammannaya Mallaiyaraj Mahalingam, Nichola Eliza Davies Calvani, Rogan Lee, Richard Malik, Jan Šlapeta. Using cerebrospinal fluid to confirm Angiostrongylus cantonensis as the cause of canine neuroangiostrongyliasis in Australia where A. cantonensis and Angiostrongylus mackerrasae co-exist. Current Research in Parasitology & Vector-Borne Diseases. 2021; 1 ():100033.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Jeevitheswara Thammannaya Mallaiyaraj Mahalingam; Nichola Eliza Davies Calvani; Rogan Lee; Richard Malik; Jan Šlapeta. 2021. "Using cerebrospinal fluid to confirm Angiostrongylus cantonensis as the cause of canine neuroangiostrongyliasis in Australia where A. cantonensis and Angiostrongylus mackerrasae co-exist." Current Research in Parasitology & Vector-Borne Diseases 1, no. : 100033.

Journal article
Published: 12 March 2021 in Viruses
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Although the antibody response induced by primary vaccination with Fel-O-Vax® FIV (three doses, 2–4 weeks apart) is well described, the antibody response induced by annual vaccination with Fel-O-Vax® FIV (single dose every 12 months after primary vaccination) and how it compares to the primary antibody response has not been studied. Residual blood samples from a primary FIV vaccination study (n = 11), and blood samples from cats given an annual FIV vaccination (n = 10), were utilized. Samples from all 21 cats were tested with a commercially available PCR assay (FIV RealPCRTM), an anti-p24 microsphere immunoassay (MIA), an anti-FIV transmembrane (TM; gp40) peptide ELISA, and a range of commercially available point-of-care (PoC) FIV antibody kits. PCR testing confirmed all 21 cats to be FIV-uninfected for the duration of this study. Results from MIA and ELISA testing showed that both vaccination regimes induced significant antibody responses against p24 and gp40, and both anti-p24 and anti-gp40 antibodies were variably present 12 months after FIV vaccination. The magnitude of the antibody response against both p24 and gp40 was significantly higher in the primary FIV vaccination group than in the annual FIV vaccination group. The differences in prime versus recall post-vaccinal antibody levels correlated with FIV PoC kit performance. Two FIV PoC kits that detect antibodies against gp40, namely Witness® and Anigen Rapid®, showed 100% specificity in cats recently administered an annual FIV vaccination, demonstrating that they can be used to accurately distinguish vaccination and infection in annually vaccinated cats. A third FIV PoC kit, SNAP® Combo, had 0% specificity in annually FIV-vaccinated cats, and should not be used in any cat with a possible history of FIV vaccination. This study outlines the antibody response to inactivated Fel-O-Vax® FIV whole-virus vaccine, and demonstrates how best to diagnose FIV infection in jurisdictions where FIV vaccination is practiced.

ACS Style

Mark Westman; Dennis Yang; Jennifer Green; Jacqueline Norris; Richard Malik; Yasmin Parr; Mike McDonald; Margaret Hosie; Sue VandeWoude; Craig Miller. Antibody Responses in Cats Following Primary and Annual Vaccination against Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) with an Inactivated Whole-Virus Vaccine (Fel-O-Vax® FIV). Viruses 2021, 13, 470 .

AMA Style

Mark Westman, Dennis Yang, Jennifer Green, Jacqueline Norris, Richard Malik, Yasmin Parr, Mike McDonald, Margaret Hosie, Sue VandeWoude, Craig Miller. Antibody Responses in Cats Following Primary and Annual Vaccination against Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) with an Inactivated Whole-Virus Vaccine (Fel-O-Vax® FIV). Viruses. 2021; 13 (3):470.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Mark Westman; Dennis Yang; Jennifer Green; Jacqueline Norris; Richard Malik; Yasmin Parr; Mike McDonald; Margaret Hosie; Sue VandeWoude; Craig Miller. 2021. "Antibody Responses in Cats Following Primary and Annual Vaccination against Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) with an Inactivated Whole-Virus Vaccine (Fel-O-Vax® FIV)." Viruses 13, no. 3: 470.

Journal article
Published: 03 February 2021 in Viruses
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A field study undertaken in Australia compared the antibody responses induced in client-owned cats that had been vaccinated using two inactivated whole feline leukaemia virus (FeLV) vaccines, the monovalent vaccine Fel-O-Vax® Lv-K and the polyvalent vaccine Fel-O-Vax® 5. Serum samples from 428 FeLV-uninfected cats (118 FeLV-vaccinated and 310 FeLV-unvaccinated) were tested for anti-FeLV neutralising antibodies (NAb) using a live virus neutralisation assay to identify 378 FeLV-unexposed (NAb-negative) and 50 FeLV-exposed (NAb-positive; abortive infections) cats, following by anti-surface unit (SU) FeLV-A and FeLV-B antibody ELISA testing. An additional 42 FeLV-infected cats (28 presumptively regressively infected, 14 presumptively progressively infected) were also tested for anti-SU antibodies. NAb-positive cats displayed significantly higher anti-SU antibody ELISA responses compared to NAb-negative cats (p < 0.001). FeLV-unexposed cats (NAb-negative) that had been vaccinated less than 18 months after a previous FeLV vaccination using the monovalent vaccine (Fel-O-Vax® Lv-K) displayed higher anti-SU antibody ELISA responses than a comparable group vaccinated with the polyvalent vaccine (Fel-O-Vax® 5) (p < 0.001 for both anti-FeLV-A and FeLV-B SU antibody responses). This difference in anti-SU antibody responses between cats vaccinated with the monovalent or polyvalent vaccine, however, was not observed in cats that had been naturally exposed to FeLV (NAb-positive) (p = 0.33). It was postulated that vaccination with Fel-O-Vax® 5 primed the humoral response prior to FeLV exposure, such that antibody production increased when the animal was challenged, while vaccination with Fel-O-Vax® Lv-K induced an immediate preparatory antibody response that did not quantitatively increase after FeLV exposure. These results raise questions about the comparable vaccine efficacy of the different FeLV vaccine formulations and correlates of protection.

ACS Style

Mark Westman; Jacqueline Norris; Richard Malik; Regina Hofmann-Lehmann; Yasmin Parr; Emma Armstrong; Mike McDonald; Evelyn Hall; Paul Sheehy; Margaret Hosie. Anti-SU Antibody Responses in Client-Owned Cats Following Vaccination against Feline Leukaemia Virus with Two Inactivated Whole-Virus Vaccines (Fel-O-Vax® Lv-K and Fel-O-Vax® 5). Viruses 2021, 13, 240 .

AMA Style

Mark Westman, Jacqueline Norris, Richard Malik, Regina Hofmann-Lehmann, Yasmin Parr, Emma Armstrong, Mike McDonald, Evelyn Hall, Paul Sheehy, Margaret Hosie. Anti-SU Antibody Responses in Client-Owned Cats Following Vaccination against Feline Leukaemia Virus with Two Inactivated Whole-Virus Vaccines (Fel-O-Vax® Lv-K and Fel-O-Vax® 5). Viruses. 2021; 13 (2):240.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Mark Westman; Jacqueline Norris; Richard Malik; Regina Hofmann-Lehmann; Yasmin Parr; Emma Armstrong; Mike McDonald; Evelyn Hall; Paul Sheehy; Margaret Hosie. 2021. "Anti-SU Antibody Responses in Client-Owned Cats Following Vaccination against Feline Leukaemia Virus with Two Inactivated Whole-Virus Vaccines (Fel-O-Vax® Lv-K and Fel-O-Vax® 5)." Viruses 13, no. 2: 240.

Review
Published: 06 January 2021 in Journal of Fungi
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Cryptococcosis is typically a sporadic disease that affects a broad range of animal species globally. Disease is a consequence of infection with members of the Cryptococcus neoformans or Cryptococcus gattii species complexes. Although cryptococcosis in many domestic animals has been relatively well-characterized, free-living wildlife animal species are often neglected in the literature outside of occasional case reports. This review summarizes the clinical presentation, pathological findings and potential underlying causes of cryptococcosis in various other animals, including terrestrial wildlife species and marine mammals. The evaluation of the available literature supports the hypothesis that anatomy (particularly of the respiratory tract), behavior and environmental exposures of animals play vital roles in the outcome of host–pathogen–environment interactions resulting in different clinical scenarios. Key examples range from koalas, which exhibit primarily C. gattii species complex disease presumably due to their behavior and environmental exposure to eucalypts, to cetaceans, which show predominantly pulmonary lesions due to their unique respiratory anatomy. Understanding the factors at play in each clinical scenario is a powerful investigative tool, as wildlife species may act as disease sentinels.

ACS Style

Patrizia Danesi; Christian Falcaro; Laura J. Schmertmann; Luisa Helena Monteiro De Miranda; Mark Krockenberger; Richard Malik. Cryptococcus in Wildlife and Free-Living Mammals. Journal of Fungi 2021, 7, 29 .

AMA Style

Patrizia Danesi, Christian Falcaro, Laura J. Schmertmann, Luisa Helena Monteiro De Miranda, Mark Krockenberger, Richard Malik. Cryptococcus in Wildlife and Free-Living Mammals. Journal of Fungi. 2021; 7 (1):29.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Patrizia Danesi; Christian Falcaro; Laura J. Schmertmann; Luisa Helena Monteiro De Miranda; Mark Krockenberger; Richard Malik. 2021. "Cryptococcus in Wildlife and Free-Living Mammals." Journal of Fungi 7, no. 1: 29.

Journal article
Published: 21 September 2020 in Parasitology
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The magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) appearance of the brain and spinal cord in humans with neuroangiostrongyliasis (NA) due to Angiostrongylus cantonensis infection has been well reported. Equivalent studies in animals are lacking. This case series describes clinical and MRI findings in 11 dogs with presumptively or definitively diagnosed NA. MRI of the brain and/or spinal cord was performed using high-field (1.5 T) or low-field (0.25 T) scanners using various combinations of transverse, sagittal, dorsal and three-dimensional (3D) T1-weighted (T1W), transverse, sagittal and dorsal T2-weighted (T2W), T2W fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) and T2*-weighted (T2*W) gradient echo (GRE), dorsal T2W short tau inversion recovery (STIR) and post-gadolinium transverse, sagittal, dorsal and 3D T1W and transverse T2W FLAIR sequences. In 4/6 cases where the brain was imaged, changes consistent with diffuse meningoencephalitis were observed. Evidence of meningeal involvement was evident even when not clinically apparent. The spinal cord was imaged in 9 dogs, with evidence of meningitis and myelitis detected in regions consistent with the observed neuroanatomical localization. Pathognomonic changes of neural larva migrans, as described in some human patients with NA, were not detected. NA should be considered in the differential diagnosis of dogs with MRI evidence of focal or diffuse meningitis, myelitis and/or encephalitis, especially in areas where A. cantonensis is endemic. If not precluded by imaging findings suggestive of brain herniation, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) collection for cytology, fluid analysis, real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) testing should be considered mandatory in such cases after the MRI studies.

ACS Style

Matthew K. Wun; Richard Malik; Jane Yu; Kathleen E. Chow; Michelle Lau; Juan M. Podadera; Natalie Webster; Rogan Lee; Jan Šlapeta; Sarah Davies. Magnetic resonance imaging in dogs with neuroangiostrongyliasis (rat lungworm disease). Parasitology 2020, 148, 198 -205.

AMA Style

Matthew K. Wun, Richard Malik, Jane Yu, Kathleen E. Chow, Michelle Lau, Juan M. Podadera, Natalie Webster, Rogan Lee, Jan Šlapeta, Sarah Davies. Magnetic resonance imaging in dogs with neuroangiostrongyliasis (rat lungworm disease). Parasitology. 2020; 148 (2):198-205.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Matthew K. Wun; Richard Malik; Jane Yu; Kathleen E. Chow; Michelle Lau; Juan M. Podadera; Natalie Webster; Rogan Lee; Jan Šlapeta; Sarah Davies. 2020. "Magnetic resonance imaging in dogs with neuroangiostrongyliasis (rat lungworm disease)." Parasitology 148, no. 2: 198-205.

Journal article
Published: 24 August 2020 in Parasitology
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The principal aim of this study was to optimize the diagnosis of canine neuroangiostrongyliasis (NA). In total, 92 cases were seen between 2010 and 2020. Dogs were aged from 7 weeks to 14 years (median 5 months), with 73/90 (81%) less than 6 months and 1.7 times as many males as females. The disease became more common over the study period. Most cases (86%) were seen between March and July. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) was obtained from the cisterna magna in 77 dogs, the lumbar cistern in f5, and both sites in 3. Nucleated cell counts for 84 specimens ranged from 1 to 146 150 cells μL−1 (median 4500). Percentage eosinophils varied from 0 to 98% (median 83%). When both cisternal and lumbar CSF were collected, inflammation was more severe caudally. Seventy-three CSF specimens were subjected to enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) testing for antibodies against A. cantonensis; 61 (84%) tested positive, titres ranging from <100 to ⩾12 800 (median 1600). Sixty-one CSF specimens were subjected to real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) testing using a new protocol targeting a bioinformatically-informed repetitive genetic target; 53/61 samples (87%) tested positive, C T values ranging from 23.4 to 39.5 (median 30.0). For 57 dogs, it was possible to compare CSF ELISA serology and qPCR. ELISA and qPCR were both positive in 40 dogs, in 5 dogs the ELISA was positive while the qPCR was negative, in 9 dogs the qPCR was positive but the ELISA was negative, while in 3 dogs both the ELISA and qPCR were negative. NA is an emerging infectious disease of dogs in Sydney, Australia.

ACS Style

Rogan Lee; Tsung-Yu Pai; Richard Churcher; Sarah Davies; Jody Braddock; Michael Linton; Jane Yu; Erin Bell; Justin Wimpole; Anna Dengate; David Collins; Narelle Brown; George Reppas; Susan Jaensch; Matthew K. Wun; Patricia Martin; William Sears; Jan Šlapeta; Richard Malik. Further studies of neuroangiostrongyliasis (rat lungworm disease) in Australian dogs: 92 new cases (2010–2020) and results for a novel, highly sensitive qPCR assay. Parasitology 2020, 148, 178 -186.

AMA Style

Rogan Lee, Tsung-Yu Pai, Richard Churcher, Sarah Davies, Jody Braddock, Michael Linton, Jane Yu, Erin Bell, Justin Wimpole, Anna Dengate, David Collins, Narelle Brown, George Reppas, Susan Jaensch, Matthew K. Wun, Patricia Martin, William Sears, Jan Šlapeta, Richard Malik. Further studies of neuroangiostrongyliasis (rat lungworm disease) in Australian dogs: 92 new cases (2010–2020) and results for a novel, highly sensitive qPCR assay. Parasitology. 2020; 148 (2):178-186.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Rogan Lee; Tsung-Yu Pai; Richard Churcher; Sarah Davies; Jody Braddock; Michael Linton; Jane Yu; Erin Bell; Justin Wimpole; Anna Dengate; David Collins; Narelle Brown; George Reppas; Susan Jaensch; Matthew K. Wun; Patricia Martin; William Sears; Jan Šlapeta; Richard Malik. 2020. "Further studies of neuroangiostrongyliasis (rat lungworm disease) in Australian dogs: 92 new cases (2010–2020) and results for a novel, highly sensitive qPCR assay." Parasitology 148, no. 2: 178-186.

Journal article
Published: 03 August 2020 in Parasitology
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Although the gross and microscopic pathology in rats infected with Angiostrongylus cantonensis has been well described, corresponding changes detected using diagnostic imaging modalities have not been reported. This work describes the cardiopulmonary changes in mature Wistar rats chronically infected with moderate burdens of A. cantonensis using radiology, computed tomography (CT), CT angiography, echocardiography, necropsy and histological examinations. Haematology and coagulation studies were also performed. Thoracic radiography, CT and CT angiography showed moderately severe alveolar pulmonary patterns mainly affecting caudal portions of the caudal lung lobes and associated dilatation of the caudal lobar pulmonary arteries. Presumptive worm profiles could be detected using echocardiography, with worms seen in the right ventricular outflow tract or straddling either the pulmonary and/or the tricuspid valves. Extensive, multifocal, coalescing dark areas and multiple pale foci affecting the caudal lung lobes were observed at necropsy. Histologically, these were composed of numerous large, confluent granulomas and fibrotic nodules. Adult worms were found predominantly in the mid- to distal pulmonary arteries. An inflammatory leukogram, hyperproteinaemia and hyperfibrinogenaemia were found in most rats. These findings provide a comparative model for A. cantonensis in its accidental hosts, such as humans and dogs. In addition, the pathological and imaging changes are comparable to those seen in dogs infected with Angiostrongylus vasorum, suggesting rats infected with A. cantonensis could be a model for dogs with A. vasorum infection.

ACS Style

Matthew K. Wun; Sarah Davies; Derek Spielman; Rogan Lee; Doug Hayward; Richard Malik. Gross, microscopic, radiologic, echocardiographic and haematological findings in rats experimentally infected with Angiostrongylus cantonensis. Parasitology 2020, 148, 159 -166.

AMA Style

Matthew K. Wun, Sarah Davies, Derek Spielman, Rogan Lee, Doug Hayward, Richard Malik. Gross, microscopic, radiologic, echocardiographic and haematological findings in rats experimentally infected with Angiostrongylus cantonensis. Parasitology. 2020; 148 (2):159-166.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Matthew K. Wun; Sarah Davies; Derek Spielman; Rogan Lee; Doug Hayward; Richard Malik. 2020. "Gross, microscopic, radiologic, echocardiographic and haematological findings in rats experimentally infected with Angiostrongylus cantonensis." Parasitology 148, no. 2: 159-166.

Journal article
Published: 13 February 2020 in Parasites & Vectors
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Background Canine heartworm disease, caused by Dirofilaria immitis, has global veterinary importance. In Australia, the prevalence of canine heartworm infection decreased markedly following the introduction of over-the-counter macrocyclic lactones. We aimed to estimate the prevalence of canine heartworm infection in at-risk populations of dogs in eastern Australia and analyse published prevalence data from Australia. Methods In total, 566 dogs from eastern Australia were tested for the presence of D. immitis antigen. Four cohorts were studied: pig-hunting dogs from Queensland (Cohort 1, n = 104), dogs from remote New South Wales (NSW) (Cohort 2, n = 332), urban pets from rural NSW (Cohort 3, n = 45) and ex-racing Greyhounds from Sydney, NSW (Cohort 4, n = 85). Serum samples were screened for D. immitis antigen using a reference laboratory microwell-based assay (DiroChek®) or a point-of-care immunochromatography test kit (Anigen Rapid®). Risk factors associated with the odds of D. immitis antigen seropositivity were identified using binary logistic regression models. Seropositive blood samples were tested for the presence and quantity of D. immitis DNA using a species specific real-time (q)PCR assay. A metanalysis of the Australian canine heartworm literature was conducted. Results The prevalence of dirofilariasis in pig-hunting dogs from Queensland (Cohort 1) was 12.5% (95% CI: 6.5–18.9%), with a subpopulation of dogs from Central Queensland having a prevalence of 21% (95% CI: 12.3–33.4%). Age was significantly associated with D. immitis antigen seropositivity (increased risk with increased age). The odds of being > 5 years versus ≤ 5 years was 3.7-times (95% CI: 1.1–12.5) greater in antigen positive versus antigen negative dogs. No D. immitis antigen positive dogs were detected in dogs from NSW (Cohorts 2–4). The Australian canine heartworm disease literature includes 98 peer-reviewed publications (1901–2019) with 30 studies reporting on D. immitis prevalence in dogs. Throughout the publication peak period (1980s), the primary antemortem diagnostic test was detection of microfilariae. Conclusions Canine heartworm infection in dogs used for pig hunting is a previously unexplored topic in Australia. Pig-hunting dogs are infected with canine heartworm in Queensland, Australia, placing pet dogs and cats at increased risk of infection.

ACS Style

Bronwyn Orr; Gemma Ma; Wei Ling Koh; Richard Malik; Jacqui M. Norris; Mark E. Westman; Denise Wigney; Graeme Brown; Michael P. Ward; Jan Šlapeta. Pig-hunting dogs are an at-risk population for canine heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis) infection in eastern Australia. Parasites & Vectors 2020, 13, 1 -11.

AMA Style

Bronwyn Orr, Gemma Ma, Wei Ling Koh, Richard Malik, Jacqui M. Norris, Mark E. Westman, Denise Wigney, Graeme Brown, Michael P. Ward, Jan Šlapeta. Pig-hunting dogs are an at-risk population for canine heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis) infection in eastern Australia. Parasites & Vectors. 2020; 13 (1):1-11.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Bronwyn Orr; Gemma Ma; Wei Ling Koh; Richard Malik; Jacqui M. Norris; Mark E. Westman; Denise Wigney; Graeme Brown; Michael P. Ward; Jan Šlapeta. 2020. "Pig-hunting dogs are an at-risk population for canine heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis) infection in eastern Australia." Parasites & Vectors 13, no. 1: 1-11.

Review
Published: 22 October 2019 in Animals
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Hunting feral pigs using dogs is a popular recreational activity in Australia. Dogs are used to flush, chase, bail, and hold feral pigs, and their use for these activities is legal in some states and territories and illegal in others. However, there is little knowledge about the health and welfare of dogs owned specifically for the purpose of pig hunting. We conducted a review of the literature on working dogs in Australia and overseas to determine the likely welfare impacts confronting pig-hunting dogs. We identified numerous challenges facing pig-hunting dogs throughout their lives. Risks to welfare include overbreeding, wastage due to behavioural incompatibilities, the use of aversive training techniques including electronic shock collars, solitary kenneling and tethering, high exposure to infectious diseases including zoonotic diseases, inadequate vaccination and anthelmintic prophlyaxis, high incidence of traumatic and other injuries during hunts, climatic exposure during transportation, mortality during hunts, and a suboptimal quality of life after retirement. There are also significant welfare concerns for the wild pigs hunted in this manner. We conclude that research needs to be conducted in order to determine the current health and welfare of pig-hunting dogs, specifically in Australia. The humaneness of this method of pest control urgently requires further assessment.

ACS Style

Bronwyn Orr; Richard Malik; Jacqui Norris; Mark Westman. The Welfare of Pig-Hunting Dogs in Australia. Animals 2019, 9, 853 .

AMA Style

Bronwyn Orr, Richard Malik, Jacqui Norris, Mark Westman. The Welfare of Pig-Hunting Dogs in Australia. Animals. 2019; 9 (10):853.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Bronwyn Orr; Richard Malik; Jacqui Norris; Mark Westman. 2019. "The Welfare of Pig-Hunting Dogs in Australia." Animals 9, no. 10: 853.

Journal article
Published: 06 August 2019 in Ecology and Evolution
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Cryptococcosis is a fungal infection caused by members of the Cryptococcus gattii and C. neoformans species complexes. The C. gattii species complex has a strong environmental association with eucalypt hollows (particularly Eucalyptus camaldulensis), which may present a source of infection. It remains unclear whether a specific mycobiome is required to support its environmental survival and growth. Conventional detection of environmental Cryptococcus spp. involves culture on differential media, such as Guizotia abyssinica seed agar. Next-generation sequencing (NGS)-based culture-independent identification aids in contextualising these species in the environmental mycobiome. Samples from 23 Australian tree hollows were subjected to both culture- and amplicon-based metagenomic analysis to characterize the mycobiome and assess relationships between Cryptococcus spp. and other fungal taxa. The most abundant genera detected were Coniochaeta, Aspergillus, and Penicillium, all being commonly isolated from decaying wood. There was no correlation between the presence of Cryptococcus spp. in a tree hollow and the presence of any other fungal genus. Some differences in the abundance of numerous taxa were noted in a differential heat tree comparing samples with or without Cryptococcus-NGS reads. The study expanded the known environmental niche of the C. gattii and C. neoformans species complexes in Australia with detections from a further five tree species. Discrepancies between the detection of Cryptococcus spp. using culture or NGS suggest that neither is superior per se and that, rather, these methodologies are complementary. The inherent biases of amplicon-based metagenomics require cautious interpretation of data through consideration of its biological relevance.

ACS Style

Laura J. Schmertmann; Laszlo Irinyi; Richard Malik; Jeff Powell; Wieland Meyer; Mark B. Krockenberger. The mycobiome of Australian tree hollows in relation to theCryptococcus gattiiandC. neoformansspecies complexes. Ecology and Evolution 2019, 9, 9684 -9700.

AMA Style

Laura J. Schmertmann, Laszlo Irinyi, Richard Malik, Jeff Powell, Wieland Meyer, Mark B. Krockenberger. The mycobiome of Australian tree hollows in relation to theCryptococcus gattiiandC. neoformansspecies complexes. Ecology and Evolution. 2019; 9 (17):9684-9700.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Laura J. Schmertmann; Laszlo Irinyi; Richard Malik; Jeff Powell; Wieland Meyer; Mark B. Krockenberger. 2019. "The mycobiome of Australian tree hollows in relation to theCryptococcus gattiiandC. neoformansspecies complexes." Ecology and Evolution 9, no. 17: 9684-9700.

Journal article
Published: 31 May 2019 in Viruses
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A field study was undertaken to (i) measure the prevalence of feline leukaemia virus (FeLV) exposure and FeLV infection in a cross-section of healthy Australian pet cats; and (ii) investigate the outcomes following natural FeLV exposure in two Australian rescue facilities. Group 1 (n = 440) consisted of healthy client-owned cats with outdoor access, predominantly from eastern Australia. Groups 2 (n = 38) and 3 (n = 51) consisted of a mixture of healthy and sick cats, group-housed in two separate rescue facilities in Sydney, Australia, tested following identification of index cases of FeLV infection in cats sourced from these facilities. Diagnostic testing for FeLV exposure/infection included p27 antigen testing using three different point-of-care FeLV kits and a laboratory-based ELISA, real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) testing to detect FeLV proviral DNA in leukocytes, real-time reverse-transcription PCR (qRT-PCR) testing to detect FeLV RNA in plasma, and neutralising antibody (NAb) testing. Cats were classified as FeLV-uninfected (FeLV-unexposed and presumptively FeLV-abortive infections) or FeLV-infected (presumptively regressive and presumptively progressive infections). In Group 1, 370 FeLV-unexposed cats (370/440, 84%), 47 abortive infections (47/440, 11%), nine regressive infections (9/440, 2%), and two progressive infections (2/440, 0.5%) were identified, and 12 FeLV-uninfected cats (12/440, 3%) were unclassifiable as FeLV-unexposed or abortive infections due to insufficient samples available for NAb testing. In Groups 2 and 3, 31 FeLV-unexposed cats (31/89, 35%), eight abortive infections (8/89, 9%), 22 regressive infections (22/89; 25%), and 19 progressive infections (19/89; 21%) were discovered, and nine FeLV-uninfected cats (9/89; 10%) were unclassifiable due to insufficient samples available for NAb testing. One of the presumptively progressively-infected cats in Group 3 was likely a focal FeLV infection. Two other presumptively progressively-infected cats in Group 3 may have been classified as regressive infections with repeated testing, highlighting the difficulties associated with FeLV diagnosis when sampling cats at a single time point, even with results from a panel of FeLV tests. These results serve as a reminder to Australian veterinarians that the threat of FeLV to the general pet cat population remains high, thus vigilant FeLV testing, separate housing for FeLV-infected cats, and FeLV vaccination of at-risk cats is important, particularly in group-housed cats in shelters and rescue facilities, where outbreaks of FeLV infection can occur.

ACS Style

Mark Westman; Jacqueline Norris; Richard Malik; Regina Hofmann-Lehmann; Andrea Harvey; Alicia McLuckie; Martine Perkins; Donna Schofield; Alan Marcus; Mike McDonald; Michael Ward; Evelyn Hall; Paul Sheehy; Margaret Hosie. The Diagnosis of Feline Leukaemia Virus (FeLV) Infection in Owned and Group-Housed Rescue Cats in Australia. Viruses 2019, 11, 503 .

AMA Style

Mark Westman, Jacqueline Norris, Richard Malik, Regina Hofmann-Lehmann, Andrea Harvey, Alicia McLuckie, Martine Perkins, Donna Schofield, Alan Marcus, Mike McDonald, Michael Ward, Evelyn Hall, Paul Sheehy, Margaret Hosie. The Diagnosis of Feline Leukaemia Virus (FeLV) Infection in Owned and Group-Housed Rescue Cats in Australia. Viruses. 2019; 11 (6):503.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Mark Westman; Jacqueline Norris; Richard Malik; Regina Hofmann-Lehmann; Andrea Harvey; Alicia McLuckie; Martine Perkins; Donna Schofield; Alan Marcus; Mike McDonald; Michael Ward; Evelyn Hall; Paul Sheehy; Margaret Hosie. 2019. "The Diagnosis of Feline Leukaemia Virus (FeLV) Infection in Owned and Group-Housed Rescue Cats in Australia." Viruses 11, no. 6: 503.

Journal article
Published: 16 May 2019 in Parasites & Vectors
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Rats (Rattus spp.) invaded most of the world as stowaways including some that carried the rat lungworm, Angiostrongylus cantonensis, the cause of eosinophilic meningoencephalitis in humans and other warm-blooded animals. A high genetic diversity of A. cantonensis based on short mitochondrial DNA regions is reported from Southeast Asia. However, the identity of invasive A. cantonensis is known for only a minority of countries. The affordability of next-generation sequencing for characterisation of A. cantonensis genomes should enable new insights into rat lung worm invasion and parasite identification in experimental studies. Genomic DNA from morphologically verified A. cantonensis (two laboratory-maintained strains and two field isolates) was sequenced using low coverage whole genome sequencing. The complete mitochondrial genome was assembled and compared to published A. cantonensis and Angiostrongylus malaysiensis sequences. To determine if the commonly sequenced partial cox1 can unequivocally identify A. cantonensis genetic lineages, the diversity of cox1 was re-evaluated in the context of the publicly available cox1 sequences and the entire mitochondrial genomes. Published experimental studies available in Web of Science were systematically reviewed to reveal published identities of A. cantonensis used in experimental studies. New A. cantonensis mitochondrial genomes from Sydney (Australia), Hawaii (USA), Canary Islands (Spain) and Fatu Hiva (French Polynesia), were assembled from next-generation sequencing data. Comparison of A. cantonensis mitochondrial genomes from outside of Southeast Asia showed low genetic diversity (0.02–1.03%) within a single lineage of A. cantonensis. Both cox1 and cox2 were considered the preferred markers for A. cantonensis haplotype identification. Systematic review revealed that unequivocal A. cantonensis identification of strains used in experimental studies is hindered by absence of their genetic and geographical identity. Low coverage whole genome sequencing provides data enabling standardised identification of A. cantonensis laboratory strains and field isolates. The phenotype of invasive A. cantonensis, such as the capacity to establish in new territories, has a strong genetic component, as the A. cantonensis found outside of the original endemic area are genetically uniform. It is imperative that the genotype of A. cantonensis strains maintained in laboratories and used in experimental studies is unequivocally characterised.

ACS Style

Barbora Červená; David Modrý; Barbora Fecková; Kristýna Hrazdilová; Pilar Foronda; Aron Martin Alonso; Rogan Lee; John Walker; Chris N. Niebuhr; Richard Malik; Jan Šlapeta. Low diversity of Angiostrongylus cantonensis complete mitochondrial DNA sequences from Australia, Hawaii, French Polynesia and the Canary Islands revealed using whole genome next-generation sequencing. Parasites & Vectors 2019, 12, 1 -13.

AMA Style

Barbora Červená, David Modrý, Barbora Fecková, Kristýna Hrazdilová, Pilar Foronda, Aron Martin Alonso, Rogan Lee, John Walker, Chris N. Niebuhr, Richard Malik, Jan Šlapeta. Low diversity of Angiostrongylus cantonensis complete mitochondrial DNA sequences from Australia, Hawaii, French Polynesia and the Canary Islands revealed using whole genome next-generation sequencing. Parasites & Vectors. 2019; 12 (1):1-13.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Barbora Červená; David Modrý; Barbora Fecková; Kristýna Hrazdilová; Pilar Foronda; Aron Martin Alonso; Rogan Lee; John Walker; Chris N. Niebuhr; Richard Malik; Jan Šlapeta. 2019. "Low diversity of Angiostrongylus cantonensis complete mitochondrial DNA sequences from Australia, Hawaii, French Polynesia and the Canary Islands revealed using whole genome next-generation sequencing." Parasites & Vectors 12, no. 1: 1-13.

Book chapter
Published: 07 October 2018 in Textbook of Small Animal Emergency Medicine
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Lower motor neuron disease and neuromuscular disease are non‐specific terms commonly used to describe the syndrome of flaccid paresis (weakness) or paralysis seen with any disease affecting the function of the motor unit (namely the lower motor neuron, neuromuscular junction, and skeletal muscle fiber). Patients with acute, generalized flaccid paresis are commonly encountered in emergency practice. The more common diagnoses are jurisdiction dependent and include acute polyradiculoneuritis, tick and snake envenomation, intoxications (botulism, tetrodotoxin), and fulminant myasthenia gravis. A presumptive clinical diagnosis can often be made on the basis of a combination of (i) consistent historical findings, (ii) characteristic physical findings, (iii) results of ancillary tests such as electrodiagnostic testing, toxin detection kits, and cerebrospinal fluid analysis. Though specific treatments may be necessary for some diseases, such as myasthenia gravis, tick and snake envenomations, all cases require diligent supportive care, particularly regarding ventilatory function, recumbency care and nutrition, to effect a successful outcome.

ACS Style

Patrick J. Kenny; Dominic Barfield; Richard Malik. Lower Motor Neuron Disease. Textbook of Small Animal Emergency Medicine 2018, 166 -175.

AMA Style

Patrick J. Kenny, Dominic Barfield, Richard Malik. Lower Motor Neuron Disease. Textbook of Small Animal Emergency Medicine. 2018; ():166-175.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Patrick J. Kenny; Dominic Barfield; Richard Malik. 2018. "Lower Motor Neuron Disease." Textbook of Small Animal Emergency Medicine , no. : 166-175.

Case reports
Published: 01 March 2018 in Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine
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An approximately 4-yr-old female Bennett's wallaby (Macropus rufogriseus) was evaluated for chronic left-sided facial swelling and nasal discharge. Computed tomography, endoscopy, biopsy, mycologic culture, and panfungal polymerase chain reaction were consistent with destructive mycotic rhinosinusitis. The patient's infection was treated with a long-term injectable antibiotic, oral antifungal therapy, and multiple intranasal infusions of voriconazole suspended in a reverse thermodynamic pluronic gel. This case represents the first documented case of mycotic rhinosinusitis in a macropod and underlines the importance of advanced cross-sectional imaging in the diagnosis, monitoring, and management of nasal cavity disease in zoo animals.

ACS Style

Josephine Bryk Rose; Sarah Davies; Kadie M. Anderson; Graeme S. Allan; Patricia M. Dennis; Richard Malik. TREATMENT OF MYCOTIC RHINOSINUSITIS IN A BENNETT'S WALLABY (MACROPUS RUFOGRISEUS) USING TOPICAL VORICONAZOLE SUSPENDED IN A REVERSE THERMODYNAMIC PLURONIC GEL. Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine 2018, 49, 231 -236.

AMA Style

Josephine Bryk Rose, Sarah Davies, Kadie M. Anderson, Graeme S. Allan, Patricia M. Dennis, Richard Malik. TREATMENT OF MYCOTIC RHINOSINUSITIS IN A BENNETT'S WALLABY (MACROPUS RUFOGRISEUS) USING TOPICAL VORICONAZOLE SUSPENDED IN A REVERSE THERMODYNAMIC PLURONIC GEL. Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine. 2018; 49 (1):231-236.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Josephine Bryk Rose; Sarah Davies; Kadie M. Anderson; Graeme S. Allan; Patricia M. Dennis; Richard Malik. 2018. "TREATMENT OF MYCOTIC RHINOSINUSITIS IN A BENNETT'S WALLABY (MACROPUS RUFOGRISEUS) USING TOPICAL VORICONAZOLE SUSPENDED IN A REVERSE THERMODYNAMIC PLURONIC GEL." Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine 49, no. 1: 231-236.

Case reports
Published: 24 February 2018 in Medical Mycology
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Disseminated cryptococcosis caused by Cryptococcus gattii (molecular type VGI) was diagnosed in an adult free-ranging female koala (Phascolarctos cinereus). Subclinical cryptococcosis was later diagnosed in this koala's joey. In the adult koala, a pathological fracture of the tibia was associated with the bone lysis of marked focal cryptococcal osteomyelitis. Limb-sparing orthopedic intervention, in the setting of disseminated cryptococcosis, was judged to have a poor prognosis, and the adult koala was euthanized. The joey was removed and hand-reared. Serological testing revealed persistent and increasing cryptococcal capsular antigenemia in the absence of clinical signs of disease and it was subsequently treated with oral fluconazole for approximately 16 months, rehabilitated and released into the wild. It was sighted 3 months post-release in a good state of health and again at 18 months post-release but was not recaptured on either occasion. This is the first published report of cryptococcal appendicular osteomyelitis in a koala. It is also the first report of concurrent disease in a dependent juvenile and the successful treatment of subclinical cryptococcosis to full resolution of the cryptococcal antigenemia in a free-ranging koala. This paper provides a discussion of cryptococcal osteomyelitis in animals, host-pathogen-environment interactions and treatment and monitoring protocols for cryptococcosis in koalas. Published reports describing the treatment of cryptococcosis in koalas are also collated and summarised.

ACS Style

Laura J Schmertmann; Kathryn Stalder; Donald Hudson; Patricia Martin; Mariano Makara; Wieland Meyer; Richard Malik; Mark B Krockenberger. Cryptococcosis in the koala (Phascolarctos cinereus): pathogenesis and treatment in the context of two atypical cases. Medical Mycology 2018, 56, 926 -936.

AMA Style

Laura J Schmertmann, Kathryn Stalder, Donald Hudson, Patricia Martin, Mariano Makara, Wieland Meyer, Richard Malik, Mark B Krockenberger. Cryptococcosis in the koala (Phascolarctos cinereus): pathogenesis and treatment in the context of two atypical cases. Medical Mycology. 2018; 56 (8):926-936.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Laura J Schmertmann; Kathryn Stalder; Donald Hudson; Patricia Martin; Mariano Makara; Wieland Meyer; Richard Malik; Mark B Krockenberger. 2018. "Cryptococcosis in the koala (Phascolarctos cinereus): pathogenesis and treatment in the context of two atypical cases." Medical Mycology 56, no. 8: 926-936.

Article
Published: 10 November 2017 in Veterinary Medicine and Science
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Cutaneous pigmented viral plaques is a disorder of epidermal growth caused by canine papillomavirus type 4 (CPV‐4). There is currently no standard of care for managing this condition and it has not been reported in the Hungarian Vizsla. This case series documents the clinical features of canine pigmented viral plaques in Hungarian Vizsla dogs and the treatment of a severe case using a novel topical agent tigilanol tiglate (EBC‐46). A 4‐year‐old spayed Hungarian Vizsla in Australia was presented for multiple cutaneous pigmented plaques extending from the ventral cervical region. Lesions were neither painful nor pruritic. The number and size of these sessile plaques increased over time, with the largest lesions eventually taking on an exophytic (wart‐like) appearance. These lesions did not affect the dog's wellbeing. Two much less severe cases in a 5‐year‐old Vizsla from the UK and a 7‐year‐old Vizsla from New Zealand were also diagnosed. Histology was consistent with papillomavirus‐induced pigmented plaques and CPV‐4 DNA sequences were amplified from paraffin‐embedded formalin‐fixed tissue using the polymerase chain reaction from the most severely affected patient. Topical imiquimod was ineffective although used for only a short time. Two topical applications of novel anti‐neoplastic diterpene ester tigilanol tiglate as a gel, 9 days apart, greatly reduced the size and number of lesions in a limited portion of skin treated, over the lateral hock. While CPV‐4 has been previously reported to cause pigmented plaques, most commonly on pug dogs, but sporadically on other breeds, this is the first report of this virus causing plaques in Hungarian Vizslas. The cases illustrate some of the difficulties in diagnosing papillomavirus‐induced disease in dogs, especially in its early stages. Topical tigilanol tiglate is a potentially useful topical therapy for this viral‐induced disorder of cell growth and represents a treatment deserving of further investigation.

ACS Style

Naomi Hansen; Nikianna Nicholas; Graeme Pack; John T. Mackie; Michael Shipstone; John S. Munday; Paul Reddell; Geoff Orbell; Richard Malik. Progressive cutaneous viral pigmented plaques in three Hungarian Vizslas and the response of lesions to topical tigilanol tiglate gel. Veterinary Medicine and Science 2017, 4, 53 -62.

AMA Style

Naomi Hansen, Nikianna Nicholas, Graeme Pack, John T. Mackie, Michael Shipstone, John S. Munday, Paul Reddell, Geoff Orbell, Richard Malik. Progressive cutaneous viral pigmented plaques in three Hungarian Vizslas and the response of lesions to topical tigilanol tiglate gel. Veterinary Medicine and Science. 2017; 4 (1):53-62.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Naomi Hansen; Nikianna Nicholas; Graeme Pack; John T. Mackie; Michael Shipstone; John S. Munday; Paul Reddell; Geoff Orbell; Richard Malik. 2017. "Progressive cutaneous viral pigmented plaques in three Hungarian Vizslas and the response of lesions to topical tigilanol tiglate gel." Veterinary Medicine and Science 4, no. 1: 53-62.

Journal article
Published: 15 August 2017 in BMC Veterinary Research
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Vector-borne diseases of dogs in Australian Aboriginal communities are relatively unexplored. These dogs represent a unique group with variable ecto- and endo-parasitic burdens, nutritional stresses and a general lack of veterinary intervention. We investigated haemoprotozoal and bacterial pathogen prevalences in relation to erythrocyte and platelet numbers in dogs from North-West New South Wales (N-W NSW) and the Northern Territory (NT; Central Australia). Real-time PCR (qPCR) amplification of Anaplasma platys, Babesia vogeli, Mycoplasma haemocanis, Candidatus Mycoplasma haematoparvum and Bartonella spp., serological screening for Coxiella burnetii, and Bartonella spp. and haematological analyses were performed on dogs from the two cohorts (96 dogs in total). Brucella suis serology was determined additionally for the N-W NSW cohort. Anaplasma platys (n = 26 dogs), Babesia vogeli (n = 7), Candidatus Mycoplasma haematoparvum (n = 10 dogs), and Mycoplasma haemocanis (n = 14) were detected in the sample population (n = 96) using qPCR. There were significant associations between (i) A. platys and anaemia (OR 8.7, CI 2.4–31.7; P < 0.001), thrombocytopenia (OR 12.1, CI 3.4–43.2; P < 0.001) and breed (OR 16.1, CI 2.1–121.5; P = 0.007), and (ii) between B. vogeli and anaemia (OR 11.8, CI 2.3–61.6; P = 0.003). Neither protozoal nor bacterial DNA loads, estimated using qPCR, were positively correlated with anaemia or thrombocytopenia. Haemotropic mycoplasmas were not associated with any haematologic abnormality. Four dogs from the NT were seropositive for Coxiella burnetii, while no dogs were seropositive for Brucella suis or to a panel of Bartonella spp. antigens. Despite directed efforts, Bartonella DNA was not detected in blood from any of the cohorts studied. A sample of dogs from the NT recruited specifically for Bartonella α-proteobacteria growth medium enrichment blood culture were also Bartonella PCR negative. Vector-borne pathogens occur in dogs free ranging near Aboriginal communities, with higher detection rates in NT than N-W NSW. The preponderant haematologic abnormalities were anaemia and thrombocytopenia, likely attributable to A. platys and B. vogeli infections, but also probably affected by nutritional, parasitic, lactational and environmental stressors. The absence of Bartonella spp. is of importance to the Australian setting, and work needs to be extended to tropical coastal communities where fleas are present as well as ticks. Dogs living in and around Aboriginal communities may provide valuable sentinel information on disease infection status of human public health significance.

ACS Style

Amanda J. Shapiro; Graeme Brown; Jacqueline M. Norris; Katrina L. Bosward; Debbie J. Marriot; Nandhakumar Balakrishnan; Edward B. Breitschwerdt; Richard Malik. Vector-borne and zoonotic diseases of dogs in North-west New South Wales and the Northern Territory, Australia. BMC Veterinary Research 2017, 13, 1 -13.

AMA Style

Amanda J. Shapiro, Graeme Brown, Jacqueline M. Norris, Katrina L. Bosward, Debbie J. Marriot, Nandhakumar Balakrishnan, Edward B. Breitschwerdt, Richard Malik. Vector-borne and zoonotic diseases of dogs in North-west New South Wales and the Northern Territory, Australia. BMC Veterinary Research. 2017; 13 (1):1-13.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Amanda J. Shapiro; Graeme Brown; Jacqueline M. Norris; Katrina L. Bosward; Debbie J. Marriot; Nandhakumar Balakrishnan; Edward B. Breitschwerdt; Richard Malik. 2017. "Vector-borne and zoonotic diseases of dogs in North-west New South Wales and the Northern Territory, Australia." BMC Veterinary Research 13, no. 1: 1-13.

Research article
Published: 08 June 2017 in Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery
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Objectives: This paper, the second in a series of three on ‘feline leprosy’, provides a detailed description of disease referable to Mycobacterium lepraemurium, the most common cause of feline leprosy worldwide. Methods: Cases were sourced retrospectively and prospectively for this observational study, describing clinical, geographical and molecular microbiological data for cats definitively diagnosed with M lepraemurium infection. Results: A total of 145 cases of feline leprosy were scrutinised; 114 ‘new’ cases were sourced from the Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory records, veterinary pathology laboratories or veterinarians, and 31 cases were derived from six published studies. Sixty-five cats were definitively diagnosed with M lepraemurium infection. Typically, cats were 1–3 years of age when first infected, with a male gender predilection. Affected cats were generally systemically well. All had outdoor access. Lesions tended to consist of one or more cutaneous/subcutaneous nodules, typically located on the head and/or forelimbs, possibly reflecting the most likely locations for a rodent bite as the site of inoculation for organisms. Nodules had the propensity to ulcerate at some stage in the clinical course. The cytological and histological picture varied from tuberculoid, with relatively low bacterial numbers, to lepromatous with moderate to high bacterial numbers. Treatment was varied, although most cats underwent surgical resection of lesions with adjunctive medical therapy, most often using a combination of oral clarithromycin and rifampicin. Prognosis for recovery was generally good, and in two cases there was spontaneous remission without the requirement for medical intervention. Untreated cats continued to enjoy an acceptable quality of life despite persistence of the disease, which extended locally but had no apparent tendency to disseminate to internal organs. Conclusions and relevance: M lepraemurium causes high bacterial index (lepromatous) or low bacterial index (tuberculoid) feline leprosy. The infection typically causes nodules of the skin and/or subcutis (which tend towards ulceration) on the head and/or forelimbs. The disease usually has an indolent clinical course and infected cats have a generally favourable response to therapeutic interventions, with rare cases undergoing spontaneous resolution. Genomic analysis may yield clues as to the environmental niche and culture requirements of this elusive organism. Prospective treatment trials and/or additional drug susceptibility testing in specialised systems would further inform treatment recommendations.

ACS Style

Carolyn O'Brien; Richard Malik; Maria Globan; George Reppas; Christina McCowan; Janet A Fyfe. Feline leprosy due to Mycobacterium lepraemurium: Further clinical and molecular characterisation of 23 previously reported cases and an additional 42 cases. Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery 2017, 19, 737 -746.

AMA Style

Carolyn O'Brien, Richard Malik, Maria Globan, George Reppas, Christina McCowan, Janet A Fyfe. Feline leprosy due to Mycobacterium lepraemurium: Further clinical and molecular characterisation of 23 previously reported cases and an additional 42 cases. Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery. 2017; 19 (7):737-746.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Carolyn O'Brien; Richard Malik; Maria Globan; George Reppas; Christina McCowan; Janet A Fyfe. 2017. "Feline leprosy due to Mycobacterium lepraemurium: Further clinical and molecular characterisation of 23 previously reported cases and an additional 42 cases." Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery 19, no. 7: 737-746.

Editorial
Published: 25 April 2017 in Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery
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ACS Style

Carolyn O'Brien; Richard Malik. History and mysteries of leprosy. Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery 2017, 19, 496 -497.

AMA Style

Carolyn O'Brien, Richard Malik. History and mysteries of leprosy. Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery. 2017; 19 (5):496-497.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Carolyn O'Brien; Richard Malik. 2017. "History and mysteries of leprosy." Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery 19, no. 5: 496-497.