Cryptosporidium spp. in dogs and cats in Poland.

Authors :: Piekara-Stępińska A
Piekarska J
Gorczykowski M
Source :: Annals of agricultural and environmental medicine : AAEM [Ann Agric Environ Med] 2021 Jun 14; Vol. 28 (2), pp. 345-347. Date of Electronic Publication: 2020 Apr 29.
Publication Year :: 2021
Abstract: Introduction: Cryptosporidium spp. are common protozoan parasites of animals and humans. Due to their zoonotic potential it is important to know their species and prevalence in dogs and cats.<br />Objective: The aim of the study was to determine the occurrence and molecular characteristics of Cryptosporidium spp. in dogs and cats in Poland.<br />Material and Methods: A total of 365 faecal samples (264 dogs and 101 cats) collected from animals living in Poland were analyzed using the Ziehl-Neelsen staining method and genus-specific PCR assay to amplify the Cryptosporidium 18S rRNA gene.<br />Results: Cryptosporidium were found in 11 out of the 365 examined stool samples (3%). PCR analysis identified Cryptosporidium in 9 out of 264 canine stool samples (3.4%) and 2 out of 101 feline specimens (2%). DNA sequencing confirmed the presence of C. canis and C. parvum in dogs and C. felis in cats.<br />Conclusions: This is the first molecular characterization of Cryptosporidium spp. infection in dogs and cats in Poland.