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First detection of the Anaplasma phagocytophilum groEL-A genotype in man
Elisabeth Haschke-Becher1, Rainer Bernauer, Anna-Maria Walleczek
1Central Laboratory, University Hospital of Neurology, Paracelsus Medical University of Salzburg (PMU), Ignaz-Harrer-Strasse 79, A-5020 Salzburg, Austria.
Objective:
Human Granulocytic Anaplasmosis (HGA) is an emerging disease caused by the gram-negative bacterium Anaplasma phagocytophilum which is transmitted by ticks of the genus Ixodes ricinus. For molecular detection of the pathogen by PCR, a conserved portion of the groEL gene within the groESL operon is frequently used as a target. A single G/A polymorphism in this region allows to discriminate between two genotypes, groEL-G and groEL-A.
Methods:
Total DNA from peripheral blood samples of two HGA patients was analysed by RealTime PCR, employing a protocol designed for genotyping groEL-G- and groEL-A variants of A. phagocytophilum.
Results:
We confirmed two clinical cases of HGA by PCR; in one patient, and for the first time in a human host, the groEL-A variant was detected, in the other case the pathogen was recognised as the groEL-G variant, up to now representing the only genotype reported in man.
Conclusions:
It is documented that HGA infections can be caused by two A. phagocytophilum groEL genotypes. At present, the preference of the A. phagocytophilum groEL-G genotype in humans remains unclear, as we describe the first patient with HGA caused by the groEL-A variant. For a conclusive interpretation, more data from HGA patients will be required.
Insights
Human Granulocytic Anaplasmosis (HGA) can be caused by two Anaplasma phagocytophilum genotypes. This study reports the first human detection of the groEL-A variant, alongside the previously known groEL-G variant.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Molecular Biology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Human Granulocytic Anaplasmosis (HGA) is an emerging tick-borne illness caused by Anaplasma phagocytophilum.
- The groEL gene within the groESL operon is a common PCR target for A. phagocytophilum detection.
- A G/A polymorphism in the groEL gene distinguishes between groEL-G and groEL-A genotypes.
Observation:
- Real-Time PCR was used to analyze DNA from two HGA patients.
- The study aimed to genotype groEL-G and groEL-A variants of A. phagocytophilum.
Findings:
- Two clinical HGA cases were confirmed via PCR.
- The groEL-A variant of A. phagocytophilum was detected in one patient, marking its first identification in a human host.
- The groEL-G variant was identified in the second patient.
Implications:
- HGA infections are caused by at least two A. phagocytophilum groEL genotypes.
- The prevalence and significance of the groEL-A genotype in human infections require further investigation.
- Additional data from HGA patients are necessary for a comprehensive understanding of A. phagocytophilum genotype distribution.
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