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One health approach to study human health risks associated with Dermanyssus gallinae mites
Pavle Banović1,2,3, Angélique Foucault-Simonin4, Luka Papić5
1Clinic for Lyme Borreliosis and Other Tick-Borne Diseases, Department of Prevention of Rabies and Other Infectious Diseases, Pasteur Institute Novi Sad, Novi Sad, 21000, Serbia.
Abstract:
Despite the significant health risks associated with Dermanyssus gallinae infestations in humans, they are often overlooked. This study investigated a household case of D. gallinae infestation and explored the resulting clinical manifestations and risk of infection in family members. Microfluidic PCR was employed for high-throughput screening of pathogens in collected mites and blood samples from both chickens and family members. Morphological and molecular examinations confirmed the identity of the mites as D. gallinae sensu stricto (s.s.), with evidence indicating recent blood feeding. Results indicated that the mites exclusively harbored various pathogens, including Bartonella spp., Ehrlichia spp., Apicomplexa, and Theileria spp. Blood samples from family members and poultry tested negative for these pathogens, suggesting a potential reservoir role for D. gallinae. The study further identified haplotypes of D. gallinae, classifying them into D. gallinae s.s., cosmopolitan haplogroup A. Serological analysis revealed elevated IgE seroreactivity against mite proteins in the family member with bite lesions. Antibodies against Bartonella spp. were detected in this individual, indicating exposure to the pathogen. In summary, this study sheds light on the clinical manifestations, pathogen detection, and genetic characterization of D. gallinae infestations, underscoring the necessity of adopting comprehensive approaches to manage such infestations effectively.
Insights
Dermanyssus gallinae mites, commonly known as chicken mites, can infest households and carry various pathogens. This study highlights their potential health risks and the need for effective management strategies.
Area of Science:
- Zoonotic Diseases
- Parasitology
- Molecular Diagnostics
Background:
- Dermanyssus gallinae (chicken mites) pose significant, yet often overlooked, health risks to humans.
- Household infestations can lead to clinical manifestations and potential pathogen transmission.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate a household Dermanyssus gallinae infestation.
- To identify clinical signs, pathogens within mites, and human exposure.
- To genetically characterize the Dermanyssus gallinae population.
Main Methods:
- Morphological and molecular identification of Dermanyssus gallinae.
- Microfluidic PCR for high-throughput pathogen screening in mites and blood samples.
- Serological analysis for human immune response and pathogen exposure.
Main Results:
- Dermanyssus gallinae sensu stricto (s.s.), haplogroup A, were identified, indicating recent blood feeding.
- Mites harbored Bartonella spp., Ehrlichia spp., Apicomplexa, and Theileria spp.
- Human serology showed IgE reactivity to mite proteins and antibodies to Bartonella spp. in an affected individual.
Conclusions:
- Dermanyssus gallinae can act as a reservoir for various pathogens, posing a zoonotic risk.
- Clinical manifestations and serological evidence suggest human exposure and sensitization.
- Comprehensive management strategies are crucial for controlling Dermanyssus gallinae infestations.
