Cases of adventitious feeding on humans by non-hematophagous insects hold significant medical relevance, yet their occurrence during active body art procedures remains undocumented. This case report describes a persistent instance of opportunistic exsudatophagy by the house fly, Musca domestica Linnaeus, 1758 (Diptera: Muscidae), during a tattooing session on a healthy 32-year-old male client in Germany. Over a four-hour timeframe, four adult house flies entered the ground-floor studio through doors and windows opened for summer cross-ventilation. The insects exhibited highly persistent landing and feeding attempts directly on the freshly wounded tissue of the right lower leg, actively drinking a matrix of blood, plasma, and tattoo ink. Attraction intensified significantly once large-scale shading expanded the exuding epidermal surface area. Effective mechanical repulsion was heavily restricted by the client's enforced immobility required to ensure precise tattoo application. Following a routine aftercare protocol, the lesion healed completely without secondary bacterial infection. This report highlights a neglected hygienic hazard where the saprophagous and coprophilic ecology of synanthropic filth flies poses a mechanical vector risk for dermal pathogen inoculation, emphasizing the necessity of simple vector control strategies in tattooing facilities.

Praziquantel is a widely used anthelmintic in both human and veterinary medicine, but low palatability of the commonly used compound, which is a mixture (M) of two isomers (D and L forms), may result in rejection of oral treatments. Purification of the D-isomer of praziquantel allows a comparative evaluation of both palatability and efficacy of the isomers. We showed that rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) preferred feed containing D-PZQ feed (60% acceptance) compared to M-PZQ feed (20% acceptance) (inclusion of 400 g PZQ/kg feed). Subsequent efficacy studies using eyefluke Diplostomum pseudospathaceum cercariae (in vitro) and experimentally infected rainbow trout carrying metacercariae (in vivo) demonstrated a strong antiparasitic effect of both PZQ-forms. In vitro assays documented that both M-PZQ and D-PZQ induced rapid and concentration-dependent mortality in cercaria (100% within 4 h in 0.125 mg PZQ/L), but with a significantly higher killing rate of of D-PZQ. In vivo assays (17 days feeding medicated feed) showed significant efficacy of both D-PZQ and M-PZQ. A slightly (non-significant) faster effect of D-PZQ may partly be ascribed to a combination of higher consumption of this isomer (due to its higher palatability) and higher efficacy. Cataract formation occurred in control fish but was prevented by both drug types indicating that metabolic and/or mechanical activities of live parasites are associated with cataract induction. This rainbow trout/eyefluke infection may serve as a model for non-piscine host-parasite systems as well.

Objective Sparganosis is a rare parasitic disease caused by the larvae of Spirometra mansoni, with pediatric cases being particularly uncommon and prone to misdiagnosis. This study aims to analyze the clinical features, diagnostic strategies, and treatment responses in pediatric sparganosis, and to investigate its global epidemiological trends and diagnostic and therapeutic advancements through a systematic review. Methods We conducted a retrospective analysis of 5 confirmed pediatric sparganosis cases admitted to our center between 2014 and 2023. A systematic search of the PubMed database (1980-2025) for relevant literature was performed, leading to the screening and data extraction of 135 global case reports. Descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and trend visualization were conducted using R software (version 4.5.1). Results Among the 5 children in our center, the median age was 7 years, and all were from high-parasitic-endemicity areas in Yunnan Province, China. All cases (100%) presented with marked eosinophilia (median value 4.42 × 10⁹/L). Neurological involvement was predominant (60%, 3/5), manifesting as epilepsy, myelitis, etc. All patients received praziquantel treatment, with four also receiving concomitant corticosteroids, and all showed symptom improvement. Analysis of global cases revealed a geographic clustering in East Asia (primarily China, South Korea, Japan, and Thailand), with the central nervous system and subcutaneous tissue being the two major infection sites. Diagnosis relied mainly on MRI ("tunnel sign"), serological testing, and metagenomic Next-Generation Sequencing (mNGS). The highest improvement rate (92.2%) was observed with combination therapy (surgery plus medication), which yielded comparably high improvement rates to single-modality treatments. Conclusion Pediatric sparganosis predominantly involves the nervous system. Diagnosis requires integrating epidemiological history, imaging, and molecular testing. Treatment should be individualized, with a recommended regimen of surgery combined with long-term, weight-based praziquantel therapy, supplemented by corticosteroids when necessary. Strengthening public health education remains the fundamental measure for preventing this disease.

Ticks are important vectors of pathogens with substantial medical and veterinary relevance, a threat that may be further increased with the spread of invasive tick species. Reliable tick identification is relevant for accurate diagnostic elucidation of transmission pathways, and the development of targeted surveillance strategies and risk assessments. A standardized, rapid, and cost-effective identification workflow that can be implemented across laboratories is needed. Previous studies have shown that MALDI-TOF MS is a promising, objective, and economical approach for tick identification. However, the methodology remains insufficiently standardized and is not yet routinely applied for vector identification. The aim of this study was therefore to optimize MALDI-TOF MS-based tick identification for routine use in diagnostic laboratories. A simplified and standardized protocol for protein extraction from whole tick legs via brief incubation in 70% formic acid is presented. This protocol provides a robust basis for the development of a curated MALDI Biotyper® reference library, enabling reliable, expert-independent tick identification and supporting epidemiological surveillance of vectors and vector-borne pathogens.

Ixodes ricinus is the most widespread tick species in Europe, parasitizing a broad range of vertebrate hosts, including reptiles. However, the role of lizards in the ecology of tick-borne pathogens remains poorly understood. This study investigated tick infestation levels and the occurrence of tick-borne pathogens in I. ricinus feeding on European common lizards (Zootoca vivipara louislantzi) in the central Pyrenees, Spain. A total of 137 lizards were captured in summer and spring of 2024 at two sites (~ 1700 m.a.s.l.). Tick infestation prevalence was 98.5% and a mean abundance of 5.8 ± 7.0 ticks. Infestation was significantly higher in males, adults, and during spring. Molecular screening of 525 ticks (188 pools) using real-time and conventional PCR protocols detected Rickettsia spp. DNA in 15.4% pools, with an overall minimum infection rate (MIR) of 5.52%, with stage-specific MIRs of 4.79% in larvae and 7.81% in nymphs. Sequencing of 14 amplicons identified Rickettsia helvetica (n = 11) and Rickettsia monacensis (n = 3). Babesia DNA was detected at low prevalence (MIR: 0.38%) and sequences clustered within the Babesia divergens-Babesia capreoli complex. No Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato and Anaplasma phagocytophilum DNA was detected. Our findings show that lizards can sustain high levels of I. ricinus infestation, constituting a reliable bloodmeal source for ticks infected with Rickettsia and Babesia in the mountain ecosystems of the Pyrenees. Although the lizard's role in pathogen transmission remains to be clarified, its consistent exposure to immature ticks highlights its potential value as a sentinel species for monitoring tick-borne pathogen circulation in high-altitude environments.

Theileria annulata, an apicomplexan parasite, causes lymphoproliferative disease in cattle and threatens the bovine industry in tropical and subtropical regions. To clarify life-cycle mechanisms and parasite-host interactions, we conducted high-resolution Orbitrap proteomic and phosphoproteomic analyses of the schizont and piroplasm stages. In total, we confidently identified and quantified 2,093 proteins; among these, 459 proteins were observed in a phosphorylated state, comprising 5,069 distinct phosphorylation sites. Functional enrichment analysis of differentially abundant proteins indicated stage-associated remodeling of genetic information processing, carbohydrate, lipid, and amino-acid metabolism, and core cellular processes. Stage-associated proteins were linked to host-parasite interaction, mitochondrial function, and metabolic adaptation. Schizonts showed broader proteomic and phosphorylation profiles consistent with higher biosynthetic and energy demands. In contrast, piroplasms exhibited a more restricted proteomic profile associated with erythrocyte adaptation and invasion-related functions. Together, these stage-resolved datasets provide a reference for proteome and phosphoproteome remodeling across development and prioritize candidate stage-associated proteins and phosphosites for future functional validation.

Fish serve as hosts to a wide range of parasites, which can affect them in many ways, including their survival, growth, and foraging behavior. The highly threatened unionid mussels have an ectoparasitic life stage on the gills, skin, or fins of fish. Here, we compared prey handling time and growth between groups of brown trout (Salmo trutta) that were infested and non-infested with glochidia larvae of the freshwater pearl mussel (Margaritifera margaritifera). In a prey handling test, individual trout were presented with one large prey (maggot) and one small prey (Gammarus pulex) daily over eight days. Compared to non-infested trout, prey handling time was longer for infested trout feeding on larger but not on smaller prey. In a growth test, where trout were fed daily with minced calf liver over nine weeks, the growth rate was lower for infested than for non-infested trout. Moreover, the growth rate was higher for infested trout from which glochidia were expelled compared to trout from which glochidia were not expelled. We suggest that glochidia infestation can increase prey handling time of fish, ultimately reducing fish growth, but that slow prey handling may be transitory for fish losing glochidia, and result in compensatory growth of the fish. Slow prey handling, in combination with a negative effect of glochidia infestation on food competition between infested and non-infested trout, may be reasons behind the lower growth of infested fish.

Baylisascaris species parasitizing skunks have received limited attention compared to the well-characterized raccoon roundworm (B. procyonis). We present the first complete mitochondrial genome of a Baylisascaris sp. collected in Kansas, United States, from a striped skunk (Mephitis mephitis). We morphologically identified the nematode as Baylisascaris sp., extracted DNA, sequenced it on the Illumina platform, and de novo assembled the complete mitochondrial genome. The complete mitochondrial genome was 14,752 bp, consisting of 12 protein-coding genes, 2 rRNAs, and 22 tRNAs. The genome had a significant AT-skew (70.5%). The mitochondrial genome obtained in this study was 98% identical to that of B. procyonis and grouped most closely to B. procyonis with 100% bootstrap support in a phylogenetic analysis of ascarid nematodes. The mitochondrial genome generated in this study (GenBank accession no. PZ025724) will benefit future studies in diagnostic epidemiology and systematics and has implications for public health.

Ascaris lumbricoides remains one of the most prevalent soil-transmitted helminths worldwide, with ongoing transmission in endemic regions despite long-standing control programs. This study investigated the genetic diversity, population structure, and benzimidazole resistance of A. lumbricoides across three endemic regions of Thailand using mitochondrial (cox1 and nad1) and nuclear (β-tubulin) markers. Haplotype network analysis identified 13 haplotypes within the Thailand dataset, including three newly identified haplotypes, indicating measurable genetic diversity at the local scale. When analyzed in a global context incorporating reference sequences, substantially higher haplotype diversity was observed, reflecting broad genetic diversity across geographic regions. Despite this diversity, no clear geographic structuring was detected among Thai populations, suggesting ongoing gene flow and population connectivity. Phylogenetic analyses further demonstrated that all isolates clustered within a single major lineage and shared haplotypes with Ascaris suum (infecting pig), supporting genetic overlap and potential zoonotic transmission. Analysis of the β-tubulin gene revealed exclusively wild-type alleles at codons 167, 198, and 200, with no evidence of mutations associated with benzimidazole resistance. Overall, this study demonstrates measurable genetic diversity in Thailand's A. lumbricoides populations, with no evidence of clear geographic structuring. These findings provide baseline molecular data to support future surveillance of transmission dynamics and anthelmintic resistance.

Chicken coccidiosis is a ubiquitous and economically significant disease that causes substantial production losses in the poultry industry. It is caused by protozoan parasites of the genus Eimeria, which damage the intestinal epithelium, leading to diarrhoea, poor growth, and mortality. This study investigated the prevalence, risk factors, molecular diversity, and phylogenetic relationships of Eimeria infections in commercial poultry farms in Bangladesh. A total of 350 fresh fecal samples were collected from seven major poultry-producing regions and screened microscopically for oocysts. Farm-level data were obtained through structured interviews to assess associated risk factors. Samples with high oocyst loads were subjected to molecular analysis targeting the internal transcribed spacer 1 region, followed by Sanger sequencing and phylogenetic reconstruction. The overall prevalence was 85.14%, with regional variation ranging from 61.22% in Sylhet to 100% in Joypurhat. Significant associations (p < 0.05) were observed with bird type, prior coccidiosis exposure, drinking water source, anticoccidial used, and veterinary support. Sequence analysis confirmed the presence of all seven recognized Eimeria species, showing 98.05-100% similarity with reference sequences. Mixed infections were highly prevalent (97.57%), with multiple species detected per sample. Phylogenetic reconstruction showed that the study isolates consistently grouped with their corresponding reference taxa, supported by strong bootstrap values, and confirming accurate species identification and genetic relatedness. In conclusion, detection of all Eimeria species, together with the high burden of mixed infections and the influence of modifiable management factors, underscores the necessity for improved and integrated control measures for coccidiosis in commercial poultry systems in Bangladesh. Clinical trial number: not applicable.

Toxoplasmosis is a globally prevalent parasitic disease with significant therapeutic limitations, especially in vulnerable populations. This scoping review assesses the efficacy of quinolones against Toxoplasma gondii in vitro and in vivo. PubMed, ScienceDirect, Web of Science, Embase, Scopus, ProQuest, and Google Scholar were searched from inception to August 2024. Original English-language studies evaluating quinolone effects on T. gondii were included. Screening and data extraction followed PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Of 5,252 initial records, 29 studies were shortlisted for final qualitative synthesis. In vitro analysis revealed a stark dichotomy: while clinical fluoroquinolones such as ciprofloxacin (IC50 = 3.44-20 µM) possessed weak-to-moderate activity, experimental scaffolds, particularly Hydroxyquinolone derivatives (e.g., Compound A, IC50 = 0.0004 μM) and endochin-like quinolones (ELQs) (e.g., ELQ-316, IC50 = 0.000007 μM) achieved sub-nanomolar potency by inhibiting the mitochondrial electron transport chain. Structural optimization was essential; for example, adamantane-conjugated ciprofloxacin (Adam-Cipro) was 31-fold more potent than the parent drug (IC50 = 0.64 µM vs. 20 µM). Combination regimens (e.g., gatifloxacin-pyrimethamine) maximized efficacy while also lowering resistance risks. Novel compounds such as ELQ-316 (0.08 mg/kg) decreased brain cyst burden by up to 88% in chronic models and provided complete protection in acute models. Translational challenges were identified, including the failure of decoquinate (DCQ) to suppress vertical transmission in pregnancy models and the emergence of resistance to ELQ-316. Key research gaps persist: the activity of quinolones against latent bradyzoites, efficacy in immunocompromised hosts, and safety in children and pregnant women remain unexplored. This review demonstrates that while conventional clinical quinolones are suboptimal against T. gondii, structure-optimized quinolones targeting the parasite mitochondria can yield outstanding potency. Efficacy is determined by precise structure activity relationships (particularly at the C-7 position) and advanced drug delivery systems. Despite ongoing translational challenges such as bioavailability optimization, tissue penetration barriers, and resistance management new quinolone compounds and combination regimens hold great promise as anti-Toxoplasma drugs.

Post-mortem myoliquefaction, commonly referred to as 'jelly flesh', is associated with infection by myxozoan parasites of the genus Kudoa, particularly Kudoa thyrsites; the effects of infections can render fish fillets unusable in food preparation. Although the parasite has been documented in Atlantic mackerel (Scomber scombrus) across parts of the Northeast Atlantic, its presence in mackerel landed in Ireland has not been previously confirmed. In this study, mackerel obtained from commercial landings were screened for signs of post-mortem myoliquefaction. Three individuals displaying characteristics of softening of the musculature were examined using light microscopy and molecular analysis. Microscopic examination revealed numerous spores consistent with Kudoa-like morphology. Sequencing of the amplified region confirmed the presence of K. thyrsites in all three samples. The sequences showed a 100% match with K. thyrsites isolates previously reported from Atlantic mackerel and other host species in the Northeast Atlantic. Moreover, phylogenetic analysis placed the Irish isolate within the expected Atlantic sub-clade. As molecular testing was limited to visibly affected fish, the prevalence of K. thyrsites infection in the mackerel population could not be estimated, highlighting the need for continued monitoring of the parasite in Irish waters to better understand its distribution and potential economic implications for the Northeast Atlantic fishery.