Molecular evidence of Chlamydia pneumoniae infection in reptiles in Argentina

FRUTOS, M. C.; RÉ V.; CUFFINI, C.

REVISTA ARGENTINA DE MICROBIOLOGíA

ASOCIACION ARGENTINA MICROBIOLOGIA

Lugar: Buenos Aires; Año: 2013

0325-7541

In central areas of Argentina, the epidemiological and molecular characteristics of Chlamydia pneumoniae infections in reptiles are still unknown. Nested polymerase chain reaction of the rpoB gene was used to detect Chlamydia pneumoniae in 27 cloacal swab samples from reptiles of a recreational area. Eleven (40.74 %) samples were positive. Direct sequencing was performed, demonstrating the presence of Chlamydia pneumoniae. DNA was not found in caregiver´s pharynges and IgM antibodies anti-Chlamydia pneumoniae were not detected; however, the caregivers presented high titers of IgG anti-Chlamydia pneumoniae. The detection of Chlamydia pneumoniae DNA in reptiles demonstrated the circulation of this agent in the recreational area and could be responsible for the exacerbated immune response of the personnel who handled the reptiles, suggesting a potential zoonotic cycle. This is the first report of the detection of Chlamydia pneumoniae in reptiles in Argentina.