Dirofilaria infections in dogs in different areas of Greece
Open accessAbstract
BACKGROUND: The nematodes Dirofilaria immitis and D. repens are enzootic in Greece. In the light of evidence of dirofilariosis spreading to new areas around the world, the aim of the present study was to update and enrich the current knowledge on the prevalence of Dirofilaria infections in dogs in Greece, to assess the risk factors of heartworm infection, and to initiate the drawing of the epizootiological map of canine dirofilariosis, investigating Dirofilaria infections in five locations along the north-south axis of the country, i.e. municipalities of Thessaloniki, Larissa, Achaia, Attica and Heraklion, associated with the five largest urban centres of Greece. METHODS: Blood samples collected from 750 dogs in total, were examined by the modified Knott's method and by serology. A questionnaire including information about each examined dog was filled in and statistical analysis of the results was performed using the Chi-square test and a Binary Multiple Univariate Generalized Linear Model. RESULTS: In total, 31 (4.1 %) out of 750 examined animals were found positive for D. immitis by any of the tests applied (Knott's method and serological examination). Moreover, microfilariae of D. repens and Acanthocheilonema reconditum were detected by the Knott's method in 17 (2.3 %) and 10 (1.3 %) of the animals, respectively. At the municipality level, the prevalence of infection was 14, 7, 5.3, 0.7 and 0 % for D. immitis, 1, 2, 8.7, 0.3 and 0 % for D. repens, and 0, 3, 2.7, 0.7 and 1 % for A. reconditum in Thessaloniki, Larissa, Achaia, Attica and Heraklion, respectively. In addition, in three dogs (one each in Thessaloniki, Achaia and Attica) mixed D. immitis - D. repens infections were detected by the Knott's method. The area of the country, dog's usage and age were determined as risk factors for heartworm infection. CONCLUSIONS: Northern areas of Greece have higher Dirofilaria prevalence and the prevalence in a western province (Achaia) is recorded for the first time. The mosquito population dynamics recorded in the past is likely to play an important role in the distribution of Dirofilaria infections in Greece, and needs further investigation. Similarly, the role of wild reservoirs of filarial parasites in different areas needs to be clarified. Promotion by veterinarians of preventive treatment and compliance by pet owners is essential in all parts of Greece, regardless of the recorded prevalence of infection.
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Written from the paper’s full text.
TL;DR
A cross-sectional survey of 750 owned dogs in five Greek municipalities found canine Dirofilaria infections to be more prevalent in northern and western areas than in southern areas. Area of residence, dog usage, and age were identified as risk factors for D. immitis infection.
Key findings
- Overall, 31/750 dogs (4.1%) were positive for D. immitis by at least one method; municipality prevalence was 14% in Thessaloniki, 7% in Larissa, 5.3% in Achaia, 0.7% in Attica, and 0% in Heraklion.
- Modified Knott’s method detected D. immitis microfilariae in 19/750 (2.5%), D. repens in 17/750 (2.3%), and Acanthocheilonema reconditum in 10/750 (1.3%); mixed D. immitis–D. repens infections were found in 3 dogs.
- Serology detected D. immitis antigen in 28/750 (3.7%); 9 antigen-positive dogs had no microfilariae by Knott’s, and 3 Knott’s-positive dogs were seronegative.
- Risk factors for D. immitis were municipality (χ² = 40.22, df = 4, P < 0.001), usage (χ² = 27.51, df = 7, P < 0.001), and age (χ² = 6.09, df = 2, P = 0.048); in the GLM, odds ratios were 26.8 for Thessaloniki vs Attica, 11.9 for Larissa vs Attica, 6.0 for Achaia vs Attica, 8.2 for guard vs pet, 5.3 for hunter vs pet, 6.4 for age 2–7 vs ≤2 years, and 9.5 for age >7 vs ≤2 years.
Methods
- Cross-sectional study of 750 owned dogs older than 18 months, not receiving preventive treatment for dirofilariosis or macrocyclic lactones, sampled in Thessaloniki (n = 100), Larissa (n = 100), Achaia (n = 150), Attica (n = 300), and Heraklion (n = 100); a questionnaire recorded dog and environmental characteristics.
- Blood samples were examined by the modified Knott’s method for microfilariae and by the commercial Pet Check® (IDEXX) serological kit for adult D. immitis antigen; microfilariae were identified morphologically.
- Statistical analysis used the Chi-square test and a binary multiple univariate Generalized Linear Model in R 3.2.2, with factors significant at P < 0.2 in Chi-square testing entered into the GLM.
Limitations
- The paper states that the recorded north–south distribution is contradictory to temperature- and DDU-based models and requires further attempts to explain; it also states that the role of mosquito population dynamics and wild reservoirs needs further investigation.
- Evident from the text: the study examined owned dogs only, used a questionnaire, and relied on two diagnostic methods with known discordance (occult infections and false-negative serology); the authors note that cross-reactions with Angiostrongylus vasorum were considered minimal but possible.
- The paper does not include a dedicated limitations section.
Model-written summary. Check it against the paper before relying on it.
Integrity signals
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Cites
Statistics
Claims the paper makes
0 of 26 cited sources checked · 0 supported · 0 flagged
- Findingown data
Mixed D. immitis and D. repens infections were detected by the Knott's method in 3 dogs overall (one each in Thessaloniki, Achaia and Attica).
“In addition, mixed D. immitis and D. repens infections were revealed by the Knott’s method overall in 3 cases, i.e. in 1 (1 %), 1 (0.7 %), and 1 (0.3 %) of the dogs from Thessaloniki, Achaia and Attica, respectively.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
In the multiple GLM, dogs aged 2-7 years were 6.4 times more likely to be infected with D. immitis than dogs aged ≤2 years.
“| 2–7 vs ≤ 2 | 6.4 | 1.6–43.0 | 0.019* |”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
The area of the country (municipality) was a risk factor for D. immitis infection in dogs.
“the municipality where the dog lived, its usage and its age were the most important risk factors”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
In the multiple GLM, a dog living in Larissa was 11.9 times more likely to be infected with D. immitis than a dog living in Attica.
“| Larisa vs Attica | 11.9 | 2.6–85.5 | 0.003** |”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
Dog's usage was a risk factor for D. immitis infection.
“the municipality where the dog lived, its usage and its age were the most important risk factors”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim
- Findingown data
By the modified Knott's method, D. immitis microfilariae were found in 19 (2.5 %) of the 750 dogs.
“By the modified Knott’s method, D. immitis microfilariae were found in 19 (2.5 %) out of the 750 dogs.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
Dog's age was a risk factor for D. immitis infection.
“the municipality where the dog lived, its usage and its age were the most important risk factors”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
In total, 31 (4.1 %) out of 750 examined dogs were found positive for D. immitis by any of the tests applied (Knott's method and serological examination).
“In total, 31 (4.1 %) out of 750 examined animals were found positive for D. immitis by any of the tests applied (Knott’s method and serological examination).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
In the multiple GLM, dogs older than 7 years were 9.5 times more likely to be infected with D. immitis than dogs aged ≤2 years.
“| > 7 vs ≤ 2 | 9.5 | 2.2–67.4 | 0.007** |”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
In the multiple GLM, hunting dogs were 5.3 times more likely to be infected with D. immitis than pet dogs.
“| Hunter vs Pet | 5.3 | 1.6–20.8 | 0.009** |”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
Microfilariae of D. repens were detected by the modified Knott's method in 17 (2.3 %) of the 750 dogs.
“Dirofilaria repens microfilariae were recovered in 17 (2.3 %) of the dogs”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
In the multiple GLM, a dog living in Thessaloniki was 26.8 times more likely to be infected with D. immitis than a dog living in Attica.
“| Thessaloniki vs Attica | 26.8 | 6.4–185.5 | < 0.001*** |”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
In the multiple GLM, a dog living in Achaia was 6.0 times more likely to be infected with D. immitis than a dog living in Attica.
“| Achaia vs Attica | 6.0 | 1.3–42.1 | 0.033* |”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
Dirofilaria immitis antigen was detected by serological examination in 28 (3.7 %) of the 750 dogs.
“Dirofilaria immitis antigen was detected by the serological examination in 28 (3.7 %) of the 750 dogs.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
In the multiple GLM, guard dogs were 8.2 times more likely to be infected with D. immitis than pet dogs.
“| Guard vs Pet | 8.2 | 2.4–33.0 | 0.001** |”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
In three samples, although D. immitis microfilariae were detected in the Knott's method, serology was negative.
“Conversely, in three samples although D. immitis microfilariae were detected in the Knott’s method, serology was negative.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
A. reconditum infections have been recorded in low prevalence in various areas of the country.
“Moreover, A. reconditum infections have been recorded in low prevalence in various areas of the country.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim- Rests on an assumption: The five selected municipalities (Thessaloniki, Larissa, Achaia, Attica, and Heraklion) are representative of the respective areas of Greece for the prevalence of Dirofilaria infections in dogs.
- Interpretationown data
The findings confirm that the prevalence of dirofilariosis is higher in northern than in southern areas of Greece.
“The findings of the present study are in accordance with previous reports [4–10] and confirm that the prevalence of dirofilariosis is higher in northern than in southern areas of Greece.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 7 sources checked- cites [4] Papazahariadou MG, Koutinas AF, Rallis TS, Haralabidis ST. Prevalence of microfilaraemia in episodic weakness and clinically normal dogs belonging to hunting breeds. J Helminthol. 1994;68:243–5. source
Not checked in the free run.
- cites [5] Lefkaditis M, Koukeri S, Cozma V. An endemic area of Dirofilaria immitis seropositive dogs at the eastern foothills of Mt Olympus, Northern Greece. Helminthologia. 2010;47:3–7. source
Not checked in the free run.
- cites [6] Founta A, Theodoridis Y, Frydas S, Chliounakis S. The presence of filarial parasites of dogs in Serrae Province. J Hell Vet Med Soc. 1999;50:315–20 (In Greek). source
Not checked in the free run.
- cites [7] Diakou A. Epidemiological study of dog parasitosis diagnosed by blood and serological examinations. Anima. 2000;8:9–17 (In Greek).
Not checked in the free run.
- cites [8] Vakalis N, Himonas C. Human and canine dirofilariasis in Greece. Parassitologia. 1997;39:389–91.
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- cites [9] Diakou A. The prevalence of canine dirofilariosis in the region of Attiki. J Hell Vet Med Soc. 2001;52:152–6 (In Greek). source
Not checked in the free run.
- cites [10] Plevraki A, Savvas I, Papadopoulos B, Diakou A, Haralabidis S. Parasites of the dogs in an animal shelter in Ahlada (Heraklion) (In Greek). Stock Farm Develop. 1996;21:24–6.
Not checked in the free run.
- Rests on an assumption: The five selected municipalities (Thessaloniki, Larissa, Achaia, Attica, and Heraklion) are representative of the respective areas of Greece for the prevalence of Dirofilaria infections in dogs.
- Premisecitation
Age has been found to be among the recognised risk factors for filarial infection in dogs.
“Age has been found to be among the recognised risk factors for filarial infection in dogs [35, 36].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked- cites [35] Iglodyova A, Miterpakova M, Hurnikova Z, Antolova D, Dubinsky P, Letkova V. Canine dirofilariosis under specific environmental conditions of the Eastern Slovak Lowland. Ann Agric Environ Med. 2012;19:57–60.
Not checked in the free run.
- cites [36] Selby L, Corwin R, Hayes Jr H. Risk factors associated with canine heartworm infection. J Am Vet Med Assoc. 1980;176:33–5. source
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- Interpretationcitation
The discordant result of nine samples being antigen positive for D. immitis but negative in the Knott's method was expected, as occult heartworm infections are common.
“The discordant result of nine samples being antigen positive for D. immitis but negative in the Knott’s method was rather expected, as occult heartworm infections are common [30].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [30] Genchi C, Venco L, Genchi M. Guideline for the laboratory diagnosis of canine and feline Dirofilaria infections. Mappe Parassitologiche. 2007;8:137–44.
Not checked in the free run.
- Interpretationcitation
The risk of some of the antigen-positive, Knott-negative dogs being infected with Angiostrongylus vasorum and thus giving a cross reaction to the serological test used here can be considered minimum, as A. vasorum is so far considered very rare in Greece.
“The risk of some of these dogs being infected with Angiostrongylus vasorum and thus giving a cross reaction to the serological test used here [31] can be considered minimum, as A. vasorum is so far considered very rare in Greece [32].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [32] Diakou A. Angiostrongylus vasorum and angiostrongylosis in Greece. J Hell Vet Med Soc. 1995;46:51–6 (In Greek).
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- Interpretationreasoning
The map of the wetlands in Greece matches the map of dirofilariosis as illustrated in the present study.
“Thus, the map of the wetlands in the country interestingly matches the map of dirofilariosis as illustrated in the present study.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [41] Ramsar Convention Secretariat. The Ramsar Convention Manual: a guide to the Convention on Wetlands (Ramsar, Iran, 1971) 6th ed. Gland: Ramsar Convention Secretariat; 2013. http://www.ramsar.org/sites/default/files/documents/library/manual6-2013-e.pdf .
Not checked in the free run.
- Rests on an assumption: The five selected municipalities (Thessaloniki, Larissa, Achaia, Attica, and Heraklion) are representative of the respective areas of Greece for the prevalence of Dirofilaria infections in dogs.
- Premisecitation
Total mosquito populations were significantly higher in northern than in southern Greece, as revealed by a CO2 traps network sampled twice a month at 106 constant sampling sites throughout Greece during the summer of 2011.
“Indeed, as was revealed by a CO2 traps network, sampled twice a month at 106 constant sampling sites throughout Greece, during the summer of 2011, total mosquito populations were significantly higher in northern than in southern Greece [40].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [40] Diakou A, Gewehr S, Kapantaidakis E, Mourelatos S. Can mosquito population dynamics predict Dirofilaria hyperendemic foci? E-SOVE 2014 the 19th Conference. 2014; Thessaloniki. p. 76.
Not checked in the free run.
- Interpretationown data
The area where the dog lived (municipality) was the most determinative factor among the risk factors evaluated for D. immitis infection.
“Among the risk factors evaluated here, the area where the dog lived (municipality) was the most determinative factor.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Premisecitation
91% of the total rice cultivation areas on a national level are located in northern Greece.
“Similarly, 91 % of the total rice cultivation areas on a national level are located in northern Greece [42].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [42] Tsochatzis DE. Development of analytical methods for the determination of residues of pesticides used in rice cultures: application for the assessment of their environmental implications, PhD Thesis, School of Chemical Engineering, Department of Chemistry. Thessaloniki: Aristotle University of Thessaloniki; 2012. p. 201.
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- Premisecitation
Aedes spp. populations in the region of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace were ten times higher than in the Peloponnese region and western Greece.
“Also Aedes spp. populations in the region of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace, are ten times higher than in the Peloponnese region and western Greece [40].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [40] Diakou A, Gewehr S, Kapantaidakis E, Mourelatos S. Can mosquito population dynamics predict Dirofilaria hyperendemic foci? E-SOVE 2014 the 19th Conference. 2014; Thessaloniki. p. 76.
Not checked in the free run.
- Interpretationown data
Dirofilaria infections in Greece are more prevalent in the northern areas compared to the southern areas.
“The results of the present study suggest that Dirofilaria infections in Greece are more prevalent in the northern areas compared to the southern areas”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim- Rests on an assumption: The five selected municipalities (Thessaloniki, Larissa, Achaia, Attica, and Heraklion) are representative of the respective areas of Greece for the prevalence of Dirofilaria infections in dogs.
- Interpretationown data
The recorded distribution of Dirofilaria prevalence in northern and southern areas of Greece is contradictory to what is expected based on DDU-based forecast models and Linear Kriging interpolation.
“Thus, the recorded distribution of Dirofilaria prevalence in northern and southern areas of Greece is contradictory to what is expected based on the models mentioned above, and requires further attempts to explain.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 2 sources checked- cites [15] Genchi C, Mortarino M, Rinaldi L, Cringoli G, Traldi G, Genchi M. Changing climate and changing vector-borne disease distribution: the example of Dirofilaria in Europe. Vet Parasitol. 2011;176:295–9. source
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- cites [23] Genchi C, Rinaldi L, Mortarino M, Genchi M, Cringoli G. Climate and Dirofilaria infection in Europe. Vet Parasitol. 2009;163:286–92. source
Not checked in the free run.
- Rests on an assumption: The five selected municipalities (Thessaloniki, Larissa, Achaia, Attica, and Heraklion) are representative of the respective areas of Greece for the prevalence of Dirofilaria infections in dogs.
- Interpretationown data
The percentage of D. immitis-infected animals lowers progressively towards the south in Greece.
“Our results suggest that the percentage of infected animals lowers progressively towards the south.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim- Rests on an assumption: The five selected municipalities (Thessaloniki, Larissa, Achaia, Attica, and Heraklion) are representative of the respective areas of Greece for the prevalence of Dirofilaria infections in dogs.
- Interpretationown data
The occurrence of Dirofilaria infections in the west of the country is not negligible.
“and that the occurrence of Dirofilaria infections in the west of the country is not negligible.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim- Rests on an assumption: The five selected municipalities (Thessaloniki, Larissa, Achaia, Attica, and Heraklion) are representative of the respective areas of Greece for the prevalence of Dirofilaria infections in dogs.
- May combine two claims. 12
- The quote only partly states this claim. 1
- Classified as probably not a substantial claim. 2
May combine two claims.
Findingown dataThe prevalence of A. reconditum infection in dogs was 0% in Thessaloniki, 3% in Larissa, 2.7% in Achaia, 0.7% in Attica, and 1% in Heraklion.
“At the municipality level, the prevalence of infection was 14, 7, 5.3, 0.7 and 0 % for D. immitis, 1, 2, 8.7, 0.3 and 0 % for D. repens, and 0, 3, 2.7, 0.7 and 1 % for A. reconditum in Thessaloniki, Larissa, Achaia, Attica and Heraklion, respectively.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
Findingown dataThe prevalence of D. immitis infection (by any test) in dogs was 14% in Thessaloniki, 7% in Larissa, 5.3% in Achaia, 0.7% in Attica, and 0% in Heraklion.
“At the municipality level, the prevalence of infection was 14, 7, 5.3, 0.7 and 0 % for D. immitis, 1, 2, 8.7, 0.3 and 0 % for D. repens, and 0, 3, 2.7, 0.7 and 1 % for A. reconditum in Thessaloniki, Larissa, Achaia, Attica and Heraklion, respectively.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimThe quote only partly states this claim.
Findingown dataMicrofilariae of Acanthocheilonema reconditum were detected by the modified Knott's method in 10 (1.3 %) of the 750 dogs.
“Moreover, Acanthocheilonama reconditum microfilariae were found in 10 (1.3 %) of the dogs in total”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
Findingown dataThe prevalence of D. repens infection in dogs was 1% in Thessaloniki, 2% in Larissa, 8.7% in Achaia, 0.3% in Attica, and 0% in Heraklion.
“At the municipality level, the prevalence of infection was 14, 7, 5.3, 0.7 and 0 % for D. immitis, 1, 2, 8.7, 0.3 and 0 % for D. repens, and 0, 3, 2.7, 0.7 and 1 % for A. reconditum in Thessaloniki, Larissa, Achaia, Attica and Heraklion, respectively.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
Findingown dataGender, breed, hair length, body size, living together with other animals, water collections and type of vegetation in the area were not associated with higher risk of D. immitis infection.
“On the other hand, factors gender, breed, hair length, body size, living together with other animals, water collections and type of vegetation in the area were not associated with higher risk of infection.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
InterpretationreasoningAge was an important risk factor for D. immitis infection, most likely related to the accumulation of transmission periods and opportunities for infection in hosts not under preventive treatment.
“Age was also identified as an important risk factor, most likely related to the accumulation of transmission periods and, subsequently, opportunities for an infection to occur in hosts that are not under preventive treatment.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimMay combine two claims.
PremisecitationVarious factors can lead to a false negative serological test, one of them being the antigen-antibody complex formation.
“Various factors can lead to a false negative serological test [29, 33], one of them being the antigen-antibody complex formation, that in some cases occurs to such an extent that it does not leave enough antigen circulating to be detected by the serological tests [34].”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 3 sources checked- cites [29] Brianti E, Gaglio G, Napoli E, Giannetto S, Dantas-Torres F, Bain O, Otranto D. New insights into the ecology and biology of Acanthocheilonema reconditum (Grassi, 1889) causing canine subcutaneous filariosis. Parasitology. 2012;139:530–6. source
Not checked in the free run.
- cites [33] Drake J, Gruntmeir J, Merritt H, Allen L, Little SE. False negative antigen tests in dogs infected with heartworm and placed on macrocyclic lactone preventives. Parasit Vectors. 2015;8:68. source
Not checked in the free run.
- cites [34] Little SE, Raymond MR, Thomas JE, Gruntmeir J, Hostetler JA, Meinkoth JH, Blagburn BL. Heat treatment prior to testing allows detection of antigen of Dirofilaria immitis in feline serum. Parasit Vectors. 2014;7:1–4. source
Not checked in the free run.
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
PremisecitationIn some similar studies, no risk factors for filarial infection could be identified.
“However, in some similar studies, no risk factors for filarial infection could be identified [26, 37].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked- cites [26] Traversa D, Aste G, Milillo P, Capelli G, Pampurini F, Tunesi C, et al. Autochthonous foci of canine and feline infections by Dirofilaria immitis and Dirofilaria repens in central Italy. Vet Parasitol. 2010;169:128–32. source
Not checked in the free run.
- cites [37] Tasic A, Tasic-Otasevic S, Gabrielli S, Miladinovic-Tasic N, Ignjatovic A, Dordevic J, et al. Canine Dirofilaria infections in two uninvestigated areas of Serbia: epidemiological and genetic aspects. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis. 2012;12:1031–5. source
Not checked in the free run.
May combine two claims.
Interpretationown dataThe distribution of A. reconditum infections reflects different epizootiological characteristics, as its prevalence did not follow the respective for Dirofilaria sp. and remained in relatively low levels in all areas (0-3 %).
“The distribution of A. reconditum infections as found in the present study reflects the different epizootiological characteristics of this parasite, as its prevalence did not follow the respective for Dirofilaria sp. and remained in relatively low levels in all areas (0–3 %).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimMay combine two claims.
PremisecitationPopulations of Culex spp. in the region of Central Macedonia were 20 times higher than in the Peloponnese region and 31 times higher than in Attica region.
“In particular, populations of Culex spp. in the region of Central Macedonia were found to be 20 times higher than in the Peloponnese region and even 31 times higher than in Attica region.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [40] Diakou A, Gewehr S, Kapantaidakis E, Mourelatos S. Can mosquito population dynamics predict Dirofilaria hyperendemic foci? E-SOVE 2014 the 19th Conference. 2014; Thessaloniki. p. 76.
Not checked in the free run.
May combine two claims.
Interpretationown dataThe situation of heartworm disease in Greece has remained quite similar in recent decades, with D. immitis and D. repens infections being more prevalent in the north compared to the rest of the country, while in western areas like Achaia there is an important prevalence of filarial infections.
“The results of the present study suggest that the situation of heartworm disease in the country has remained quite similar in recent decades, with D. immitis and D. repens infections being more prevalent in the north compared to the rest of the country, while there is evidence, that in western areas like Achaia, there is an important prevalence of filarial infections.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim- Rests on an assumption: The five selected municipalities (Thessaloniki, Larissa, Achaia, Attica, and Heraklion) are representative of the respective areas of Greece for the prevalence of Dirofilaria infections in dogs.
May combine two claims.
PremisecitationPopulations of jackals and wolves are widely distributed in the central and northern part of the country (jackals are also present in Peloponnese), but absent elsewhere.
“As populations of jackals and wolves are widely distributed in the central and northern part of the country (jackals are also present in Peloponnese), but absent elsewhere [44, 45] the role of these species in the prevalence configuration of heartworm infections in Greece is worth investigating.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked- cites [44] Papageorgiou N, Vlachos C, Sfougaris A, Tsachaldis E. Status and diet of wolves in Greece. Act Theriol. 1994;39:411–6. source
Not checked in the free run.
- cites [45] Chapron G, Kaczensky P, Linnell JD, von Arx M, Huber D, Andrén H, López-Bao JV, Adamec M, Álvares F, Anders O. Recovery of large carnivores in Europe’s modern human-dominated landscapes. Science. 2014;346:1517–9. source
Not checked in the free run.
May combine two claims.
Interpretationown dataD. repens infection was found in higher prevalence in northern and western areas of Greece, while in southern areas the occurrence of the infection was very low or non-existent.
“Similarly, D. repens infection was also found in higher prevalence in northern and western areas of the country, while in southern areas the occurrence of the infection was very low or even non-existent.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim- Rests on an assumption: The five selected municipalities (Thessaloniki, Larissa, Achaia, Attica, and Heraklion) are representative of the respective areas of Greece for the prevalence of Dirofilaria infections in dogs.
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
PremisecitationRice field abundance was acknowledged as one of the possible elements contributing to the higher Dirofilaria infection rates in certain areas of Portugal.
“Rice field abundance was acknowledged as one of the possible elements contributing to the higher Dirofilaria infection rates in certain areas of Portugal [24].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [24] Alho AM, Landum M, Ferreira C, Meireles J, Goncalves L, de Carvalho LM, Belo S. Prevalence and seasonal variations of canine dirofilariosis in Portugal. Vet Parasitol. 2014;206:99–105. source
Not checked in the free run.
May combine two claims.
InterpretationreasoningGuard and hunting dogs were at higher risk of D. immitis infection, probably as a consequence of the outdoor lifestyle and higher exposure to mosquito bites.
“The usage of the animal was also very important, thus, guard and hunting dogs were at higher risk of infection, probably as a consequence of the outdoor lifestyle and higher exposure to mosquito bites.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim
The paper relies on this without support.
The five selected municipalities (Thessaloniki, Larissa, Achaia, Attica, and Heraklion) are representative of the respective areas of Greece for the prevalence of Dirofilaria infections in dogs.
“In order to form a basic and representative picture of the prevalence of filarial infection in different areas of Greece, five locations, distributed along the north-south axis of the country, associated with the five biggest urban centres were selected.”
The paper relies on this without support.
Filarial infections had never been investigated in Achaia before this study.
“The prevalence found in Achaia is a new record, in the sense that, to date, filarial infections have never been investigated in this area of Greece (western Greece).”
Claims other papers make about this one
Each is checked against this paper’s own text: does it say what the citing paper says it does?
In Greece, there has been an increase in the number of areas analysed in recent years, with reported canine heartworm prevalences in urban cities of Thessaloniki, Larissa, Achaia, Attica, and Heraklion of 14, 7, 5.3, 0.7, and 0%, respectively, and 0.5% on the islands of Skiathos, Tinos, Ios, and Santorini.
“In Greece, there has been an increase in the number of areas analysed in the recent years [4]. The reported prevalence in the urban cities of Thessaloniki, Larissa, Achaia, Attica, and Heraklion were 14, 7, 5.3, 0.7, and 0%, respectively. On the islands of Skiathos, Tinos, Ios, and Santorini, the reported prevalence was 0.5%.”
From What has happened to heartworm disease in Europe in the last 10 years? (2022) · cites this paper as [93]
In Greece, the first feline study was carried out in the north of the country, reporting a prevalence of 3%.
“In Greece, the first feline study was carried out in the north of the country, reporting a prevalence of 3% [93].”
From What has happened to heartworm disease in Europe in the last 10 years? (2022) · cites this paper as [93]
The majority of previous studies on CVBDs in Greece focused on single species of pathogens and examined the situation in a restricted area and number of animals.
“However, the majority of the fore-mentioned studies have been focused on single species of pathogens and examined the situation in a restricted area and number of animals.”
From Prevalence and risk factors for selected canine vector-borne diseases in Greece (2019) · cites this paper as [18]
Many CVBDs have been reported in canine populations and in human populations in Greece.
“According to relevant studies, many CVBDs have been reported in canine populations [18, 19], as well as in human populations in Greece [20–22].”
From Prevalence and risk factors for selected canine vector-borne diseases in Greece (2019) · cites this paper as [18]
In Greece, the prevalence of D. immitis was 4.1% out of 750 dogs examined in 2016 and the highest prevalence could be found in northern Greece.
“In Greece, the prevalence of D. immitis was 4.1% out of 750 dogs examined in 2016 and the highest prevalence could be found in northern Greece, where most of the dogs in the present study with a travel history to Greece had travelled (Diakou et al. 2016).”
From Current trends in canine dirofilariosis in Austria-do we face a pre-endemic status? (2020) · cites this paper as Diakou et al. 2016
Self-check
Percentages, sums and reported differences re-computed from the paper’s own numbers.
Each contradiction between two passages listed here was confirmed by an independent check.
Attica heartworm prevalence differs between discussion and results
MinorThe discussion gives Attica's D. immitis prevalence as 0.6%, whereas Table 2 gives 0.7% for 2 positive dogs among 300 examined.
“0.6 % in Attica”
“| Attica | 300 | 2 (0.7 ± 0.9) |”
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Dixit, B., Kumar, R., Dixit, A. K., & Singh, A. K. (2024) · Wiley eBooks · doi:10.1002/9781394158256.ch3 · Cited by 4 · see citing works
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- Authors
- Diakou, A., Kapantaidakis, E., Tamvakis, A., Giannakis, V., & Strus, N.
- Affiliations
- Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (GR)
- ORCID
- Diakou, Anastasia
- Venue
- Parasites & Vectors
- Published
- 2016-09-20
- Volume
- 9
- Issue
- 1
- Pages
- 508-508
- ISSN
- 1756-3305 (ISSN-L)
- PMC
- PMC5029097
- OpenAlex
- W2523506607
- Cited by
- 56
- References
- 41
- Citations by year
- 2026: 2 · 2025: 6 · 2024: 9 · 2023: 1 · 2022: 13 · 2021: 8 · 2020: 8 · 2019: 4 · 2018: 4 · 2017: 1
- FWCI
- 2.77
- Type
- journal article
- Language
- en
- Open access
- gold
- doi.org
- Licence
- cc-by
- Locations
- Parasites & Vectors (publishedVersion, cc-by)
- PubMed Central (publishedVersion, cc-by)
- PubMed (publishedVersion)
- Funders
- Elanco Animal Health
- Topics
- Health Sciences › Medicine › Infectious Diseases › Parasitic Diseases Research and Treatment
- Health Sciences › Veterinary › Small Animals › Helminth infection and control
- Health Sciences › Medicine › Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health › Research on Leishmaniasis Studies
- Keywords
- canine dirofilariasis, Dirofilaria immitis, Dirofilaria repens, Acanthocheilonema reconditum, heartworm infection, prevalence, risk factors, Greece, urban dogs, serology, Achaia, Thessaloniki
- MeSH terms
- Animals, Dirofilaria immitis, Dirofilariasis, Disease Reservoirs, Dog Diseases, Dogs, Female, Greece, Male, Culicidae, Risk Factors, Prevalence, Coinfection, Dirofilaria repens, Acanthocheilonema
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