Theileria

A genus of parasites that infects cattle and other animals

Theileria is a genus of parasites belonging to the phylum Apicomplexa. These parasites are known to infect a variety of mammals, including cattle, and are transmitted by ticks. The genus is named after the German zoologist Arnold Theiler.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of Theileria involves both a mammalian host and a tick vector. The parasites undergo a complex life cycle that includes several stages:

• Sporozoites: These are transmitted to the mammalian host when an infected tick feeds on the host's blood.
• Schizonts: Once inside the host, sporozoites invade leukocytes and transform into schizonts, which multiply within the host cells.
• Merozoites: Schizonts eventually differentiate into merozoites, which are released into the bloodstream and invade red blood cells.
• Gametocytes: Infected red blood cells are ingested by a tick during a blood meal, where the parasites develop into gametocytes.
• Zygotes and Kinetes: Gametocytes fuse to form zygotes, which develop into kinetes within the tick.

Theileria parva kinetes in a host cell

Pathogenesis

Theileria species are responsible for several important diseases in livestock, particularly in cattle. The most notable diseases include:

• East Coast fever: Caused by Theileria parva, this disease is prevalent in eastern and southern Africa and is characterized by high fever, swelling of the lymph nodes, and high mortality rates.
• Tropical theileriosis: Caused by Theileria annulata, this disease affects cattle in North Africa, southern Europe, and Asia, leading to anemia, weight loss, and sometimes death.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis of Theileria infections typically involves the examination of blood smears under a microscope to identify the presence of the parasite. Molecular techniques such as PCR can also be used for more accurate diagnosis.

Treatment often involves the use of antiprotozoal drugs such as buparvaquone and parvaquone. Control measures include tick control strategies and vaccination where available.

Prevention

Preventive measures focus on controlling tick populations and minimizing exposure of livestock to ticks. This can be achieved through:

• Regular application of acaricides to livestock.
• Management practices that reduce tick habitats.
• Use of tick-resistant cattle breeds.

Related pages

• Apicomplexa
• Tick
• Cattle
• East Coast fever