Tropical Medicine & Surgery

Ichthyophthirius Invasion for Navigating the Challenges of White Spot Disease

Manabu Nagatomi^* Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
^*Correspondence: Manabu Nagatomi, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Southwest University, Chongqing, China, Email:

Received: 03-Jul-2023, Manuscript No. TPMS-23-21998; Editor assigned: 07-Jul-2023, Pre QC No. TPMS-23-21998 (PQ); Reviewed: 21-Jul-2023, QC No. TPMS-23-21998; Revised: 28-Jul-2023, Manuscript No. TPMS-23-21998 (R); Published: 04-Aug-2023, DOI: 10.35248/2329-9088.23.11.314

Description

Intra Cerebral Hemorrhage (ICH) is one of the most prevalent diseases that tropical fish aquariums encounter. Small white spots on the body and gills that look like salt grains; frequent scraping against objects in the environment, a lack of appetite, and unusual hiding behavior are all symptoms. The ciliated protozoan Ichthyophthirius multifiliis is responsible for "ICH" also known as "white spot disease." Worldwide aquarists and commercial fish producers face a significant challenge from this disease. Ichthyophthirius is a significant disease that affects tropical, food, and goldfish. The disease is extremely contagious and quickly spreads from fish to fish. It can be especially bad when there are too many fish. A single "ICH" organism can multiply into hundreds of new parasites, whereas many protozoans reproduce simply by division. Because it is an obligate parasite, this organism cannot survive without live fish. It can kill a lot of people in a short amount of time. An outbreak of "ICH" is an immediate emergency that calls for treatment right away. This disease may cause 100% mortality if left untreated.

Symptoms

Small white spots on the skin or gills are the most common symptom of an "ICH" infection. On the fish's skin or fins, these lesions look like tiny blisters. Fish may exhibit signs of irritation, flashing, weakness, decreased appetite, and decreased activity prior to the appearance of white spots. White spots won't show up at all if the parasite is only on the gills, but a lot of fish will die. The gills of these fish will be pale and extremely swollen. White spots should not be the only way to diagnose a condition because other illnesses may appear similarly. Scratches of the gills and skin should be taken as soon as symptoms appear. Fish that are severely infected may not be able to survive treatment if the "ICH" organism is observed. As a result, fish should be treated right away.

Diagnosis

Skin and gills can easily be examined microscopically to confirm the diagnosis of "ICH." After removing a few white spots from an infected fish, mount them on a microscope slide with a cover glass and a few drops of water. Due to the thick cilia covering the entire cell, the mature parasite is large, dark, and has a horseshoeshaped nucleus that can sometimes be seen under 100X magnifications. With practice, the adult parasite can be easily identified because it moves slowly and tumbles. Tomites, the immature forms, are smaller, translucent, and swift. Another protozoan parasite, Tetrahymina, is very similar to the tomites. Because tetrahymina rarely requires treatment, it is critical to distinguish between the two parasites. Prepare a second slide and carefully examine it for the adult parasite to confirm the diagnosis if only tomites are observed. Treatment is only necessary if a single organism is observed.

Treatment

Treatment of fish after an outbreak of "ICH" is preferable to prevention. At temperatures between 75°F and 83°F all incoming fish should be quarantined for at least three days. Due to the organism's prolonged life cycle, three-day quarantine at cooler temperatures will not be sufficient for "ICH." As a result, a longer quarantine is strongly recommended to prevent the spread of other diseases with incubation times of longer than three days. For new fish to be adequately quarantined, most experts recommend a minimum of three weeks.

Conclusion

Intra Cerebral Hemorrhage (ICH), or white spot disease, caused by the ciliated protozoan Ichthyophthirius multifiliis, poses a global challenge to fish aquariums. Its rapid spread and high contagion risk lead to severe outbreaks, especially in densely populated fish habitats. Symptoms like white spots, reduced appetite, and odd behavior signal its presence. Swift microscopic diagnosis is crucial to differentiate ICH from similar conditions. Immediate treatment is essential upon confirmation to prevent mortality rates of up to 100%. Preventive steps, like quarantining new fish and extended isolation periods at suitable temperatures, help curb outbreaks and ensure aquatic health.