Title: COMPARISON OF METHODS FOR THE VETERINARY DIAGNOSIS OF LIVER FLUKES (FASCIOLA HEPATICA) IN CATTLE.
Abstract:The effects of clinical fasciolosis are well known but consequences of sub clinical infection often go unnoticed, leading to major economic losses: reduced live-weight gains, milk yields and fertility...The effects of clinical fasciolosis are well known but consequences of sub clinical infection often go unnoticed, leading to major economic losses: reduced live-weight gains, milk yields and fertility. It has been calculated that bovine fasciolosis represents a median loss of 299 Euros per infected cow. Moreover, it has been clearly demonstrated that concomitant bacterial infection and F. hepatica induces a suppression of immune responses. Despite the importance of this parasite, there is no absolute diagnostic test.
Traditionally, diagnosis was made by faecal egg counts (epg) but has low sensitivity. Now several immunological methods are available. The Ab-ELISA systems are the most frequently used and give accurate indications of farm or herd prevalence but they do not give the individual current infection status. An Ag-ELISA test has been developed to avoid drawbacks of Ab-ELISA. Immunological testing of bulk tank milk is used but its sensitivity is lower than serological tests. Dosage of hepatic enzymes in blood is not efficient in old infections and if the parasitic burden is too low.Read More
Publication Year: 2007
Publication Date: 2007-01-01
Language: en
Type: article
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Cited By Count: 6
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