Fascioliasis, a prevalent disease in livestock globally, is primarily caused by the trematode parasites Fasciola hepatica and
Fasciola gigantica. This parasitic infection leads to significant economic repercussions. In this study, our objective was to
gain insight into the pathophysiological consequences of Fascioliasis in cattle through the evaluation of metabolic, oxidative
stress, and histological parameters. A thorough investigation was carried out on the liver of 197 bovines after their slaughter,
which unveiled the occurrence of Fascioliasis, with a prevalence rate of 13.2% observed. The bovine that were infected
exhibited notable increase in serum transaminases (ALT, AST, and ALP) and malondialdehyde (MDA) and catalase (CAT)
while the decrease in glutathione (GSH) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels. The lipid profile analysis of infected cattle
revealed alterations in the cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Moreover, the histopathological examination revealed a range
of hepatic lesions associated with Fascioliasis, including necrosis, inflammation, fibrosis, and proliferative alterations. The
bile ducts also displayed distinct pathological changes, including hyperplasia, thickening, and edema, and harbored various
developmental stages of Fasciola spp. highlighting the parasitic infestation’s effects on the biliary system. These results
highlight the serious effects of Fascioliasis on lipid metabolism and the oxidative damage that is induced in the livers of
cattle. Thus, Fasciola infestation in bovine causes alteration in biochemical and antioxidant activities, which are considered
as important factors in the diagnosis of Fascioliasis. |
