Osteopenia e osteoporose em ovinos infectados naturalmente por Haemonchus conturtus

Abstract

Sheep farms have been growing more in the Northeast area of Brazil, due to the adaptation of these animals in adverse climates and the increasement of meat consumption. The main problem faced in these farms is the type of parasites, mainly Haemonchus contortus. This parasite is abomasum hematophageal specie. Haemonchosis is a disease that the affected animals present submandibular edema, subcutaneous edema, anemia and weight loss, which can lead to death. The aim of this study was to report the occurrence of bone alterations secondary to parasitism by Haemonchus contortus in sheep from Paraiba and to describe the epidemiology and clinical-pathological condition of this disease. Among 2016 and 2017, five sheep-rearing farms were affected by haemoncosis outbreak. The coproparasitological examination (EPG) showed trichostrongyloidea eggs and Haemonchus contortus were proved by coproculture. The main findings, at necropsy, were limb edema, ascites, bone fragility, areas of ulceration of the abomasal wall and adult parasites in the abomasum. The histopathological examination of vertebrae, ribs and the femur showed alterations in the bone trabeculae, which were intensely thin and reduced, as well as in the cartilage tissue that is associated with osteoclastic activity and reduction of cartilage. It is concluded that Haemonchus contortus is an important agent that leads to severe bone changes. The histopathological findings established an association between the parasitosis and bone lesions, thus interpreted as osteopenia and osteoporosis.