Occurrence and pathology of various parasitic conditions in cattle in Bikaner (Bos indicus)

The present study was conducted to evaluate the parasitic conditions of the cardiovascular system in cattle. A total number of 436 specimens of the cardiovascular system of cattle irrespective of age, sex, and breed were examined and out of these 122 samples, suspected abnormalities were further processed for histopathological examination. Parasitic condition like Sarcocystosis condition was recorded in 28 (23%) cases. Macroscopically, myocardium showed hemorrhages and necrotic area. Microscopically, the sarcocysts were seen with degenerative changes and myocarditis. It is concluded that the sarcocyst (23%) infection is the primary cardiovascular affection in cattle. The second parasitic condition Onchocerciasis was observed in 1 (0.82%) case. Grossly, parasitic granulomas, surrounded by hard connective tissue, were seen, extending outward the aorta serosa Microscopically, numerous sections of the onchocerca parasite were found in the tunica intima of aorta.