Hematobiochemical Alterations and Lesion Characterization Caused by Fasciolosis in Cattle Slaughtered at Gondar ELFORA Abattoir, Ethiopia

Fasciolosis is a neglected zoonotic parasitic disease caused by Fasciola hepatica and Fasciola gigantica, which presents significant threats to livestock and human health. An abattoir-based cross-sectional study was conducted from January to September 2023 at Gondar ELFORA abattoir, Ethiopia, to assess hematobiochemical alterations and lesion characterization caused by fasciolosis in slaughtered cattle. The study involved 100 apparently healthy male local breed cattle, evenly split into 50 infected and 50 non-infected individuals, using a purposive sampling technique. Findings showed reductions in HGB, PCV, TEC, lymphocytes, monocytes, total protein, albumin, and glucose levels in infected cattle. Elevated TLC, eosinophils, neutrophils, AST, ALT, and ALP levels were noted. Liver changes included hepatomegaly with juvenile flukes in acute cases and smaller, firmer livers with bile duct engorgement in chronic cases. Microscopic findings revealed eosinophil infiltration, hemosiderin pigmentation, and fibrous tissue proliferation with epithelial cell metaplasia. The results of hematobiochemical alterations were consistent with gross and microscopic findings, indicating a significant impact on liver physiology and histology, leading to substantial losses in meat and milk production. Keywords: Abattoir; Cattle; Fasciolosis; Hematobiochemical alterations; Lesion characterization